Leafminers are so named because they tunnel between the upper and lower epidermis to feed on the leaf mesophyll. Leafmining is a lifestyle with no connection to taxonomy. This Alert focuses on two leafminers belonging to the insect order Diptera (flies).

Dusky Birch Sawfly and Spiny Oak Sawfly larvae are appearing on their namesake hosts in southwest Ohio. They seldom cause significant injury to the overall health of their host trees; however, both can produce noticeable damage, drawing the attention of horticulture professionals and home gardeners.

Bagworms are the larvae (caterpillars) of a native moth. The caterpillars develop within silk bags festooned with pieces of their host plants. As the caterpillars mature, they begin weaving more host plant debris into the silk, which provides structural stability as well as highly effective camouflage.

On a recent visit to the doctor, I noticed trees in the parking lot at various stages of decline and death. It is a nice thought to plant trees in parking lot islands, but it usually ends poorly, especially for the tree!

A recent cold snap brought frost to many parts of Ohio. Some trees, especially those with new tender leaves were more heavily impacted than others.

The OGIA/OSU Extension Hands-On Diagnostic Walkabouts for Green Industry professionals are a comprehensive, hands-on training. Participants examine and discuss plants, plant pests, plant diseases, landscape designs, and other points of interest.

April was an active month at the C. Wayne Ellett Plant and Pest Diagnostic Clinic, with a wide range of plant health issues observed across ornamentals, fruits, vegetables, and cut flowers. Conifer samples were especially common, alongside recurring pest issues on boxwood. We also diagnosed several fungal and bacterial diseases in fruit and vegetable crops, as well as mite and bacterial problems in cut flowers.

You may have planted trees last year or the year prior. You may have staked them. Now is a good time to check your trees before they start to grow this season.