Advanced Training – PDM Domain – Tree Diseases

Course Description

The Tree Diseases module will provide an in-depth study of the common tree and woody plant diseases found throughout Illinois and surrounding areas. We will cover basic tree disease concepts, disease diagnosis and identification, life cycles and practical PHC management practices.  Participants will learn how to properly identify, understand and manage major biotic disease-causing pathogens such as fungi, bacteria, phytoplasmas, nematodes, and viruses.

The following disease categories will be discussed including cankers, foliar diseases and needle casts, root rots, vascular wilts, and wood decay fungi.  Class content will include how to use various field diagnostic tools including, but not limited to the following:  increment borers, pH and moisture meters, soil penetrometer, soil probes, and various  small tools.  We review how to conduct proper field disease diagnosis and how to properly take and submit disease samples for plant clinic analysis and diagnosis.   Course content will be presented via a classroom setting and  field demonstrations, weather permitting.  In class case studies will be used to help reinforce class and field learning and disease concepts.

Additional Recommended Reading

Diseases of Trees and Shrubs by Wayne A. Sinclair

Diseases of Trees in the Great Plains is available online and can be downloaded for free at: https://www.fs.fed.us/rm/pubs/rmrs_gtr335.pdf