MIRAGE-Benchmark/MIRAGE huggingface dataset:
Dying Red Pines

Question: What are these frass packed galleries under the bark of a now dead Red Pine?

responder: Maureen Graber  Replied April 20, 2024, 8:50 AM EDT
response: Good Morning Scott,  Thank you for contacting the U of M Extension Service.  Please click on the following link from the U of M Extension Yard and Garden website: https://extension.umn.edu/forest-pests-and-diseases/managing-pine-bark-beetle-damage If you scroll through the information, it discusses various pine bark borers.  The information states that in drought years, outbreaks are common. We've had a couple of drought years.  Good Luck!

responder: The Question Asker Replied April 20, 2024, 2:34 PM EDT
response: I was hoping you could identify the bark beetle that left the galleries shown in the picture. I got my forestry degree from the University of Montana and I've never seen a gallery like this out west.

responder: Maureen Graber  Replied April 25, 2024, 7:46 AM EDT
response: Good Morning Scott,  I am attempting to refer your question and photos to the entemology department. Thank you for your patience.

responder: Maureen Graber  Replied April 27, 2024, 8:28 AM EDT
response: Scott,  Here is the reply I received for you:  You can refer the client to: Dept. of Forest Resources115 Green Hall1530 Cleveland Ave. N.St. Paul, MN 55108 Phone:<personal data hidden>Fax:<personal data hidden><personal data hidden> Unfortunately, the Department of Entomology doesn't accept questions, so I'm hoping a forester could ID these galleries and maybe someone is interested in this insect. Good Luck!

responder: The Question Asker Replied April 27, 2024, 10:54 AM EDT
response: Thank you for your help.

On Sat, Apr 27, 2024 at 7:28 AM Ask Extension <ask> wrote:
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responder: Maureen Graber  Replied April 28, 2024, 8:27 AM EDT
response: you are welcome!
Clothing moths

Question: I am having trouble with moths in two closets.  I've tried hanging pheromone sticky tents, cedar cubes and hanging cedar hooks. Can you please help?  Will I be emailed if this is answered or do I keep checking in the Ask Extension area?

responder: Thank you for your question!   Laura S.      Michigan State University Extension Advanced Master Gardener Volunteer You may also contact the toll free MSU Extension lawn and garden hotline at 1-888-678-3464 with your gardening questions or visit www.migarden.msu.edu for Smart Gardening resources. Replied April 16, 2024, 1:57 PM EDT
response: Hi Sally, You should receive an email at the address you entered for this question, each time there is a response to your query. I am forwarding this to one of our entomologists. Thank you. Regards, Laura S MSU Ask Extension Administrator

responder: David Lowenstein  Replied April 16, 2024, 2:21 PM EDT
response: The pheromone traps will attract the moths, if present, but won't kill them. Since you have at least a few already in the closet, you're going to need to spend time thoroughly searching the area and other spaces around the home. I would recommend placing any susceptible clothing items in sealed totes or vacuum packs and then clean and vacuum more than usual over the coming weeks. Once you no longer see any clothes moths, it would be safe to return the clothes and other items to their former spots. If you find a garment that is affected by clothes moths, it should be laundered at a high temperature (but check label to see if it will be safe) to kill any larvae or eggs that could be on it.  The cedar blocks will be of limited value. For more information: https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/clothes-moths-carpet-beetles-controlling-fabric-pests. I would advise against using chemicals inside the home.

responder: The Question Asker Replied April 16, 2024, 3:09 PM EDT
response: Thank you Laura S.  I look forward to hearing from the entomologists.     Sally S.  On 04/16/2024 1:57 PM EDT Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: The Question Asker Replied April 16, 2024, 3:34 PM EDT
response: Hi David:     You mentioned "susceptible" clothing.  I used to think this meant cotton and wool, the natural fibers, but lately some people are saying they will eat synthetics too, "just about anything."  That means I will have to put everything in totes and vacuum packs, which will be impossible.  Can you give me a better idea of what you have found to be susceptble fibers?     Thanks,  Sally  On 04/16/2024 2:21 PM EDT Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: David Lowenstein  Replied April 16, 2024, 4:32 PM EDT
response: Wool and cashmere would be the most susceptible materials. If it's just a few of these items, I would still encourage you to protect them in some type of sealed storage as you confirm that the moths are no longer an issue. Putting all clothing in totes or storage is unnecessary.

responder: The Question Asker Replied April 16, 2024, 10:19 PM EDT
response: Thank you David.  On 04/16/2024 4:32 PM EDT Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
Sweet Bay Magnolia

Question: I am concerned about my two sweet Bay Magnolia plants. They were planted this past fall. Are the spots on the leaves normal? Should I be concerned?

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 April 12, 2024, 8:52 AM EDT
response: Given how young and newly planted your Sweetbay Magnolia is, we think it looks pretty well! (The little one I planted last season has no leaves at all but I am hoping for a new flush of green soon).  It appears that a small amount of leaves are affected, and the others look healthy. The most important thing you can do for your new tree is to keep it watered when needed for the whole first 18-24 months of establishment. Here is the best way to do that:  https://extension.umd.edu/resource/watering-trees-and-shrubs/  Make sure your mulch is not deeper than about 3-4 inches and keep it pulled away from contact with the trunk. If you have deer in your area a tall, staked round of metal fencing is helpful.   Christine

responder: The Question Asker Replied April 12, 2024, 9:06 AM EDT
response: Thank you Christine. Should I remove the discolored leaves!Sent from my iPhone On Apr 12, 2024, at 8:52 AM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿

responder: The Question Asker Replied April 12, 2024, 9:06 AM EDT
response: Thank you Christine. Should I remove the discolored leaves!Sent from my iPhone On Apr 12, 2024, at 8:52 AM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿

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 April 12, 2024, 9:09 AM EDT
response: No, you can leave them be. The green portion will still do the important work of photosynthesis to support/feed the plant.   Christine

responder: The Question Asker Replied April 12, 2024, 9:46 AM EDT
response: Thank you!Sent from my iPhone On Apr 12, 2024, at 9:10 AM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿

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 April 12, 2024, 10:39 AM EDT
response: You're welcome. We are happy to help. Enjoy your weekend.
Help identifying this plant

Question: Hi.  We have a new home and a small bit of woods in our back lot.  We have cleared out honeysuckle and invasives and it is shocking the natives that are starting to thrive.  I have a friend who is great at identifying plants, and am pretty good at researching too.  But, I can't figure out what this is.  I have had it identified as Feverfew, Oak, and Japanese honeysuckle but I the matching pics don't look like this.  It is in a patch, and is viney.  

Would you help me identify this plant?  

Thank you so much!!!  

Alyson Best

responder: Loisr1  Replied April 11, 2024, 3:22 PM EDT
response: Ok it is a mystery for the moment. I am trying to figure it out. Just to let you know that we are on the case, and that it will be found.

responder: Loisr1  Replied April 11, 2024, 4:23 PM EDT
response: Ok it is a mystery for the moment. I am trying to figure it out. Just to let you know that we are on the case, and that it will be found.  Amazingly a friend suggested Lonicera, which you had eliminated previously.   https://extension.umass.edu/weed-herbarium/weeds/lonicera-japonica I believe if you compare some of the photos on this site you will have a match. If not get back to me.I am not totally convinced but maybe we are solving this problem.  If you go online for further research add “edu” or “extension” to your word search for university based information.

responder: The Question Asker Replied April 11, 2024, 4:41 PM EDT
response: Thank you for your help on this.   Some of the photos on this site do look like my photos.  We did have a lot of other types of honeysuckle and LOTS of invasive bittersweet vines, but those are eliminated.  I read up on it and it looks like I should spray it with Roundup to erradicate it?  AlysonOn Thu, Apr 11, 2024 at 4:23 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: Loisr1  Replied April 11, 2024, 4:58 PM EDT
response: https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/F-68  I cannot emphasize enough that the more hard core herbicides will kill anything they touch. It is important to read the label carefully and follow instructions for protecting yourself as well as limiting the kill zone to only what you want to kill. Trying the less lethal ideas first, pulling shallow rooted plants for example, is the most recommended route. I wish you the best.....In a woodland you have so many wonderful plants to enjoy....lucky you.

responder: The Question Asker Replied April 11, 2024, 5:03 PM EDT
response: Agree totally!   We have a beautiful array of Spring Beauties in this area right now.  Almost a total blanket of white.  Gorgeous!!!  Best wishes!AlysonOn Thu, Apr 11, 2024 at 4:58 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: Loisr1  Replied April 11, 2024, 5:44 PM EDT
response: Wish I could see your wildflowers. Used to ride horseback and enjoy them. Glad we could help.
Ponderosa Pine apex tip looks dead

Question: Our pine looks relatively healthy, but the very tip of the apex seems to be dead or partially. Should we cut back to the green growth to encourage it to continue to grow or leave alone? Also, last year there was some dying needles near the top as well. I circled the dead portion in “Red” on the photo. Thank you

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 08, 2024, 1:50 PM EDT
response: Hello, there  I would give it a little more time before cutting it back.  It looks like the tree lost the leader branch a while back, and now there are 5 branches all coming out of the same place, which weakens the tree.  You want one strong, upright leader. That branch with the dead tip looks like it was becoming the leader- if the branch stays dead (no new growth appears) , you might want to prune off the entire branch down to the area that all the branches come from, and then pick the next most upright branch to become the new leader.

responder: The Question Asker Replied April 08, 2024, 5:27 PM EDT
response: The small area circled in “Red” is a very small dead piece and right below it is some growth. If I just cut the small dead tip would the tree continue to grow from that leader or per your suggestion is to it back all the way down to the five branches and select a new leader? Thanks

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 08, 2024, 5:30 PM EDT
response: You can cut the dead tip off- and if there doesn't appear to be a "candle" of new growth under it (compare to the others for what it should look like), then maybe cut back the branch and let a new leader take over. There is not a big rush on this - you can wait until it is pretty obvious.

responder: The Question Asker Replied April 08, 2024, 5:50 PM EDT
response: Attached is more of a close up on the tip that we’re discussing. It appears there are some candles, but very brown and dead looking. If I cut the branch off, I would need some of it still intact so I can tie the new leader to as a support, correct?

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 08, 2024, 6:01 PM EDT
response: It does not look as though the branch will be growing, but as I said, you can wait a bit. Your idea is good to leave some so you can tie the next leader to it to train it to grow straight.

responder: The Question Asker Replied April 08, 2024, 6:05 PM EDT
response: Attached is more of a close up on the tip that we’re discussing. It appears there are some candles, but very brown and dead looking. If I cut the branch off, I would need some of it still intact so I can tie the new leader to as a support, correct?
Madagascar Hissing Cockroach in Minneapolis Woods?

Question: I found this insect in the woods near Minnehaha Creek. It was maybe 2-3 inches long. I need to know what it is.

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 06, 2024, 8:31 PM EDT
response: Thank you for your question. It is an interesting one. Some of us at this forum agree that this insect has a strong resemblance to a Madagascar Hissing cockroach.  See the following: https://entomology.unl.edu/madagascar-hissing-cockroach However their normal habitat does not include the United States.  They are often kept as pets.  Perhaps the one you observed escaped from captivity? Others of us feel that it is something else.  To give you our most accurate identification, we are going to consult an individual from the University’s Entomology Department for an opinion.  For that reason, your question will be kept open.  Hopefully we’ll be able to get back to you within a few days. Again, thanks for your question.

responder: The Question Asker Replied April 07, 2024, 1:38 AM EDT
response: I also thought that it might have been an escaped pet as Madagascar hissing cockroaches are very distinctive looking. But, that is still super weird, hence, my question. On Sat, Apr 6, 2024 at 7:31 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 07, 2024, 12:07 PM EDT
response: Thanks for your thoughts. Was this critter alive or dead when you encountered it?  If it was dead, that would be further evidence that it was not a native species.  This would be consistent with an escaped Madagascar Hissing Cockroach. I ams still waiting on information from my entomologist colleague.

responder: The Question Asker Replied April 07, 2024, 12:59 PM EDT
response: It was alive. It was not incredibly active, but it was alive.On Apr 7, 2024, at 11:07 AM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:﻿

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 07, 2024, 4:02 PM EDT
response: Thanks for your response to my question.

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 08, 2024, 10:09 AM EDT
response: Thanks for your response to my question.  Our consulting entomologist just sent me the following: "That looks like a madagascar hissing cockroach to me, the size, coloring, and glossiness being the cues I'm using. We don't have any beetle larvae that are this big in Minnesota, though this picture isn't enough to run through it with a super technical key. I would also add that some people keep colonies to feed pet reptiles, so another potential source." I suspect that someone just let it loose along Minnehaha Creek and you stumbled upon it. Thanks for asking us.

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 08, 2024, 10:10 AM EDT

responder: The Question Asker Replied April 08, 2024, 1:32 PM EDT
response: I really appreciate the answers. I always thought I was going crazy thinking it was a Madagascar hissing cockroach. On Mon, Apr 8, 2024 at 9:19 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 08, 2024, 3:22 PM EDT
response: Glad to have been of assistance.
Are oak and squirrel chew

Question: Hello! Can you tell me how can we save our big oak from the damage done by squirrels? They are chewing up the canopy and the top is dying. The tree is part of a grove of other oaks, ashes and Doug firs and cannot easily be isolated. For whatever reason, the squirrels are really targeting this particular tree. I would say about a quarter of the crown is damaged. The tree is really important to us and we want to do anything we can to save it.

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 31, 2023, 6:50 PM EDT
response: Sorry to see this. Squirrel bark stripping his year seems to be particularly bad on multiple tree species. There are a variety of non-lethal and lethal methods for reducing this damage (see resources below). Also, while the damage is devastating to the current branches and the tree form, healthy oak trees can recover from the damage and sprout new branches from adventitious buds on trunk and surviving branches. Though you may want to prune the dead branches for aesthetics and crown form.   A wide band of metal flashing wrapped around the base of the trees can prevent climbing, depending on the size of your trees and access from neighboring trees. But I assume from your message that it is too close to other trees to prevent squirrel's access. Is it possible to prune to provide enough separation from other trees?  See resources at:  https://icwdm.org/identification/barkstripping/  https://woodlandinfo.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/310/2017/09/G3522.pdf  Also, try an internet search on "bark stripping by squirrels" and you will find a wide variety of stories and methods people have tried...

responder: The Question Asker Replied August 01, 2023, 12:49 PM EDT
response: Thank you. Yes, I've seen some of these solutions but none seem to work for our situation. How far from each other do limbs need to be to prevent squirrel from jumping from tree to tree? Doesn't it have to be a pretty wide gap?Thanks!AmyOn Mon, Jul 31, 2023, 3:50 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied August 04, 2023, 2:17 PM EDT
response: How far can squirrels jump? I found reference to 9 feet horizontally from tree to tree and 4-5 feet vertically.
Viburnum Damaged by Insects

Question: Hello.  We have a mature viburnum bush on the NW corner of the house.  We were out of town for five days in May and when we returned, the bush was severely damaged by insects (viburnum beetles?),  We saw no insects, but most of the bush was stripped of leaves and those leaves remaining were full of holes (see pics).  This has never happened before.  My question is, what should we do now (prune back, fertilize, etc.) and will it come back next spring or should we consider replacing it?  Thanks very much!

responder: Deb Reierson  Replied July 30, 2023, 7:03 PM EDT
response: It looks like you may have viburnum leaf beetle which is a new invasive species in Minnesota. If so, it should be reported as the MDA wants to track where it is found. Read the identification section of the link below and look to see if you can find signs of larvae.  Good luck! Grrrrr! https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/plant/deciduous/viburnum/holesinleaves.html https://www.mda.state.mn.us/plants-insects/viburnum-leaf-beetle#:~:text=Viburnum%20leaf%20beetle%20adults%20are,hatch%20into%20larvae%20in%20spring. The MDA can then tell you if you should cut it all the way back to the ground or dig it out.

responder: The Question Asker Replied July 31, 2023, 11:45 AM EDT
response: Thank you, Deb, I'm attaching a pic I took this morning.  I can see at least two locations of the "egg masses in a straight line".  I will report this to the MDA link you provided.  From your message, it appears the best course of action would be to cut and bag the branches, dig out the bush, and find another type of bush to plant (not Viburnum!).FrankOn Sun, Jul 30, 2023 at 6:03 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: The Question Asker Replied July 31, 2023, 11:56 AM EDT
response: Thank you, Deb,I'm attaching a pic I took this morning. I can see at least two locations of the "egg masses in a straight line". I will report this to the MDA link you provided. From your message, it appears the best course of action would be to cut and bag the branches, dig out the bush, and find another type of bush to plant (not Viburnum!).Frank

responder: Deb Reierson  Replied July 31, 2023, 12:49 PM EDT
response: Yes, i would cut and bag the branches and dig it out. Hold onto the bag in case the MDA wants to send someone out to verify. Sometimes they do that. They should let you know pretty quickly. Sorry!

responder: The Question Asker Replied July 31, 2023, 1:22 PM EDT
response: On Mon, Jul 31, 2023, 11:49 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
Yellow leaves with brown spots at the bottom of my tomato plants

Question: The bottom leaves on three of my eight tomato plants are yellow with brown spots.

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied August 01, 2023, 9:23 AM EDT
response: Hi, thanks for the question. This looks like a typical leaf spot disease.  Most likely  septoria leaf spot.  This tends to come with wet humid temperatures. Soil borne; water splash can infect the leaves.  Check out the following links for more information: Septoria Leaf Spot of Tomato (missouribotanicalgarden.org) Septoria leaf spot on tomatoes: More ways to prevent spots before your eyes - MSU Extension I hope this helps.

responder: The Question Asker Replied August 01, 2023, 5:21 PM EDT
response: Thank you!On Tue, Aug 1, 2023, 9:23 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
Tree identification

Question: Can you identify this tree in our new yard? We have trimmed a few branches that were coming from the side.

responder: Amy J. Extension Master Gardener - HC Replied July 28, 2023, 9:19 PM EDT
response: The tree in your photo looks like a boxelder. They are known for being fast growing, suckering and attracting boxelder bugs. Some consider them weed trees and some appreciate the tree for supporting birds and other wildlife in the area. Below is a link to information about boxelders  https://extension.umn.edu/trees-and-shrubs/boxelder

responder: The Question Asker Replied July 28, 2023, 10:26 PM EDT
response: Oh yuk. My least favorite tree. I hate box elder bugs!!On Fri, Jul 28, 2023 at 8:19 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote: