Advanced Training – PDM Domain – Tree Diseases Module

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 identification, life cycle and management and the plant diagnostic process. We will learn how to identify, understand and manage seventy-five (75) disease-causing pathogens such as fungi, bacteria and viruses. The following categories will be discussed: cankers, needle, wood decay, foliar, root rot and vascular wilt. We will become familiar with the following diagnostic tools: Increment borer, Kelway pH/moisture meter, soil compaction probe, and various small tools to aid in proper disease diagnosis. We will review the plant diagnostic process and the steps necessary for proper disease ID. We will also become familiar with the U of I Plant Clinic and the Morton Arboretum and the proper methods of submitting plant specimens for disease diagnosis. Materials will be covered through power point slides and field demonstrations. A 20-question multiple choice quiz will be given at the end of class.

Provided Equipment

Increment borer, Kelway pH/moisture meter, soil compaction tester, cordless electric drill, pruning saws, hand pruners, pole pruners, shovel and various small soil probing tools.

Additional Recommended Reading

1. Diseases of Trees and Shrubs by Wayne A. Sinclair
2. 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

Day One

Begin the morning classroom session discussing various disease pathogens. A power point presentation of approximately 35 pathogens will be discussed. Live samples will also be provided for review. The afternoon session will consist of a field trip with “hands-on” disease ID and proper tool usage. We will put into practice the plant diagnostic process and the steps necessary for proper disease identification.

Day Two

The morning classroom session will review an additional 35 pathogens via power point and live samples. The afternoon session will consist of another “hands – on” field trip discussing the remaining diseases and the diagnostic process necessary for proper ID.

Outcomes

Upon completion of the Tree Disease module, each participant will gain knowledge of the following:

• Become familiar with the five major groups of plant pathogens
• Identify seventy-five common woody plant diseases of the Midwest
• Become familiar with the most common symptoms and signs of plant disease
• Become proficient in field diagnosis of several common woody plant diseases
• Become familiar with various tools to aid in disease diagnosis
• Learn proper methods for submitting plant samples to plant clinics in Illinois