trees

Pruning and training are important practices for managing fruit trees. The primary objective of pruning and training is to develop a strong tree framework that will support fruit production. All fruit trees are not pruned and/or trained in the same fashion. This publication is designed to get a new tree started correctly and will cover pruning and training in the first year only. It is not comprehensive. Visit UGA Cooperative Extension’s web site (http://www.

 Susan C.

The following are insect pests that you might expect to see during April in Georgia. Become familiar with them so you will be able to recognize them in landscapes you visit.

We have included links to more information for many of these insect pests. Click on the insect names to find online resources that can help you to identify and manage these pests.

For pesticide recommendations, see the Pest Control Handbook.

<?xml:namespace prefix = o />Two types of caterpillars make webs in trees. The Eastern tent caterpillar makes webs in the forks of the branches. They are more of a problem early in the spring. The fall webworm makes their webs on the ends of the branches and is more prevelant in the late summer and fall. Fall webworms are the most visible since their webs are located on the end of the branches.

Have you winterized your trees yet? Fall is a time of serious change and reorganization within a tree. Many trees will not survive to grow in another Spring. You can help your trees survive and thrive.
 
Trees sense the changing seasons by the temperature, by a dormancy timer in the leaves, and by the amount of light they receive. The old leaves, buds, and inner bark all have a pigment that reads the seasons of the year.

Mulching is one of the most important cultural practices to help new trees and shrubs get established and keep them healthy. Mulch conserves soil moisture, moderates soil temperature, reduces competition from roots of weeds and turf and generally facilitates penetration of water to the roots of woody plants.

Much to the dismay of homeowners, trees sometimes develop roots on the soil's surface. Surface roots can even buckle sidewalks and driveways.

Trees across Georgia are declining due to drought. Drought stressed trees may have fewer or smaller leaves. Small or large limbs or the entire tree may die. Although trees can withstand some drought injury, some trees may require months to years to recover. Trees may not show damage immediately. When they do, it may be too late to save them.