MIRAGE-Benchmark/MIRAGE huggingface dataset:
Laurels dying!

Question: Hello!  We live in Portland at 800' elevation.  Most plants, shrubs and trees are doing well in spite of increased summer heat and extreme cold temps this winter.  However  - both our Portuguese and English Laurels had massive leaf drop and what didn't drop is either mottled or yellow.  New nodes appear to sprout and the leaves shrivel and die.  These are supposed to be the heartiest of shrubs.  Is there something happening to these varieties in this area?  What would hit these so hard but other evergreen shrubs not?

Thank you!

responder: Rhonda Frick-Wright  Replied May 07, 2023, 2:29 PM EDT
response: Hi Claudia and thanks for your great pictures of your poor laurels. I'm afraid the news is not good (see attached article).  https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-disease/camellia-ramorum-leaf-blight-shoot-dieback  I have contacted OSU for a further identification and confirmation of the Ramora diagnosis so they may contact you as well, but it sounds like a serious problem, so please follow the recommendations carefully when you remove the plants.  The contact from Oregon State is Jay Pscheidt who will contact the Oregon Department of Agriculture if needed.  Thank you for checking this our and I hope things turn out not as serious as I'm afraid they might be.

responder: The Question Asker Replied May 07, 2023, 4:38 PM EDT
response: Was pruning a factor? Some of the laurels further back in the line are seeing new growth. Two that were included in the pruning next to one another appear dead and a double file viburnum that was not touched but next to these appears affected.Thanks.On Sun, May 7, 2023 at 11:29 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: Rhonda Frick-Wright  Replied May 08, 2023, 2:48 PM EDT
response: Hi Claudia- I heard from Dr. Pscheidt and he thinks it is maybe a root infection or canker near the base of the tree. It will still need to be removed and something different planted in the place, but that would explain why some of the plants are doing better than others. Hopefully you can find something as a replacement that coordinates with the laurels that are still doing well.

responder: The Question Asker Replied May 08, 2023, 2:53 PM EDT
response: Thanks,What caused them all to have complete lead drop?On Mon, May 8, 2023 at 11:48 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: Rhonda Frick-Wright  Replied May 08, 2023, 3:03 PM EDT
response: The tree canker or root disease cuts off the nutrients to the leaves and they all die and drop. It would be interesting to look at the roots of the tree when you remove it to see if they look blackened and short, indicating an infection. I think I see a blackened area in the picture you sent of the whole tree.
Killing & Replacing

Question: I have an arear that was some grass & weeds. I want to replant it with clover. What killer can I use so that it can be replanted in clover?

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 04, 2023, 12:09 PM EDT
response: John: It looks like there is quite a lot of bare area already. For the remaining existing  plants, your best bet would be to spray with glyphosate, the active ingredient in regular Roundup and other trade names.  It will only affect green material and has to be absorbed through green tissue/leaves and translocated to the roots. Once glyphosate hits earth, it is tied up on the soil particles and not able to do anything to any plant after that. For example, if you sprayed a weedy soil plus gravel driveway, it would affect the weeds already there but a seed could germinate the next day and grow just fine. So no residual effect but a great knockdown of what is there. That should be enough to give your clover seeding a good head start. Hope this helps. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me directly at<personal data hidden> or my email at <personal data hidden>   Chip Bubl OSU Extension/Columbia County.

responder: The Question Asker Replied May 04, 2023, 12:12 PM EDT
response: Great, That helps a lotJohnOn Thu, May 4, 2023 at 9:09 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
Can junipers be transplanted successfully

Question: Doug these up from another house. Had to cut the main trunks. Can these be transplanted using their Branch roots?

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 04, 2023, 10:33 AM EDT
response: Hi, I'm a bit unclear about what you are asking. Do you wish to know if you can root cuttings off the branches or if it will survive  transplanting given that the main trunks were cut in the process?  What was the original height  before cutting ?  Most evergreens do not respond well to being topped. We try to avoid cutting into any living woody parts unless required due to damage or preventative pruning, but especially trunks. Not only does it open that large cut area to fungal infection and insects; it ruins the shape. Generally cuts are only made in green growth to head back or to remove problem woody branches back  close to the trunk--i.e. "pruning cuts". Some trees, if cuts  are made into major woody branches, will grow back but it can take several years to recover--for example yews.  Your lower branches on the transplant, if rooting takes,  may continue to grow outwards, but the chance of rot and infection through the cut trunks will be a factor.  People do start some conifers from cuttings, but it is best if the tree/shrub is young (5 years or younger) and not under stress (though it would now be considered stressed as a transplant).Cuttings of conifers can also take a long time to root, even with rooting hormone so patience is required.  I can't quite tell from the one  picture, but it matches up better with the growth pattern of  some thuja/arborvitae than the pointier, smaller scale-needled junipers that I am familiar with.   Sue

responder: The Question Asker Replied May 04, 2023, 5:44 PM EDT
response: The pic I sent is of juniper ground cover. All the banches grow along the ground and, usually, have root coming off of them. I don't think it is Blue Rug Juniper, but it is similar in its growth   From: ask=<personal data hidden> <ask=<personal data hidden>> on behalf of Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> Sent: Thursday, May 4, 2023 10:33 AM To: poehlmansan <<personal data hidden>> Subject: Re: Can junipers be transplanted successfully (#0098222)

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 04, 2023, 6:00 PM EDT
response: Ok, thank you for clarifying. A series of pix at various angles/distances  best helps identify the subject.  Groundcover juniper "runners" do root themselves and apparently can return from root pieces in the ground according to accounts of those trying to rid themselves of it. Also, it is said to be easy to root cuttings in moist sand in high humidity. So, there is a degree of success in what you propose.  S.
holes in ornamental cherry tree leaves

Question: Hello,
Do you have a recommendation for me? My cherry tree, over 35 years old, is getting holes in the leaves. What should I do about it? I am not a fan of spraying chemicals. My puppy uses the grass in front of this tree as her "potty spot" and I don't want to put anything in the environment that could harm her. 
If this is not treated would it harm the tree? A friend suggested that it be sprayed earlier in the season before the leaves emerge to prevent a type of plant disease. He offered to give me Cleary 3336 for this purpose.
Thanks,
Linda Berger

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 May 04, 2023, 10:50 AM EDT
response: Hi,  it could be from cherry shot hole disease, but it looks to be more irregular holes and ragged edges like chewing from a caterpillar. You can try to examine the tree for signs of them - either the caterpillars themselves or frass (poop) they leave behind. In this case, you could spray the clearly fungicide to help with cherry shot hole since this is the perfect weather for it, but you would need a sprayer to reach all the leaves and since it is rather large. And yes, you should start that process earlier in the season and you need to apply it probably for about 5 weeks to get control for shot hole fungus. It also wont be totally fool proof and you may still have some symptoms of shot hole, since the fungal spores can easily travel through the air and with the perfect weather conditions. We would recommend a certified pesticide applicator or arborist as they would have the equipment necessary to reach the tree canopy (and the protective gear for themselves). They may also be able to pin point the culprit in person.  The good news is that ornamental cherry trees, are pretty resilient when it comes to the fungus and usually it doesn't cause death- just unsightly leaves.  If you do notice any caterpillars, you can use a product with bT in it, but the window for control may be dwindling for when caterpillars (like eastern tent caterpillar) get too big the bT doesn't usually affect them. Bt wont hurt you or your puppy as it targets just the caterpillar.  If you notice any caterpillars feel free to send in a photos too and we can help with more specific treatment if warranted.  Emily

responder: The Question Asker Replied May 04, 2023, 2:37 PM EDT
response: Thanks very much, Emily.Linda On Thu, May 4, 2023 at 10:50 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 May 04, 2023, 2:37 PM EDT
response: you're welcome!
Texas Bluebonnets

Question: Over the last few years we have managed to cultivate bluebonnets in our San Augustine grass. But this years so many other grasses invaded and made the bluebonnets less enjoyable to view. Is there any product we can use to eliminate the seedy grass but not harm the bluebonnets? 
Thank you very much for your attention to our question.

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 03, 2023, 12:53 PM EDT
response: Thank you for your question.  Competing grassy winter weeds can be controlled by spraying the planting with fusilade-containing herbicides. This herbicide can be sprayed onto bluebonnets and will kill surrounding grass and do not damage bluebonnets which are not grass. If, however, other broadleaf bluebonnet-like weeds such as henbit or clover begins to over-shadow the state flower, you may have to intervene with a bit of weed pulling exercise -- there is no herbicide which will kill other broadleaf weeds and not kill broad-leaved bluebonnets. It is very important to read the label of the herbicide you go with to be 100% sure it will not effect your bluebonnets.  https://aggie-hort.tamu.edu/archives/parsons/flowers/BLUBONET.html

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 03, 2023, 1:41 PM EDT
response: The best management tool you have is to focus on the cultural practices of your St Augustine lawn to promote growth and prevent competition amongst unwanted grass/weed species before you spray. 1. Give your lawn a great soil and it will vastly improve its overall health. Lawns need 4”-6” of well drained, organic-rich soil for the roots to be able to access oxygen, moisture and nutrients. 3. Mow your lawn at the right height to avoid stressing it out. St. Augustine is a shade grass, and so in order to get enough light to photosynthesize it needs to have long, wide blades that are kept cut at about 3.5” in height. That means you let it grow to 4” and cut it back to 3.5”.  4.  Train your grass roots to grow down deep into the soil by watering 1/2” once a week. 5. Aerate high traffic areas with hard, compacted spots to allow more air flow 6. Fertilize lightly, and only when the grass needs it.  Attached are some helpful publications: https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/travis/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Simple_Steps_Lawn_Care_2009.pdf https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/StAugustine.pdf https://aggieturf.tamu.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/St.AugustineManagementCalendar2020.pdf

responder: The Question Asker Replied May 03, 2023, 3:20 PM EDT
response: Thank you so much for your help!Sent from my iPhone On May 3, 2023, at 12:41 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 03, 2023, 4:16 PM EDT
response: You're very welcome !
Willow tree

Question: Hello,
This Spring this willow tree is slumping over (picture included). Should I leave alone and assume it will take of itself? Or should I tie it back to something in the area to pull it up straight?
Thank you,
Chuck Watkin

responder: Diane M  Replied May 04, 2023, 8:24 AM EDT
response: Willows and other trees will sometimes straighten on their own, particularly if the lean is slight, but you can help by physically attaching it to another structure.  Slowly raise the tree over time until it is upright.

responder: The Question Asker Replied May 04, 2023, 9:54 AM EDT
response: Thank you!
Help with grass type

Question: Could you please help identify our grass type? Years ago we were told it was a turf type tall fescue.  Have been unable to match it with various grass seed. 
Thank you!

responder: Freda, MGV If you would like to learn more, please check out these resources.  Replied May 05, 2023, 1:23 PM EDT
response: Based on the picture it appears to be some kind of bunch growing grass rather than one with rhizomes and the leaves seem to be rather wide so that would cause a person to conclude that it is a tall fescue. However, it would be difficult to determine exactly which cultivar you have. Lawn Grass Cultivar Selection | Ohioline (osu.edu) lists 26 different types of commercially available tall fescue cultivars and Turfgrass Selection (tennessee.edu) states that 159 varieties of tall fescue were evaluated in 2001.  That being said, I’m not positive from your picture but it looks like you might have zebra grass, Miscanthus sinensis ‘Zebrinus’ You can read about it on Miscanthus sinensis 'Zebrinus' (Zebra Grass) | North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox (ncsu.edu) and Zebra Grass - Miscanthus sinensis 'Zebrinus' - PNW Plants (wsu.edu). You can get two varieties depending upon the height you want.

responder: The Question Asker Replied May 05, 2023, 2:29 PM EDT
response: Thanks so much!Do you know of any place where I could physically take the grass for evaluation?God Bless.Gina"Let us go forward in peace, our eyes upon heaven, the only one goal of our labors.” -St. Therese of Lisieux On May 5, 2023, at 1:23 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿

responder: Freda, MGV If you would like to learn more, please check out these resources.  Replied May 08, 2023, 7:47 AM EDT
response: You are most welcome!  It's nice to get a reply sometimes.  You could take it to the Delaware County extension office   149 North Sandusky Street Delaware, Ohio 43015 Phone:<personal data hidden>  I'd suggest that you call and make sure someone with grass expertise will be available when you arrive.

responder: The Question Asker Replied May 08, 2023, 8:07 AM EDT
response: Thank you !!!God Bless.Gina"Let us go forward in peace, our eyes upon heaven, the only one goal of our labors.” -St. Therese of Lisieux On May 8, 2023, at 7:47 AM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿
Hebe plant issues

Question: My hebe has had its leaves turning brown in spots and along edges and also dropping many leaves. Could this be a disease or maybe root rot?

responder: Best Regards,   Replied May 03, 2023, 11:25 AM EDT
response: Hello, and thank you for contacting Ask Extension about your hebe. When did you first notice the damage to the leaves? Can you please send a photo of the entire plant and indicate where the damaged leaves occur on the plant?   With this additional information, I may be able to advise you.

responder: The Question Asker Replied May 03, 2023, 11:59 AM EDT
response: I first noticed the problem around the first of February.  You can see the brighter green branch - that started growing in maybe March and I thought I’d see if it would stay healthy looking but last week I noticed that it is looking bad now too  Sent from my iPhone On May 3, 2023, at 8:25 AM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿

responder: Best Regards,   Replied May 12, 2023, 11:07 AM EDT
response: Good morning,  My apologies for the delay in responding to you, but I was called away. If your hebe were to have rootrot, there is no cure and it would continuously decline. This does not appear to be the case. Your plant does not show signs of the usual diseases or pest damage, so that indicates there may be environmental damage.  Hebes are very prone to leaf damage from both over- and under-watering which can also damage the roots. I suggest the following: Add up to an inch of finished compost across the entire drip zone.Add about 2-3 inches of loose organic mulch over the same area (but not against the trunk). I prefer coarse landscapers' wood chips because bagged mulches are often shredded too fine and tend to pack, repelling water.)Water regularly year-round if the soil is dry. The best method is a long, slow drip irrigation once a week unless it rains. You can test the soil moisture using a screwdriver:  https://youtu.be/HrZNPaBtmtw Make sure that any excess water can drain away.After flowering in summer, remove the dead flower heads and cut the foliage back by up to a third on each stem.   As your hebe has variegated foliage, do not allow any solid green growth to remain on the shrub. Cut green twigs all the way back to the source branch whenever they appear.   If your hebe is still producing new growth, it has a good chance of surviving. The response will be slow, but focus on improving the soil.   I hope this helps. Please write again if you have additional questions.
Failing Sweetshrub Bush

Question: Hello,
I have a sweetshrub (Calycanthus 'aphrodite') that is failing.  I have replaced it twice, but they always fail in this particular location.  They do fine at first, then the leaves start turning yellow.  I have two other sweetshrubs and they are huge and doing very well.  One is only 6-8 feet away from the one that is failing.  They are all on the south side of my house.  I do not see any insects on the shrubs.
Should I submit a soil sample?  I have attached photos of the sick shrub and a nearby healthy shrub.  
Thanks in advance for your help!

responder: Sharon Replied May 04, 2023, 11:46 AM EDT
response: Whenever you have a growth problem, it is always a good idea to do a soil sample, especially since the other plants are doing well.  I checked several different sites and they all indicated there are no major pests or diseases with this plant. It does need to be in an area where the soil is well-drained but moist, and in full to partial shade. I am including the sites for your information. Thank you for contacting Ask a Master Gardener. Good luck with you garden!    https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/sweetshrub/ https://mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/trees-and-plants/carolina-allspice/#care-knowledge

responder: The Question Asker Replied May 05, 2023, 9:58 PM EDT
response: Hello, Thank you for your response.  I was wondering if soil testing is a service performed by the extension office or should I buy a commercially available kit from a garden center?  Will the results tell me what to add to the soil to help the shrub grow better?  I don't want to waste more money on another shrub only to have it fail again.  Thank you in advance for your help!ElsieOn Thu, May 4, 2023 at 11:46 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: Sharon Replied May 14, 2023, 10:23 AM EDT
response: I apologize for the delay in getting back to you!  Most Extension Offices either have the soil testing kits available or can give you the information on where to get them.  They do not do the analyzing at the office.  You will need to mail it to the Lab they have arrangements with.  There is usually a small fee. Again, I apolize for the delay.

responder: The Question Asker Replied May 14, 2023, 4:13 PM EDT
response: Thank you for the information! On Sun, May 14, 2023, 10:23 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
Weed control

Question: What is the best way to eradicate this plant? The plant is dark green and reed like.

responder: I hope these resources help you decide what steps to take next. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out. Thanks for contacting OSU Extension Service.   Replied May 02, 2023, 12:33 PM EDT
response: Greetings,   So we can best assist you can you please share an up-close photo of a sample?   It's not possible to confirm identification and advise the best options without a photo that clearly shows all parts of the plant.   Thanks!

responder: The Question Asker Replied May 02, 2023, 12:53 PM EDT
response: I will get a close up this evening and send it tomorrow morning. Thank you DebbieOn Tue, May 2, 2023 at 9:33 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: The Question Asker Replied May 03, 2023, 10:21 AM EDT
response: Here are the close ups for the weeds I wish to eradicate.  Any information would be greatly appreciated.  Thank you  Debbie

responder: Melissa Fery  Replied May 05, 2023, 9:27 PM EDT
response: Debbie, I have an idea or two, but am not able to positively identify the plant from these photos. I have some questions: 1.  Does this plant tend to grow in clumps?  2. Is it located in wet, perhaps poorly drained soils?   3. Are the stems round and come to a point at the top? Thanks! Melissa

responder: Melissa Fery  Replied May 09, 2023, 2:44 PM EDT
response: My best guess from the photos you provided is that it is a type of rush. Common rush,  Juncus effusus, a native plant is often found in wet pastures in wetlands, usually growing in clumps and spreading out.  Livestock will nibble on it but often leave it behind to continue to grow and spread. Long-term, improving the soil drainage and soil fertility will help. Digging out the plants in another option, trying to get a much of the root system as possible. If herbicides are an option, spot spraying glyphosate (which also kills grasses) on new growth.