Trees and shrubs are the backbone of our landscapes. Properly placed and well-maintained landscape plants help conserve energy, provide shade, increase the property values, attract wildlife, offer privacy and help us create peaceful outdoor living environments. Many trees and shrubs also exhibit showy flowers, vibrant fall foliage colors, and edible fruits. Learn from our publications and fact sheets about selecting, planting and maintaining trees and shrubs in Wisconsin landscapes.
Plant selection is one of the most important decisions a gardener, landscaper or designer makes. Learn more about selecting plants in this publication.
When should I treat my ash tree for EAB? This factsheet addresses some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the treatment of ash trees for EAB, and the removal and disposal of infested trees.
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What is silver leaf? Silver leaf is a fungal disease that affects a wide range of deciduous trees. The disease has its biggest impact in fruit trees such as apple, pear and cherry, but can also affect ornamental trees such as willow, poplar, maple, oak, and elm. Silver leaf has traditionally been considered a disease […]
Red star rust (also known as Japanese apple rust or lipstick rust) is a type of Gymnosporangium rust. This plant disease is particularly concerning because of its potential negative impact in commercial apple production.
These are a compilation of tree species recommended for fall planting/waiting until spring in various Extension resources. Some species appear on both lists. (Last updated 8/9/2024) Trees Suggested for Fall Planting: (September through early October, or weather permitting) Shrubs It’s Better to Wait: Trees That May Do Better with a Spring Planting Shrubs ▶ Watch: Planning […]
The elm zigzag sawfly is an invasive sawfly that attacks elm trees. Populations were detected in Wisconsin for the first time in July 2024 and were quickly found in several counties across the state. In many cases, damage may be minor, but this invasive pest does have the potential to cause significant defoliation of elm trees.
Interested in planting a tree on your property? Take a look at this tree planting article to learn best practices.
What is blister canker? Blister canker (also known as nailhead canker) is a potentially lethal disease that primarily affects apple and crabapple trees. Other trees and shrubs grown in Wisconsin that can be affected by the disease include American elm, honey locust, hornbeam, magnolia, mountain-ash (rowan), oak, pear, and serviceberry. What does blister canker look […]
Find suggestions for which trees and shrubs to plant to increase diversity in a changing climate.
What is Thyronectria canker? Thyronectria canker is a common fungal disease of honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos), occurring wherever this tree is grown. Black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) and Kentucky coffeetree (Gymnocladus dioicus) have also been reported to be susceptible to the disease. Thyronectria canker is non-lethal and typically causes relatively minor damage to affected trees. What does […]
Have you heard about “No Mow May?” Many people have committed to not mowing their yards in May, allowing flowering plants to grow to help provide food for pollinators. Before you stow away your mower for May, let’s look at what options you can take to help pollinators this Spring.
In winter, young trees are prone to a variety of hazards. In this video, learn how you can mitigate that damage by protecting young trees from potential wildlife damage and how to effectively protect trunks from winter sunscald damage.
By: PJ Liesch, Extension Entomology Specialist Even though insects can cause damage to our plants, not all of them are harmful. In this video, you will learn how to look for signs of insects, why identification is required, and different control options and methods. The first step in the management process of insects in yards […]
By: Lisa Johnson, Horticulture Outreach Specialist In this video, learn how to protect susceptible plants from snow and cold damage. This video includes how to protect woody plants and provides recommendations for proper mulching and watering that will help your plants through the fall and survive the winter. To help your landscape plants survive the […]
