MIRAGE-Benchmark/MIRAGE huggingface dataset:
Arborvitae pnted with little space

Question: Can I do anything to help these trees planted in this small deck area?  They're yellowing and potentially chloratic.

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 12, 2024, 11:38 AM EDT
response: Hello Polly, The plants that are growing between your patio stones are a moss, possibly fern moss (Thidium) and a plant called liverwort. Read more here: https://www.nps.gov/maca/learn/nature/mosses-liverworts-and-lichens.htm In order to thrive, these plants require water, shade and acidic soil. They are considered drought tolerant but will dry out in the hot sun. A spray of water will bring them back. Read about mosses here: https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/moss.html Thank you for contacting Ask Extension.

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 13, 2024, 9:42 AM EDT
response: Hello,  I appreciate your swift reply, however, my question had to do with helping the trees

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 13, 2024, 3:59 PM EDT
response: Hello Polly, Conditions that Arborvitae thrive in include well-drained soil in full sun. Read more here: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279599 If the trees are planted too close to the patio, the roots may become impaired. It is difficult to diagnose a problem from a picture. A soil analysis would help learn if there is a problem with the soil. To obtain a soil testing kit go to: https://shop.msu.edu/products/soil-test-mailer You may also submit pictures and/or specimen to MSU Extension’s Plant and Pest Diagnostic Lab at: https://www.canr.msu.edu/pestid/ A certified arborist will be able to assess the problem. To find an arborist in your area, go to www.treesaregood.org, the website of the International Society of Arboriculture.
Plant ID

Question: This plant showed up in my garden last year (I did not plant it) and returned this year.  It is similar to black-eyed susan (which I do have in my garden), but it blooms later, has smaller blossoms at the top of long thin stalks, and narrower leaves.

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 08, 2024, 4:10 PM EDT
response: This is a type of Black-eyed Susan (sometimes named interchangeably with Brown-eyed Susan). Several species and subspecies of Rudbeckia occur in Maryland or are planted from areas where they are native outside of our state. Keys to species and subspecies level are available online that you can try using if you want to determine which type this might be:Flora of the Southeastern United StatesNative Plant TrustFlora of North America Leaf traits alone aren't often enough to determine what species a plant is, since that can change based on genetics, plant maturity, and environmental conditions, so flower and/or seed head traits are also used to verify ID (sometimes they are even necessary to get to species level). Our best guess from what we can see in the photos is Rudbeckia triloba, but we aren't certain.  Miri

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 08, 2024, 4:20 PM EDT
response: Thank you!On Oct 8, 2024, at 4:10 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 08, 2024, 4:43 PM EDT
response: You're welcome.
Insect ID

Question: What are these insects? I found them in my detached garage last week and today i found a couple in my composter. 
They look like a cross between a cricket and a grasshopper and they crawl like a spider. 
Their body is about an inch long or so, but with their legs, they are about 2-3 inches from their front to rear legs. 
I do not regularly see these. Do they appear under certain conditions?
Do they bite or sting humans or pets? 
Thank you!

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 10, 2024, 10:31 PM EDT
response: Thank you for sending in your question! These look like Camel Crickets, which become more noticeable this time of year as they seek more protection from the cold inside human structures. Here is a link to Dr. Raupp’s “Bug of the Week” on Camel Crickets.  Do those photos match what you are seeing? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/12/2/a-drumstick-for-me-camel-crickets-iceuthophilusi-spp Camel Crickets have mandibles for chewing, but no fangs or stinger, so not regarded as dangerous to people & pets. But they can damage stored items that they can chew, such as cloth.  One non-toxic and inexpensive method of eliminating most of them is to use a shop vac or similar to vacuum up both the crickets and any debris they could feed on. An inexpensive home remedy is set out bowls of water with a few drops of soap to break the water surface tension. The idea is that the Camel Crickets clumsily jump into the water & drown because of the soap. However, There doesn’t seem to be research establishing that this is effective. Please see the links for control measures. Camel Crickets are unlikely to damage compost and may actually contribute to the process But could be removed if they become an obstacle. See this link on crickets: https://extension.umd.edu/resource/crickets/ Please let us know if Camel Crickets are a match,and if any of this information proves effective for you. Thx!

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 11, 2024, 4:15 PM EDT
response: My insects are definitely camel crickets! Many thanks for the info - and for the relief !     Victor G Castillo      From: ask=<personal data hidden> on behalf of Ask Extension  Sent: Thursday, October 10, 2024 10:31:22 PM To: Victor Castillo  Subject: Re: Insect ID (#0157385)

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 11, 2024, 6:15 PM EDT
response: Thanks! We are here to help!
What is on my sweet potato leaves

Question: My sweet potato leaves have developed this spotty white appearance. I have noticed some aphids. Can you tell me what this is? Are the leaves safe to eat still?

responder: The Question Asker Replied November 02, 2024, 4:55 PM EDT
response: Hi, I see my question is closed but I don't see a reply.

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied November 06, 2024, 11:28 AM EST
response: Howdy!  The URL attached below gives a full list of insect pests on sweet potato. I might suggest this is beyond that list and may be damage caused by spider mites, as mites are not true insects (mites have eight legs, insects have 6).   Sweet Potato Insect Pest Management (IPM)  The response is the same though. To protect the crop in the field you can simply spray insecticidal soap on the plant, focusing the spray to the undersides of the leaves where the pests are feeding.   As for safety to eat, simply wash off the foliage focusing on the underside of the leaves, spin to dry prior to eating fresh, or if cooked, you're good to go.   Hope this helps. If you need further information on this or future horticultural topics, reach out to the Fort Bend Master Gardener Helpdesk at Contact Us - Fort Bend County Master Gardeners  Take care out there,  Boone
insect id

Question: what kind of insect is this and what can be done to stop their damage?  they have been infesting 3 of my red bud trees for the past 2 years.

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 09, 2024, 10:40 PM EDT
response: Hi Mary , I think you have spider mites.  https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef438 The weather has been perfect for these little buggers. Spray your tree canopy with the hose, they hate wetness. https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/HYG-2012-11 https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/integrated-pest-management-i-p-m-for-spider-mites/  I hope this is helpful, Sally Granath, Hennepin County MG

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 10, 2024, 4:20 PM EDT
response: I don't think their spider mites; could they be leaf hoppers?   From: ask=<personal data hidden> on behalf of Ask Extension  Sent: Wednesday, October 9, 2024 9:40 PM To: Mary Wright  Subject: Re: insect id (#0157316)

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 12, 2024, 8:04 AM EDT
response: Hi Mary, I think you are right about the leaf hoppers.  https://extension.umd.edu/resource/leafhoppers-home-gardens/ https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/encyclopedia/honeylocust-plant-bug-and-leafhopper At this point I'm not sure you can do much other than keep your tree watered as it's already stressed. https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/encyclopedia/honeylocust-plant-bug-and-leafhopper The weather has increased the population of these pest as well. One thing I'm doing is planting more groupings of flowers and native grasses as host plants for predator bugs. In early spring you can spray your tree with an oil; https://www.lsuagcenter.com/portals/blogs/southerngarden/leafhoppers Good luck, Sally Granath Hennepin County MG

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 12, 2024, 9:40 AM EDT
response: Thanks for your helpSent from my Galaxy-------- Original message --------From: Ask Extension Date: 10/12/24 7:05 AM (GMT-06:00) To: Mary Wright Subject: Re: insect id (#0157316)
Don’t know what this is

Question: Was cultivating in a flower bed and unearthed these nearly circular objects, much lighter than a rock and contain black substance that appears something like caviar.  They are about the size of a naval orange. Photographs enclosed.

responder: Answered by theHome 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 08, 2024, 11:19 AM EDT
response: That is an old, dried-out beneficial fungus called Earth balls (Scleroderma). They are not concerning (or pathogenic), but help to recycle nutrients.  Christine

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 08, 2024, 12:15 PM EDT
response: Many thanks! Richard

responder: Answered by theHome 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 08, 2024, 12:46 PM EDT
response: You're welcome.

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 24, 2024, 11:41 AM EDT
response: Was asked to fill out questionnaire.  It did not appear when link was clicked.  Just for reference purposes,  the response to my question was answered within a day and was perfectly congruent with the data I supplied to the person.

responder: Answered by theHome 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 24, 2024, 1:38 PM EDT
response: Thank you for letting us know about that problem. We appreciate you taking the time to let us know.
Growth on side of maple tree

Question: Identify growth on side of 40 yr old maple tree.

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 07, 2024, 2:18 PM EDT
response: Identify growth. Fungus ?  What to do to
Destroy or remove.

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 08, 2024, 9:27 AM EDT
response: This is a type of wood decay fungus, which cannot be cured or treated. We suggest that the tree be evaluated by a certified arborist who can determine how extensive the wood decay may be and how urgently the tree would need to be removed for safety. The fungus probably colonized the injured or stressed tree months or even years ago, and only now has progressed to the point of producing obvious mushrooms. Once removed, you can replant, though the stump and old roots of the tree might be in the way of planting in the same location. Any continuing decay of the tree's wood left behind won't endanger the health of a replacement tree.  Miri

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 08, 2024, 10:40 AM EDT
response: Thank You very much.   Regards , Steve

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 08, 2024, 10:47 AM EDT
response: You're welcome.
tree identification

Question: I would like to identify these two plants. the yellow is a tree, the green is a 4 foot shrub.

responder: Thank-you for contacting the Infoline, a service of UNH Cooperative Extension.   Replied October 09, 2024, 9:55 AM EDT
response: Hi Penny,  Thanks for contacting the UNH Extension Infoline.  The first photo looks like some type of fiveleaf aralia (eleutherococcus), an upright shrub in the ginseng family that is tolerant of many growing conditions, that is native to Eastern Asia.  The second looks like our own American elm tree. There are many efforts underway to bring back this majestic tree.  See below for more information of each of these plants.  Fiveleaf araliahttps://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/eleutherococcus-sieboldianus/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eleutherococcus American Elmhttps://gobotany.nativeplanttrust.org/species/ulmus/americana/https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/where-we-work/united-states/vermont/stories-in-vermont/largest-elm-tree-restoration-in-the-northeast/ Hope this is helpful!

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 09, 2024, 10:45 AM EDT
response: I also thought it is an American Elm, but I was surprised to find a mature one. I am not so sure about the shrub, possibly Aralia.  The leaflets of photos I see look different and they say they have thorns. I do not see thorns.From Penny On Oct 9, 2024, at 9:55 AM, Ask Extension wrote:﻿

responder: Thank-you for contacting the Infoline, a service of UNH Cooperative Extension.   Replied October 09, 2024, 11:05 AM EDT
response: So nice that you have found a mature elm! I have found a few seedlings but no mature trees.  On the fiveleaf aralia, I could not identify the specific variety as in the photos they all looked too similar. Perhaps you will have better luck!

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 09, 2024, 3:28 PM EDT
response: I did go back and I think it is aralia. I had not seen the thorns as they are very discrete. So thank you again.From Penny On Oct 9, 2024, at 11:05 AM, Ask Extension wrote:﻿
Ming tree

Question: Struggling, it has lost 20% of its green since i bought it. Some sites say water sparsely. Others say water enuff to keep it always moist.   I now fear it is dying and I have tried both more water and less water…. Gee, im v worried

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 07, 2024, 10:29 PM EDT
response: More houseplants are killed by getting too much water than too little.   Be sure the container drains well and doesn't sit in water held by the cachepot.   Provide plenty of light, but little or no direct sun.  The location shown in the photo looks ideal so long as the minimal direct sun principle prevails.  The following information may help you meet the plant's needs:  https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/polyscias-fruticosa/  Aralias usually recover after minor setbacks. The plant in the photo is lovely.

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 07, 2024, 10:50 PM EDT
response: Thank you!   This is helpful!AnnGive thanks for unknown blessings, already on the way! On Oct 7, 2024, at 9:29 PM, Ask Extension wrote:﻿
Native Bush/Tree recommendations

Question: We have recently taken over our family land located near Brooten, MN.  We tore out all old overgrown bushes in front of the house and are looking for recommendations on native trees and/or bushes to plant that will act as a wind barrier, deter mice and be visually appealing.  I'm not sure if this is something you can help with or if you can point me in another direction. Picture attached of the space we're looking to refresh.

Thank you for any help you can offer us!

Stacy Hedberg
C<personal data hidden>

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 08, 2024, 9:29 PM EDT
response: Hi Stacy, What a great project .  Could you tell me what direction the front of your house faces and if it gets any shade from trees ? Do you have any idea what your soil is like ? Sandy, clay etc. Here is a useful link; https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/treecare/righttree-shrub.html  Fall planting is a good. I recommend planting more than you think you want because chance are you are going to loose some of them. Cage everything thoroughly with the assumption that we may have high snow levels so rabbits and deer can eat the tops of things. This nursery has lots of information and is a great source for natives; https://www.prairiemoon.com/ Hope this helps, Sally Granath Hennepin County MG

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 09, 2024, 10:00 AM EDT
response: Hi Sally, Thank you so very much for your response. The front of the house faces south and is not shaded.  The soil is mostly sandy. Thanks for the nursery recommendation.  Is there someone that can help me plan out what to plant so it looks visually appealing as well as functional?  I have to admit I am seriously challenged in this area. Again, thanks so much for your help! Thank you, ~Stacy Stacy HedbergRoyal Foods8098 Excelsior BlvdHopkins, MN 55343Office<personal data hidden>Mobile<personal data hidden>                                                From: ask=<personal data hidden> On Behalf Of Ask ExtensionSent: Tuesday, October 8, 2024 8:30 PMTo: Stacy Hedberg Subject: Re: Native Bush/Tree recommendations (#0157244)

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 12, 2024, 8:11 AM EDT
response: Stacy, Look up native landscaping on the internet and you will  see  many images. You can find ideas and get a feel for what you might like. Remember the mature height of plants and keep in mind planting for winter interest as well as summer. Have fun, Sally Granath Hennepin County MG
Lost the tag!

Question: What kind of evergreen tree is this? It is 8" tall and 13" wide.  It is soft to the touch.

Thank you for your assistance!

responder: Best Regards,   Replied October 07, 2024, 4:59 PM EDT
response: Dear Debbie,  Thank you for contacting us about identifying your shrub. It is difficult to identify down to the cultivar level from photos. However, your shrub appears to be a dwarf balsam fir (Abies balsamea), perhaps 'Piccolo' or 'Nana'.  Please see https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/abies-balsamea-piccolo for additional information.   I hope this is helpful. Please write again any time you have gardening questions.

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 07, 2024, 10:50 PM EDT
response: Thank you so much!Sent from my iPhone On Oct 7, 2024, at 1:59 PM, Ask Extension wrote:﻿
Want ID on this plant

Question: This fall's photos of this shrub/tree are attached.  The plant is about 12 feet tall.

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 07, 2024, 6:39 PM EDT
response: Hello! Thank you for the photos.  I'm thinking this is a Sumac specifically  Three-Leaf Sumac (also called Skunkbush Sumac).  The leaves will have an unpleasant odor when they are crushed.  Did you see any berries on it? Lisa Lisa Cowan Outreach Program Coordinator – Community Horticulture Program Oregon State University OSU Extension Service – Deschutes, Crook, Jefferson Counties 3800 SW Airport Way, Bldg #4 Redmond, OR 97756 Tel.:<personal data hidden> (direct line) I<personal data hidden> (x79590 - main line)  Website | Facebook

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 07, 2024, 7:05 PM EDT
response: Thsnks Lisa,No berries on this that I saw.  Now I'll go squash a leaf.  It is the first thing to get flashy in the fall, followed by a choke cherry or two.  Audra  On Monday, October 7, 2024 at 03:39:43 PM PDT, Ask Extension wrote:

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 07, 2024, 7:46 PM EDT
response: Hi Audrey, Wear gloves as a precautionary!  Did you notice any flowers this spring? Lisa
What happened to the fir tree?

Question: Within what seems like days, the fir tree in our neighbor's/our back yard turned from green to brown.
We just don't know what could have happened, it happened so fast. 
Can you help us understand what could have caused this and if it will survive?
We love the tree.
Thanks for your kind consideration of this question.
Sincerely,
Ellen Finneran

responder: Lauren Grand (she/her), Assistant Professor (practice) | Extension Forester   Replied October 09, 2024, 5:52 PM EDT
response: Douglas fir trees can suddenly turn brown for a couple of reasons.  Drought Stress: Insufficient water can cause Douglas fir trees to turn brown, particularly during dry periods. Drought weakens the tree, leading to needle browning and eventual dieback. While we've had a lot of rain recently, long periods of drought and many days of high temperatures for consecutive years can have a cumulative effect on trees. Root Issues: Poor drainage, soil compaction, or damage to the root system can cause stress to the tree, resulting in browning needles. Has there been a change in the yard around the roots?Pest Infestations: When trees are stressed from environmental factors, insects such as the Douglas fir beetle or other bark beetles can take advantage of a trees weekend state. In these situations the tree was dead in the spring, but took the whole summer to dry out and look brown.If this is the case you'd be noticing some sap flows or streaming on the trunk, or frass (an orange sawdust) in the crevices of the tree. If you can get a more upclose picture of any other symptoms you are seeing it will help me narrow down the possibilities.

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 10, 2024, 1:05 AM EDT
response: Thank you for your prompt and knowledgeable response. I'll see if I can get an upclose picture to you.     On 10/9/2024 2:52 PM, Ask Extension wrote:
Can these grapevines be saved?

Question: Last year, the leaves of our grape vines developed some pockmarks and powdery spots. I tried to cut off all of the bad leaves last year, hoping they would grow back unblemished, but they look worse than ever. I don’t think they produced much fruit, either. Is there anything I can do? Are these safe to eat? Do the plants need to be totally removed?

responder: Jacki D., Master Gardener Diagnostician Volunteer (Washington, Multnomah and Clackamas Counties) Oregon State University Extension Service Volunteer Metro Master Gardeners (http://metromastergardeners.org/) Replied October 08, 2024, 2:54 AM EDT
response: These appear to have damage from grape erineum mites. Check out this prior Q&A information and the resource links provided in it. They are generally cosmetic rather than damaging to the crop, though treatments are listed. Check out publication EC 1639, “Growing Table Grapes”. You may find steps to help you improve the crop for next year.

responder: The Question Asker Replied October 12, 2024, 7:20 PM EDT
response: Thank you! That’s very helpful. Sheila Resari, LMT #12784*Your guide to good health*True North Massage LLCwww.truenorthmassage.com<personal data hidden> Pronouns: she/herFollow me on Facebook!Book NowOn Mon, Oct 7, 2024 at 11:54 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote: