As fall approaches with cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage displays, several pest and disease issues may also appear. Here are three common issues the home gardener may encounter as the warmer months come to a close.
Fall webworm
Fall webworm is a moth species recognized for its distinctive webbed nests that appear at the end of tree branches. Inside the web, caterpillars (larvae) will feed on the enclosed leaves. The insect is native to North America, and is commonly found on walnut, hickory, elm, sweetgum, willow, oak, and ash tree species. The insect is considered to be more of a nuisance than a threat to the health of the tree.
Powdery mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungus that appears as a light gray or whitish powder on leaves, stems and sometimes flowers and fruit. Warm days and cool nights in the fall encourage fungal development. The disease is considered to be unsightly rather than harmful. Leaves may turn yellow, or become disfigured, but the fungus rarely kills the plant.
White Pine - Annual Needle Drop
Beginning mid to late September, home gardeners may notice the innermost needles of their Eastern white pine (Pinus strobus) beginning to yellow all at once. While this can be alarming, there is no cause for concern. White pines normally shed older needles around this time.