MIRAGE-Benchmark/MIRAGE huggingface dataset:
Dinosaur Plant

Question: Hi. Can you tell me what this plant is? Should I get rid of it? I like the way it looks now but want to keep it from flowering if it’s going to create a mess of invasive seeds. Or roots. Any information you can provide would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 07, 2023, 10:10 PM EDT
response: What you have is common mullien. It's not a native plant but has pretty much been naturalized here in North America. It can get a bit weedy, especially if it goes to seed.   Pollinators seem to really enjoy it, so if you choose to keep it, I would remove the flower stalk before the seeds become mature or you may end up with more mullien than you'd prefer. If you don't want to keep it, it's pretty easy to remove by hand.   It has some traditional uses, that you may be interested in looking up.

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 07, 2023, 11:22 PM EDT
response: Thank you! I will not let it spread. I see this every year but never so big!Sent from my iPad On Jun 7, 2023, at 9:10 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿
hickory tree infestation

Question: My shag bark hickory trees are covered with these - have never seen before

responder: Thank you for your question! Therese N. Michigan State University Extension Master Gardener Volunteer. You may also contact the toll free MSU Extension lawn and garden hotline at 1-888-678-3464 or visit www.migarden.msu.edu for Smart Gardening resources. Replied June 08, 2023, 1:22 PM EDT
response: Hello Linda, The photo on top left looks like leaf spot and the picture on the bottom looks like leaf galls. The issue is that neither one is life threatening to the tree, and in some cases, treatment is not recommended. Penn State has a good fact sheet on two different types of leaf spot: https://extension.psu.edu/hickory-diseases. The second fact sheet on leaf spot is discussed in more depth by Cornell: downyleafspothickory.pdf. (cornell.edu)  Several measures can help the tree, keep it watered as we are in drought conditions. Secondly, bag diseased leaves now and in the fall, make sure they go in the trash versus yard waste or composting them.  Consider hiring a certified arborist to come on site and give a more informed diagnosis You can find an arborist near you by using a feature of the website International Society or Arboriculture: Find an Arborist (treesaregood.org). You can find one by filling in your zip code and you can verify someone’s credentials, as well. . Thank you for your question! Therese N. Michigan State University Extension Master Gardener Volunteer You may also contact the toll free MSU Extension lawn and garden hotline at <personal data hidden> with your gardening questions or visit www.migarden.msu.edu for Smart Gardening resources.

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 12, 2023, 1:07 PM EDT
response: Thanks so much for the reply.  My shag bark hickory tree is huge and it would break my heart if it was in danger.Sent from my iPhone On Jun 8, 2023, at 1:22 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿

responder: Thank you for your question! Therese N. Michigan State University Extension Master Gardener Volunteer. You may also contact the toll free MSU Extension lawn and garden hotline at 1-888-678-3464 or visit www.migarden.msu.edu for Smart Gardening resources. Replied June 12, 2023, 3:52 PM EDT
response: You are welcome.
retaining wall around ash tree

Question: we built a retaining wall around a very large ash tree in my back yard.  The tree measures over 6ft.in circumference.  We plan an filling the area with black dirt and do some hosta plantings.  the wall is roughly 30 inches in height.  The base of the tree is mounded up so the base of the tree would be about the same height of the wall.  We had someone tell us that by placing dirt over the roots it could kill the tree.  How do we proceed, do we use a different filling material or a combination of fillers?  Any advice would be helpful.

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 07, 2023, 3:11 PM EDT
response: I just wanted to add that there are no exposed roots.

responder: Maureen Graber  Replied June 08, 2023, 9:10 AM EDT
response: Good Morning Ken,  Thank you for contacting the U of M Extension Service.  From your photo, it appears your project is well underway. First of all, it is an ash tree. I am wondering if you are aware of emerald ash borer? Here is a link to the U of M Extension Yard and Garden website about EAB: https://extension.umn.edu/tree-and-shrub-insects/emerald-ash-borers You might want to consider hiring a certified arborist to treat the tree to deter the emerald ash borer as Minnesota is in the midst of losing most of the ash trees to this pest: https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/how-hire-tree-care-professional You should not raise the soil level on the tree trunk above the level it was growing at originally. I know that tree circle gardens appear to be lovely, but the plants you grow there would have to compete with the tree for water and nutrients. Yes, raising the level of the soil will stress the tree and may eventually kill it.  You could add a few inches of wood mulch around the base of the tree, a few inches away from the trunk and could extend for several feet out around the base of the tree. The mulch would keep the soil cooler, retain moisture and keep the weeds down.  I don't want to rain on your parade, but you don't want to add additional stress to a beautiful ash tree that may eventually succumb to the EAB.  It appears to be a beautiful tree. I would suggest moving your block wall to another area of your yard where it will not stress your tree. Sorry.  Good Luck!
American/Siberia Elm

Question: I have a Elm growing where it shouldn't.  1.  What's the probability that it will survive transplanting? (A guesstimate). And best time to transplant? 2.  Will this tree be able to withstand heavy winds and heavy snowfall off  Lake Mi?  Or will it have issues? 3. How far from the house foundation should it be transplanted?  I have never seen a sapling grow so fast.  It was 6" last spring!!   Thanks for your time and input ... Brenda

responder: Thank you for your question! Rebecca Finneran Michigan State University Extension Senior Horticulture Educator Learn how t be a Smart Gardener here www.migarden.msu.edu Replied June 09, 2023, 8:03 AM EDT
response: Greetings, this plant appears to be a Siberian Elm, an undesirable, weak-wooded and fast-growing tree.  Elms also hybridize quite a bit so the genetics may be mixed in with other elm species.  I recommend taking  it out.  Here is more information: https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/siberian-elm

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 09, 2023, 10:03 AM EDT
response: Thanks so much!!On Fri, Jun 9, 2023, 8:03 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: Thank you for your question! Rebecca Finneran Michigan State University Extension Senior Horticulture Educator Learn how t be a Smart Gardener here www.migarden.msu.edu Replied June 10, 2023, 9:18 AM EDT
response: You are welcome!
Aphids on Tulip Tree

Question: Hello, Our Tulip Poplar luckily had a leaf fall onto the ground and we observed  a sticky substance and white aphids stuck to the leaf. In looking around there is a sticky substance in all the plants that live below the Tulip Poplar. This tree has been here for many years and I have not seen this before. It may have occurred but washed off. Do I need to be concerned? Thank you, Kim

responder: Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied June 08, 2023, 1:24 PM EDT
response: Hi,  Yes unfortunately this is  'honeydew'  which can be caused by any sap-sucking insect: aphids, scale, leafhoppers, treehoppers, lanternfly. It does look like aphids though on the leaf but could possibly be multiple kinds at once, unfortunately. Please do NOT treat though since a treatment would need to be a systemic application and those will probably contain a neonicotinoid. These are harmful to beneficial insects and pollinators. It is actually illegal to do so yourself and if applied via a professional, there should be a confirmed valid reason to use a systemic (usually aphids are not a pest that warrants systemic in a mature tree). Often times aphids are controlled by beneficial predators. Some years they may be more of a nuisance and have a population surge where the predators aren't warranting enough control to be effective, but mature healthy trees should be fine to handle this.If you are concerned you could consult with a certified arborist. IF a treatment is warranted they will have the best tools to do the pesticide applications (like an injectable for scale).  You could water the tree to limit any additional drought stress as we have had little rain this season. Grey water (water collected in the shower, from the dishes, or a rain barrel-although we suspect it is empty) would be fine to use on non edible landscape plants like trees, and would help conserve water should a drought emergency be declared in your area. In the meantime you could also supplement water with a your garden hose on a slow trickle placed at the base of the tree and allowed to run for a longer amount of time (maybe 20 minutes) to thoroughly soak the root zone. By doing this, you can go for longer periods of time in between watering and may only need to do so about once a week.  Let us know if you have further questions.  Emily

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 08, 2023, 1:29 PM EDT
response: Thank you so much. This is very helpful. KimOn Thu, Jun 8, 2023 at 1:24 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied June 08, 2023, 6:27 PM EDT
response: You're welcome.
Cherry tree infestation

Question: Would like ID and hopefully, organic method of eradication of bugs on our new cherry trees. ASAP please! Leaves appear chewed and bumps/bugs seen and web on some leaves with the worst damage.  Thank you for your assistance!

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 07, 2023, 2:01 PM EDT
response: Hi Wendy! Thanks for reaching out. Without a picture of the bug itself, we can't reliably identify what it is. It looks like the damage pictured is being caused by some sort of leaf-cutting insect and if there's webbing it could be a spider mite. Either way, the control methods will be essentially the same. As far as organic options for control you can remove the pests manually or if you're looking for a chemical or spray option you can use something with neem oil, bt (Bacillus thuringiensis), or spinosad in it. You should be able to find a product either online or at your local home and garden center.  As far as the lumps go, no need to worry! Those are part of the leaf and produce a sugary substance that can attract insects like ants as a natural way to help fight off other insects like aphids!  Have a great day! Cheyenne

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 07, 2023, 6:09 PM EDT
response: Thank you! WendyOn Jun 7, 2023, at 2:01 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 15, 2024, 1:26 PM EDT
response: Hello. Same tree. Chewed leaves. Is this the bug?  Neem oil? Begin forwarded message:From: Wendy Page-Echols <<personal data hidden>>Date: June 8, 2023 at 12:52:41 PM EDTTo: Carol Malnor <<personal data hidden>>, Bruce Malnor <<personal data hidden>>, Will Page-Echols <<personal data hidden>>, Wendy Page-Echols <<personal data hidden>>Subject: Cherry tree infestation  (#0104253)﻿Begin forwarded message:From: Wendy Page-Echols <<personal data hidden>>Date: June 7, 2023 at 6:09:19 PM EDTTo: Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>>Subject: Re: Cherry tree infestation  (#0104253)﻿Thank you! WendyOn Jun 7, 2023, at 2:01 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 16, 2024, 9:21 PM EDT
response: This looks like a fragment of a leaf.  The culprit is likely a worm.  Spongy moth larvae (formerly called gypsy moth) is very common in some areas of the southwest Michigan.  Trees can tolerate quite a bit of leaf feeding without any longterm damage.   At least 20% of the leaf area can be chewed away without significant impact on the tree's health.
ground cover

Question: This is growing under some pine trees nearby.  Is it an actual ground cover?  If so, name? 
Could it be planted and grown on a hill we have (with erosion)?  Any other suggestions 
for a low and easy ground cover mostly in shade?

responder: MaryKay, Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor Replied June 18, 2023, 6:05 PM EDT
response: The photo is too blurred when enlarged to see details of the plant. If you could get a closeup of an individual plant and another with the roots showing we should be able to identify it for you.

responder: Linda G Tenneson, Benton County Extension Master Gardener & Tree Care Advisor Replied June 18, 2023, 8:08 PM EDT
response: Was this originally assigned to me? If so, I never saw it. Linda G Tenneson From: ask=<personal data hidden> <ask=<personal data hidden>> On Behalf Of Ask ExtensionSent: Sunday, 18 June, 2023 17:05To: Linda G Tenneson <<personal data hidden>>Subject: New Internal Activity Alert

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 18, 2023, 10:51 PM EDT
response: I hope this helps.  Thanks!On Jun 18, 2023, at 7:08 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿

responder: Linda G Tenneson, Benton County Extension Master Gardener & Tree Care Advisor Replied June 18, 2023, 11:12 PM EDT
response: Your original question did not reach me and another person requested the second set of pictures.  My Picture This app identified this as a water plant which I am sure is wrong.  I do not know what your plant is.  This website gives several suggestions as to ground covers and their culture.   extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-news/ground-covers-gardens From my personal experience, Bugle Weed, grows well in shade. Lamium grows in shade or in sun. Periwinkle (Vinca Minor) does well in the shade.
Honeybee or hornet?

Question: Please ID this bee for me. There are hundreds on my tender mustard greens I let go to seed. Thanks!

responder: Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied June 07, 2023, 5:05 PM EDT
response: These are honey bees (Apis mellifera). They are not native here, but they can be found throughout Maryland now. They are used for the pollination of food crops and the production of honey. Here is our web page with more information about them.  Christa

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 07, 2023, 5:36 PM EDT
response: Thanks! You guys are great!RonOn Wed, Jun 7, 2023, 5:05 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied June 08, 2023, 8:14 AM EDT
response: You're welcome.
Brown patches on my lawn

Question: Hello, are you able to tell me the possible causes for the brown patches in the attached pictures? They are at the base of the same tree. None of the other trees in my lawn have this brown grass.

Thank you.

responder: Travis County Master Gardeners  Replied June 07, 2023, 4:35 PM EDT
response: Hi David,    I believe you have a fungal disease called brown patch.  Here is an article on brown patch from Texas Agrilife Bexar County.  I'd recommend using the greensand and attempting to correct any imbalances of moisture first.  If needed consider the fungicide treatment after you've improved the environment. https://bexar-tx.tamu.edu/homehort/archives-of-weekly-articles-davids-plant-of-the-week/brown-patch-disease-of-lawns-introduction/    Wishing you all the best. Bob Kunkel

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 07, 2023, 4:56 PM EDT
response: Thank you, Bob.  Do you know where I can get greensand? Do I need to mix it with other fertilizers or just apply it by itself?On Wed, Jun 7, 2023 at 3:35 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: Travis County Master Gardeners  Replied June 08, 2023, 12:08 PM EDT
response: Hi David,     We do not promote individual businesses to make sure we are showing any favoritism.  You can find greensand by calling nurseries and asking if they have it in stock or do an internet search with search terms such as greensand, central Texas wholesale suppliers.     I should have mentioned this in my previous response but another soil amendment that really helps local conditions and provide health to soil which ultimately improves health of grass, trees, shrubs and flowers is compost.  Consider putting down at least a 1-2" layer of high quality compost over that area or even better over your entire yard.  You may also be eligible for a rebate for the compost.  Here is the link on rebate programs City of Austin and select residential rebates: https://www.austintexas.gov/department/rebates-tools-programs If you are not a City of Austin customer. other utility  districts may have a similar program.    Wishing you all the best! Bob Kunkel

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 08, 2023, 1:47 PM EDT
response: Thanks, Bob.On Thu, Jun 8, 2023 at 11:08 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
Pine needles brown

Question: Hello, Worried about these pine trees. Needles turning brown and some bark peeling.Should I be concerned about beetles or winter frost causing.

responder: Alison O'Connor, PhD  Replied June 07, 2023, 10:34 AM EDT
response: Hi Jamie,  Could you send a photo of the entire tree?  The bark looks normal - as pines age, their bark tends to get more plated. The browning tips were likely due to winter stress or desiccation from some of our rapid temperature drops we experienced in the last few months.   Is the tree receiving regular water, both during the growing season and during fall/winter? Is it mulched at the base? When was the tree planted?

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 08, 2023, 9:30 PM EDT
response: All my best,  Sent from my iPhoneOn Jun 7, 2023, at 08:34, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿

responder: Alison O'Connor, PhD  Replied June 09, 2023, 11:49 AM EDT
response: Hi Jamie,  I suspect this is winter desiccation or browning from the various rapid temperature drops we experienced this winter. There were at least two times where the temperature dropped drastically over a short period of time - the needles are exposed and since it was warmer in the day, they were likely full of water. The temperature plummet caused those water cells to freeze.  From the trees I've seen, the buds have survived, so hopefully new growth will occur. Keep the trees watered as best you can this season (after the rains stop) and definitely focus on watering in fall and winter.   Also consider removing the grass, like you did with the two others, to remove competition from water and nutrients.
Invasive vine?

Question: For years my back hill has woodbine/Virginia Creeper which I really like especially in fall.
This summer I am noticing a new vine. 
Very aggressive.
Growing on the Virginia Creeper/Woodbine.
Lighter green.  Smaller leaves then creeper/woodbine. 
I sure hope this is not an invasive vine.
Thank you!!

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 07, 2023, 9:59 PM EDT
response: Virginia Creeper and Woodbine are two different plants. You have both now. Both are native Minnesota vines and can spread aggressively, but are controllable by hand pulling.   The vine with the larger, deeper green leaves is Virginia Creeper. The smaller, light green vine is Woodbine.

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 07, 2023, 10:47 PM EDT
response: Well, I'll be!!!Thank you so much!Time to do some pulling.  Kevin T. Wand, D.O.  Midwest Wellness Center, LLC  PO Box 390083 Minneapolis , MN   55439-0083 <personal data hidden> Fax:<personal data hidden> Midwestwellness.com    On Wednesday, June 7, 2023 at 08:59:13 PM CDT, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
Are fruits on CAR tree bad?

Question: I was recently told the spots on my apple tree's leaves is CAR. I have removed the leaves and am about to start spraying. Can we keep the fruits or should we get rid of?

responder: Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied June 07, 2023, 12:43 PM EDT
response: Hi- the little red spots are from San Jose scale feeding. These web pages have more information: https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/san-jose-scale/ https://extension.psu.edu/tree-fruit-insect-pest-san-jose-scale  Prune out any heavily infested branches and apply horticultural oil to smother the crawlers.  The fruits are technically edible but may be poor eating quality even after peeling.  Jon

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 07, 2023, 3:40 PM EDT
response: Can you recommend a good book for learning overall Apple tree health, pruning techniques, pest management, etc that is appropriate for home gardeners? thank you.

responder: Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied June 08, 2023, 12:16 PM EDT
response: Hi- we don't know of a good book to recommend. Here are some suggested resources for apple growing at home: Cornell home fruit  PSU Extension- Fruit Production for the Home Gardener ($12 hard copy; out-of-stock)  VA Tech home fruit growing NCSU Extension Master Gardener Tree Fruit chapter  UMN Extension Fruit Pages Jon
New Apple tree leaves

Question: We recently planted a Haralson apple tree on the east side of our house.   
Wherever there was blossom the leaves are now dead. 
Should I trim them off?  
Is the whole tree dying? 
We planted the tree according to the directions on the website so feel that part was done correctly.  

We did have colder temps right after we planted and I was trying to remember of there was a frost. 

Any help you can pass my way would be appreciated.  
I have attached a photo.

responder: Evelyn Locke, MN Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor, Volunteer    Replied June 06, 2023, 4:40 PM EDT
response: Your tree is probably suffering from transplant shock. The high temps are brutal. Make sure your tree isn’t drying out too much before you water again. The soil should be kept damp but not soggy. Test soil moisture down at least 3 inches and it should be moist.  https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/watering-newly-planted-trees-and-shrubs i don’t think it will die but it will need care.

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 06, 2023, 6:16 PM EDT
response: Thank you for getting back to me so quickly. I will check down 3” to see how well I am watering.  Should I trim off the dead leaves or branches?   Sent from my iPad On Jun 6, 2023, at 3:40 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿

responder: Evelyn Locke, MN Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor, Volunteer    Replied June 06, 2023, 6:56 PM EDT
response: I would hold off pruning even of branches that look dead. They  may still be alive and the tree dropped its leaves to conserve water.