MIRAGE-Benchmark/MIRAGE huggingface dataset:
Disease on ornamental cherry

Question: What is on my ornamental cherry, and how do I get rid of it?  We've lived here 7 years, probably the tree is 20 years old, and this os the first season for us to have this issue.

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 05, 2023, 12:08 PM EDT
response: Hi,  This is White Prunicola Scale. You can refer to the general scale treat page for management, either with chemical or non chemical recommendations. There are 3 generations of these pests a year and the first treatment window is almost over (maybe slightly passed for Anne Arundel County). You will need to treat multiple times a year and possibly for a few years to get the population under control. If you think you can attempt to handle this yourself with the age of the tree, you can follow the recommendations listed, or we would suggest that you contact an arborist to assess the severity and to be able to use treatment methods only certified professionals can use. Since the tree is older and seems to have some height, you may want to go with a professional for safety reasons. If the investment of either time or money to treat the tree isn't worth it, then you can always replace the tree with a less susceptible species.  Let us know if you have further questions.  Emily

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 05, 2023, 3:38 PM EDT
response: Thank you so much!  Candice

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 06, 2023, 9:29 AM EDT
response: You're welcome!
What is this? Tree, shrub or weed?

Question: Hi, I’m looking for help to identify what this plant is. I’ve lived here since 2019and at that time this plant was about 4’ tall. Thinking it was a weed, I cut it back in the fall with plans to remove it the following spring. Well that never happened and now it looks like this. I actually like the way it’s grown but I don’t like it in the location where it is. I would like to replant it somewhere else but want to identify it before doing that. I appreciate any help you could provide. 

Thank you,
Vicki Graham
vhgraham4494@gmail .com

responder: Darin C.  Replied June 04, 2023, 12:53 PM EDT
response: Hi. That looks like an ash tree (genus Fraxinus). It looks like it is woody, and your photos clearly show that it has pinnately compound leaves (i.e., leaves that are made of multiple leaflets positioned opposite one another, plus another leaflet at the tip). Additionally, I’m pretty sure the leaves are directly opposite one another on the branch. That combination of features significantly narrows the list of possible candidates, and it is a good match for ash. Beyond that, it is difficult to say exactly what type of ash tree you have. There are four types of ash that are found in Ohio. Here is a fact sheet from Ohio State on ashes that provides features for distinguishing them. As you will see, telling the species apart relies looking closely at the leaf scar. Many fact sheets don’t get into the details of identifying the particular species because they are generally similar, so getting a specific ID may not be important to you, too. Knowing it is an ash tree is the important part because this tree is susceptible to the emerald ash borer (EAB), an invasive beetle that was accidentally introduced into the US and has devastated ash trees throughout Ohio and many other states. The Emerald Ash Borer network is an extensive site with lots of information about the EAB and its effects on ashes. You might find this FAQ page particularly useful, since it provides answers to questions commonly asked by homeowners. Given that most ash trees are not resistant to EAB, it is generally not recommended to plant new ash trees. If you are interested in planting a different type of tree, here is a PDF from Ohio State U. that discusses potential replacements for ash trees in urban settings and woodlands.

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 04, 2023, 1:21 PM EDT
response: Darin,Thank you so much for your very informative response complete with hyperlinks to useful information. I appreciate your time in sharing your expertise with me. Best regards,VickiOn Sun, Jun 4, 2023 at 12:53 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
Narrow hedge

Question: Hello! I’m looking for a narrow hedge plant (evergreen is preferable) for along a chain link fence for privacy. South side of our house between neighbors. 4 feet in width and at least 6 in height but can be taller. It receives part sun I think. About 5 hours? It gets morning sun then dips behind the maple tree in our neighbors yard around 1pm. Gets a bit more sun in the evening but not much. We looked into Holmstrup arborvitae but are worried it won’t get enough sun. I don’t love the look of a manicured, formal hedge so prefer more natural. Any ideas??? Thanks so much and I realize it might be impossible! FYI Photos taken at 9:15am.

responder: Diane M  Replied June 05, 2023, 3:59 PM EDT
response: There are some slender arborvitae and junipers, such as giant arborvitae or Blue Arrow juniper that require only part sun and might meet your needs.  Visit a local large nursery to check out all of the options.  You will achieve a more relaxed look if you use shrubs.  If you only need to screen that area in months when shrubs are blooming, your options increase.  I'm attaching an article that lists some of these.   https://www.gardeningchores.com/tall-narrow-shrubs-for-privacy-screening/

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 05, 2023, 4:50 PM EDT
response: Hello and thanks for the reply. That link is mostly to plants that are not hardy in zone 4. I realized I did not specify my zone in my question so do you have recommendations in zone 4?Also we went to Gergen’s and they said blue arrow junipers and arborvitae’s need full sun, which we don’t have. It they are wrong I will jump for joy. Please let me know. Thanks for your time and assistance,CarrieSent from my iPhone On Jun 5, 2023, at 2:59 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿

responder: Diane M  Replied June 07, 2023, 5:20 PM EDT
response: It sounds as though you have close to full sun, which would allow junipers and arborvitae to thrive. several varieties of these evergreens do well in part sun.  The link attached to the previous response contained a few zone 4 plants that might work for you, such as snowberry.  I'm attaching a new link that list plants that thrive in shade - possibly you can find some good options there - https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/gardening-shade
We found a few of these very thin worms(?) in our backyard

Question: I’ve never seen anything like this before, and we’re wondering what they are. We had a lot of rain last night, if that makes a difference. We noticed them waving around on the ground and on a plant. A photo is attached.

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 05, 2023, 1:02 PM EDT
response: Hi Jed, It's most likely just an earthworm. They surface during/after rain to travel. I would need a picture of higher resolution to provide a more accurate identification.

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 05, 2023, 2:15 PM EDT
response: Thanks for getting back to me! The critter is thinner than a strand of spaghetti, actually closer to a strand of hair, so I didn’t think it could be a standard earthworm. I have a video of it twirling around on a plant, but unfortunately I can’t upload it. Seems like only photos are allowed.

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 05, 2023, 2:19 PM EDT
response: I did a quick search for the life cycle of earthworms, and I see the hatchling phase matches what I saw. You are right, and that’s why you’re the expert. Thanks again!
Maple tree distress/disease?

Question: Hi- one of our two huge maple trees is dropping blackened, curling leaves.  Photo attached.  Can you advise as to what is happening, and whether we should do something about it?  We do not want to lose this tree.  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 05, 2023, 11:12 AM EDT
response: Hi,  This appears to be a common disease that is occurring right now on many shade trees called Anthracnose.  It is mostly seen on Oak, Maple, Sycamore and others shade trees. In most cases it isn't a major health concern to the tree and new growth will push out the older leaves - if they are still attached- as the season progresses. Usually the symptoms clear up with weather changes into the summer too.  Silver Maple, which is what this leaf looks like, produces a lot of leaves anyways, so it should be fine. It helps trees to recover if you can lesson their stress symptoms. With the drought weather and going into the summer, if you can supplement watering when it doesn't rain, that should help as well. Water deeply so it can soak into the entire root zone of the tree. To be proactive for next year, you can rake up and discard any fallen leaves which will help with the overwintering of the disease and also make sure to rake and dispose of leaves this fall as well.  Let us know if you have further questions with this.  Emily

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 05, 2023, 1:26 PM EDT
response: Thank you!  This is very helpful (and encouraging)!On Jun 5, 2023, at 11:12 AM, 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 06, 2023, 9:47 AM EDT
response: You're welcome!
Pea plant turning white

Question: What is wrong with the plant?  What can I do for it?

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 07, 2023, 10:06 PM EDT
response: I do not see that I got this responded to?     TIA        On 06/02/2023 7:20 PM PDT Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:        Dear Jeanne, 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 #0103394: Pea plant turning white   What is wrong with the plant?  What can I do for it?   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: Deb K  Replied June 15, 2023, 8:19 PM EDT
response: Thank you for contacting ask extension with your question.  Your email got "lost" in our system, I'm sorry for the slow response. Based on the picture you provided, I suspect you have powdery mildew. Our unusually dry spring created the perfect environment for this disease which normally doesn’t appear in the garden until later in the growing season.  At this point, fungicides will have little impact on the disease. Unlike most fungus, powder mildew needs dry condition to thrive, they can not grow on wet leaves. You can try spraying off the leaves and then irrigating with a sprinkler, but at this point your best bet may be to start over. Here’s some prevention recommendations.Do not replant peas in the same location.Plant resistant varieties such as ‘Almoto’, ‘Aspen’, ‘Concord’, ‘Freezer 604’, ‘Knight’, ‘Sentry’, ‘Sounder’, ‘Super Sugar Melt’ (snap pea), and others.Clean up plant debris in the garden. Destroy or discard (do not compost) diseased materials. If you decide to use fungicides, please note that they work best when administered before disease develops: Monterey Bi-Carb Old Fashioned Fungicide at 4 teaspoons/2 gal water is approved for home use. (Always follow the directions on the label).  I hope this is helpful. Happy Gardening!
Wedge-shaped garden insect eating holes in leaves

Question: Last summer, I noticed a small, black, wedge-shaped insect that was eating holes in the leaves of my raspberry bush. This year, I've also noticed them on basil and tomatoes. They're quite small (half a centimeter at the biggest), appear to have wings, and their heads are at the larger end of the wedge shape, if that makes sense. They don't really move around unless directly disturbed, but they absolutely destroy anything I find them on. The photos show some of the damage they can cause and what they look like (including a top-down view and several on the same raspberry stem). What are they and how can I eliminate them? Thanks in advance for your help - I certainly need it!

responder: Evelyn Locke, MN Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor, Volunteer    Replied June 03, 2023, 4:56 PM EDT
response: I think you are seeing flea beetles and they do have voracious appetites. https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/flea-beetles

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 03, 2023, 7:26 PM EDT
response: Thank you for replying! I don't think they're flea beetles - the bugs in my garden don't quite look like that. They almost look like a type of leafhopper, but they don't have the same coloration as any that seem to be common in Minnesota. Right after I posted my question, I found this article. They kind of look like #16 in the first set of images; however, I can't find many other photos of that species to confirm. If the insects I'm dealing with are leafhoppers, do you have any ideas for how I can get rid of them without harming pollinators?

responder: Evelyn Locke, MN Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor, Volunteer    Replied June 03, 2023, 7:46 PM EDT
response: I use row covers until leaf hoppers move on. https://blog-fruit-vegetable-ipm.extension.umn.edu/2021/06/leafhopper-watch-hot-weather-and-aster.html  https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/leafhoppers The tomatoes will need pollinators or hand pollination as will raspberry. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/leafhopper-control.htm
what is wrong with my apple tree

Question: I have 3 young apple trees, the oldest 2 maybe 4 years old. Problems and disease every year. This year, just hoping to keep them alive. A trusted grower suggested I spray every couple of weeks starting when weather was above 45 degrees, which I have done, with Monterey Fruit Spray. One of the trees has tiny little apples. They've developed lesions that are seeping juice. 

Any advice?

responder: Dan D. (Greene Co)  Replied June 03, 2023, 9:15 PM EDT
response: Sheila,    Great question and one that truly needs further inspection.  From your comments, it sounds like you have had issues with your apple trees since they were planted. There are a number of pests and diseases that affect apple trees and as you read more and more about them, the common preventative action is always to make sure you plant disease resistant varieties.     Based on what I could see from your pictures (small blemishes on the young fruit from which the fruit is seeping juice) I would say your tree is experiencing Apple Maggots.  Here is a link from the University of Minnesota Extension that will explain more about the issue: https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/apple-maggot.    Again, your question gave me the impression you have struggled with these trees since they were planted. With that in mind, here is the address and phone number for your county's extension office:   2548 Carmack Road Columbus, Ohio 43210 PH:<personal data hidden>   I would recommend you call and arrange to visit the office and discuss your apple trees with them. They will most likely want to know what variety you planted, the problems you have experienced and will probably want to see the damaged young fruit. I would also recommend you take as many pictures of the trees as possible, with close ups of any problem areas or concerns.     I really think they can give you the best advice regarding your trees once they talk with you and see your samples and pictures.    Hopefully, the problem is not a serious one and your fruit trees can be brought back to full health and become productive.   Thank you for your question and I hope you have a great summer.

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 08, 2023, 6:08 PM EDT
response: Thank-you SO much!!! On Sat, Jun 3, 2023 at 9:15 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
Granny Smith apple tree

Question: Hi - I recently added a couple honeycrisp apple trees and one granny smith tree to my yard (all were about 6-7 feet tall when purchased). Both the honeycrisp trees seem to be doing well, but I'm a bit concerned about the granny smith tree. The leaves are curling and the leaves don't look healthy. Not sure if I'm underwatering, overwatering, or if there's an insect/fungus issue? The first picture below shows some of the smaller leaves that may be close to dropping.

I'm hoping you can help me diagnose what's causing my issue. Please see the attached images, and thank you in advance!

responder: Paul W. U of M Extension Master Gardener Dakota County Replied June 04, 2023, 8:50 PM EDT
response: There is a myriad of things that can cause the leaves of an apple tree to curl: overwatering, over fertilization, heat, and, of course, disease.  The most prevalent diseases are Apple Scab and Fire Blight, but I see no indication of those diseases.  We had this question last week and it was noted that there has been a lot of aphid activity. Since the leaves don't show any spotting or indication of disease you might look for aphids and, if you find them, spray with insecticidal soap.  If the tree is dropping leaves, it could be lack of nutrients so some fertilization might be in order.  It has been hot lately too!  Here is a great piece from the U on growing apple trees at home:  Growing apples in the home garden | UMN Extension  Keep an eye on the tree and get back to me if you see something else.

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 04, 2023, 11:15 PM EDT
response: Thank you. Very helpful!On Sun, Jun 4, 2023 at 7:50 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
I am find these in my soil and was wondering what they are

Question: Can you tell me what this is, I am finding it attached to roots a few inches deep.  The picture in 1 cm in size

responder: Barbara, Anoka County MG, TCA Replied June 03, 2023, 1:01 PM EDT
response: May we have photos of roots with this still attached.  Also, on what type of plant?  Do the plants seem to be declining or healthy.

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 05, 2023, 9:27 AM EDT
response: Thanks, I did happen to find a sample this last weekend while weeding. Sent from my iPhone On Jun 3, 2023, at 12:01 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 05, 2023, 9:27 AM EDT
response: Thanks, I did happen to find a sample this last weekend while weeding. Sent from my iPhone On Jun 3, 2023, at 12:01 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿

responder: Barbara, Anoka County MG, TCA Replied June 06, 2023, 12:24 PM EDT
response: You didn't answer my question as to whether the plants were thriving or struggling or if they seem to be an insect.  I am only guessing but they are probably forms of mycorrhizal fungi or they are hairlike roots that have soil tangled in them..  They probably wash off with water.  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mycorrhiza

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 07, 2023, 9:01 AM EDT
response: Sorry about that, when I added the last picture the email sent without letting me add additional information.  I am weeding and finding them attached to grass that I’m pulling up.  The grass is growing good, not what I want lol.  they are orangish brown, 1 cm diameter, and very hard.  So you think they will be good or bad for the vegetable plants I am planning to plant.  They do seem to be attached to the root system.Thanks for your helpSent from my iPhone On Jun 6, 2023, at 11:24 AM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿

responder: Barbara, Anoka County MG, TCA Replied June 07, 2023, 8:17 PM EDT
response: If the darn grass you are pulling seems to be thriving and these are attached to the grass roots, I wouldn't worry about your vegetable plants.  Go ahead and plant.  There isn't anything you can do about them.

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 12, 2023, 1:13 PM EDT
response: Thanks for your help!!!Appreciate it.Sent from my iPhone On Jun 7, 2023, at 7:17 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿
Lilac care

Question: Hi, I purchase this Leilich shop from Menards. It sat on the porch for about two or three days until I was able clear the area and pull the weeds etc. I planted it. It had already started to lose some color a little bit. I’m just wondering if this is done for and I should take it out and put a new one or if it’s OK?

responder: MaryKay, Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor Replied June 02, 2023, 3:52 PM EDT
response: Lilac are pretty hardy. Since the lower leaves are still green you might be able to save it.  Cut out all the brown.  Move the mulch back at least 8 inches from the stems. (Mulch touching stems can dehydrate plants.). Water it regularly if no soaking rain until the ground freezes in the fall.. The following website gives more details on planting and maintaining new shrubs.  https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/watering-newly-planted-trees-and-shrubs

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 03, 2023, 6:07 PM EDT
response: Will do thanks so much! On Friday, June 2, 2023, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-Dear Jax, here's the response to your question: Lilac are pretty hardy. Since the lower leaves are still green you might be able to save it.  Cut out all the brown.  Move the mulch back at least 8 inches from the stems. (Mulch touching stems can dehydrate plants.). Water it regularly if no soaking rain until the ground freezes in the fall.. The following website gives more details on planting and maintaining new shrubs.  https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/watering-newly-planted-trees-and-shrubs  Need to reply to the expert? Click the link below, or simply reply to this email. Click here to view #0103305 Mary, Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor We hope this response has sufficiently answered your questions. If not, please do not send another email. Instead, reply to this email or login to your account for a complete archive of all your support requests and responses.

responder: MaryKay, Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor Replied June 03, 2023, 7:33 PM EDT
response: You are welcome.