MSU Extension Christmas Trees

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  Gypsy moth populations are high: What conifer growers need to know

  Published on April 16, 2021
  There were extremely high populations of gypsy moth during 2020 and we anticipate elevated populations this year. Scout and treat spruce, fir and Douglas fir for gypsy moths.

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  Bands from Weir’s cushion rust visible on infected spruce needles

  Published on April 15, 2021
  Yellow spots or bands are visible on infected Serbian and Colorado blue spruce needles. Weir’s cushion rust can cause discoloration and pre-mature needle loss.

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  Target stem mothers to control balsam twig aphids in Christmas trees

  Published on April 9, 2021
  Targeting the stem mothers is the key to preventing curling and distortion of new growth caused by balsam twig aphid.

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  Cooley and eastern spruce gall adelgids: Small pests that equal big problems

  Published on April 9, 2021
  These tiny insects are difficult to find but can easily be identified by the shoot galls they cause. If galls were abundant last year and an insecticide is needed, it can be applied in spring when the overwintering immature females are still exposed.

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  Prepare your scouting plan for your Christmas trees

  Published on March 31, 2021
  Spring has sprung and it is time to start scouting your Christmas trees and prepare your integrated pest management (IPM) plan for the year.

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  Changes in the nursery and Christmas tree inspection programs

  Published on March 26, 2021
  Changes in the pine shoot beetle federal quarantine and improvements to the MDARD inspection program that may affect nursery and Christmas tree growers.

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  Getting ready for those early insects in Christmas tree and nursery fields

  Published on March 18, 2021
  It’s never too early to begin scouting your trees and fields for early season pests, such as Zimmerman pine moth and white pine weevil.

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  Dr. Debalina Saha enjoys conducting applied research and interacting with her students

  Published on February 8, 2021
  Dr. Saha was hired as an Assistant Professor in July 2019 to help the ornamental (nursery, greenhouse, landscape) industry with weed control issues.

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  New version of Airblast 101 sprayer handbook now available

  Published on January 12, 2021
  This new version adds more content for many air-assist sprayer types. It’s bigger, better and the electronic version is now free.

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  Back to basics: Winter Christmas tree webinar series announced

  Published on December 22, 2020
  Series will teach new growers how to build a solid understanding of management practices and give experienced growers a much-needed review, as well as give updates on research and emerging issues.