Does your BadonkaCONK cause Butt Rot?

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Ganoderma fruiting body

Written by Javier Garza – TPDDL Student Worker; Edited by Hannah Ayala – Extension Assistant Ganoderma rot is caused by the genus of fungi Ganoderma, a basidiomycete which has several species that cause the disease (G. zonatum, G. applanatum, G. lucidum). Ganoderma spp. have a wide range of hosts and can attack gymnosperms, woody dicots, and even some palms. However, oaks, maples, and honeylocusts are particularly susceptible to this disease. The symptoms of Ganoderma spp. may include yellowing, stunted growth, wilting, dead branches, or a high proportion of… Read More →

Rapid Decline of Oaks

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Ms. Sheila McBride (TPDDL diagnostician) and Dr. David Appel, Extension Plant Pathologist with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service contributed this article to address the numerous inquires that has been received this year regarding declining oak trees -KO This year, beginning in the early spring to late summer, there has been many inquiries as to why the post oaks have “suddenly” died. The most frequent symptoms have been described as a rapid appearance of chlorotic (yellow) and/or necrotic (brown and dead) leaves throughout the entire crown. The leaves often… Read More →

New treatment for the management of Cotton Root Rot on winegrapes

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Dr. David Appel, Extension Plant Pathologist with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service contributed this article that describes a new treatment for one of the most devastating diseases of Texas winegrapes. This was research conducted by Dr. Appel and our own TPDDL diagnostician, Sheila McBride. -KO This disease, cotton root rot, occurs on winegrapes in the calcareous soils of Central, South, and West Texas where soil pH is well above 7. The most common symptom of CRR in grapes is a sudden wilt and death of the infected… Read More →

Oak Wilt…in the wild.

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Happy Friday to all (11/20).  This last month has been one with a lot of angst and headaches.  The Texas Plant Disease Diagnostic Lab is experiencing issues due to loss of personnel – on to sickness and one to a new endeavors.  As a results, things are more hectic and phone does not get answered in a timely fashion and reports are delayed.  I do thank all for their patience with us.  On a bright note, we just started 2 new student workers (takes time to train them… Read More →

Student worker/ BESC Internship

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The Texas Plant Disease Diagnostic Lab is looking for a students who are interested in gaining some experience in an applied plant pathology service laboratory. Undergraduate Extension (Lab) assistant to assist Diagnostician and Assistant Diagnostician at the Texas Plant Disease Diagnostic Lab to perform various diagnostic analysis on plant specimens.  This is an opportunity of the motivated student gain lab work experience. Student will be trained to perform specific lab task as needed.  Desirable skills and knowledge include familiarity with computer, some basic lab skill (chemistry/biochemistry/biology/microbiology). To apply: please send resume… Read More →