MIRAGE-Benchmark/MIRAGE huggingface dataset:
Poisoned Manzanita and native currant

Question: 3 weeks ago someone poisoned our front yard. The flowers all died but I thought the manzanita and currant would survive but they are looking worse - more dead leaves daily. 
I would like to know if I should remove them or if they might come back in the spring.

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 25, 2024, 5:08 PM EDT
response: Thank you for your question, Annette.  How disrespectful of your property and native plants, to boot!  Unfortunately, without removing some of the lower limbs to see if tissue is still viable, we can't predict whether these woody plants will recover.  And, without knowing the chemical that was applied, it's impossible to know whether it was topical (just covered and killed the leaves), or was systemic (absorbed by the plants and translocated to the roots).  I'd suggest you let them be this winter and, in the spring, wait for new foliage, plus bending the branches to see if they are still pliable.  If they all break off, the plants are dead.  Good luck!

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 26, 2024, 12:05 AM EDT
response: Thank you so much for the advice! I will definitely let them go over the winter!AnnetteOn Fri, Oct 25, 2024 at 2:08 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 26, 2024, 12:11 AM EDT
response: While you're waiting to see the long-term implications, you might find this helpful:  https://extension.usu.edu/planthealth/ipm/notes_orn/list-flowers/herbicide-injury

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 26, 2024, 12:55 AM EDT
response: Thanks again! This information is very helpful.AnnetteOn Fri, Oct 25, 2024 at 9:11 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 26, 2024, 9:32 AM EDT
response: Welcome!
Can we add soil and grass seed around this Maple?

Question: Hello,
We have this Maple in our front yard, planted by a landscaping company about 12 years ago. It has always had woodchips or mulch around it. If you notice, the roots are really exposed. We are wondering if we could add soil and grass seed around the base (rather than mulch). The roots are also growing up from the grass a little further away. Any advice is appreciated. Thanks!

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 25, 2024, 7:29 AM EDT
response: I am so happy to see your question! The answer is no -don't try to get grass to grow there. Let me explain. Maple trees natural habitat is growing in a woods, the roots right at the soil surface and with a thick layer of leaf duff over the roots. Because we love maple trees, we grow them in our landscapes. So mimicking their natural environment, with a thick layer of wood mulch covering the roots is the best thing to do. The experts recommend a donut-shaped layer 3 inches thick, 3 inches away from the trunk, and for a tree this large, at least a three foot radius around the tree. Your tree will thank you! Paul Tree Care Advisor volunteer

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 26, 2024, 8:45 AM EDT
response: Paul, Thank you so much for your response!MeganOn Fri, Oct 25, 2024 at 6:29 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
dying maple trees

Question: We believe the maple tree is dying.  See photo.  Can you confirm this?  Why is the most likely cause of it dying?

We have two dead maples within 20 - 40 feet of the tree in the photo.

responder: Maureen Graber  Replied October 25, 2024, 8:56 AM EDT
response: Good Morning Margaret,  Thank you for contacting the U of M Extension Service.  From viewing your one photo, the limb of the tree looks like it fully leafed out in the spring and still has the dried leaves on the branch in October. The tree is not dead.  There are several reasons your trees may be stressed. Trees take a long time to respond to the climate conditions. We had serious drought during 2023 and 2022. Were the trees watered during the drought? Is there any damage or wounds on the trunks of the trees? What is growing in the soil around the drip line or base of the trees?  We had a dry September and most of October. It would be good to water the trees going into winter.  Please click on the following link to the U of M Extension Yard and Garden website about tree care: https://extension.umn.edu/find-plants/trees-and-shrubs Good Luck!

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 30, 2024, 11:03 AM EDT
response: Thankyou for your response! Now I will not cut this tree down and will turn the watering system "ON" . Wait til next year to decide! Only some Hastas at the base. Margaet's husband, Gene

responder: Maureen Graber  Replied October 30, 2024, 3:22 PM EDT
response: You are welcome. Some wood chip mulch around the base of the tree, a few inches away from the trunk will protect the roots in winter, from large temperature fluctuations. The mulch will keep the soil cool and moist.  Good Luck!
Maple leaf spots

Question: What caused the black spots on the leaves of my 40 year old soft maple?  Did not notice until I trimmed a few branches.

responder: Answer Line answer@iastate.edu Iowa 800-262-3804 and Minnesota 800-854-1678  Replied October 25, 2024, 10:09 AM EDT
response: Hi, Thanks for your question. I can't tell for sure from the photos but if could be Maple Leaf Blister. Maple Tar spot is another fungal disease that Maple are susceptible to. I've included articles on both for you to review.  https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/encyclopedia/maple-leaf-blister  https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/encyclopedia/maple-tar-spot

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 25, 2024, 2:40 PM EDT
response: Thank you for your reply.  The fungus is definitely tar spot.DianeOn Fri, Oct 25, 2024, 9:10 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
Identifying Moth

Question: Can't identify this moth.

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 October 23, 2024, 9:47 AM EDT
response: The photo file names that we see on the images you sent appear to be correct -- it looks like the Euonymus Leaf Notcher adult moth, otherwise called the Euonymus Defoliator Moth, Pryeria sinica. It is non-native and has been present in our area for about two decades.  Miri

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 23, 2024, 9:55 AM EDT
response: Thank you for your assistance.

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 October 23, 2024, 10:32 AM EDT
response: You're welcome.
Weed?

Question: This plant has appeared this year in garden beds —both vegetables and flowers. The root is like a carrot (single, tapered cylinder). Is it a weed? Eatable?

Thank you.

responder: *Please Note: If there is mention of trade names in this response, it is for general information purposes only. It does not constitute an endorsement of one product over another, nor is discrimination intended against any product.  Thank you for contacting Ask Extension. Please contact us again with any gardening questions you may have, or call the MSUE State Hotline at 1-888-678-3464  Replied October 25, 2024, 10:06 AM EDT
response: Hello Alice, This plant is most likely Common Evening primrose  (Oenothera biennis), a biennial that produces the type of leaf pattern seen in your photo in the first year and flowers grown on tall stalks in the second year. The flowers open in the late afternoon and stay until 10:00 pm. It is native to North America and is considered a weed in most areas. It has a yellowish, fleshy taproot. The early Native Americans used the plant for food and medicinal purposes, but I would not recommend that you do so.   There are different species of evening primrose in this genus, but I believe your plant is the common evening primrose. I have included links to articles about this plant that you will find helpful in managing this weed in your landscape. https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/drive-by-botany-frost-aster-and-evening-primrose https://weedguide.cfaes.osu.edu/singlerecord.asp?id=42 https://weedid.cals.vt.edu/profile/101  If you have questions or need further information, please don't hesitate to contact us again.

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 29, 2024, 8:30 PM EDT
response: Thank you —I appreciate the guidance.  On Oct 25, 2024, at 10:06 AM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: *Please Note: If there is mention of trade names in this response, it is for general information purposes only. It does not constitute an endorsement of one product over another, nor is discrimination intended against any product.  Thank you for contacting Ask Extension. Please contact us again with any gardening questions you may have, or call the MSUE State Hotline at 1-888-678-3464  Replied October 29, 2024, 9:08 PM EDT
response: Happy to help. Please contact us any time with your gardening questions.  Happy Halloween!
What is this insect?

Question: Hi, the last two mornings I have had one of these on my stove.  Don't know what they are or where they came from.  Maybe you can help?  Someone just gave me a big bag of acorns they picked up off the ground.  These are near the stove.  Could there be a connection?? Thank you!!

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 23, 2024, 4:20 PM EDT
response: Hi Julie,  Yes, since your acorns are nearby, they are likely acorn weevil grubs. I would look closely at the acorns. Do you see any exit holes (round, about 1/8th of an inch)?  Once the grubs emerge from the acorns in the fall, they will look for a place to tunnel in the soil. They will pupate and emerge as an adult weevil the following season.   The grubs are harmless in the house. They likely wouldn't be able to survive or reproduce. You can discard them or place them outside.  Here is more information: https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/acorn-weevil#:~:text=Acorn%20weevil%20grubs%20are%20curved,holes%20through%20which%20they%20escape.  And here: https://www.extension.iastate.edu/news/2007/sep/072107.htm  Please let me know if you have any additional questions!   Thanks,  Lisa  Lisa Mason Horticulture Specialist, Entomologist CSU Extension in Arapahoe County

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 23, 2024, 5:15 PM EDT
response: Well, who knew?!?!  So my friend collected two big bags of these for me to feed to the squirrels around my house.  It sounds like these are no good for the squirrels to eat.  I'll know next time. Thank you very much for the response, Lisa!  I love this resource, by the way!  I've used it a time or two before.  Very helpful!!Best!Julie L MangumOn Wed, Oct 23, 2024 at 2:20 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
Arborvitae leaves dying

Question: My Arborvitae leaves are dying.   Have watered them once a week throughout the summer and continue to now.  I have noticed this issue on others in the neighbor hood.  What should I do ?

responder: Linda G Tenneson, Benton County Extension Master Gardener & Tree Care Advisor Replied October 22, 2024, 9:06 AM EDT
response: See the browning paragraph on this web page.  https://extension.psu.edu/the-mighty-arborvitae#:~:text=Arborvitae%20Care,need%20irrigation%20during%20dry%20spells. This web page describes watering needs which could also be the problem. https://extension.usu.edu/forestry/resources/forest-products/ask-an-expert/arborvitaes Additional. https://ask2.extension.org/kb/faq.php?id=464567#:~:text=If%20you%20plan%20to%20keep,you%20should%20prune%20them%20off.

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 22, 2024, 10:09 AM EDT
response: Thanks for the quick response.  This answer is exactly what I needed.  From: ask=<personal data hidden> On Behalf Of Ask ExtensionSent: Tuesday, October 22, 2024 8:06 AMTo: dennis.kieffer Subject: Re: Arborvitae leaves dying (#0158377)
Weed/Grass Type Overtaking Yard

Question: Over the last couple years, I have had a weed- like grass taking over my front yard. Looking to identify the type of grass/weed and a way of removing it.
Thank you.

responder: Dan D. (Greene Co)  Replied October 24, 2024, 12:43 PM EDT
response: Dave, Thank you for your question. From pictures it is quite difficult to give you an exact answer. Most likely the "weed grass" you have is quack grass or tall fescue both of which quite commonly work their way into lawns throughout all of Ohio. Quack grass spreads by seed and underground rhizomes which makes it difficult, at best, to get rid of it once it becomes established. Tall fescue is a clumpy, grassy weed and, again, once established, the clumps are next to impossible to pull out of the soil.  Here is a link on quack grass from the University of Minnesota Extension: https://extension.umn.edu/weeds/quackgrass.    Both can be removed by digging out the area where they are growing or by spraying using a 'non-selective' herbicide. Remember, if this is quack grass, all underground rhizomes and pieces of rhizomes must be removed or the problem will come right back.  A 'selective herbicide' for use in lawns will not work since they only kill broad-leaved weeds. Both methods (digging or non-selective spray) will result in a bare area that will need to be re-seeded or sodded. It is now too late in the season to properly get a seeded area established that will survive the winter so if you want to try to get rig of the 'weed grass' you probably will want to wait until spring.    If you want to know for sure the identity of your 'weed grass', dig a sample and take it to your local year-round garden center or nursery and they should be able to help.  Your second option is to take your sample to your county extension office and they will be happy to assist you in identifying your problem 'weed grass'. Their address and phone number is  490 S Broad St Canfield, Ohio 44406 PH:<personal data hidden>   Thank you again for your question and I hope you have a healthy and happy fall season.

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 24, 2024, 1:05 PM EDT
response: Dan, Greatly appreciate your response to my question/issue. I will, as suggested, wait until Spring to address the issue directly. It appears that I am going to need to “kill” and re seed nearly my entire front yard. Thanks again for the information. Dave Sent from my iPhone On Oct 24, 2024, at 12:43 PM, Ask Extension wrote:﻿

responder: Dan D. (Greene Co)  Replied October 25, 2024, 11:29 AM EDT
response: Dave, I thought your lawn looked quite nice and healthy except for a couple spots where the weed-type grass had established itself. Don't forget pursuing the "perfect lawn" can be a true money pit. Enjoy the fall and maybe we can even get some rain.
Squirrel identification

Question: Hello--  Sorry if this is a second inquiry -- there seemed to be some trouble asking this question via the online OSU Extension Service.  I'm a journalist in southern Oregon currently writing a blog about one of our backyard squirrels. I'm looking to highlight the diminishing range of our western gray squirrel. To accompany the blog, I'd like to post one of the attached photos (same squirrel in both).  Could you possibly give me a positive identification of this squirrel? I believe its a western gray, Sciurus griseus. Is that correct? Your help is greatly appreciated!  --Thanks, John Riha

responder: Dr. Dana Sanchez  Replied October 22, 2024, 4:41 PM EDT
response: I replied to your earlier post. Feel free to reach out directly via email if that response isn't reaching you.

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 22, 2024, 5:08 PM EDT
response: Hello Dr. Sanchez--  Unfortunately, I didn't receive your reply to my initial post, so I'm reaching out as you suggested regarding my inquiry, #0158329 Your help is greatly appreciated.  --John RihaOn Tue, Oct 22, 2024 at 1:41 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: Dr. Dana Sanchez  Replied October 22, 2024, 5:17 PM EDT
response: Thank you for the clear photos. I would identify this as a western gray squirrel. For further replicated confirmation, I recommend sending your photo to Dr. Clint Epps, too. (<personal data hidden>)  Also - You're likely aware of this excellent guide https://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlife/living_with/docs/TreeSquirrels.pdf from ODFW about which you might tell your readers.

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 22, 2024, 6:35 PM EDT
response: Thank you!  On Tue, Oct 22, 2024 at 2:17 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
Oak tree Fungus

Question: What is the status of the oak tree fungus?  What precautions should I take?  I have several mature pin oaks and a red oak in my yard.

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 21, 2024, 3:39 PM EDT
response: There are numerous types of fungi that impact both red and pin oaks. Without know the specifics, I would guess that you are concerned about oak wilt, which most commonly effects species in the red oak group (both red oak and pin oaks are in this group). The best course of action is to make sure that your trees stay healthy and are not being adversely impacted (lawn mower or equipment damage). If there is a need to conduct any pruning on these trees make sure that in ONLY occurs during the dormant season. These oak trees can be particularly susceptible to oak wilt if pruned during the growing season. Below is a link to an Ohio State Fact Sheet on Oak Wilt. https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/plpath-tree-02

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 21, 2024, 5:42 PM EDT
response: Someone is recommending I treat my oak trees with  propiconazole to prevent my oaks from getting oak wilt.  Is this necessary in Franklin County Ohio

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 22, 2024, 7:14 AM EDT
response: The fact sheet that I linked to above gives a pretty good explanation of when Propiconazole could be used. To summarize, only use if the trees will be exposed to oak wilt from nearby dying trees (trees that can be connected underground through the root system with the trees you don't want to loose). It is also important to remember that once a treatment is started, it will likely need to be repeated every 1-3 years depending upon tree size. If neighboring trees are not being impacted, I would not treat. Certainly, remember that pruning of these oak trees should only be conducted during the dormant season.
Beech aphids

Question: 'booie woogie' beech aphids seen in the woods at Adkins arboretum. What type are these?
Are they Grylloprociphilus imbricator? Are they the type that over winter in the roots of bald cypress? Or do the do something else? What is it about the Bald Cypress that attracts them? Will they choose a different tree if the Bald cypress isn't near by?

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 October 21, 2024, 1:35 PM EDT
response: The Beech Blight Aphids (Grylloprociphilus imbricator, as you  noted) that have several other common names are widespread and native to our region. They are the woolly aphid species seen congregating on beech branches. Yes, they can overwinter in the root zone of Baldcypress, though we don't know how often this occurs in Maryland (it would be difficult to survey, since a researcher would presumably have to get lucky and dig in the right spots to find a colony).  As far as what attracts them to Baldcypress as the alternate host we don't know (other than "smelling" chemical cues to find the trees, we don't know what benefit that species provides), but it's not uncommon for several other aphid species to alternate between unrelated plant species over the course of a year. For example, the Witchhazel Cone Gall Aphid that uses both witchhazel and river birch as hosts. Given the host specificity, the use of any other substitute host plant is probably not likely, but we don't have that level of detail about their life cycle.  Miri

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 21, 2024, 3:08 PM EDT
response: Thanks Miri.One more thing. Is the genus species identified correctly in the photos. Grylloprociphilus imbricator,? VivianOn Mon, Oct 21, 2024 at 1:35 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 October 21, 2024, 3:19 PM EDT
response: Microscopic examination would probably be needed to verify species level ID on aphids, but Beech Blight Aphid is the only species I am aware of that looks like this and feeds collectively on beech trees, so from that, I would say yes.  Miri

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 21, 2024, 3:30 PM EDT
response: On Mon, Oct 21, 2024 at 3:19 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
Caterpillar?

Question: Found this today in the garden on a calendula plant. It kind of resembles a hornworm. But I'm not sure. Can you help identify this.

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 23, 2024, 4:55 PM EDT
response: Here's the picsOn Sat, Oct 19, 2024, 7:29 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:  Dear kstarlyn, Thank you for using Ask Extension. A request for support has been created and a representative will follow-up with you as soon as possible. Questions are usually answered within two business days. You can view this question's progress online. YOUR QUESTION #0158226: Caterpillar?  Found this today in the garden on a calendula plant. It kind of resembles a hornworm. But I'm not sure. Can you help identify this. Ask Extension offers one-to-one expert answers from Cooperative Extension/University staff and volunteers within participating Land-Grant institutions across the United States. If you wish to provide additional comments or information regarding the issue, please login to your account for a complete archive of your prior questions and answers.  This message for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for personalized professional advice. For specific local information, contact your local county Cooperative Extension office or other qualified professionals. eXtension Foundation does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, professional services, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned. Reliance on any information provided by eXtension Foundation, employees, suppliers, member universities, or other third parties through eXtension is solely at the user's own risk. All eXtension content and communication is subject to the Terms of Use which may be revised at any time.

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 23, 2024, 7:44 PM EDT
response: This may be Chloridea virescens, or the tobacco budworm moth. The larvae are active this time of year, they have black microspines on their back, and they attack flower crops. Color is highly variable. You could rear out the moth to determine the identification for certain.