Root-Knot Nematode
Root-knot nematodes are small, soilborne, worm-like organisms that infect many agricultural and horticultural plants. This publication describes the symptoms, and management of root-knot nematodes in Wisconsin.
Herbaceous Ornamentals
Herbaceous ornamentals add interest to our yards and gardens with bright, beautiful flowers and interesting foliage. Whether native, non-native, sun-loving or shade-tolerant, herbaceous plants invite wildlife, provide for pollinators, and bring us enjoyment with color, texture and fragrance.
Native & Naturalized Selection
If you’re unable to find the information you need, please submit your gardening question here:
Articles
Foliar Nematodes
Foliar nematodes are microscopic worm-like organisms that live in and on leaves (and other above-ground plants parts). Learn what to look for and how to manage foliar nematodes in this factsheet.
Iris Borer
Iris borer is the most serious pest of iris in Wisconsin. Iris plants attacked by iris borer will discolor, wilt, and die during late June and July. On close examination of affected plants, a pinkish-white caterpillar can be found feeding on the inside of rhizomes. This factsheet covers identification and control of this serious pest.
Pink Rain Lily, Zephyranthes grandiflora
If you want to grow something a little different, with grassy foliage and relatively large flowers, consider pink rain lily. This tender bulb gets its common name from the color of the flowers that burst into bloom after a good rain. Easy to grow in containers, it makes a good summer patio plant or a year-round houseplant. Learn more in this article…
Insect Pest Management for Greenhouses
This handy chart lists pesticides that are most effective against common greenhouse pests such as aphids, scales, leafminers, spider mites, and thrips. Formulation, effectiveness, cautions, and other details are provided.
Daylily Leaf Streak
Leaf streak is a common disease of daylilies, affecting daylilies wherever they are grown. Daylily varieties can vary widely in terms of their susceptibility to the disease. Oftentimes leaf streak is a cosmetic problem, causing little damage, but sometimes can cause substantial leaf loss or complete defoliation of daylily plants. Learn how to manage this disease in this factsheet.
Hollyhock Rust
What is hollyhock rust? Hollyhock rust is the most common fungal leaf disease of hollyhocks (Alcea rosea). Many other ornamentals (e.g., flowering maple, rose mallow) and weeds (e.g., common mallow) in the mallow family are also susceptible. Hollyhock rust can quickly spread, causing stunting of plants and premature leaf drop. In rare instances, hollyhock rust […]
Impatiens Downy Mildew
What is impatiens downy mildew? Impatiens downy mildew is a serious threat wherever impatiens are grown, including Wisconsin. Impatiens downy mildew has been so destructive in the past that it has made impatiens unusable as a garden ornamental. The disease affects garden impatiens (Impatiens walleriana and I. balsamina), as well as native jewelweeds (I. pallida and I. capensis). New […]
Drought and Watering of Ornamental Plants
Learn how to water woody plants to help them survive prolonged periods of drought in this article.
Controlling Deer Damage in Wisconsin
This publication describes plant damage caused by deer, and illustrates numerous methods for protecting plants from deer.
Specialized Gardening Techniques: Wide-Row Planting, Square-Foot Gardening and Raised Beds
Learn how to make the most of your garden. Features tips for setting up and planting raised beds, including wheelchair access.
Managing Thrips in Greenhouses
Western flower thrips are likely the most serious pest of greenhouse crops in the world. Learn about these pests, the damage they cause, and management options in this factsheet.
