Issue 14, August 17, 2015
Reminder: Test NOW for Bacterial Leaf Scorch
As a reminder, the University of Illinois Plant Clinic is testing for Bacterial Leaf Scorch (BLS). This serious disease affects a wide range of woody ornamentals, causing leaf discoloration and margin necrosis. BLS can often be confused with environmental scorch, Oak Wilt (in oaks) and occasionally with Verticillium Wilt in other woody ornamentals. The Plant Clinic tests symptomatic leaves once a year, at the end of the growing season when the bacterial populations are highest. There is a $25 fee for BLS testing. Symptomatic leaves with petioles still attached should be collected now and shipped to the Plant Clinic. We anticipate running the test in late August or early September.
For more information about BLS, please see this article from the last issue of the Home, Yard, and Garden Pest Newsletter: http://hyg.ipm.illinois.edu/article.php?id=735. (Diane Plewa)
Author:
Diane Plewa