News

Addressing labor challenges together

Published on August 17, 2021
Help us understand the current workforce needs of agricultural operations across Michigan.
Four Lessons from COVID-19 for the Future of Christmas Tree Marketing

Published on June 28, 2021
Because of this unique Christmas tree shopping environment, we took the opportunity to delve into how U.S. consumers were confronting the holiday season with in order to glean some information about how their purchasing choices might look in the future.
Michigan Christmas tree pest update – June 4, 2021

Published on June 4, 2021
Scout trees now for insect pests.
How to identify and manage common ragweed in Christmas tree production – Part 2

Published on April 28, 2021
Strategies to manage common ragweed in Christmas tree production.
How to identify and manage common ragweed in Christmas tree production – Part 1

Published on April 28, 2021
Identifying common ragweed early in Christmas tree production can help growers develop an effective weed control plan.
Managing Diplodia tip blight

Published on April 28, 2021
Diplodia tip blight can kill the current year’s growth of trees of any age. Time fungicide applications to protect new growth from bud break through full candle elongation.
Lymantria dispar populations are high: What conifer growers need to know

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