National Seed News
Anthracnose
What is anthracnose? This fungal disease affects many plants, including vegetables, fruits, and trees. It causes dark, sunken lesions on leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits. It also attacks developing shoots and expanding leaves. It can spread very quickly during rainy seasons.
Anthracnose is a general term for a variety of diseases that affect plants in similar ways. Anthracnose is especially known for the damage that it can cause to trees. Anthracnose is caused by a fungus, and among vegetables, it attacks cucurbits.
Anthracnose can survive on infected plant debris and is very easily spread. Like rust, it thrives under moist and warm conditions and is often spread by watering.
Identification
How to Identify Anthracnose
- On leaves, anthracnose generally appears first as small, irregular yellow or brown spots. These spots darken as they age and may also expand, covering the leaves.
- On vegetables, it can affect any part of the plant.
- On fruits, it produces small, dark, sunken spots, which may spread. In moist weather, pinkish spore masses form in the center of these spots. Eventually, the fruits will rot.
- On trees, it can kill the tips of young twigs. It also attacks the young leaves, which develop brown spots and patches. It can also cause defoliation of the tree.
Control and Prevention
How to Control Anthracnose
- Remove and destroy any infected plants in your garden. For trees, prune out the dead wood and destroy the infected leaves.
- You can spray your plants with a copper-based fungicide
Winter Desiccation
Boxwoods have always been known to need some TLC when it comes to getting them through the normal northern Illinois winter. Like our needled evergreens, boxwoods and other broadleaf evergreens are very alive all winter. Boxwoods are usually sited with northern or eastern exposures or protected in some way from winter sunlight and winds. Plant breeders have increased their winter hardiness with some cultivars, but certainly not all of them. Protecting them with burlap from the sun or creating a temporary winter windbreak are the common ways to give them what they need. Some gardeners will treat the boxwood with an anti-desiccate before the temperatures fall below freezing and again on a mild day in late winter or very early spring. Anti-desiccates seal the leaves, preventing moisture loss.
The damage this spring has been extensive on old and new plantings alike. If this was a disease, damage would be scattered, and symptoms would have been present last summer. What is happening right now is environmental, primarily the severe cold we experienced over winter. Damage is uniform and to varying degrees based on where they are planted in the home landscape. Take a walk around the neighborhood and those differences are readily seen.
If the damage is minor, only the leaves at the edge of the canopies will have the brown, burnt look. Those leaves will fall away when 2019 growth begins. In many cases, the entire boxwood is browned, and recovery is questionable. If it is just the tips and browning is minor, plants typically will recover like in the past. More damage than that and the 2019 vegetative buds would be killed. Any regrowth will have to come from well within the canopy. Stems and twigs would be the next to go and then the desiccation moves further downward towards the crown. If you take a close look, those stems and twigs will be shriveled.
There is not a problem with replanting boxwood with boxwood. There is a disease known as Boxwood Blight that has been spreading in the United States and so far, has not been detected in Illinois. If possible, buy replacements that have been grown in Illinois. Ask the retailer if the boxwoods have been certified blight-free, if not Illinois grown. When planting, modify the backfill soil with organic matter to increase aeration and drainage. Water them well at planting time and monitor them regularly for water. It will take at least two years to establish, longer for larger boxwood. They will have a limited root system during this time, making them more susceptible to desiccation, especially in the winter.
Richard Hentschel is a Horticulture Extension Educator with University of Illinois Extension, serving DuPage, Kane and Kendall counties. Stay tuned to more garden and yard updates with This Week in the Garden videos at facebook.com/extensiondkk/videos and the "Green Side Up" podcast at go.illinois.edu/greensideup. The 2019 Kendall County Master Gardener Help Desk is open from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at 630-553-5823.
new products!
Hydretain
Hydretain in Landscape Installation and Maintenance
Hydretain is a revolutionary chemistry designed to reduce watering frequency and protect landscapes from drying out for an extended period between watering cycles. A blend of hygroscopic humectant compounds, Hydretain attracts and condenses free water molecules from the air within the soil to create microscopic droplets that plant roots can use. This simple application will result in healthy, vigorous and drought resistant landscapes.
Offer Hydretain to your customers to...
- Control or eliminate dry spot problems
- Protect non or poorly-irrigated areas
- Improve seed germination
- Improve transplant establishment
- Enhance nutrient uptake
- Provide a non-toxic, safe environment for pets and children
ProScape 21-22-4 Starter Fertilizer
with .08 Mesotrione SGN 125 
A premium combination starter fertilizer and weed control product with an NPK of 21-22-4.
- .08 Mesotrione for pre-emergent control of weeds that can be used when establishing new turf
- All Mineral fertilizer with nutrients immediately available to the plant
- Potassium sulfate for immediate availability of the potassium with the added benefit of a small amount of sulfur
- Please see label for specific information on pests controlled, application rates, timing and use
Grappler Tool
We take pride in what we do and deliver only the best quality of reaching tools. We are happy to offer a tool that is completely manufactured in the states. It is good for any debris and litter pickup, even the smallest ones! The Grappler easily grabs:
- Litter, from newspapers to full 24 oz bottles of liquid, the Grappler quickly gets it all.
- Small branches.
- Things you wouldn't want to touch: dog feces, animal carcasses, unhygienic materials, etc.
- Items as small as a toothpick!
- Much, much more…
Sure Power
Sure Power is a new standard in herbicide power, providing swift early-season and late-season control to strike down challenging broadleaf weeds. In fact, broad-spectrum Sure Power is proven to produce excellent control of ground ivy and wild violet. Its four-way formulation manages more than 250 broadleaf weeds, making Sure Power a valued tool in the pursuit of clean cool-season turf.
Fast and Effective Selective Herbicide
- Outperforms the competition in ground ivy and wild violet control
- Proven efficacy on more than 250 broadleaf weeds
- Ideal for early- and late-season application
- Rainfast after one hour
- Rapid knockdown with visible results starting in 2-3 days
- First flumioxazin formulation for cool-season turf
- Group 4 and 14 herbicides support resistance management
- Easy-to-use, reduced-odor formulation
Proven efficacy on challenging weed issues
- Ground ivy
- Wild violet
- Clover
- Dandelion
- Black medic
- Plantain
NALP announces annual list of landscape trends
Experts anticipate 2019 to be the year of pergolas, two-in-one designs and automated maintenance.
The National Association of Landscape Professionals has released its official list of the top 2019 landscape trends.
Drawing upon the expertise of the industry's 1 million landscape, lawn care, irrigation and tree care professionals, NALP annually predicts trends that will influence the design and maintenance of backyards across America in the year ahead. NALP develops its trends reports based on a survey of its members. It also draws from the expertise of landscape professionals from across the U.S. who are at the outdoor trends forefront.
"Homeowners yearn for beautiful outdoor spaces without the hassle of upkeep. With the rise of multi-functional landscape design and automated processes, consumers can spend more time enjoying their landscapes than ever before," says Missy Henriksen, the NALP vice president of public affairs. "This year's trends reflect current lifestyle preferences as well as innovations happening in the industry that are transforming landscapes across the country."
NALP listed the following five trends to influence outdoor spaces in 2019:
Two-in-one landscape design
Functional elements are becoming a necessity in today's landscapes. Consumers desire stunning outdoor features that have been cleverly designed to serve a dual tactical purpose. An edible vertical garden on a trellis that acts as a privacy fence, a retaining wall that includes built-in seating for entertaining, and colorful garden beds that divide properties all combine function and style.
Automated lawn and landscape maintenance
The latest technology and equipment allow tasks to be more streamlined and environmentally efficient than ever before. Robotic lawn mowers continue to rise in popularity among both homeowners and landscape professionals. Also, programmable irrigation systems and advanced lighting and electrical systems help outdoor spaces become extensions of today's smart homes. Homeowners relish knowing that these technological advancements give them more time to relax and enjoy their outdoor spaces.
Pergolas
A staple of landscape design for years, pergolas constructed of wood or composite material are now becoming more sophisticated. They can now come with major upgrades, including roll down windows, space heaters, lighting and sound systems. When paired with a luxury kitchen, seating area or fire feature, pergolas can become the iconic structure for outdoor sanctuaries.
Pretty in Pink
Pops of coral and blush are anticipated to add a more feminine touch to landscapes this year. With Living Coral named the Color of the Year by Pantone, a leading provider of color systems and an influencer on interior and exterior design, landscape professionals predict that this rich shade of pink could bring fresh blooms of roses, petunias, zinnias and hibiscus to flower beds. Experts also anticipate light blush tones to become "the new neutral" and another option for hardscapes and stone selections.
Mesmerizing Metals
Whether homeowners want a bold statement or whimsical touch, incorporating metals can bring new dimensions to landscape design. Used for decorative art, water features or furniture and accessories, creative uses of metals including steel and iron can make for lovely accents or entire focal points.
National Seed's Commercial Strength Ice Melt
Blue crystals help provide efficient application and even ice melting. Melts ice and snow to -15 degrees. Safe for use on treated wood and concrete.
- Designed for Illinois's Harshest Winter Conditions
- Contains RUSH Speed Enhancing Additive
- Dyed Blue For Ease of Application
Contains:
- Sodium chloride
- Magnesium chloride
- Calcium chloride
- RUSH accelerator
Facts and statistics about the Landscape industry
- Generates $77 billion in annual revenues
- Employs nearly 1 million people
- Has an annual growth rate of 3.5%
- Consists of nearly 500,000 businesses
Source: IBISWorld report, 2016.
If we dive deeper into this data, we can see how different specializations and services contribute to the scope of the entire industry. In a survey from a leading industry publication, respondents reported that they had completed business within the following sectors:
- 65% single family residential
- 23% commercial/industrial
- 42% maintenance
- 19% design and build
- 13% lawn care
- 6% tree care
- 6% snow removal
- 6% irrigation
Source: Lawn and Landscape Magazine State of the Industry 2014.
It is also worth noting that over 30% of respondents listed "Landscaping Maintenance" as their most profitable service. Other services such as "design and build" and "chemical lawn treatments" were substantial revenue drivers.
So what does all this data equate to? Revenue.
From the same industry survey, here's the breakdown of businesses by revenue:
- Less than $300,000—57%
- $300,000–$999,999—19%
- $1 million–$1.9 million—11%
- $2 million–$3.9 million—7%
- $4 million or more—6%
- Median Revenue Nationwide: $217,000
Each year, droves of new competitors enter the market. Nearly 20% of the entire industry is made up of new landscaping services. If you haven't faced fierce local competition, consider yourself lucky (for now).
PROTECT YOUR CUSTOMERS' EVERGREENS THIS WINTER
Anti-desiccant spray applied in the fall coats the foliage of your plants with this layer of organic "sealant" to help the plants resist the drying power of winter winds and conserve the moisture vital to their good health. Properly applied, a winter protection spray will safeguard your valuable plants through the cold months and gradually break down as warm weather approaches and your trees and shrubs begin spring growth.
Fall Fertilization of Trees
There is considerable discussion about the proper time to apply fertilizers to trees. The practice of applying N-P-K fertilizer to trees in the fall is common in the arborist and landscape industries. Is this practice a good one, or not?
P and K, Yes; but only "Low or Slow N" in Late Fall
Application of phosphorus (P), potassium (K) in the fall actually helps the tree prepare for winter, by inducing a proper hardening-off of this year's foliar tissues. This practice is common in forest tree nurseries. However, high levels of soluble nitrogen can encourage foliar tissues to remain young (juvenile), and to delay their preparation for frost. Therefore, application of high levels of soluble nitrogen (N) fertilizer to trees within 6 weeks of anticipated first frost will increase the risk of early frost damage to the foliage. Such nitrogen-induced foliar damage is more prevalent in hardwoods rather than in conifers. Slow-release forms of nitrogen are safe for use in the fall, since these will not have the same effect in promoting top growth as the fully soluble forms of N. For this reason, most commercial applications of nitrogen in the fall utilize "low and/or slow" Nitrogen.
Overseeding Lawns
- Overseeding lawns in fall reduces or eliminates competition from summer weedy grasses, such as crabgrass, foxtails, and other weeds.
- Overseeding lawns in fall reduces or eliminates competition from summer weedy grasses, such as crabgrass, foxtails, and other weeds.
- Rain amounts and soil moisture are generally better in the fall.
National Seed's Recommended Seed Mixes for Overseeding
FIELD OF DREAMS™ RE-SEEDER MIXTURE
• 25% Improved Kentucky Bluegrass
• 25% Improved Kentucky Bluegrass
• 25% Turf-Type Perennial Ryegrass
• 25% Turf-Type Perennial Ryegrass
FIELD OF DREAMS™ ATHLETIC TURF MIXTURE
• 30% Turf-Type Perennial Ryegrass
• 30% Turf-Type Perennial Ryegrass
• 20% Improved Kentucky Bluegrass
• 20% Improved Kentucky Bluegrass
GREENSKEEPERS GLAMOUR MIXTURE
• 30% Kentucky Bluegrass 98/85
• 30% Creeping Red Fescue
• 40% Containing 2 Turf-type Perennial Ryegrass
To order or obtain additional information please contact us.
The Salt Story... 2018/19 Shortage
As I sit here enjoying a beautiful 80 degree day in mid July, it's ironic to be talking about salt. Actually, if you are in the "salt business"or are a snow contractor or property manager it's late to be talking about salt. Here in Michigan and the Midwest we are only 4 months away, or less some years, from our first snow and/or ice event. It should be important for us to know: who we are working for? Who is working for us? Do we have enough equipment? And where are we buying salt and how much will it cost this year?
In an effort to share, the following is the basic story of salt in the Midwest markets...
According to some research we can all find out there on a Google search....there is about 10 million tons of salt that are sold into this region and its outskirts annually. There are about 4 main providers, one at about 1 million tons, one at about 3 million tons, and a couple others that make up another 6 or 7 million tons. There are a few other salt companies that don't own mines (at least in the US or Canada) and they import salt from other countries, such as Egypt, Chile, United Kingdom, Morocco and others. This combination of providers work to win bids and win relationships to sell salt into all of our cities, towns and local markets.
Our government gets first dibs to put out requests for proposals to get quotes for the upcoming season. This process starts typically in May and can linger through the summer. Just like any company managing their inventory or capacity of sales......the salt companies are trying to win some government bids, to sell off some of their inventory / production capacity. Therefore the salt companies really don't know how successful they have been at selling their inventory till most or all of the public bidding and bid acceptance process has taken place
After this round of sales, there is some salt released to be sold direct from the top salt companies to contractors or to large resellers/brokers of salt. The pricing available to this round of buyers is higher than that of the pricing offered to our state and local governments.
Once this round is achieved, the smaller contractor, one without a place to buy and store a season's worth of salt or at least a sizable portion or a seasons salt...well they must rely on the local supply yard to have salt for them a few tons at a time throughout each event, all season long. As you might imagine, each layer has a cost increase and a risk increase. The sooner we all find and secure a salt deal to meet our needs the better off we will be going into winter, negotiating contracts and sharing this process with the end users…our clients. I strongly urge you to "educate yourself and educate your clients" on the process of procuring salt. Knowledge is always powerful and helpful.
Patch Diseases Serious Problem
Perhaps the most serious turf disease likely to occur in northern Illinois is summer patch and necrotic ring spot, two separate diseases that attack grass roots and previously were referred to as fusarium blight. Research continues to look for information on these diseases. Brown patch may also attack turfgrasses. These "patch diseases" are similar in appearance and management in lawns.
Summer patch and brown patch tends to be most active in hot weather, while necrotic ring spot tends to be most active in late spring and in fall. Disease symptoms often show under turf stress in summer, however. Crescent shaped or circular patches of dead grass, often with clumps of green grass inside, are a characteristic symptom (often called "frogeye"). Lawn and other turf areas with advanced disease development may show irregular dead areas and streaks.
Patch diseases typically develop on turf with stress factors such as excessive thatch, poor soil conditions, sod installed over a poorly prepared site, irregular/excessive nitrogen fertility, and related problems. One typical situation in which these diseases occur is recently sodded lawns (within 2 - 5 years) put down over a clay soil, usually with good care (high watering & fertility) to keep the grass green and vigorous. This condition leads to poor root penetration and development, and also often a problem thatch layer.
Management of these diseases consists of correcting soil problems and implementing proper cultural practices, overseeding dead areas, and possibly fungicide applications. Improving conditions for root growth and reducing problem thatch is critical. Practices such as core aerifying and topdressing, along with sound fertilizing, mowing (avoid mowing too short), and watering are suggested. Spring and fall are suggested times for aerifying, assuming the turf is actively growing. Avoid heavy spring applications of nitrogen fertilizer. Focus most applications on the fall period. Fertilizers containing controlled-release nitrogen are suggested. Overseed dead areas with perennial ryegrass and resistant Kentucky bluegrass cultivars in late August or early September.
These management suggestions may not bring immediate results, but will get the patch disease under control in the long run. Fungicides are an option to help prevent further development on unaffected grass, but will not reverse the factors causing the disease or eliminate the disease. Fungicides treat the symptoms but not the cause of the problem.
Written by Bruce Spangenberg, former Extension Educator, Horticulture. University of Illinois Extension.
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