MIRAGE-Benchmark/MIRAGE huggingface dataset:
Webcam for owlets

Question: Hi, is there a (reasonably priced) webcam you could suggest to capture our owl house activity at night? I’m pretty certain we will have a clutch of owlets this spring and this time, want to be prepared to capture on camera. Thank you!

responder: Elliot Nelson Michigan Sea Grant Extension Educator Michigan State University Extension Phone/Cell: 906-322-0353 Email: elliotne@msu.edu | Web: miseagrant.umich.edu| msue.msu.edu  Address: Center for Freshwater Research and Education - 100 Salmon Run Way, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783  MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer, committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential. Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.    Replied March 27, 2023, 10:54 AM EDT
response: Hello,  Excellent news that you have an owl nesting in your nest box! And great that you would like to learn more about it.   Unfortunately, since the box is already occupied and may have young in it, it is possibly too late to place a nest camera. It is illegal to disturb an active nest of a protected migratory bird (of which most are). You may potentially scare away the parents and cause the death of the young.   For next year (or this year if it's not too late, although I would really hesitate at this point to open up the box)  you could time it to place the camera before the eggs have been laid. Here is a step by step guide:  https://nestwatch.org/learn/all-about-birdhouses/installing-a-nest-box-camera/  More general info from nest watch (with a number of helpful tips): https://nestwatch.org/  Also, this species is a red morph Eastern Screech Owl. Here is more info: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Eastern_Screech-Owl/id

responder: The Question Asker Replied March 28, 2023, 8:36 PM EDT
response: Thanks so much for this response. As of tonight, the owl in our owl house is a gray one. Not sure if this means we have a male or female in the house but for sure, something is going on there.May set up a webcam/trailcam on o our house and see if we can pick up any activity.Thanks again,Jane Sent from my iPhone On Mar 27, 2023, at 10:54 AM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿
What is the name of this plant and how should it be cared for?

Question: This has been living on a windowsill in partial sun. It is lanky and in a 5x9 inch pot. I wish to repot it. What type of soil, pot and can it be trimmed back? If able to trim, how far?
The area with all the leaves is lovely. Can the stems be put in water or soil and create another plant? This may not be all the questions one should be asking.

responder: Best Regards,   Replied March 27, 2023, 9:39 PM EDT
response: Dear Elizabeth,  Thank you for contacting Ask Extension about your houseplant. I'm not an expert in exotics, but I am trying to find an identification for your plant. I will send another reply if I am successful.  Are the stems somewhat woody? If so, it may not lend itself to rooting.  It may be possible to start a stem cutting. But if the stems are pliable,   you might trim the long leafy portion and try rooting the cutting in water.  Check the roots also to see if they are winding around in the pot. If so, they need a larger pot where you can spread them out. The current pot seems quite small since the plant is so top-heavy. A larger pot would also be better for aesthetic reasons.  When potting, use potting soil that drains well. Use a large drain dish with some stones or a trivet to hold the pot out of any excess water. Apply a fertilizer for houseplants and follow the application directions on the label.  I hope this information is helpful.

responder: The Question Asker Replied March 28, 2023, 12:26 AM EDT
response: Thank you! Yes, the stem is woodie. Was not sure if I could trim it. Them all back and if they would start new growth.Take  CareElizabeth Sent from my iPhone On Mar 27, 2023, at 6:39 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿

responder: Best Regards,   Replied March 28, 2023, 6:34 PM EDT
response: Dear Elizabeth,   Thanks for your reply. One resource has suggested that your plant may be Kalanchoe-beharensis, so you might compare your plant to the description at this link:  https://succulentcity.com/kalanchoe-beharensis/
Dogwood blight?

Question: I am not sure if this is decline or blight or something else. These are approx 23 year old boxwood. This the third year we have had a different area turn yellow/dead. I have cut the previous  areas out with the hopes of them filling in with limited success. I started to cut this out before snapping the pic.

responder: Chris T.  OSU Extension Master Gardener Volunteer    Replied March 23, 2023, 9:40 PM EDT
response: Hi Mary,  I see that your boxwood is near pavement of some sort.  Is there a possibility that road salt may have been shoveled on to that bed, or that the walkway is salted to prevent ice in winter?  Boxwood are sensitive to salt and will experience brown-out from it.  I'm attaching a link to Ohio State's Buckeye Yard and Garden onLine newsletter.  The photos show examples of boxwood browning and the various causes.  One cause can be leafminer; another can be leaf blight.  But yours really looks most like the picture of salt damage:  https://bygl.osu.edu/node/1013.  Take a look and see what you think.  I cringe every time I see boxwood used as an edging along sidewalks and driveways.  They're also used a lot around parking lots and gas stations.  They all end up having brown spots like yours.    But look closely at the leaves and read the descriptions in the BYGL article to make your determination.  Feel free to write again with further questions.

responder: The Question Asker Replied March 24, 2023, 12:11 PM EDT
response: No salt is used near our front door or driveway. I did go check yesterday afternoon and in leaves surrounding the damaged area, I found leaf miner which if  you zoom in on the pic, you will be able to see the damaged leaves. Suggestions? Could this have been an infestation last year I just didn’t notice until mid-winter>?What should I use for the leaf miners and when? From: ask=<personal data hidden> <ask=<personal data hidden>> On Behalf Of Ask ExtensionSent: Thursday, March 23, 2023 9:40 PMTo: Mary Leidheiser <<personal data hidden>>Subject: Re: Dogwood blight? (#0093119)

responder: Chris T.  OSU Extension Master Gardener Volunteer    Replied March 24, 2023, 10:37 PM EDT
response: Mary, If you read through the BYGL fact sheet, to which I sent the link, you will find the paragraphs pasted below.  Imidacloprid products can be found in local garden centers.  Check the ingredients on labels:  Damaging boxwood leafminer infestations can be  suppressed through applications of neonicotinoids such as imidacloprid  (e.g. Merit, Xytect, Marathon, and generics) or dinotefuran (e.g.  Safari, Transtect, Zylam). However, application timing has been modified in recent years to avoid negative impacts on pollinators.  Boxwood blooms attract a wide range of pollinators; blooming plants can literally buzz with their activity. Therefore, the insecticide applications must be delayed until AFTER boxwoods bloom.  Some minor miner damage will occur, particularly with the imidacloprid  that is taken-up more slowly compared to dinotefuran. However, this is a small price to pay for protecting pollinators.
Maple tree trimming

Question: Is it ok to trim an Autumn Blaze maple every year after 20 years of growth of not having been
trimmed?

responder: MaryKay, Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor Replied March 23, 2023, 10:25 PM EDT
response: The general rule of thumb is not to prune more than 1/3 of the tree branches in any one year. It is prudent to not trim even that much after a drought year such as last summer.  Large trees are best pruned by a arborist. For more information on trimming trees see the following website. 1. https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/pruning-trees-and-shrubs 2. https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/how-hire-tree-care-professional

responder: The Question Asker Replied March 24, 2023, 8:45 AM EDT
response: Thank you, Mary-Our Arborer wants to cut again this season, so trying tobalance the correct action with their desire to promote revenue.His explanation is thorough with professional intent.-----------------------------------------From: "Ask Extension" To: "james moore"Cc: Sent: Thursday March 23 2023 9:25:36PMSubject: Re: Maple tree trimming (#0093112)
Vegetation  under a Water Oak

Question: I live in the upper NW section of Arlington TX. I have a very large mature Water Oak where nothing will grow under half of the canopy. I believe this is not due to a lack of sunlight, but rather a lack of topsoil.  The roots are virtually on the surface of the soil where nothing grows. I’m concerned that anything I do to the soil will eventually kill the tree. Although I’ve been told that this particular species isn’t the most desirable, I do not want to do anything that will shorten the lifespan of the Water Oak.  Are there any lightweight dressings/soils that can be applied along with some type of vegetation? Or forgoing the top dressing and hand planting a low creeping plant like Jasmine between the roots where there is some soil? Again, trying not to harm the tree. Thanks in advance,

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied March 25, 2023, 9:42 PM EDT
response: Randy, Thanks for your question albeit a difficult one to answer. You are correct in being concerned about adding soil to your water oak, and like others have told you, water oaks have issues in this area. Soil companies generally have bedding soil or soil specifically designed for raised vegetable beds, so a 2” layer of such soil should be safe. With regard to what would grow, the possibilities are limitless. I have found standard Mondo grass (not dwarf Mondo grass) does well in the shade and is very adaptable to a variety of soils. Further, when leaves fall from your tree, they can easily be blown away with a blower (unlike Asian Jasmine where they get caught in the stringy branches). Anyway, just one thought. Hope this helps, Rick Williams

responder: The Question Asker Replied March 30, 2023, 1:41 PM EDT
response: Thank you for your expertise and assistance. Randy B    On 2023-03-25 20:42, Ask Extension wrote:

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 05, 2023, 10:16 AM EDT
response: Anytime

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 05, 2023, 10:17 AM EDT
response: anytime

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 05, 2023, 10:18 AM EDT
response: anytime
Advice on yellowing Densiformis Yew shrubs

Question: I planted a series of densiformis yew bushes (see pic) in early October, the idea eventually being a nice yew hedge. The yews are now yellowing and I'm not sure what to do. All the online advice suggests too much water but I feel like there's no way given recent conditions in Denver. My only other thought is too much sun, but I'm not sure. I'm very new to plants so could use any advice on what's going on and how to get them back to green! (worried they're on their way to death right now.)

responder: The Question Asker Replied March 22, 2023, 5:30 PM EDT
response: One more note that I didn't mention initially -- the shrubs have done well all through last fall and through the winter. They were basically completely green the entire time up until a month or two ago when yellowing started at the top and has gotten progressively worse. Thank you!

responder: Colorado Master Gardener, Denver County Replied March 25, 2023, 4:04 PM EDT
response: I suspect that the yews are experiencing some stress from the extreme cold we experienced over the last month or two. The more delicate hedges like yews, boxwoods and small privets have been suffering from the temperature and frozen snow. your photos don't look too bad. I would suggest you leave them alone until Spring is more established then look for signs of life. The plants are probably not dead. Bend the branches slightly and if they are supple  you should be OK.
Please identify

Question: Can you please identify this plant?

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied March 23, 2023, 9:51 PM EDT
response: The photos lack the detail needed to identify the plant, but based upon what we can see, we think it might be a kind of foxtail grass.  Compare here and see what you think:  https://images.app.goo.gl/CFD85Ct5Gxa7gi9f9

responder: The Question Asker Replied March 23, 2023, 10:08 PM EDT
response: Hello!   Thank you for your response!  Do these give you more detail?  I suspect yellow foxtail, just trying to confirm.   Thanks again! -Charlotte :)     Get Outlook for iOS    From: ask=<personal data hidden> <ask=<personal data hidden>> on behalf of Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> Sent: Thursday, March 23, 2023 8:51:08 PM To: Charlotte Welcome Ranch <<personal data hidden>> Subject: Re: Please identify (#0093078)

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied March 24, 2023, 6:31 AM EDT
response: Yellow foxtail is common in Hennepin County.  We think that's a likely ID for what we can see in the photos.  Although some of the plant's identifying characteristics may no longer be visible, this video may help you confirm or rule out yellow foxtail:
Weird pussy willow toes

Question: My pussy willow was damaged/frozen down to the ground last spring with a late freeze. This spring the toes have many bumps each, instead of one smooth "toe." I'm wondering why, is it diseased or within normal? Never seen this before.

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 March 23, 2023, 10:11 AM EDT
response: Hi,  Our plant pathologist doesn't think this is a disease or anything you need to be concerned about but more so just something that happens to certain varieties and noted that his does this too. We aren't sure exactly why this is happening but it could be a slight amount of fasciation (when plants have mutations due to different factors - maybe the freeze caused it?) You can watch for other signs or symptoms as it leafs out this spring and summer but anything else could be unrelated.  Let us know if you need further assistance,  Emily

responder: The Question Asker Replied March 23, 2023, 10:24 AM EDT
response: Thanks so much!Sent from my T-Mobile 5G Device-------- Original message --------From: Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> Date: 3/23/23 10:11 AM (GMT-05:00) To: Elizabeth Paul <<personal data hidden>> Subject: Re: Weird pussy willow toes (#0093062)

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 March 23, 2023, 10:46 AM EDT
response: you're welcome!
Indian Hawthorne Leaf Problems

Question: The leaves on my Indian Hawthorne turn yellow, brown.  What is your diagnosis and recommended treament/cure?
I did start treating with a fungul spray, 1st week, as instructions suggested, I waited a week ans applied 2nd spray.   
A third spray treatment due over the weekend but not sure if this is helpful or will hurt the spring growth? Thank you for any advice.

responder: Ed Olsen  Replied March 22, 2023, 1:50 PM EDT
response: I don't think that is fungal.  I think it is winter damage on last year's leaves.  It has been too cold for fungal growth.    And our fungicides are preventative, not curative.  The will prevent the spread of fungal growth, but not change the damaged part back.    I would not apply another application at this time.

responder: The Question Asker Replied March 22, 2023, 2:12 PM EDT
response: Thank you so much for the quick reply. I also see this happening on smaller, newer leaves long the way but will hold off as you advise. These plants seem to be prone to droping leaves regardless but seemed more so over these past several months.  Again, thank you.   -----Original Message----- From: Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> To: David Feibish <<personal data hidden>> Sent: Wed, Mar 22, 2023 1:50 pm Subject: Re: Indian Hawthorne Leaf Problems (#0093057)

responder: The Question Asker Replied March 22, 2023, 2:12 PM EDT
response: Thank you so much for the quick reply. I also see this happening on smaller, newer leaves long the way but will hold off as you advise. These plants seem to be prone to droping leaves regardless but seemed more so over these past several months.  Again, thank you.   -----Original Message----- From: Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> To: David Feibish <<personal data hidden>> Sent: Wed, Mar 22, 2023 1:50 pm Subject: Re: Indian Hawthorne Leaf Problems (#0093057)
Crepe myrtle tree infestation

Question: I have a crepe myrtle tree that has an infestation.   What can I do to rid this parasite please?

responder: The Question Asker Replied March 22, 2023, 12:40 PM EDT
response: I have a crepe myrtle tree that has an infestation.   What can I do to rid this parasite please?

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 March 22, 2023, 2:21 PM EDT
response: This looks like Crapemyrtle Bark Scale, a relatively new insect pest in our region which previously occurred much further to our south. Extension specialists are still studying this insect to determine how its life cycle aligns with our weather patterns and which treatment options work sufficiently well while also not posing too much risk to pollinators and other beneficial insects. While systemic insecticides (those the plant absorbs through its roots or trunk) have the potential to work well for scale insects, these chemicals also might contaminate the plant's blooms later in the season and expose bees to harmful residues. Several species of ladybird beetles (ladybugs) can also eat this scale, and since several of the insects in your photo appear to be missing (with only a circle of their waxy residue left behind), that might be what has happened.  Information about management options are presented in the linked page and on our general Introduction to Scale Insects page. If the plant is too large to treat (should you decide to try one or more types of pesticide) by yourself, then we recommend hiring a certified pesticide applicator. If you opt to try certain systemic products, they too must by Maryland law be applied by a pesticide applicator. The timing of when to apply any particular product will depend on its formulation and what life stage the scale is in, which is why it can be beneficial to use the services of an experienced pest scout / pesticide applicator.  Miri
Spots on marigold plugs

Question: We have several flats of marigolds that have developed leaf spots. Can you please recommend a treatment for them. I have read about baking soda water and dish soap solutions. Also apple cider vinegar and water. Please refer to a method for proper treatment.
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 March 23, 2023, 10:43 AM EDT
response: Hello Dan and Theresa, It appears that you marigolds have a fungal disease, most likely  Alternaria alternata or Cercospora species.  I do need to ask if you are a commercial grower. If so, I can redirect your question to our commercial growers support site. They would be better able to address your concerns about fungal prevention and application of herbicides.  If you are not a commercial business, please let me know and I will give you recommendations that I have found that may be helpful.  Thanks, and I will wait for your response.  Margo P. MSU Extension Advanced Master Gardener Volunteer

responder: The Question Asker Replied March 24, 2023, 1:02 PM EDT
response: Yes, we are commercial growers. Thank you   Dan Doyen - Principle Seven Acre Gardens LLC. 5253 I Road Escanaba, MI. 49829 <personal data hidden> – business (Seasonal) <personal data hidden> – cell    From: Ask Extension Sent: Thursday, March 23, 2023 10:43 AM To: Dan & Theresa Doyen Subject: Re: Spots on marigold plugs (#0093013)

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 March 24, 2023, 9:27 PM EDT
response: I have reassigned your question, and you should hear back by Tuesday or Wednesday. If not, please contact me again.  Good luck!

responder: The Question Asker Replied March 30, 2023, 7:49 AM EDT
response: Hello! We have not received a reply to our question yet.

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 March 30, 2023, 8:48 PM EDT
response: Sorry about that. I put in an inquiry regarding your marigold question and hopefully you will hear back within a day or two. I will try to monitor this question to make sure it is answered.  Margo P.
Insect Damage to Wooden Fence

Question: Could you please help me figure out what type of insect is damaging my fence? The damage is primarily at the bottom of the fence boards closest to the ground. 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 March 21, 2023, 11:38 AM EDT
response: We suspect that it could be termites, given the covered over tunnels and this is the time of year they start to become active again. It could also be carpenter ants. You can look for any insects around the area and send a photo of one for further ID help or try to come to a conclusion via the link's information.  In any case you can seek a pest company if you think the damage could be severe or move to your home. It may be a good idea to get an opinion as to prevent the colony from growing or causing further harm to other structures. The link provided has guideline recommendations when seeking a professionals help.  Emily

responder: The Question Asker Replied March 21, 2023, 12:04 PM EDT
response: Thank you!!! On Tue, Mar 21, 2023 at 11:38 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 March 21, 2023, 12:26 PM EDT
response: you're welcome!