Webinar Series Tackles Major Pest Issues in Nursery Crops

By Andi Anderson

Nursery growers and industry professionals will soon have an opportunity to expand their knowledge of pest management through a new educational webinar series.

Michigan State University Extension, in partnership with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), is hosting the Major Pest Problems in Nursery Crops Webinar Series this fall.

The free three-part program will run on Wednesdays, September 17, 24, and October 1, from 12:30 to 2 p.m. 

Each session will be recorded and shared with registered participants. The series is designed for nursery growers, Christmas tree producers, landscapers, and other commercial representatives. While there is no cost to attend, registration is required.

The webinars will highlight the top 35 pest problems identified during nursery inspections across Michigan over the last four years. Presentations will be led by experts from Kansas State University, Michigan State University, and MDARD.

Sept. 17: Major Insect and Mite Pests of Nursery Crops – Dr. Raymond Cloyd will discuss insect and mite pests such as aphids, thrips, spider mites, flea beetles, spongy moth, bronze birch borer, and pear leaf blister mite.

Sept. 24: Top Disease Problems of Deciduous and Coniferous Trees – Inspectors Max Ferguson (MDARD) and Bill Lindberg (MSU Extension) will review rust pathogens, apple scab, fire blight, needlecast diseases, and more.

Oct. 1: Common Diseases of Herbaceous Perennials and Woody Ornamentals – Dr. Jan Byrne from MSU Plant and Pest Diagnostics will cover issues including powdery mildew, downy mildew, rusts, leaf spots, viruses, and boxwood diseases.

Restricted use pesticide credits have been requested for attendees with commercial and private core licenses in categories 3A and 3B.

According to organizers, the series is designed to give nursery professionals the tools to recognize pest and disease problems, understand their biology and impact, and make informed management decisions.

By combining regulatory insight with practical diagnostic expertise, the program provides valuable support for protecting plant health across Michigan’s nursery industry.

Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu-extension