Drought, cherry laurel, oak trees

Newsletter

Fall 2019

Fall drought challenges

Coming off the wettest year on record (2018), Maryland is dealing with a "flash drought." Here are some links to more information and tips on how to deal with it in your landscape.

Watering Tips for Drought Conditions (PDF)

National Weather Service drought statement

Tips for newly seeded and renovated lawns

Photo credit: Pixabay

Photo credit: Oak tree decline by Dave Clement

Why are so many oak trees dying?

Many oak trees - particularly white oaks - have died this year and we have received a lot of questions about this widespread issue. Excessively wet soils last year followed by a drought this year are believed to be contributing factors. Mature trees (80-120 years) are more likely to fall victim to drought since they have more mass to support.

Read more on our blog Why are so many oaks declining this year?

Read Ellen Nibali's Baltimore Sun article

Does your cherry laurel look like this?

Cherry laurels are popular for being deer-resistant, evergreen shrubs. They are tough once established. However, if their growing conditions are not just right, they are susceptible to several problems.

We have received numerous questions about a white substance growing on cherry laurel branches -- white prunicola scale. What can you do about it?

Read Maryland Grows Blog

Photo credit: White prunicola scale on cherry laurel, University of Maryland Extension

Photo credit: UME Ask an Expert

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Q: Our weeping cherry is oozing large amounts of sap. Why is that happening? What do I do about it?

A: Read the answer on Ask an Expert

Read more and register

Photo credit: AGNR

Global challenges

Please join the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources for a celebration and examination of research in ensuring a clean and healthy Chesapeake Bay.

October 29, 2019

Free event - Open to the public

Stamp Student Union , College Park

Read more about the event Global Challenges

Garden tips & tasks

October | November | December

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