Oystershell scale is an armored scale insect whose host range spans over 130 plant species. In Iowa, they are most frequently reported on dogwood and maple. In 2025, numerous reports have been submitted on both host plants.
Got a shady area in your landscape? Finding the right plants to grow there can feel difficult. Find lists of the best perennials, annuals, groundcovers, trees, shrubs, and more for your shade garden.
Glyphosate, once synonymous with Roundup®, is now less available. New Roundup formulas differ in active ingredients and intended use, requiring careful label reading for safe and proper application.
Misdiagnosing a plant health problem can lead to the wrong plant protectant product being used, which can be both an unnecessary expense AND can result in a decline in plant health. Learn why accurate plant pest diagnosis saves you money.
A few All-America Selections winners that you can grow from seed in your garden this year include quick growing cabbage, bold-colored Zinnia, and spicy green mustard.
Fillable forms for sample submission to the Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic (PIDC) are now available online. This will allow clients to fill out the form online for printing or emailing.
Recently, news articles have been popping up across the country indicating that the spotted lanternfly has returned to many states in the U.S., including Iowa. Learn about the current status of the insect in Iowa.
Spring frost damage in strawberries and apples can have significant consequences for yield and fruit quality. Learn about a few of the protective measure options growers can use to mitigate damage.
While watering is one of the more common tasks we do when caring for plants, it’s often one of the most misunderstood. Successful watering comes from using a combination of techniques to accurately determine when and how much to water.
Monitoring and keeping track of your garden will help you detect small irregularities before they become major. Explore the ways a plant disease diagnostician recommends keeping records of your garden.
Enhance your gardening skills with Iowa Master Gardener training through the Iowa Home Gardener track- 100% online and asynchronous during the 10-week training period from February 24 - May 2. Open for enrollment until March 14.
Choosing the right potting media is essential for successful plant growth in containers. This article covers key factors like media components, handling, container selection, and watering practices to help optimize plant health and simplify care.
