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Woody Plant Diseases Observed within the Geauga Park District, With a listing of The more common Tree and Shrub Species, Based on Observations made during the spring, summer and fall of 2009 Performed by Dr. Samuel J. Mazzer under grant from the Geauga Park District, Geauga County, Ohio. Submitted November 1, 2009. Contact: Samuel Mazzer 6181 Washington St. Ravenna, OH 44266 (330) 677-5880 [email protected] Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Contents: Part One: Overview—forest health issues observed, particularly Beech bark disease and Armillaria infections. ................................................................................................. 4 Beech bark disease:................................................................................................. 4 Armillaria: .............................................................................................................. 6 Part Two: Dominant forest trees and shrubs of the Geauga Park District, and major diseases observed or likely:................................................................................. 12 Pinopsida class: The conifers............................................................................... 12 Taxacae family: Yews.............................................................................. 12 Pinaceae family: Firs, hemlocks, tamaracks, pines, cedars and junipers. 13 The Genus Abies, The true Firs: ............................................................... 13 The Genus Tsuga, the Hemlocks: ............................................................. 13 Important diseases: ...................................................................... 13 The Genus Larix, The Tamaracks:............................................................ 14 Important diseases: ...................................................................... 14 Pinus genus: The Pines ............................................................................ 15 Important diseases: ...................................................................... 15 Picea genus: Spruces................................................................................ 16 Important diseases: ...................................................................... 17 Cupressaceae family: Cedars: .................................................................. 17 Important Diseases: ..................................................................... 18 Magnoliopsida class: The broad-leaved flowering plants .................................... 19 Salicaceae family: Willows and poplars .................................................. 19 Important diseases: ...................................................................... 20 Juglandaceae family: Walnuts, butternuts and hickories:......................... 20 Betulaceae family: Alders, hazel nuts, blue-beech, ironwood &............. 22 birch: ......................................................................................................... 22 Important diseases: ...................................................................... 23 Fagaceae family: Beech, oaks, and American chestnut:.......................... 24 Important diseases: ...................................................................... 24 The Genus Castanea: American Chestnut................................................ 28 Important diseases: ...................................................................... 28 The Family Ulmacae: Elms and hackberries. .......................................... 30 Important diseases: ...................................................................... 31 The family Moraceae: Mulberries and Osage Orange............................ 34 Magnoliaceae family: Magnolias and tuliptree......................................... 35 Lauraceae family: Sassafras and spicebush ............................................. 36 The Hamamelidaceae family: Witch-hazel.............................................. 36 The Platanaceae family: the sycamore or plane-tree ................................ 36 Important diseases: ...................................................................... 37 The Rosacae family: Crabapples, serviceberries, hawthorns, cherries, and plums......................................................................................................... 37 Important diseases: ...................................................................... 38 Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 The Simaroubacae family (invasive): Genus Ailianthus--the Tree-ofHeaven ...................................................................................................... 38 The Aquifoliaceae family: The hollies .................................................... 39 Important diseases: ...................................................................... 39 The Aceraceae family: The Genus Acer, the Maples. ............................. 39 Important diseases: ...................................................................... 40 Hippocastanaceae family: Horse-chestnut and Ohio buckeye.................. 43 The Tiliacae family: The Basswood trees................................................ 43 The Nyssacae family: Nyssa sylvatica, known as Black-gum, Sour-Gum, or Tupelo................................................................................................... 44 The Cornaceae family: The Dogwoods .................................................... 44 Important diseases: ...................................................................... 44 The Ericaceae family: Rhododendrons, Azaleas and Blueberries ........... 47 The Oleaceae family: White, green, and black Ash................................. 47 Important Diseases: ..................................................................... 48 Bignoniacae family: Northern catalpa and trumpet-creeper vine ............ 48 The Rubiacae family: Buttonbush ........................................................... 49 The Caprifoliaceae family: Honeysuckles, viburnums, and elderberries 49 Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 4 of 50 Part One: Overview—forest health issues observed, particularly Beech bark disease and Armillaria infections. Beech bark disease: During the course of our present study several forest health issues, dealing with Plant Diseases were observed which may require periodic monitoring. It is important to note that the overall health of a forest ecosystem is often dependent upon on a balance between a several environmental factors that are operating within that system during a given time period. Often, seemingly small changes occur within a given forest system that may later initiate a cascade of effects that would not otherwise have been expected. This may, in fact, be the case with a new, slow moving forest tree disease that is just now beginning to make itself known in the forests of northeastern Ohio. Including several forest areas managed by the Geauga Park District. During several of our previous examinations of forestry related studies in the Geauga Park District, we noted the arrival of a minute, introduced scale insect that was just beginning to show up on Beech trees in Northeastern Ohio. These minute, white tufts were already quite numerous on the grey bark of many Beech trees within the Park (most notably, on the abundant Beech trees within The Beartown Lakes Reservation). Unfortunately, the presence of this insect is closely linked to the arrival of a pervasive new disease of American Beech trees that has slowly spread into our area from the Northwestern corner of Pennsylvania. This disease, called “Beech Bark Disease” is a slow moving forest disease that has only recently become noticeable in our area. The presence of the insect responsible for the spread of this disease is cause for concern. At present this insect is still at relatively at moderately low densities over much of the Geauga Park District. But this situation is not expected to last. This new disease is unlike several other plant diseases, in that it consists of two components. The first component of the disease is the arrival of the introduced scale insects that have already noted, Cryptococcus fagisuga, is the sap-sucking insect that is responsible for making numerous tiny punctures in the bark of Beech trees in order to feed. In so doing these insects create many tiny openings in the bark of otherwise healthy trees. These punctures compromise the integrity of the bark by creating what are referred to as “infection courts” by Forest Pathologists. These tiny openings become the portals which enable either of two pathogenic fungi (that are closely associated with this disease penetrate through the otherwise protective bark of these trees) where they initiate a pathological infection of the trees (living) Phloem and inner bark as well as the newly formed sapwood. The arrival of either of these fungi and the subsequent fungal infection of these underlying, nutrient rich, phloem and sapwood tissues initiates the type of fungal infections that characterize the Beech Bark Disease complex which has only recently become established in Northeastern Ohio. These scale insects are responsible for initiating the infection and rot of the under-lying phloem and sapwood tissues by pathogenic fungi. Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 5 of 50 At the present time, we believe we are seeing only this initial stage of this disease, as indicated by the presence of numerous scale insects, is already present in many of local woodlands, but date, we have not yet been able to confirm the presence of either of the two species of Nectria fungi associated with this disease. It should be noted that the bark openings created by these scale insects are, however, like an open door to any number of other saprophytic or pathogenic bacteria or fungi, which are certainly able to initiate wood rots or other species of wood rotting organisms. Consequently, beech trees in our area appear to be still in the early, or initial, stages of the outbreak of another major tree disease for Ohio. The completion of this disease triad, beside Beech trees and scale insects, requires the addition of either of two species of Nectria fungi (either Nectria coccinea var. faginata, or Nectria galligena). The arrival of either or both, of these pathogenic Nectria fungi, would complete the requirements for Beech Bark Dise Nectria galligena and these species already exist in our area. So this fungus has probably existed at low levels, in this area for years. (But, to date, this species was involved species, to date, have been associated with the formation of “Target Cankers” and/or “Cat-facing Cankers” on other species of hardwoods). Unfortunately, the large Beech trees in the park are far from safe. The large number of scale insects are already present in our forests are ready far from safe. Fungi, if anything, are opportunistic organisms, and any healthy Beech tree that has received thousands of minute punctures through what would otherwise have been an impervious bark covering, are seriously compromised. And for thousands of saprophytic and/or pathogenic bacteria and/or fungi, these bark injuries were too good an opportunity to miss. Consequently, the bark and underlying wood of many beech trees has already been infected with what may include a host of fungi, bacteria, yeasts, etc. so it is miraculous to these Beech trees (but perhaps not as numerous) as would be expected, had these trees been, in fact damaged by “a Beech Bark Disease”. Nevertheless, when the main front this disease passes through this area we expect a large percentage of the largest Beech trees will be lost. As stated above, we have not yet seen the characteristic, reddish-orange fruiting bodies of either of the two species of Nectria fungi that are associated with Beech Bark Disease within the boundaries of the Geauga Park District. This is not an unexpected finding in regard to this disease. The USDA Forest Service typically reports the incidence of Beech Bark Disease by mapping two separate fronts: The first indicating the presence of the scale insects. The second graph indicating localities where Nectria fungi have been observed. This is reasonable, because insect populations are capable of spreading much more rapidly than fungal spores. From our experience with this Disease in the Geauga Park District, we believe that in many of the Parks Beech woodlands, scale insects are present and quite numerous. And that a few of these woodlands probably do have some level of Nectria fungi. This seems reasonable because scale insects are mobile, while the spores of Nectria fungi are Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 6 of 50 microscopic and have no innate means of motivation. (The spores of Nectria galligena, which are slightly larger than those of most Nectria spp. usually, measure around 17.5-19 x 7-8 microns) Our data indicates that we are still in an earlier stage of the current outbreak. This is certainly understandable, since this disease is obviously very slow-moving! (Beech Bark Disease has been in Ohio since 1985, and in those fourteen years it has only spread into five northeastern Ohio Counties. Even more telling is the fact this disease has required 119 years to reach the northeast corner of Ohio, from the point where it was accidentally released in Nova Scotia, Canada, in 1890). Even so, Beech Bark Disease is currently present across the entire northern tier of Counties in Pennsylvania, and has entered the northeastern corner of Ohio in its slow progression to the southwest. At the present time, we believe we are still in an early stage of development of this disease in Geauga County. Note, we have not yet observed any of the characteristic, orange-brown, pin-head sized fruiting bodies of Nectria fungi in association with any of the numerous scale insect infections we have examined, to date, on beech trees in the Park District. Unfortunately, it will be just a matter of time, because one of the species of pathogenic Nectria fungi associated with this disease is present in Geauga County, where it is was seen in association with a different (non-Beech bark) Forest disease. It might also be instructive to point out that any bark injury is a potential entry-way through which disease organisms may find entry through the protective, non-living, outer bark layers. As already mentioned, these scale insect damaged areas of bark also serve as “infection courts” for any number fungi, bacteria, viruses or other potential plant pathogens. This is already occurring and a number of Beech trees have already developed numerous areas of rotting wood and a number of trees have already collapsed in Geauga County woodlands. The numerous bark injuries created by Beech scale insects tend to be scattered all along the tree trunk and on the major branches. As a result Beech trees with diseased bark and internal decay often tend to come down in pieces during windstorms, often causing the trunk to break, or shatter, well above the ground in a unique manner called “Beech Snap”. Armillaria: Unfortunately, as this Beech Bark Disease becomes more established, and more Beech trees are injured, or killed, these trees are likely to set the stage for the activation and spread of another forest disease. This disease is World-wide in scope, and is without doubt, the most widespread of all wood rotting fungi. This disease is often simply called “Armillaria root rot”. As a group, these fungi tend to degrade almost any type of wood that comes in contact with the soil. These fungi are widespread in North America, and are present in most other non-polar regions of the World, where they act in concert with host of other species of fungi to eliminate fallen trees, and other woody materials. Mostly by recycling them through decomposition and eventually returning the remains to the Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 7 of 50 forest soil. But a number of the species in this group of fungi, also act as forest pathogens and then attack, kill and then decompose even living trees. These fungi are known in the Forest Industries as “Shoestring Fungi”. A name that relates to the numerous dull, black, shoestring-like mycelial strands that characterize these fungi, and by which these fungi are able to spread through the ground, from rotting stumps, or half-buried logs, to infect other sources of dead, dying or in some cases, living, wood. The fungi in the genus Armillaria, represent a common, and very widely distributed group of Fungi that may be found in virtually any wooded area world-wide. They are Basidiomycete fungi and tend to function largely as saprophytes, but under certain conditions many also function as pathogens. Armillaria fungi occur in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres and are present on all of the major land masses (except Antarctica). In general, many of these fungi function as saprophytes, but may become problematic when conditions such as follow timber harvest operations, severe storm damage, insect defoliation or forest fires damage or weaken large numbers of otherwise healthy woody plants. It is then that that these fungi tend to become more numerous and may display their pathogenic capabilities. If the bark is pulled back from an Armillaria-infected tree characteristic rhizomorphs such as those in the below left photo may often be easily seen. The right photo shows characteristic fruiting bodies of Armillaria mellea: (Photo credits: Rhizomorphs--Fabio Stergulc, Università di Udine, Bugwood.org; A. mellea fruiting bodies: Andrej Kunca, National Forest Centre - Slovakia, Bugwood.org) Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 8 of 50 Typical fruiting bodies of Amillaria ostoyae. This species was observed fruiting abundantly during a public foray at Sunnyside Park in October, 2009: (Photo credit: Wikipedia Commons, photographer name not listed, used under Creative Commons license.) Because an increase in dead trees is expected among Beech trees as a result of Beech Bark Disease, it is probable that we will see a corresponding increase in the number of Armillaria fungi as these mushrooms spread through the forest first as saprophytes, by invading and decomposing not only the beech trees killed by this disease, and then, also by attacking many additional trees weakened by the Beech Bark Disease complex. In any forest situation, dead stumps and rotting logs create numerous sites where Armillaria fungi have become established in deadwood, well before these fungi begin to send out numerous rhizomorphs to infect nearby dead, weak (or in many cases injured, but otherwise living trees). At the present time, nine species of Armillaria fungi are known to belong to this disease complex in North America, with seven species known from the Great Lakes Region. During the several years that we have studied various plant groups within the Geauga Park District, we have identified five species of this complex from the forests within the Geauga Park District. The 2009 season had been relatively dry during the summer and early fall, when many of these fungi produce their Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 9 of 50 Basidiocarps, or fruiting bodies (mushrooms). And it is then, when these Basidiomycete fungi may be most readily identified. Consequently, it may be possible that one or two additional species Armillaria fungi may be found in this area, but it is unlikely that more than a total of seven species exist in this part of Ohio. Of the species that we have so far identified within the Geauga Park district, we have recorded the following five species: Armillaria gallica, A. mellea, A. ostoyae, A. sinapina and A. tabescens. Of these, only the first four are generally considered to be part of the Armillaria Forest Disease complex in this part of Great Lakes region. Of these the third species, A. ostoyae, is unique, because this is the only N. American species known to produce enzymes that allow it to attack conifers, as well as hardwood trees (the majority of Armillaria species decay only hardwoods). So the presence of Armillaria ostoyae, means that coniferous trees are also potential targets for this group of fungi. The last species listed, Armillaria tabescens, is considered by several mycologists to be only weakly, if at all, pathogenic, and several researchers believe this species to be strictly saprophytic, and as such, it would not be capable of attacking living trees. In spite of the distinct forest disease capability of most of these fungi, it should be remembered that one of the most important functions of all fungi is in the degradation of complex carbohydrates, including lignin, and other resistant plant compounds. Eventually reducing these chemical structures into humus and other simple compounds that are then recycled into the soil as simple chemical forms and elements that may then be re-used by plants as nutrients for forest regrowth. A unique and unusual feature that characterizes at least some species of Armillaria fungi is that newly exposed pieces of diseased wood (exposed by cutting into an area of active decay) from a stump or logs being decayed by Armillaria fungi) will often glow in the dark, emitting a distinct, pale green, phosphorescent glow (this glow is quite often bright enough to read by). In the Southeastern United States, bioluminescence of this type is often referred to as “Foxfire” by the residents living in those areas. Like many well established parasites, these fungi may utilize a living host tree for extended periods of time By means of the rhizomorphs produced by these fungi, this group of fungi is able to radiate outwards from established infection sites (diseased stump, dead logs, or tree roots, etc.). Probably by following a gradient of some chemical emanating into the soil from potential new food sources, in order to colonize other stumps and/or tree roots, that may be located some distance away. In orchards, these fungi often follow a row of fruit trees, killing one tree in a row after another, like a row of Dominos. By this tree to tree means of spreading, a given species of Armillaria may, over time, spread out through a forest to encompass very large areas. Several of the largest of these colonies have been found in the Aspen woodlands of the Pacific Northwest, where they have been found to encompass thousands of acres (consisting of genetically identical hyphae). Because of this ability, some of these fungi have been called the world’s largest living organisms (by this same phenomenon, they might also be called the oldest of living things). In addition to being important pathogens of forest trees, at least one of these species has also been Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 10 of 50 shown to have the ability to parasitize other mushrooms. It is now believed that the “abortive stage” of a common fall mushroom, Entoloma abortivum results from this mushroom being parasitized by a species of Armillaria. Unfortunately, wide-scale causes of tree mortality, such as the “Beech Bark Disease” may soon begin to kill scattered beech trees within the Geauga Park System, where it is likely to create large numbers of dead, and dying, beech trees. This, unfortunately, will fuel a further spread of these Armillaria root rot fungi as well. An additional group of trees that are presently under attack by Armillaria root rot fungi are American, and Red elm trees. This is fortunate for the Armillaria fungus, because by the time many of these young elm trees are attacked and killed by the Dutch elm disease fungus, the elm trees were likely to have been rapidly growing, healthy young trees. Such young, rapidly growing trees have usually accumulated relatively high carbohydrate reserves in the sapwood and phloem tissues, as well as in the trunk and branches of these trees. Consequently, when these young healthy trees are infected and killed by the Dutch elm disease fungus, the wood of these trees are likely to have relatively high carbohydrate reserves present, stored in the wood. These reserves can then be readily used by the Armillaria fungi as a rich source of reserve food. Consequently, we often find abundant rhizomorphs on, around and radiating from the base of Dutch Elm disease-killed elm trees. The Armillaria fungi are then, because of these rich food reserves, able to spread out even more aggressively, to infect additional trees in the vicinity of these diseased trees. Unfortunately, many White and Green Ash trees are likely to succumb due to a similar onslaught, brought about by the arrival of Ash Decline. This last disease, also known as Ash Yellows, is spreading into Ohio, and this disease, in company with the invasion of our forests by the Emerald Ash Borer (already known to be spreading well into Ohio). In some areas, this increased Ash mortality is suggestive that Ash Decline may have already reached our area. Additionally, because some ash trees were growing in low areas, periods of soil saturation during wet years may have further weakened any White and/or Green Ash trees due to root zone saturation and anoxia. Black Ash, a species much more resistant to soil saturation is, unfortunately rare in our area. But all species of ash are being killed by the Emerald Ash Borer. Consequently it appears that it will be only a matter of time before these weakened ash trees are killed by borers and/or Ash yellows, and will then be very be quickly colonized by one or more of the species of Armillaria fungi already known to be present in this area. Of the five Armillaria species listed above for the northeastern Ohio, it should be remembered that one of the species is Armillaria ostoyae. This species is capable of producing enzymes that will allow this fungus to establish itself on conifers, as well as on hardwoods. Because of the presence of this fungus, conifers, as well as hardwood trees will be subject to attack by same type of root and stump rots that are associated with the hardwood trees in our area. Because of this fungus, periodic checks should also be made Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 11 of 50 for these fungi around the base of conifers in landscape plantings, as well as in pine plantations within the park area. However, it should be noted that trees weakened or injured in some way are far more likely to be attacked by Armillaria Fungi. Healthy, vigorous trees, without obvious injuries are rarely attacked. This ability of A. ostoyae to decay conifers should also be noted, because many of Ohio’s Pine plantations were planted at spacing intervals suggested for timber stands, but were not selectively thinned. As a result the trees in these plantations are now crowded, are overstocked. These trees are now too close together, and in competition for available soil nutrients, light, and water. This inadequacy of resources is now a stressor, leading to poor tree health. And in natural systems, weakness tends to be fatal in regard to pathogenic diseases and fungi. Many conifers are also planted in lawns and in the vicinity of Buildings, where they may be growing in compacted soils, or where they may be injured by “string trimmers”, lawn chemicals and/or lawn mowers. Such trees will often have limited life spans and will eventually be attacked by parasitic, and or saprophytic fungi. We have also found that many of these pine plantations are also being damaged by grape vines. When grape vines grow into the forest plantation they have a tendency to overgrow the forest trees in a roof-like manner. Such a grape vine covered forest often accumulates very heavy snow loads in winter. The tremendous weight of this accumulated snow often causes portions of the forest to collapse under the weight of this snow. The damaged trees in these areas then become sites where Armillaria may become established. Several of these “snow collapse areas” can be observed in conifer stands in the general vicinity of Ansel’s Cave, at The West Woods park. In Ohio, as noted above, conifer plantations were often planted with in-row and betweenrow spacing’s that anticipated periodic thinning cuts (often, at 30 year intervals). Under such a timber harvest schedule, these stands would have been thinned on a regular basis by harvesting a select number of trees at timed intervals, such as every third row at 30 years, then every second row at 60 years, and finally, the third and final row at 60 years. [However whenever any timber cutting is done it is essential that these harvest cuttings be planned only on the advice and guidance of a Licensed Ohio State Forester]. After the third row is harvested, these stands may then be re-planted. Or, after the site had been properly prepared, the land could be converted to some other purpose. An alternative, sometimes used to create more picturesque plantings, or for the creation of wildlife habitat, might be to plant the trees not at spaced intervals, in rows, but rather as scattered clusters, with the individual trees spaced far enough apart so that competition for light, moisture and soil nutrients is not likely to become limiting as the trees grow to maturity. Such plantings also tend to have a somewhat more attractive, natural appearance, especially when planted with mixtures of different conifer species that includes several fruit and/or nut producing shrubs and possibly hardwood trees as well. Unfortunately, many parts of Ohio now have an over abundance White Tailed Deer. Populations of these animals are now so high in many areas that many new tree plantings are doomed to failure. In many cases even when the young trees have been enclosed in Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 12 of 50 tubes designed to “reduce” browse damage. Deer numbers at these levels are unhealthy for the animals themselves. As some State Wildlife Manager’s may recall from several past experiences from other states where deer numbers were allowed to climb to such High levels, overall animal health has declined as has fawn survival, and increased disease and parasite loads. Part Two: Dominant forest trees and shrubs of the Geauga Park District, and major diseases observed or likely: Pinopsida class: The conifers Taxacae family: Yews The Genus Taxus, the Yews: Taxus canadensis, Canada Yew: This understory shrub, sometimes called “Ground Hemlock”, is becoming increasingly rare in Ohio, especially over the last ten to fifteen years. This has been largely due to over-browsing by White-tailed Deer during the winter season. This species is a favored browse plant by White-Tailed Deer, which seem to be little, if at all, affected by this plant’s virulent cardioglycoside toxins. Unfortunately, many other mammals are severely or fatally poisoned by ingesting the taxine alkaloids found in this plant, which are dangerously cardio-toxic on ingestion by most mammalian species. In the past, when this plant was more common than at present, it was sometimes responsible for significant losses of pets and livestock in rural Ohio. This species was not seen in Geauga County during this study, but, until a few years ago, a relatively healthy colony of this species was present along the margin of a sheer sandstone cliff above Phelps Creek in Ashtabula County, Ohio. We examined this site during the current study, and found that nearly all of the Taxus plants at this location now show evidence of having been heavily browsed except for those few plants which have branches extending outwards over the sheer cliff edge - well beyond the reach of the deer standing on the cliff margin. Our over abundant deer herds are also beginning to cause other problems in many parts of Ohio. They have already driven many Spring Wildflowers to near extinction in many parts of Ohio. Recently deer have also been entering suburban locations where they are beginning to feed on ornamental vegetation and vegetable gardens in and near several Ohio Cities. Deer are also destroying many of the herbaceous wildflowers and understory shrubs and other vegetation in many Parks where hunting is not permitted. Deer have even caused several automobile accidents far from any natural environments, in such unexpected locations as on the Main Campus of Kent State University in the City of Kent, Ohio. Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 13 of 50 Two introduced species, the Japanese Yew, Taxus cuspidata, and the English Yew, Taxus baccata, are also frequently planted in Ohio as ornamentals, in landscape plantings, or around commercial buildings and homes in Geauga County. These plants may gain some degree of protection from deer by surveillance of the property by the owners, or possibly by household dogs. However, when these shrubs are planted in domestic areas, it should be noted that the introduced Yew species are also very toxic, and there is some evidence that they may be even more toxic to domestic mammals and children than is our native species. It should be noted, that in areas frequented by Whitetailed deer both of these introduced plants are favored browse plants that are eaten as readily as our native species. Pinaceae family: Firs, hemlocks, tamaracks, pines, cedars and junipers The Genus Abies, The true Firs: Abies balsamea, Balsam Fir: The range of this species, in general, is essentially confined to the Spruce-Fir (or Boreal Forests) of the Upper Great Lakes, and adjacent Canada. With the exception of planted landscape trees, it is therefore unlikely that this species would occur naturally in northeastern Ohio. A mention of this species “as escaped into Mitchells Mill’s bog”, in Chardon Twp., was reported by E. Lucy Braun (in 1961, in The Woody Plants of Ohio). However, we have no recent information regarding the location of this site, or whether these trees are still extant in the vicinity of Chardon, Ohio. Balsam Fir is frequently grown as a Christmas tree in Geauga County, where this species, or its southern variant, Fraser’s fir, Abies fraseri, are both highly prized Christmas trees. The Genus Tsuga, the Hemlocks: Tsuga canadensis, Eastern Hemlock: The range of this species in Ohio is generally associated with the more densely forested eastern and central regions of Ohio, where it tends to be associated with cool, shaded exposures of cliff-forming sandstone. Moisture evaporating from these shaded cliff faces create a cooler, more humid, local “northern microclimate”, where eastern hemlock trees are often found in association with other species of the Hemlock-Hardwood Association, such as yellow birch. These same moist sandstone ravines also frequently contain a number of unique ferns and mosses as well as exceptionally large specimens of tulip tree, sugar maple and red oak (often left uncut due to the difficulty of removing logs from these narrow ravines). In some of these hemlock gorges, plants like native white pines, trailing-arbutus, and other species normally associated with more northern plant associations may also be found as well. Important diseases: Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 14 of 50 Because of the scenic grandeur created by these stands of large hemlock trees, woodland trails often wind through these shaded stands of large trees. Unfortunately, these same trails can cause soil compaction that damage shallowly placed beech and hemlock roots that pass under and/or near the surface of these foot trails. Repeated root injuries of this type often results in the formation of “infection courts”, which can allow pathogenic fungi, such as Armillaria ostoyae root rot fungi, to gain entrance into these trail side trees roots. The Genus Larix, The Tamaracks: Larix laricina, Tamarack, or Eastern Larch: Only one species of this far northern/ high elevation genus of conifers extends into our area, where it is near the southeastern limit of its range. The extreme southeastern limit of the range of Larix laricina in North America extends eastward from Ohio, into a few sites at higher elevations to the east. Only one species of Larix is native to Ohio but several European or Asian species are occasionally planted in our area. In Ohio, Tamarack trees are generally confined to acidic, Ombrotrophic sites like the Sphagnum Bogs found in the vicinity of Lake Kelso, at the Burton Wetlands. Paradoxically, Tamarack trees may also be found in the vicinity of cool, spring-fed, locations known as Calcareous Fens, such as The J. Arthur Herrick Fen, in Portage County. In both of these areas, Tamarack trees do quite well even though the upwelling calcareous waters that characterize a Fen, are quite different from the acidic waters that characterize Sphagnum Bogs. Important diseases: Among the important but infrequent causes of Tamarack or Larch decline in either area, is defoliation of the tamarack trees by the Larch case bearer (a small case-bearing caterpillar). In both of these areas, however, a more common cause is root anoxia, which is associated with a rise in water level. Many bogs and fens are located in areas where beaver dams can easily result in an increase in water level. In this regard it should be noted that the roots of all trees tend develop at a specific zone, or level, within the substrate where they are growing. When ground water levels go down, these functional roots of the tree may dry out. On the other hand, if there is a rise in water level, these same roots (and their associated mycorrhizal fungi) are soon flooded and the trees roots (and the peat in which the trees roots as growing are soon inundated, and if these areas remain anoxic for any length of time, the trees roots will die). Because the mycorrhizal fungi associated with the tamaracks trees roots are also sensitive to anoxia, the health of a stand of Tamarack trees can often be estimated from the number of specimens, and species, of mycorrhizal fungi that can be found growing in association with the roots of these trees. This mycorrhizal association is so closely associated with the health of the trees, that the number of different species of mycorrhizal mushrooms, and the count of mushroom basidiocarps found under these Tamarack trees, may be used Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 15 of 50 as a rough indication of the overall health of the fungi (and by extrapolation, the health of the tamarack trees) in given bog or fen environment. Because the roots of these trees are so sensitive to changes in water level, it is often useful to drive a stake (with an attached “Stream Gauge”) into an area of standing water in the vicinity of the best stand of existing Tamaracks. The purpose of this water gauge is to allow the water level in the vicinity of the trees to be periodically monitored. Water levels fluctuations are especially important when these changes are likely to be altered by beaver activity. In the event that a water level rise due to beaver activity is suspected, steps should be taken to quickly remove any dam(s) or other blockage that that is causing the abnormally high water levels, before the Tamarack’s roots begin to die from lack of oxygen. Pinus genus: The Pines Ohio only has four Native species of Pines (White Pine, Pinus strobus, Virginia pine, P. virginiana, Pitch pine, P. rigida, and the Yellow, or Shortleaf pine, P. echinata). In addition to these species, a number of additional species have also been planted in Ohio, often along roadways, etc. These plantings often include Pinus sylvestris, Scotch pine, P. resinosa, Red pine, and Pinus nigra, Black pine. These trees have often been planted for use as timber as well as Pinus strobus, the White Pine: This is the only five-needle, or “Haploxylon pine” that is native to Ohio (Haploxylon pines are characterized by having a single vascular strand down the center of each needle). All other native pines in Ohio are Diploxylon pines (pines that have two vascular strands down the center of each needle). In Ohio, native Diploxylon pines tend to be more common in the southern and southeastern parts of the state. White pine (either alone, or with one or two central rows of Norway spruce) are sometimes used in open, windy locations in Ohio for the construction of windbreaks, either to block drifting snow and/or for the creation of wildlife habitat. Important diseases: White Pine Blister rust, Cronartium ribicola, this disease was at one time the most important disease of White Pine in the Great Lakes Area, However, it is now rarely seen in our area. This is because all White Pine seedlings now being supplied by nurseries in the United States are selected for genetic resistant to this disease. Additionally, the planting of the shrubs that once served as an alternate host for this fungus disease (i.e., Gooseberries and Currants) were for many years controlled by law (these laws are still in affect in several northern states) where White Pine is (or was)an important timber tree. (This law has since been canceled in many areas because White Pine seedlings available from nurseries are now varieties resistant to this disease. Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 16 of 50 Phaeolus schweinitzii, the “Dye-Maker’s fungus, or “Dyer’s Mazegill” is an important root rot of White Pine. This fungus was noted at only two locations in the Geauga Park District. Specimens of this fungus were seen at the Burton Wetlands, and in the vicinity of two large, old growth White Pines at Eldon Russel Park. Several old 2008, specimens of this fungus were found, but no fresh specimens of this species were observed during 2009. Other commonly planted Ohio pines are Pinus resinosa, (Red Pine). This pine is often called “Norway Pine”, even though it is a native North American species and an important component of the Hemlock-Hardwood and Conifer Forests of the Upper Great Lakes and adjacent Canada. Pinus sylvestris, (Scotch pine) a Eurasian species, is also planted in Ohio where it is often used for Christmas Trees. In our area Pinus nigra, (Black pine) another Eurasian species is also frequently planted. This species is commonly called Austrian, or Black Pine. This species is often planted along secondary highways, where it’s higher resistance to salt spray makes it a better choice than many of the other pine species that grow well in Ohio. It should be noted that in our area, there are two different species commonly called “Black pine”. This second black pine is Pinus thunbergii, from East Asia, and generally originating from Japanese sources. A less commonly planted in Ohio is Pinus banksiana, or Jack Pine, (specimens of this species were observed along side of the parking area at the south end of Headwaters Park). This species of pine is well adapted to dry, sandy soils. The natural range of Jack pine extends across from the sand plains of North-Central Michigan and Central Wisconsin, northwestward, from the upper Great Lakes Region, across Canada, to the Fairbanks, Alaska area, where it often hybridizes with a closely related western species, Lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta) In general, the fungi associated pine trees in the Park area consisted almost exclusively of symbiotic, mycorrhizal fungi, or simple saprophytic species growing on the decaying pine needles beneath the forest canopy. Picea genus: Spruces The Northeastern American members of this northern group of conifers extend from the Upper Great Lakes and adjacent Canada, southward and eastward, and then down the Appalachian Mountains, into the highlands of the Southeast. In addition a number of both native and non-native species in this genus have been planted extensively in the state of Ohio for landscaping purposes. These trees, because of their sharp tipped needles are less commonly used for Christmas trees than some other trees with round tipped needles. Picea abies, Norway spruce, This is a widely distributed forest tree in the montane forests of northwestern Europe that has been planted widely in Ohio. This species grows well in our area, is relatively disease-free, and has the potential for attaining a moderately large size. Because of this, it is frequently planted in the Great Lakes area for landscaping purposes, or in plantations for timber production. In addition, because of the Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 17 of 50 mature size of this tree, it is sometimes used to form the central row(s) or the “core” of planted windbreaks, with two, or more, rows of white pine. Often with smaller fruit and nut trees planted along the margins to provide additional wildlife food and cover. Important diseases: Picea pungens, Colorado blue spruce, this attractive conifer has been widely planted in Ohio as a landscape tree around homes and in parks. Unfortunately, in recent years this species has been shown to be susceptible to Cytospora canker, a needle disease that causes the needles of the tree to first turn yellow, and then brown, before falling off. Recently this disease seems to be more common in Ohio, and is often responsible for defoliating several of the lower branches on the infected trees. This disease is somewhat unusual in that it is primarily a problem for blue spruce trees planted outside of the natural range of the species. Cytospora canker is generally not thought of as being much of a problem in the Rocky Mountain Cordillera, and northward, into Alaska. A more important disease of blue spruce in our area, and primarily in Christmas tree plantings, is Rhizosphaera needle cast. This disease causes infected needles to turn yellowish and then a purplish brown, before falling off, leaving the infected branches bare. Several other species of Picea, native to Eastern North America, include Black Spruce, P. mariana. This species is common species in the acidic bogs of central and northern Michigan, and becomes abundantly common in bogs and muskegs further north. White Spruce, Picea glauca, is a spruce of the colder, Boreal Forest regions of the Upper Great Lakes and adjacent Canada. But this species like Black Spruce, has probably not occurred in Ohio since the post glacial warming period that followed the retreat of the Wisconsin ice sheet, several thousand years ago. Red Spruce, Picea Rubens, is nearly confined to the mountains of the northern Appalachians, and does not extend westward into the Ohio area. Cupressaceae family: Cedars: Juniperus virginiana, Eastern Red Cedar, and Juniperus communis, var. depressa, Common juniper, these rather prickly species have a rather scattered occurrence in the State of Ohio. Under natural conditions, the presence either one or both of these juniper species is generally indicative of calcareous soils. Generally these trees indicate that limestone bedrock is at or near the surface or near, the soil surface, or that limestone fragments are present in the soil. Soil moisture level may, on the other hand, be widely divergent. In southern Michigan, both of these species may be found growing in exceedingly dry, lime rich, sandy knolls called Juniper Savannas. In a similar manner, these same two species can also be found growing on nearly saturated soils, in association with Sphagnum mosses and Potentilla fruticosa, in spring-fed Calcareous Fens. In both of these areas these Junipers show a strong tendency to be found in areas containing relatively high levels of lime. However, both of these junipers may be planted Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 18 of 50 and seem to be able to survive in landscape settings where they seem to be able to grow normally in soils with only moderate calcium content. It has been suggested that a large part of the tendency of White-tailed Deer to browse Junipers leaves and branches (and the following species, Arbor Vitae) is for the relatively high Calcium content in the leaves of these species, as much as for their caloric value. Calcium is required during spring and summer, by lactating females, and by males, in the summer and fall for antler growth. In the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore area (in Northwestern Lower Michigan) The once abundant Juniperus communis var. depressa has now been exterminated over large areas along the Lake Michigan shoreline by over- browsing by the overabundant Whitetailed Deer in these No Hunting zones. Important Diseases: The Genus Juniperus is commercially important not only because these trees are the source of red cedar timber, but also because Junipers serve as the alternate host for several pathogenic, and economically important, Parasitic Fungi, the Gymnosporangium rusts. These rust fungi alternate between Junipers plants (during the spring and early Summer) and several (mostly) rose family genera (during the Summer into the Fall months). The “Cedar-Apple Rust” is an example of one of these important fungal diseases. This disease has two hosts, and alternates between Cedar shrubs (spring and early summer) and then infects Apples, Quince and Pears (during the summer and fall). The presence of this fungus typically results in a major loss (as culls) of saleable fruit. Other economically important diseases in this group infect quinces, while other rust species infect a number of wild, and cultivated species of Hawthorns and flowering crab apple trees, including many of the commercial cultivars that are held in nurseries for sale as landscape plantings. Thuja occidentalis, Northern white-cedar (or Arborvitae) unlike the sharp pointed leaves of many conifers, the leaves of Arborvitae, or Northern White-cedar, are not sharp-pointed, but have rounded tips and the leaves overlap, somewhat like miniature shingles. The common name for this tree, Arborvitae (“tree of life”) relates to the use of this plant by Native American Indians (and by early North American Explorers) as a preventative, to ward off the occurrence of “Scurvy” during winter. Scurvy is a potentially fatal disease (of humans) associated with an inadequate dietary intake of Vitamin C. (Vitamin C is common in green, living plants, but the green food plants that these early explorers were familiar with, could not be grown during the winter, nor were they available on board the ships of that era. The attempt by the British Navy to supply its sailors with Vitamin C, was an acceptable plan, but the plan was a failure because the navy, in an attempt to concentrate the lime juice they would issue to the ships crews, had been boiled to concentrate it. Unfortunately, this process would only concentrate the citric acid content of the lime juice. Vitamin C is destroyed by heating, so any attempt to concentrate lime Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 19 of 50 juice by boiling would result instead in the loss of the vitamin C originally present in the juice. Consequently, the lime juice served to the British seamen, often called “Limy’s” (due to their habit of drinking this “concentrated” lime juice) were in fact receiving no vitamin C at all, and continued to be sickened by scurvy. Early European explorers in the new World soon discovered that American Indians were not sickened by scurvy. And soon found that the Indians had been eating small amounts of evergreen plants during winter. One of the few available green plants (that did not have sharp points on their leaves) was Arbor vitae, this plant was indeed a “tree of life” for many early explorers that ventured into these frozen northern forests of Canada and the Northern United States. Unfortunately, Ohio’s natural stands of Arborvitae, as well as both Juniper species, and the Ground Hemlock, or Yew (Taxus canadensis) are being severely damaged, or eliminated all together, by the browsing activities of the current overabundance of whitetailed deer. This problem is compounded over much of the former range of these plants because Deer also recognize that these plants as a rich source of Calcium. (male deer require additional Calcium for antler growth in spring and summer, and pregnant females require extra Calcium during late winter and early Spring, and then, and then for lactation from late spring through early fall). This problem is now being compounded over much of the former range of these plants because White-tailed Deer are now more abundant than the vegetation of these areas can support, and these animals have learned to recognize these plants as a rich Calcium sources and tend to eat inordinate amounts of these plants. Consequently, these plants are often heavily browsed, often to extinction, when White-tailed Deer numbers become excessive. Many northern cottage owners, on returning to their properties after the winter’s snows have melted, often discover to their dismay that many of their evergreen landscaping shrubs have disappeared with the snow. Magnoliopsida class: The broad-leaved flowering plants The class Magnoliopsida includes all broad leaved flowering plants, including all forest trees that produce flowers instead of cones, and are characterized by the presence of broad leaves, instead of the needle leaves characteristic of Conifers. Salicaceae family: Willows and poplars Some of the largest trees in the Great Lakes region are willows, where specimens of Salix alba and Salix nigra have both been recorded with trunk exceeding nine feet in diameter. Both of these trees are National Champions for their respective species. This family includes two essentially shade intolerant genera: Salix, The willows, and Populus, the Cottonwoods. The genus Salix contains both tree and shrub forming species, including many species which have a tendency to grow in, or near water. The genus Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 20 of 50 Populus is also shade intolerant, and contains trees that range from moderate to large in size at maturity. The genus Salix, in addition to large trees also contains a large number of smaller shrubforming species that often prove notoriously difficult to identify. Identification of willows to species often requires material of both pistillate and staminate florets which, in some species occur on separate plants. Important diseases: Relatively few diseases of willow are of major concern, other than Basidiomycete root and stem root rots which tend to be associated with injuries. The genus Populus, contains both native and introduced species, as well as a number of Nursery-bred hybrids. This group of trees tends to be very intolerant of shade, and several species (both native and introduced) appear to be susceptible to a number of leaf stem and root diseases. Four species are native in Geauga County, including Populus deltoides (Cottonwood), P. balsamifera (Balsam Poplar), P. grandidentata (Bigtooth Aspen), and P. tremuloides (Quacking Aspen). An introduced species, Populus alba, the European White Poplar has, has also been planted in several Geauga County locations, seems somewhat more disease resistant than most other introduced Poplars. It is also unique in that only female trees were introduced into this country (this tree cannot spread by seed, but only by root cuttings or suckers, to form new clones). The leaves of this tree are shiny and dark green above, while the undersides of the leaves are white. Strong winds often turn the leaves of this tree upwards by the wind, causing these trees to suddenly turn chalky-white when the undersides of its leaves are suddenly exposed. Several introduced Populus species and several Populus hybrids, have been introduced into northeast Ohio. Several of these species and hybrids are also sensitive to several of the same leaf and stem diseases that are found on our native species. This list includes several “Hybrid Poplars” and also includes such species as the disease prone Populus nigra var. italica or “Lombardy Poplar”, (This tree tends to have an exceptionally short life span in our area due to a severe bark disease of this species, the Dothichiza Canker. On the other hand, another introduced species, Populus alba, or the European White There are a number of other important leaf, stem and root diseases that attack Poplars in Ohio, including Venturia populina, Mycosphaerella populorum, Cryptodiaporthe (Dothichiza) canker, Cytospora chrysosperma, Leucocytospora nivea, Cryptosphaeria populina, Hypoxylon mammatum, and Ceratocystis fimbriata. In addition several Basidiomycete fungi may enter the roots, stump or branches where injuries have created infection courts for entry of these fungi into the trees trunk such as the relatively common Dryads saddle, Polyporus squamosus. Juglandaceae family: Walnuts, butternuts and hickories: Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 21 of 50 The Genus Juglans: The Walnuts and Butternuts: This genus contains two treeforming genera that are native to our area, Black Walnut, Juglans nigra, and Butternut, Juglans cinerea. Of these, the Butternut is in severe decline, and is now rarely seen in Ohio. This decline is due to an exotic canker disease, with an almost unbelievable name (Sirococcus clavigigentijuglandacearum) that was apparently introduced into this Country from Asia, in shipments of whole logs. Infected trees develop black, bleeding cankers and eventually die. Trees infected and weakened by this disease may then be secondarily attacked by Armillaria root rot fungi, further speeding their demise. Black Walnut, in contrast, continues to be a valuable timber (and nut producing) tree that can still be found in a number of locations in Ohio. Walnut is especially well adapted to stream valleys and river bottoms (especially rich second bottomlands). Additionally, in addition to walnut trees are being planted for timber, in some areas they are also being used as a source of salable nuts. The fungus, Nectria galligena is often responsible for forming “Target cankers” on the trunks of black walnut trees and a host other trees as well, and when numerous, can severely affect the value and utility of saw logs, for commercial purposes. The Genus Carya: the Hickories: This genus contains two subgenera with six species in Ohio: There are two subgenera Carya, the true hickories, and Apocarya, the pecans. Hickories, in general, are trees that are characterized by their exceptionally hard, heavy, close-grained, and exceptionally strong wood (Roald Amundson, the first man to reach the South Pole, used skis made from Shagbark Hickory, that had been grown in the United States). The nuts produced by these trees are all edible by wildlife, but only shagbark hickory nuts are gathered for human use in northern Ohio. Several Nursery selections of pecans are sometimes planted in northern Ohio, but the nuts produced by these trees are generally not nearly as large, or equal in quality, to those grown in the southeastern States. The pecan hickory, Carya illinoensis, does occur in southern Ohio, but naturally occurring trees of this species have been recorded from only Butler County. Subgenus Carya: In our area this Subgenus includes C. glabra, Pignut Hickory, C. laciniosa, Shellbark or Kingnut Hickory, C. ovalis, Pignut Hickory, C. ovata, Shagbark Hickory and C. tomentosa, Mockernut Hickory. All of the hickories in this section are characterized by the presence of shaggy bark, with the exception of the Mockernut Hickory (sometimes referred to as “White”Hickory) in which the bark is much more closely attached to the trunk, and somewhat resembling the bark of Bitternut hickory. Subgenus Apocarya: The Pecans, and Bitternut Hickories. Of these two species, only the Bitternut hickory, Carya cordiformis is common and widespread throughout most of Ohio. In our area, it is a frequent component of our mesic woodlands and is also fairly Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 22 of 50 common in some low-lying bottomland, in the rich soil along some of our stream valleys. This species can easily be recognized by its bark, which is closely applied to the trunk. In addition, the buds of this species are naked( not covered by overlapping bud scales) and yellow-green in color. As implied by its name, the nuts of this species have a bitter taste. Hickories are host to a number of wood rots and other disease organisms, most of which enter the tree by way of injuries to the bark of twigs, branches and/or on the trunk of the tree (i.e., through infection courts). One of the more common of these are “Target Cankers” so called because these lesions appear as a series of concentric scars on the trunks of several different tree Genera. In Hickory trees these target cankers are often caused by trunk infections of a fungus that can occasionally be seen on the forest floor as a saprophyte. This fungus has a goblet-shaped fruiting body which is the perfect, or sexual stage of this parasite, which is an Ascomycete, it produces a dark, fleshy cup, or goblet-shaped mushroom, which usually arises from a piece of a partially buried dead branch, in the early spring. This fungus is named Urnula craterium. Betulaceae family: Alders, hazel nuts, blue-beech, ironwood & birch: The genus Alnus: The Alders. Three species of Alder have been observed growing in wet areas within the Geauga Park system. Alnus rugosa and A. serrulata were occasionally seen at wet sites within the Park area. A third species, Alnus glutinosa (an introduced European species) has been planted at a few locations in the area (i.e., around the small lake at Swine Creek). These shrubs (or small trees of A. glutinosa) are able to tolerate extended periods of soil saturation, or even year round periods of root inundation and are well adapted for growth in wet areas along streams lake margins and shallow pools. The genus Betula: The Birches. The most common, native, tree-forming species of Birch found in the Geauga County area is Betula allegheniensis, the Yellow Birch. The twigs of this species have a pleasant wintergreen scent when damaged and are quite common in some parts of the Park system, especially in the vicinity of outcropping sandstone bedrock. The only other Birch tree that is fairly common in this area is Betula nigra, this tree, the River Birch, is frequently planted in Geauga County because of its attractive, pale tan-colored bark, but it is relatively uncommon within the Park itself. Betula papyrifera, the Canoe Birch, is often reported as a native species for Lucas County, Ohio. But these reports appear to be based on a single tree that was almost certainly planted (see Allison Cusick: “Is Betula papyrifera Marsh, indigenous to Ohio”). Betula pendula, the European White Birch, is somewhat similar to our native White Birch, and is frequently planted as a landscape tree in Ohio. Consequently this species is also slowly spreading into Ohio’s woodlands. This species is often mistaken for our native White Birch. A third Birch tree with relatively white bark is the native Gray Birch, Betula populifolia. The native range of this species is east of Ohio, this species also has relatively white bark, and is superficially similar to Paper Birch, but this species, in our area, tends to be associated with Sphagnum bogs, where it often grows alongside Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 23 of 50 Tamarack trees. Other species of Betula found in Ohio are shrubs, or hybrids, that are occasionally found in association with acidic bogs or calcareous fens. These small, shrubforming species were not observed in the Geauga County area during the current study, but may be present in the shrub zone around acidic bogs that support the growth of Sphagnum mosses. Important diseases: While diseases among birch trees were not observed to be a significant problem in this study, some trees with “target cankers” were observed. These formations are caused the tree’s annual attempts to produce healing growth over open wounds caused by Nectria fungi. They occur in a number of tree species in the area. While Nectria fungi have long been present, they did not in the past represent a significant threat to forest health in Geagua County. However, as discussed elsewhere in this report, this fungus will almost surely become a substantial threat to beech trees in the near future. “Target canker” on yellow birch: (Photo credit: Robert L. Anderson, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org) The Genus Corylus: Hazelnuts. Only two members of this genus occur in Ohio. Of these the Common Hazel, or Hazelnut (Corylus americana ) is occasionally found in our area . The second species, Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 24 of 50 the Beaked Hazel, Corylus cornuta, was not seen, and would be considered rare in northeastern Ohio. Any specimens in this area would most likely be planted specimens. The small nuts of both of our native Hazelnut species are quite attractive to many birds and mammals, including Humans. For this reason, Hazelnut thickets have a tendency to spread slowly due to heavy feeding pressure twigs and branches and on the annual nut crop by White-tailed Deer, squirrels, rabbits and other small mammals. This genus is represented in northern Ohio, by the Common Hazelnut, but shrubs of this species were not observed within any of the Geauga Park District sites examined during the course of this study. Fagaceae family: Beech, oaks, and American chestnut: The Genus Fagus: The American beech tree: Important diseases: The American beech tree, one of our most easily recognized trees, is, in our area, and over parts of northeastern North America, is currently undergoing a synergistic attack by an introduced Scale insect (Cryptococcus fagisuga =C. fagi) and by one, or in some areas, two, pathogenic Ascomycete fungi (a native Ascomycete fungus, Nectria galligena, and/or by a related, European species, Nectria coccinea var. faginata. The arrival of this insect has made it possible for a new tree-killing disease complex to spread into our North American forests. Nectria galligena is a native fungus species that does occur in our in our forests, but generally as an inconspicuous and relatively infrequent fungus, but this fungus promises to soon become a part of a major new Beech Disease in our forests due to the arrival of an introduced Beech scale insect (Cryptococcus fagisuga). The exterior surfaces of all trees are protected by an impervious epidermal layer of epidermal tissues (bark) which acting as a shield, prevent potentially pathogenic organisms from penetrating into the living tissues beneath. In a woody plant, these epidermal tissues (bark) typically consist of a dead, often suberized (cork-like) surface layers, that tends to be quite impervious to entry by moisture, pathogenic fungi and/or bacteria. Unfortunately, in the case of this new disease complex, large numbers of these new, introduced scale insects produce a number of holes in this bark barrier (to feed on the sap) and in so doing, create numerous holes through these (in Plant Pathology these openings are referred to as “infection courts”) through which pathogenic fungi Nectria galligena and/or Nectria coccinea var. faginata can then pass thru the trees protective outer bark, to initiate active an infections in the living inner bark, and into the underlying newly formed wood beneath. One of the characteristics of beech bark disease is that the location of these fungal infection sites are determined by the location of the feeding punctures that are made by these introduced scale insects. Consequently, these fungal infections are associated with Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 25 of 50 this disease are often scattered, often occurring at locations almost anywhere along the main trunk, and/or along some of the trees larger limbs. In this regard beech bark disease differs from many other forest tree diseases, which tend to be more common near the base of the tree. (Especially those associated with Armillaria fungi.) Consequently, trees affected by beech bark disease are typically weakened at a number of locations by these areas of rotting wood. Unfortunately, these locations of weakened wood are often present at several points along the tree trunk and/or along the trees larger branches. Because of this patchwork of weakened rotting wood, Beech trees often behave quite differently than normal trees during windstorms. Because the diseased Beech trees contain a number of weak areas, these trees may suddenly break or begin to shatter, at several different locations well above ground level. Often the weakened limbs of these may shatter, with large limbs falling piece-meal over a wide area. This characteristic (called “Beech Snap”) is likely to make hiking along forest paths in a Beech forest extremely hazardous during windy weather. Beech Bark diseased trees can be especially dangerous because these forest grown specimens are often among the largest trees in the forest. The uncertain behavior in the way diseased beech trees break up needs to be taken into account by anyone planning to hike through mature forests containing large beech trees whenever appreciable winds are blowing, or when stormy weather has been forecast for the time period one is likely to be in the forest. Distribution map showing spread of beech bark disease. The scale insect (dark red zones) leads, and remains in the pink areas, in which Nectria species follow with largescale infection: (Source: USDA Forest Service, 2005) Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 26 of 50 Beech scale insects appear as white fuzzy spots on the tree bark: Nectria fungus fruiting bodies later appear on infected trees: (Photo credits: Above—Samuel Mazzer, 2009; below--Andrej Kunca, National Forest Centre - Slovakia, Bugwood.org) Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 27 of 50 Cankers often appear on infected trees (below left). Many infected trees break off wellabove ground level—a phenomenon known as “beech snap”: Photo credits: Above left—USDA Forest Service - North Central Research Station Archive, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org; above right and bottom—Joseph O'Brien, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org). Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 28 of 50 The Genus Castanea: American Chestnut Important diseases: The American Chestnut, Castanea dentata, this tree was once a dominant hardwood in the Hardwood Forest Zone of eastern North America. Unfortunately a virulent fungal disease, the Chestnut Blight, Crypohnectria parasitica (previously known as: Endothia parasitica) was apparently introduced into the New York City area around 1904, probably on imported Chestnut wood originating in China or Japan, where this disease is endemic, and where it still exists (but the species of chestnut trees native to those areas appear to be quite resistant to the disease). In Eastern North America, infected chestnut trees soon develop small orange-colored pustules with sticky orange spores that were spread on the feet of perching birds as well as insects. Consequently this disease was rapidly spread throughout the range of the American chestnut throughout in eastern North America, with a near 100% loss of this exceedingly valuable tree. Until around 15 to 20 years ago, a few trees could still be found that had died back to ground level, but were still able to send up a few suckers from the root crown. Unfortunately, these sprouts were also quickly diseased before they lived long enough to produce nuts and were able to reproduce. Since American chestnuts are now nearly extinct, the only photographs of infected chestnuts found during this research were taken in the late 1950’s: (Photo credits: Photographers unknown; images from personal collection of Samuel Mazzer.) Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 29 of 50 Today, small seedlings of this species can still be found in the understory of some hardwood forests, but, with few exceptions, these small seedlings are too small and heavily shaded to make much in the way of annual growth. Because of this it will be quite a few years before most of them will have a chance to produce nuts. However, I have managed to a tree (about 8”dbh) in a mixed hardwood forest at West Branch State Park that I am monitoring. This tree did produce a few nuts in 2008, but whether they were fertile or not could not be determined because squirrels or other rodents opened chestnut bur before I returned to the tree that autumn. Even so, there was a nut-shaped cavity in one of the discarded husks under the tree suggesting that at least one of these fallen husks may have contained a nut. Small Chestnut trees ranging from three, to about seven feet tall, are not uncommon in several upland forests in the northeastern Ohio area, but whether these trees will escape disease (because of their low numbers and isolation) remains to be seen. Because of the scarcity of trees of trees belonging to this genus in Ohio, spontaneous interspecific hybrids are unlikely to be found in the State. However a number of selected chestnut hybrids have been planted in Ohio, that were bred specifically for resistance to chestnut blight (a number of these hybrids have been planted on strip-mined lands, with favorable reports from some areas). A second species of Castanea, C. pumila, (“Chinquapin”) is occasionally seen in Ohio, but this species has been recorded only from sites along, or close to, the Ohio River. However, because this species is much more common in the states that border the south side of the Ohio River, it has been theorized that the few isolated localities for this species on the Ohio side of the river are probably from chinkapin seeds that were deposited on the Ohio side of the river, by Ohio River floodwaters. The genus Quercus: The Oaks This genus has been much more successful in avoiding severe losses due to introduced diseases than have a number of other tree genera in Ohio. There are twenty one species of Oak Trees currently recognized in the State of Ohio and fifteen interspecific Oak hybrids in the State. At the present time the following oak trees may be found in Northeastern Ohio: White oak, Scarlet oak, Bur oak, Pin Oak, Northern red oak, Black oak, and possibly Chestnut oak (in a few locations). With this many species of Oak trees in the State of Ohio, it would not be surprising for a fairly high number of interspecific hybrid Oak trees to also occur in the state. The fact is, is that, in general one typically has to devote a considerable amount of time searching to find a hybrid Oak tree in Northeastern Ohio. This seems even more remarkable when one realizes that the Oaks are wind pollinated trees and our oak forests typically contain a number of distinctly different species of oak trees. Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 30 of 50 In our area, Oak trees are characterized by two distinctly different mating types, or subgenera: The subgenus Lepidobalanus, the White oaks, and the subgenus Erythrobalanus, the Red oaks. Within these two groups, there appear to be few genetic barriers preventing a genetic cross between any two white oak trees. Because of this, two different species of the Lepidobalanus group should be able to cross to produce a hybrid White Oak tree. In a similar manner, any two Red Oak trees that belong to the subgenus Erythrobalanus should also be able to cross. And any such cross would create a hybrid Red Oak tree. However, even though such hybrids should be theoretically possible, finding examples of such hybrid oak trees often requires a considerable amount of time searching. Of the oak trees occurring within our area study only one hybrid, Quercus x leana, was observed (this species, known as “Lea’s Oak”) is a natural hybrid between the shingle oak, and the black oak. Interestingly, during this study, this specific hybrid was, in fact seen several times (An excellent specimen of one of these trees can be found on the West side of the KSU Golf Course, next to Powdermill Road, in Kent, Ohio). But we did not see examples of any other hybrid oaks, during this study. The Family Ulmacae: Elms and hackberries. The genus Ulmus: The Elms: Of the three Elms native to northern Ohio, only two species are likely to be seen in Geauga County, Ulmus americana, the American elm and Ulmus rubra, the Red, or Slippery elm. A third native elm species, Ulmus thomasi, Rock elm, is rare in Ohio, and is now rarely seen. Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 31 of 50 Important diseases: Native elms in the United States have, like our native Chestnuts, been devastated by introduced tree diseases—first by the elm phloem necrosis virus, and more recently, by an even more devastating fungal infection, Dutch elm disease. A photo from the 1970s illustrates the long-gone site of numerous and healthy mature American elms. The species was an ideal urban street tree, and was also an abundant native forest species: (Photo credit: Joseph O'Brien, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org) Several additional, non-native and rather “weedy”species of elm have often been planted as windbreaks, or as street trees. Unfortunately, a small-leaved tree, the Siberian elm, Ulmus pumila, is sometimes sold by Nurseries (as a substitute for the much more desirable “Chinese elm”, Ulmus parvifolia ). The Siberian elm is an undesirable tree. It is very fast growing, and is often planted as a “landscape tree”. Unfortunately, Siberian elm, is subject to limb breakage in storms, and when injured often develops bacteria and fungal infections that eventually become wet, weeping areas, that are frequented by numerous Bacteria, yeasts and other fungi. These weeping, slimy areas are referred to as a “slime flux” and the presence of these weeping, insect infested areas make the affected trees unsightly. Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 32 of 50 Slime flux growing on U. pumila: (Photo credit: Samuel Mazzer, 2009) Unfortunately, poor quarantine capabilities allowed a much more devastating disease into North America. This is the insect-vectored, and fatal fungus disease of elm trees, “Dutch elm disease” that was accidently introduced into North America, and has now spread rapidly across the native range of elm in the United States. Unfortunately, like so many tree diseases and forest insects this disease was not effectively quarantined (“too little and too late”). Since it arrival in North America, this disease has led to a severe depletion of elm trees in North America. This disease is vectored by two species of elm bark beetles (the native elm bark beetle, and the introduced, European elm bark beetle). From the examination of the egg galleries, and the larval tunnels made by these insects (both of which may be easily observed between the innermost bark layer, and the outer surface of the wooden trunk of dead elm trees) the excavated tunnels created by these beetles and their larvae can be easily examined (the difference is between the central egg laying gallery of the American elm bark beetle tends to be oriented with the wood grain (i.e. vertically), while the European elm bark beetle’s egg-laying gallery tend to be oriented horizontally (typically across the grain of the wood). The larval tunnels of both species then radiate outwards from these central egg-laying galleries. Since both types of egg galleries are common in this area, it is clear that both species of bark beetles were, and continue to be, active in vectoring the Dutch elm disease in Geauga County. Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 33 of 50 Egg gallery of native elm bark beetle, on twig: (Photo credit: William M. Brown Jr., Bugwood.org) Because American elm trees tend to flower and set seed on relatively young trees, Sapling stands of these young elm trees are often able to set seed several years before the trees become large enough to interest the adult bark beetles that vector this disease. This is because the vectors of this disease prefer to feed on larger trees. This behavior tends to allow seedling/sapling stands of young elm stands to continue to grow and to produce viable seed for some time before becoming infected by this disease. Consequently, it is likely that we will continue to see thickets of young, seedling/sapling stands of diseasefree elm trees for some time to come. The genus Celtis: the Hackberries: The Hackberries differ markedly from the elms in Ohio by producing fleshy fruits, which are quite unlike the dry, wind-borne samaras, which are characteristic of our native elms. Only two species of Hackberry trees are recorded for the State of Ohio. But because both of these species prefer somewhat calcareous soils, neither species would be expected in Geauga County. The Common Hackberry, Celtis occidentalis, is more widely distributed through Ohio, except for the relatively lime-poor regions in the northeastern corner of the state (an area that includes most of Geauga County). The Dwarf Hackberry, Celtis tenuifolia, is found in only a few locations in Ohio and native populations are limited to a few small areas in Highland and Adams Counties in southwestern Ohio. No collections of this species are known from northeastern Ohio. Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 34 of 50 The family Moraceae: Mulberries and Osage Orange In our area, there are two species, the Red Mulberry, Morus rubra , and the “White” Mulberry, Morus alba (note: some variants of this species have red fruits as well). Both of these trees are largely spread by the birds that are attracted to the abundant, sweet juicy fruits (multiple drupes) of these trees. Although the wood of these trees is rather soft and weak, it tends to be quite rot resistant, and is often used for fence posts. The fruits of these trees tend to be rather bland to an adults taste, but children seem to enjoy them nearly as much as the birds do. The Paper Mulberry, Broussonetia papyrifera, is not winter hardy in northern Ohio, it has been planted, and reported occasionally, but this species is unlikely to survive except in the southern-most part of the state and even there it would probably “winter-kill” to the ground line during any typical Northern Ohio Winter. The Osage-orange, Maclura pomifera , is a species that occurs rather infrequently in Northeastern Ohio, where its presence is probably due to having been planted by man. The tree is unique, in that it probably is the strongest, heaviest, and most rot resistant wood native to North America. It has a “shear-strength” (a measure of wood strength) that is approximately 2.5 times that of well seasoned white oak. It is also interesting to note that the wood of Osage-orange is so heavy that it readily sinks when placed in water. Historically, this was the wood used by the Osage Indians for the construction of their very powerful bows. It was also used by them as a source of a yellow dye. The unusual grapefruit-sized fruits of this tree present a rather puzzling question, because none of our native mammals seem to have much, if any interest, in eating them. Consequently, one wonders about the evolutionary development of a seed dispersal mechanism for this tree. Some evolutionary botanists have theorized that a long-dead member of North America’s Prehistoric megafauna (i.e., the Giant Ground Sloth) may have been the seed vector for this tree, by eating and dispersed the seed of this tree. This is because large fleshy fruits tend to be adapted to only one, a few species of Mammals. Certainly, in several in several experiments where these large fruits were presented to several large North American mammals (Moose, Elk, Bear) that existed in the native range of this tree none of these experimental animals showed an interested in eating the large fruits produced by this species. If, in fact, this plant was dispersed by a now extinct member of Ohio’s megafauna, such as a Mastodon, or Mammoth, this tree may be, in a way thought of as being a living fossil as well. Pioneers occasionally utilized the spiny nature of this tree for the creation of virtually impenetrable living fences for confining livestock. But today’s landowners seem to have little interest in creating Osage-orange fences on modern farms. A number of years ago I found an overgrown remnant of one of these fences in southwestern Michigan. The fence had once been along a farm boundary and had been created by planting a row of Osageorange seedlings about three or four feet apart. The young saplings had then been cut off Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 35 of 50 about knee high, causing the young saplings to send out a number of side shoots. These shoots grew out in all directions, but only those shoots oriented in the direction of the fence were allowed to remain, while the remaining stems had been trimmed off. This operation probably took several seasons to complete but did, in fact, create a nearly impenetrable barrier. Such a fence probably functioned much like a barbed wire (too dense and painful to go through, and too tall for any attempt to climb over). This tree was also grown in small groves for the production of fence posts, in a manner similar to the small wood lots of Black locust that were also grown for much the same purpose. However, Osage Orange is even stronger and more rot resistant than the Black Locust. Magnoliaceae family: Magnolias and tuliptree. The Tuliptree and the Magnolias are among the most ancient of the forest trees found in North America. These trees like the Azaleas and Rhododendrons these trees are of ancient lineage, and also occur in the Himalayan Mountains of India and through parts of Southeast Asia. The Tuliptree is the both the tallest, and most massive of the hardwood trees of North America, sometimes growing to heights in excess of 200 feet and attaining trunk diameters of 8 -10 ft or more ( there is a sawn-off stump at Thomas Jefferson’s home (Monticello) that exceeds even this large diameter. Interestingly, Tuliptrees for some, (as yet unexplained reason, other than the fact that these trees are often the tallest objects in the forest) seem to have a propensity for being struck by lightning. (In this regard, it is interesting that all of the very large Tuliptrees on the grounds of Monticello (as a safety feature) have been fitted with lightning rods!). Because of this tendency, should one find themselves in a forest during a thunderstorm, it would be wise to seek shelter under a smaller tree of some other species. Magnolia genus: The Magnolias Of the Magnolias, only one species of Magnolia grows large enough to be considered a tree, in Northeastern Ohio. This species, Magnolia acuminata, is commonly called The Cucumber Magnolia or “Cucumber tree” (from a fancied resemblance of the green seed pod of this tree to a cucumber). Like the Tuliptree, the Cucumber Magnolia is also an ancient tree, and perhaps for this reason, it tends to have few natural enemies or diseases. Other Magnolias are found in other parts of the Southeastern United States, but tend to be considerably smaller than this species. Liriodendron genus: The Tuliptree Liriodendron tulipifera, is monotypic, and has an interesting disjunct distribution, being found only in Southeastern North America, and in Southeastern Asia. Like the related tree, the Cucumber Magnolia, this tree has relatively few natural enemies. Although Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 36 of 50 Nectria fungi sometimes grow in some bark injuries on these trees, these Nectria infections tend to be self limiting, and are generally too few in number to constitute a disease problem. Lauraceae family: Sassafras and spicebush Ordinarily, Sassafras trees tend to occur in groups. These groups are probably of clonal origin, and are often present along some roadside locations within the Park. Because many of these trees were relatively young, the majority of these trees appear to be quite healthy. However, in some areas, older trees in some more mature forest areas have a few trees that show the characteristic “Target Cankers” that are generally caused by bark injuries that have become infected by Nectria galligena fungi. The concentric rings are formed each spring as the tree attempts to grow over and compartmentalize these bark injuries. Unfortunately, in the case of these target cankers, the fungus infections are not eliminated, and these bark overgrowths are repeated annually, eventually creating these target-like bark rings. A Ganoderma lucidum root rot was seen at the root collar of one injured sassafras tree, but this disease is generally associated with older, usually injured tree. Lindera benzoin, or Spicebush shrubs are among the first woody plants to bloom each spring, and their yellow blossoms soon outline the wetlands, seeps, and other areas of damp soil in low areas. No noteworthy Plant diseases were observed in association with this plant. The Hamamelidaceae family: Witch-hazel In our area, this medium sized to large shrub is in a way the inverse of the Spice bush, because as the Spicebush is found in low, wet areas, and is among the first to bloom in the spring. Witch-hazel on the other hand is often found in the understory of dry, upland oak forests, and is the last shrub to bloom in autumn, sometimes even retaining a few flowers until the first snows of winter. Although this shrub once provided a liniment (when mixed with whiskey or rubbing alcohol) for sore muscles, this liniment is now used much less frequently. Other than for a few cone-shaped galls on its leaves, this shrub seems little affected by insects or disease. The Platanaceae family: the sycamore or plane-tree In North America, during the pioneer era, trees of the sycamore species easily had the largest diameters of all North American hardwood trees. Probably the largest of these trees had a trunk with a d.b.h. measurement of 42 feet, 7inches. This tree was in Daviess County, Indiana. The largest Sycamore recorded for Pickaway County, Ohio, had a d.b.h. measurement of 32 feet, 10 inches, which is the Ohio record. These trees follow Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 37 of 50 along the river bottoms throughout most of the state, but occasionally, in the nonglaciated areas, Sycamore trees are sometimes seen ascending the side of a valley. These sites identify locations where seeps from water-bearing sedimentary rock are located above layers of clay-rich, impervious shale, or coal seams. Where these seepage areas occur, the slopes below are kept moist by these areas of surfacing groundwater. Allowing water-loving plants like the Sycamore to ascend the sides of slopes that would otherwise be too dry for this species. Important diseases: In general, Sycamore anthracnose is the most common defoliating disease of Sycamore during Spring Season, especially during especially when cool and damp weather occurs for extended periods. The conidia of this leaf blight disease (Apiognomonia veneta), is spread during wet cool springs, and at times, can cause nearly defoliation of Sycamore trees growing in lowland sites along streams and river bottoms. The Rosacae family: Crabapples, serviceberries, hawthorns, cherries, and plums. Taxonomically, the members of this family can sometimes be exceedingly difficult to determine. This is because many of these “taxa” are not true species at all, but is instead, self propagating “hybrids” that produce seed by an interesting apomictic means by a process referred to as nucellar embryony (a type of natural, asexual cloning). Apomictic plants are essentially hybrids, but because of their unique genetic condition, they are able to produce seed (asexually) that are carbon-copies of the parent plant. Consequently even though these Apomictic plants arise by cross pollination, producing what would normally be a “sterile hybrid”, these hybrids are able to perpetuate themselves by an interesting process called “nucellar embryony” in which a part of the parent plant, the nucellus, grows into what would have otherwise been an abortive, sterile seed. Such plants produce normal looking flowers and “seeds”. But the “seed” produced by these plants grow into plants that are not only genetically identical to each other, but are also genetically identical to their (single) parents DNA (i.e., they are genetically identical clones). This Family contains trees, shrubs, brambles and herbaceous species. Many of which have spiny or thorny surfaces, as a means of reducing herbivory. This is a large family, with of both native and introduced species, including high numbers of apomicts in certain genera. Interestingly, this group of plants includes a number of taxonomically difficult apomictic “species,” especially among the wild crab apples, serviceberries and the many “blackberries.” The Leguminosae family: Honey-locust, black locust, and redbud Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 38 of 50 The members of this family are characterized by their bean-like flowers and typical “bean-pod” shaped seed capsules. Some of the temperate species like the Honey Locust produce large branched thorns along the trunk and on the larger branches that would effectively prevent larger animals from ascending the trunk. The other common tree in our area is the Black locust, Robinia pseudoaccaia. Earlier in our history, this tree was often planted in small groves on family farms for a ready supply of fence posts, because the wood of this species is very rot-resistant. This species also has an interesting adaption against herbivory, in that the young stems have a pair of sharp spines at base of each leaf. Later, as the shrubs grow larger, these spines tend to be smaller in relation to how high these twigs are above the ground. This appears to be an obvious adaptation against herbivory, as deer and other herbivores would not be able to reach the higher branches. Important diseases: The wood of this species is quite rot resistant and quite strong, (but not as strong, or rot resistant, as Osage-orange). Relatively few insects or diseases trouble this plant in its early years, but mature trees are affected by the Black Locust Borer, whose larvae tunnel into the wood, creating infection courts, which then allow entry into the heartwood of these trees by two important wood rot fungi that attack this tree, Phellinus rimosus, (which has a upper surface that is cracked and nearly black in color, with a warm-leather brown poroid surface below, the second fungus is Perenniporia robiniphila, which has a pale, creamy-buff color overall. Both of these heart rot fungi severely weaken these trees, eventually resulting in breakage and/or wind throw of these trees during windstorms. The Simaroubacae family (invasive): Genus Ailianthus--the Tree-of-Heaven Luckily, relatively few trees belonging to this species have become established within the Geauga Park System. And any that have, should from our experience, be marked for elimination when found. We are aware of several scenic overlooks in Michigan other Park areas that were (as recently as15 years ago) then just beginning to be invaded by this non-native tree. Unfortunately, many of those sites are no longer overlooks. When I revisited these sites last summer, I found the view from these hilltop locations (which at one time had an unobstructed view of from 10 to 15 miles) was blocked, and the road to these sites no longer drivable, because of the rampant growth of this species). In addition to the weed-like growth of this species, there are other negative features associated with this plant, the male flowers of this tree (the sexes are on separate trees) produce a strong, nauseating odor during the Spring bloom period, and the female trees produce large numbers of wind-borne seed that are spread widely. From our observations, and from the reports of other States, this species should be classified as an undesirable species. This plant should be marked for removal wherever found on public lands, preferably before the plants have grown large enough to produce additional seed and spread. Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 39 of 50 The Aquifoliaceae family: The hollies Only one species of holly is likely to occur naturally in our area, this species, Ilex verticillata, (“winterberry”). Ilex opaca, American holly, grows in the hilly woodlands of southern Ohio, but becomes more abundant further south, into Kentucky and West Virginia.. Winterberry, grows to between six and ten feet in height, and is most common in wet woods and/or the shrubby bog margins along the outer margins, and boggy lowlands associated with Lake Kelso in The Burton Wetlands. In our area, it is most easily recognized by the presence of its bright red drupes, which are often produced in great number. These fruits apparently contain some substance that deters birds from eating the fruits until winter is nearly half over, when they then begin to eat these fruits in quantity. Important diseases: This plant is relatively disease free, but its leaves are sometimes affected by a “Tar spot Disease” Rhytisma concavum, which is very obvious when present, because the leaves appear to have had coal black tar dripped over them. The Aceraceae family: The Genus Acer, the Maples. Maples trees tend to be represented across a wide range of Ohio’s forest lands. Maples extend from some of our driest uplands, down slope through some of the more mesic mid-slope forests, and into to the rich bottomlands where some of its species are frequently associated with the rich alluvial soils of the first and second bottoms along riverine valleys. The sometimes saturated soils of some river floodplains are often dominated large numbers of Box elder (Acer negundo), and/or Silver maple (Acer saccharinum), and Red maple (Acer rubrum) (which has a broad range of potential habitats) along with Sycamore, Basswood, Pinoak, and elm. The slightly higher sites along some second bottoms often support stands of the Black Maple (Acer nigrum), which some maple sugar producers claim even betters the sugar yield of the closely related and more frequently used Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum). Like American Beech, Sugar maples continues well up the higher slopes as well, where it may be controlled more by soil nutrients than by soil moisture. Paradoxically, red maple is somewhat of a “vagabond” that can be found from riverbank locations into well-drained upper slope Oak forests as well, where lumbermen consider it an undesirable competitor to the much higher quality upland hardwoods like the red, white, and black oaks that grow of these often sandy upland sites. Maple seed crops represent an important food source for a number of small mammals and birds. These seed are important to wildlife because they are produced intervals through the year, instead of all at one time. The earliest maple to produce a significant seed crop is the Silver Maple, which drops its seed in late May-early June. The second is the Red Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 40 of 50 Maple. There is then a hiatus, until the Sugar and Black maples drop their samaras in late September into October, with some seed falling with the leaves in autumn. Box elder trees are unique, in regard to our maples, in that their samaras remain attached to the tree Well after other leaves fall and, in fact are often retained well into the winter season until they are eaten by perching birds or small mammals (or until they are torn from their pedicels by strong winter winds, to be skated over the snow to new locations possibly hundreds of yards downwind. Because Box elder seed are not shed like other Maple seed, but retained on the tree well into the winter, the seed of this tree often becomes a significant source of winter food for some birds like the Evening Grosbeak, which sometimes feed heavily on the seed of this tree well into the winter season. Important diseases: Diseases associated with our native maple trees are, for the most part, rather unimportant leaf diseases and several wood rots that attack the roots, and/or the trunks of these trees after the protective bark of the tree has been injured by storms, or damaged by Lawnmowers, or other mechanical devices that damage the bark of the tree. Several of the diseases that attack Maples inter the trees through bark injuries. These fungi often cause heart rots and produce basidiocarps on the trunk, or less frequently on the trees larger limbs. One such infection is illustrated below. Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 41 of 50 Northern tooth fungus on native maple: (Photo credit: permission given for anonymous use.) In addition to our native Maple trees, several additional species have been introduced. These trees are often seen in more developed areas near Cities, but in our climate these trees are sometimes affected by several plant diseases. One the commonest of these nonnative maples is Norway maple. These trees are attractive, but may not be suitable for our climate. This is because these maples are quite susceptible to two important leaf diseases which in our area are now spreading in these trees with increasing frequency, especially in areas that are shaded and/or in areas with high humidity (i.e., near lakes, or rivers). The leaves of the common Norway maple, and its bright red-leaved variety shwedleri, may, in humid weather, be almost completely covered by two common leaf diseases in late summer and fall, 1. By the large black blotches of the “Tar spot disease” Rhytisma acerinum, or 2. By the chalky white “Powdery mildew” Uncinula tulasnei. Neither of these leaf diseases causes significant problems for the trees, but both have a negative cosmetic impact, especially when virtually all of the trees leaves on the tree are covered by one or the other of these unsightly fungi. Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Tar spot on Norway maple: Powdery mildew on Norway maple: (Photo credits: Samuel Mazzer, 2009) Page 42 of 50 Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 43 of 50 Hippocastanaceae family: Horse-chestnut and Ohio buckeye There are three species of Buckeye, or Horse-chestnut in Ohio, but none of them are native to Geauga County. Numerous specimens of both the Ohio buckeye and the Horse Chestnut have been planted in the County, but there is no evidence for the presence of native specimens of Aesculus glabra, the Ohio buckeye, in Geauga County, Ohio. The same can be said of Aesculus hippocastanum, the Horse Chestnut, an Asian species. Or a third species, Aesculus octandra, the sweet or yellow Buckeye, is native to Ohio’s southernmost Counties and would not have occurred in our area. Consequently any species of Aesculus found in northeastern Ohio would have to be a planted specimen. Numerous Ohio buckeye trees have been planted throughout Ohio however, so it is likely that numerous Ohio buckeye trees, as well as other related species, have been planted in Ohio for ornamental purposes. The “nuts” produced by this tree, as well the nectar gathered from these trees by honeybees, is toxic and should not be consumed by humans. As so often proves to be the case, white tailed deer seem able to eat the twigs, leaves, and nuts of this species without any obvious ill affects. The Tiliacae family: The Basswood trees. Of the four Basswood trees native to Ohio, Tilia americana is the only species common to northeastern Ohio. Long recognized as an excellent honey plant this species was a Beekeeper’s favorite before the current “colony collapse disorder” began decimating bees and beekeepers livelihoods in North America. In fact, in past years, Basswood trees in flower could be found quite easily, by simply walking through the forest during the spring of the year. One could then quite literally “hear” the Basswood trees from the sound produced by the thousands of Honeybees, and other nectar-feeding insects, that would be flying around in the vicinity of these trees. Unfortunately, there are now far fewer honeybees (and honeybee colonies) now being kept because of the mysterious colony collapse disorder which has swept through commercial honeybee colonies. Consequently, basswood honey is now seldom seen, (and may soon be unavailable at any price). Basswood trees have also been used as landscape trees, because of their generally low upkeep and relative freedom from insect pests and tree diseases. Unfortunately, the introduced Japanese beetle soon proved to be quite fond of the introduced “Little-leaf” Linden (a European tree) and soon gave planted trees of this species a ragged, lace-like, appearance. A native basswood species, Tilia heterophylla, which is a native species, is in some ways an even more attractive tree. It is a larger tree, and possibly because the undersides of its leaves are covered by a cottony white pubescence, it has been shown to be little affected by Japanese Beetles. Basswood is also a preferred wood for Artists and Wood Carvers because of its soft wood was readily carved in any direction, and is less likely to split along the grain than virtually any other North American wood. Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 44 of 50 The Nyssacae family: Nyssa sylvatica, known as Black-gum, Sour-Gum, or Tupelo The black gum is the only native species of the Nyssaceae occurring in the state of Ohio. Often called Gum trees in the south, as these trees age, they occasionally developed hollow centers and some of these hollow trees were sometimes used in pioneer times for bee hives (often called “Bee-gums”). These hives were made by cutting a suitable section of hollow log, and then by covering the top and bottom. These “bee gums” then served as a primitive bee hive. While certainly not as convenient to use as a modern Langstroff Hive, these primitive hives nevertheless served many early pioneer families quite well in the Central to Southern states for many decades. Although this tree flowers and produces small fleshy, but sour drupes, as indicated by the name “sour gum”, these fruits are of no interest to humans, but a number of birds and small mammals do eat these fruits. A unique feature of this tree is that the lateral limbs of this tree branch off from the main trunk at a nearly 90 degree angle, which makes the limbs of this tree very secure in regard to storm winds and especially in winter, when wet snow and/or icing occurs. Black gum is therefore well suited for use in Parking lots, where they not only to provide Summer shade, but because of their very secure limb arrangement, the limbs of this tree are much less likely to break off during summer thunderstorms or from heavy ice-loads (during winter ice storms). An additional, attractive feature of this tree is that with the coming of autumn, few trees that can match the brilliant reds and scarlet colors produced by the leaves of these trees. The Cornaceae family: The Dogwoods Only one species of Cornus reaches the size of a small tree in Northern Ohio. This species Cornus florida, is an attractive, but short-lived tree, characterized by its beautiful spring flowers, and its bright red fruits in autumn. These fruits are highly attractive to birds and a number of small mammals in autumn. Important diseases: Unfortunately, dogwood anthracnose (Discula destructiva = Elsinoe corni) has eradicated eastern flowering dogwood from much of its former range. We have found that this disease is most destructive to dogwood flowers and leaves on those trees that are growing in shaded locations. Dogwood trees growing in sunny open lawn areas often show little in the way of diseased flowers and leaves. Other trees growing in the interior of a hardwood forest have been severely damaged with diseased flowers, leaves and branches. A number of dogwood trees growing in the interior of a relatively dense stand of young hardwoods have already died. Along roadsides, where some sunlight reaches the dogwoods leaves and flowers, it was not uncommon to see dogwood trees with their lower leaves and branches blighted (or, in some cases, already dead) while the upper parts of these same trees were often much less affected and sometimes even retained a few flowers. Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 45 of 50 The same relationship was found in the relationship of the twigs of the dogwoods to the presence of disease lesions. Dogwood trees growing in open sunny locations retained much less damage from Dogwood anthracnose than the twigs and lower branches of plants growing in shaded locations. We also noted that in city environments, we found a number of flowering dogwoods growing in open, sunny areas, surrounded by mown grass lawns did not have any noticeable lesions on the leaves or flowers. On a trip to Norfolk, Virginia, during the last week of April, I noticed the same relationship between humidity and relative freedom from disease on the Dogwoods along the sides of the highway. Where the dogwoods were heavily shaded there were fewer pure white flowers (i.e. the flowers had small pinkish-brown spots on them, typical of Discula destructive infections) where the trees were in the open with abundant sunlight, the flowers were pure white. Within the Geauga Park District, I believe the dogwoods in shaded woodland interiors will probably succumb to dogwood anthracnose over time. Those dogwoods along the roadsides that are receiving direct sunlight during part of the day will probably survive for some time, perhaps for years, as I noticed relatively few twig lesions on those plants. Finally, for those dogwoods on that are still alive in some shaded woodland interiors, I believe these plants will succumb in the next year or two. If dogwood shrubs with flowers are desired, healthy flowering dogwood shrubs should be planted in open, “park-like” areas consisting of close-mown lawn grasses, where they will receive direct sunlight from early morning (to dry up any overnight dew quickly) until late evening. The more sunlight the plant receives the better. The USDA is working on finding resistance in dogwoods from natural sources and is having some success, but nursery releases of these selections may not be available for some time. Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 46 of 50 A characteristic of anthracnose-infected dogwoods is destruction of lower limbs and branches, gradually moving up the tree (left). Leaves of an infected dogwood (right): (Photo credits: above left—Robert L. Anderson, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org; right—Mary Ann Hansen, Virginia Polytechnic Inst. & State University, Bugwood.org). Magenta spots with tan centers characterize flowers of anthracnose-infected dogwoods: (Photo credits: above left--Robert L. Anderson, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org; above right—Chris Slaybaugh 2009). Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 47 of 50 The Ericaceae family: Rhododendrons, Azaleas and Blueberries During this study, we did not observe any of Ohio’s Native Azalea (Rhododendron) species. Azaleas are often planted as ornamentals around Homes and Buildings, where they typically require additions to the soil to improve drainage and to make the soil more acidic. Many of these plants may be poisoned by additions of nitrate nitrogen as fertilizer, as these plants typically use only Ammonia salts or organic forms of Nitrogen. Only larger species of Blueberries and Huckleberries are included in this report—that is, those that typically grow to one meter or more in height. High bush blueberry, Vaccinium corymbosum , This plant is the largest of our wild blueberries and was the original source of Blueberries in Commerce. The Commercial blueberry was actually a wild blueberry selected in New Jersey in 1911. This berry is named “Rubel” and it is still a popular variety in commercial markets today. Since then, Many blueberries have been crossed to produce berries with different characteristics for different markets. The smaller blueberries frequently used in cooking are not from bogs, but from sandy flatlands in the northern parts of New England , and the upper (northern part) of the States in The Great Lakes areas. The Deerberry, Vaccinium stamineum, this is one of our largest upland Blueberries and can be found in scattered locations on dry uplands under White and Red Oaks, on relatively dry sandy soils over sandstone bedrock. It is eaten as its name implies by deer, but was also used as a food by Native Americans (its alternate name was Squaw Huckleberry (but it is not a Huckleberry) before the arrival of the white Europeans. This species like the Deerberry, tends to grow on relatively dry sandy uplands under mixed oak sandy soil over sandstone, with a mixture of other upland tree species The black huckleberry, Gaylussacia baccata, is, like the deerberry, a waist-high shrub grows on relatively dry uplands on sandy soil, usually above sandstone bedrock. A unique feature of this plant is that the undersides of leaves are covered with tiny honey colored resin dots. The berries are very seedy and thus nearly inedible. The Oleaceae family: White, green, and black Ash In Ohio’s drier upland forests, there was once an abundance of White Ash, Fraxinus americana. Green ash, Fraxinus pennsylvanica tends to be more common in lowlands areas and river flats. Black Ash, Fraxinus nigra like most ash species tends to shade intolerant, but this species is very tolerant of wet soil, and can grow in standing water for weeks at a time. The Red ash is essentially a green ash with pubescence. These trees are common in northwestern Ohio, where the soil contains much higher lime content than in northeastern Ohio. Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 48 of 50 Important Diseases: Ash Decline (now thought to be due to a Phytoplasma disease) which weakens these trees, is now being compounded by the arrival of recently introduced wood boring beetle, the Emerald Ash Borer. This beetle is a serious threat that may result in severe declines in the number of Ash trees in eastern North American. In addition to these threats to Ash trees, the The recent arrival of a considerably larger beetle, which attacks several species of hardwoods, including Ash trees, has recently been reported from several North Eastern States. This beetle, The Asian Longhorned Beetle grows to be from ¾ to 1 ½ inches long, and if it becomes established in the United States may soon become an even more important threat to our forests than the Emerald Ash Borer. The combined assault on our Ash trees by both insect injury and disease means that we may soon be facing severe declines in both the number and in the overall distribution of North American ash trees. It is now too late, but we should be remember that none of these foreign tree diseases and/or forest insects would have been introduced into North America if shipments of foreign raw wood products had consisted instead of Kiln dried timber, precut to square or rectangular dimensions. Such pre-cut timber would stack into a much smaller area on board ship than whole logs, and as a result more usable timber would have required less space when shipped or, more usable timber could have been shipped in the same area. And Kiln-dried, dimensional lumber would produce much less end-use waste during the manufacture of product. And More to the point, kiln-dried hardwood would have killed insects like the Emerald Ash Borer insects before they were transported into this country. Bignoniacae family: Northern catalpa and trumpet-creeper vine Only one species of Catalpa commonly found in northern Ohio, The Northern Catalpa, Catalpa speciosa. This species is often found along the flood plains of some of our larger rivers in Ohio. Where it can be easily recognized by its large, simple leaves, its unusual seed pods (one common name for this species is the “Cigar-tree”) and its large, ornamental clusters of white flowers. An unusual characteristic of this tree is that its relatively light weight wood is quite resistant to decay, and has been frequently used for fence posts in the past. Most of the diseases that affect this species are rather mild leaf disorders of little consequence. These trees are occasionally infected by a more serious trunk disease, Verticillium wilt. This is a fungus that enters the trunk of the tree, usually by means of an injury (an infection court) and as the fungus grows, it interferes with the uptake and transport of water through the tree trunk. This disease, as indicated by its name, interferes with the uptake and translocation of water, causing wilt symptoms especially during the summer and/or. Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 49 of 50 The Rubiacae family: Buttonbush Our Native Buttonbush, Cephalanthus occidentalis , is a truly aquatic species, usually found along the margins of depositional mucky shorelines of lakes, ponds, river backwaters, and swamp margins. Few animals other than beaver seem to feed on this species. Muskrats often use the bases of this aquatic shrub to help support a portion of their winter lodges, but other than few other mammals make use this plant. One of the unique characteristics of this species is that this is one the very few woody plants that often produces three leaves at a node. The flowers of this plant are pure white which contrasts strongly with the usual dark green of the leaves the round seed capsule of this plant. The Caprifoliaceae family: Honeysuckles, viburnums, and elderberries The Genus Lonicera, the honeysuckles: Because of numerous introductions these shrubs are now very common in many locations. Both Native and Eurasian species tend to both produce colorful flowers and may also have fruits of several different colors. Unfortunately, today there are now many different species and hybrids in the fields and fence rows. Unfortunately children are sometimes attracted to these colorful American, Eurasian, and Japanese species either to suck the nectar from the flowers, or later in the year to sometimes eat the berries of these shrubs. This presents a problem, because many of the fruits produced by the Eurasian species are toxic. In general because so many of these plants are hybrids, none of the bright colored fleshy berries from these plants should be eaten, nor should the black fruits of the Japanese honeysuckle be consumed. In fact so many different species have been imported because of their abundant flowers and colorful fruits that these plants are now a major “weed” problem. And this is in fact Due to the abundant production of colorful fruits that these plants have spread so widely through the Country. Unfortunately, these non-native plants are now having the effect of large over grown weeds, by crowding out many of our native plants species. The genus Viburnum: Several of these shrubs are important food plants for birds and mammals in Ohio. All of these plants produce fleshy fruits usually in the later part of the year. In terms of their value to birds and mammals the following are among the more important: Viburnum trilobum - Highbush-cranberry, Viburnum acerifolium- Maple-leaved Viburnum Viburnum prunifolium-Black-haw Viburnum lentago- Nannyberry Viburnum dentatum -Arrowood Sambucus canadensis-Common Elderberry Sambucus pubens- Red-Berried Elder Mazzer—Geauga Park District tree disease study, 2009 Page 50 of 50 These are all late season fleshy fruits that are especially important for migratory birds and and also supply high calorie foods for mammals. Many of these fruits are also eaten by humans, but don’t make the mistake of eating the introduced Viburnum opulus, the European Cranberry-Bush, mistaking them for the native species Viburnum trilobum . The two plants look somewhat alike, but while the American species is often used for jellies, but most people that have eaten several fruits of the European species quickly discover that they taste so bad that the fruits of the European species are virtually inedible, and most rather wish they hadn’t tasted them at all.