Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dead looking patches in my lawn?

There are a large number of diseases (around 100, in fact) that your lawn can contract, so accurate diagnosis may require the help of an expert. Generally speaking, however, in Indiana, brown, red or dead patches in your yard can most often be attributed to the following conditions:
In the Spring - Necrotic Ring Spot
In the Early Summer - Red Thread / Dollar Spot
In mid Summer - Summer Patch
For more info, including detailed descriptions and photographs of these and other possible culprits, please refer to the following links:

Diagnosis of Turfgrass Diseases
The Lawn Problem Solver
Lawn Diseases

Does planting depth matter?

Yes, absolutely. If installed below grade (or surface level) most plants will suffocate or drown resulting in failing health and eventual depth. In general plants should be installed with approximately 20% of the root ball above grade. Do not cover the exposed root ball with soil. Instead use a thin layer of mulch (one to two inches thick maximum) to help retain moisture and inhibit weed growth. For a more in depth look at this topic, please see these articles:

Planting High
Treatment Options for Deep Planting
Planting Trees and Shrubs

Should I be concerned about lichen growing on the trunks of my trees?

Lichens are not at all harmful to trees. In fact, they are fascinating organisms. They can be used to dye wool, to monitor pollution levels…some are even edible (careful, though…a few are poisonous!). Part algae and part fungi, you can learn more about lichens by checking out these links listed below:

Lichens: More than Meets the Eye
Lichens of North America
Lichen Land

What is meant by “root girdling” and how can it be prevented or remedied?

In simplest terms, root girdling is encircled roots at or below the surface of the ground often due to the constraints of the container in which it has been living that tend to strangle the plant. At the time a plant is install into a landscape, it is very important to prune the roots in order to remedy and prevent girdled roots. If steps are not taken at the time of installation, the tree will likely suffer as slow decline and premature death. It will also be susceptible to falling due when wind or storms introduce stress to its weak root system. Root girdling results in a weak support system for the tree. Trees with root girdling often lack trunk flare at the base of the tree where it enters the ground.

Additional resources:

Roots Girdling the Base of the Trunk
Planting Trees from Containers
Girdling Roots -- A Problem of Shade Trees
A Practitioner's Guide to Stem Girdling Roots of Trees

What can I do about mimosa webworm infestation in my Honey Locust Tree?

The Mimosa Webworm feeds on the leaves of the Mimosa and honeylocust plants, spinning an ugly web around the leaves and then eating them. While a number of birds and insects feed on the larvae, you'll probably need to turn to insecticides to control the problem. Below you'll find a link to a Purdue University publication that explains which chemicals you can use (and when), and a Penn State Fact Sheet that explains, among other things, which species of honeylocust are least susceptible to the pest.

Additional resources:

Mimosa Webworm Control Recommendations
Mimosa Webworm Fact Sheet

Why is the bark splitting on my tree and what can I do about it?

It could be sunscald or it might be frost cracks. Going through a long, tough winter can be hard on your trees, and sometimes damage is unavoidable. However, serious damage is almost always preventable if you know what to do. Strategies include taking good care of your trees during warmer seasons (with proper watering and mulching, for instance) and carefully planting trees where other plants or buildings help protect from temperature extremes. To find out more useful information and other helpful techniques, click on the links below.

Winter Injury on Trees
Winter Sunscald and Frost Cracking
The Causes of Bark Splitting on Trees
Did the Cold Hurt my Plants?
Cold Damage

Are there guidelines regarding the watering of newly installed landscape plants?

Yes. Watering is vital for establishing newly planted trees and shrubs. However, over-watering is a common mistake that forces oxygen out of the soil around the roots and can lead to death of a shrubs and trees. A good indication of too much water is yellowing of the foliage that develops first on the inside leaves and progresses to outer leaves. Of course every plant is different, so it is important to find out the correct guidelines for your specific plant. Below are some resources to further assist you with your specific need.

Irrigation Management After Planting
Watering Shrubs