Nursery Plant Production Guide

Nursery Production Guide
Number of
Table of Contents Pages
Chapter 1 Invasive Alien Species 2
Chapter 2 Plant Movement Regulations 13
Chapter 3 Field Culture 22
Chapter 4 Container Culture 15
Chapter 5 Soil Pasteurization and Fumigation 5
Chapter 6 Integrated Weed Management 6
Chapter 7 Herbicides 26
Chapter 8 Integrated Pest Management 29
Chapter 9 General Disease Management 26
Chapter 10 Bactericide and Fungicide Properties 7
Chapter 11 General Insect and Mite Management 35
Chapter 12 Insecticide and Miticide Properties 7
Chapter 13 Mollusk and Vertebrate Pest Management 4
Chapter 14 Pests of Specific Crops (alphabetical by crop) 44
Chapter 15 Pesticides 18
Appendix A Susceptibility of White-barked Birch to Bronze Birch Borer 1
Appendix B Susceptibility of Boxwood Cultivars to Box Blight 1
Appendix C Susceptibility of Cornus Species to Powdery Mildew 1
Appendix D Susceptibility of Crabapple, Firethorn & Cotoneaster to Fire Blight & Other Diseases 1
Appendix E Susceptibility of Daylily Cultivars to Daylily Rust 1
Appendix F Susceptibility of Juniper Varieties to Phomopsis Twig Blight 1
Appendix G Susceptibility of Rhododendrons to Feeding by Adult Root Weevils 2
Appendix H Susceptibility of Rhododendrons and Azaleas to Phytophthora Root Rot 1
Appendix I Susceptibility of Rhododendrons to Phytophthora ramorum 2
Appendix J Susceptibility of Rose Varieties to Certain Diseases 4
Appendix K Susceptibility of Viburnum Species to the Viburnum Leaf Beetle 1
Appendix L Susceptibility of Witch-hazels to Phyllosticta Leaf Spot 1
Appendix M Susceptibility of Plants to Armillaria Root Rot 3
Appendix N Susceptibility of Plants to Verticillium Wilt 3
Appendix O Rust Diseases of Conifers 1
Appendix P Juniper Rusts in Western Canada 1
Appendix Q Ornamentals Not Favoured for Browse by Deer 2
Appendix R Plant Diagnostic Lab Submission Form 2
Appendix S Publications and Contacts 9
Nursery Production Guide Table of Contents ● i

This guide was produced by the B.C. Ministry of Agriculture, PO Box 9120 STN PROV GOVT, Victoria, BC.
The technical portion is copyright © by the British Columbia Ministry of Agriculture.
While every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained in this publication is correct, the
author and the publisher caution against the use of the information contained in this publication in any
particular application and accept no responsibility or liability for errors, omissions, or representations,
expressed or implied, contained herein or in any written or oral communication associated with this
publication. Errors brought to the attention of the publisher will be corrected in periodic updates to this
guide.
ii ● Table of Contents Nursery Production Guide

Invasive Alien Species 1
Invasive alien species (also known as non-native Surveillance and
and exotic pests) are organisms that are introduced
to a country or region outside their natural habitats. Regulation
Invasive alien species include invasive plants,
In many cases, remedial measures to prevent the
insects, mites, molluscs, nematodes, fungi, bacteria
establishment and spread of newly introduced
and other micro-organisms. Many of these non-
invasive pests are unavailable; therefore, the strict
native pests fit in with their new environment and
application of quarantine regulations and
do not cause appreciable damage to their hosts.
surveillance programs are essential. The Canadian
Others can quickly establish themselves and spread
Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has the lead role in
if suitable hosts and environmental conditions are
maintaining vigilance for specified invasive alien
present. The lack of natural enemies, which regulate
species to prevent their introduction into Canada
their abundance in their home range, may also aid
and their spread between provinces. Regulatory
in their establishment and spread. In time, natural
policies on invasive species are developed by the
enemies or introduced biocontrol agents may
CFIA based on Pest Risk Assessments (PRA). The
reduce the damage and permit us to live with such
PRA assesses the likelihood of pest entry and
pests. Some invasive alien species never come into
establishment, the potential economic and
balance with their new environment and their
ecological consequences of introduction, and the
presence continues to cause trade restrictions.
climatic suitability for establishment in the country.
The Agency maintains annual surveillance
Economic Impact and programs within Canada to document the absence
of selected pests as well as to detect the presence of
Challenges new invasive alien species.
The BC Ministry of Agriculture (BCAGRI)
The economic consequences of new pests may be
administers the Plant Protection Act, the Weed
direct (e.g. decrease in marketable yield or quality)
Control Act and the Animal Diseases Control Act to
or indirect (e.g. quarantine restrictions or market
help prevent the spread of pests, weeds and plant
closures). Some invasive alien pests threaten more
and animal diseases. Information on these and other
than one plant-based sector, such as agriculture,
Acts administered by the Ministry are available
forestry or horticulture. Not only are invasive alien
online.
species a threat to cultivated crops, but they also are
a threat to native plants and animals (biodiversity) In 2004, an Invasive Alien Species Strategy for Canada
by competing for available space and food, or by was released to address the threat of invasive alien
directly attacking a species. Therefore it is essential species. Working groups on terrestrial plants and
that affected sectors work together to minimize plant pests were formed and, key initiatives and a
risks of introduction, establishment and spread. proposed implementation plan were developed.
The strategic goals of the plan are prevention, early
Challenges in minimizing the risks from invasive
detection, and rapid response to new invasive alien
alien species include:
species, and management of existing alien invasive
• Expanding global movement of crops, vehicles species.
and people.
There is only limited invasive plant legislation in
• Global warming may make our climate more Canada that regulates the import of aggressive or
suitable for the survival of exotic pests. potentially noxious plants for landscape and garden
use. Weed laws and regulations are normally
• Limited resources to maintain adequate
enacted to limit further spread of a plant that is
surveillance for early detection of introductions
proven to be invasive. Federally, the Seeds Act
and rapid response for application of remedial
regulates allowable weed seed content of crop seed
actions.
and the Plant Protection Act regulates import of a
few aquatic and parasitic plants. Provincially, 49
plant species are regulated under the BC Weed
Nursery Production Guide Invasive Alien Species ● 1

Control Act. This Act places a duty on all land
occupiers to control listed plants and to prevent Reducing the Impact of
their propagation and transport. The weeds
currently legislated in BC are listed in the Field
Invasive Plants
Guide to Noxious and Other Selected Weeds of British The desirable characteristics for ornamental
Columbia. varieties (hardiness, persistence, self-seeding ability,
In the United States, the Plant Protection Act pest resistance, and vigorous growth and
regulates the movement and importation of over establishment) are some of the same attributes that
100 aquatic, terrestrial and parasitic plants. make a plant species a successful invader. Once
Japanese bloodgrass (Imperata cylindrica), giant established in an area, invasive plants are
hogweed (Heracleum mantagazzianum), four species impossible to eradicate or difficult to control due to
of Pennisetum and two species of blackberries extensive creeping, rhizomatous roots or because
(Rubus fruticosus and Rubus moluccanus) are they produce vast amounts of seed.
examples of plants not permitted entry into the US. Introduced invasive plant material can escape from
The US National Invasive Species Council has a nursery or garden and negatively impact natural
recommended screening all new introductions for resources or industries such as agriculture, forestry,
“invasiveness” before the plants are allowed entry. and tourism. A few ornamentals that have escaped
In addition, most states have enacted weed to damage British Columbia’s environment include:
legislation to control or prevent the introduction of purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria), Japanese
nearly 500 invasive species. For additional knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum), Russian olive
information about invasive plant species in the US, (Elaeagnus angustifolia), baby’s-breath (Gypsophila
visit the National Invasive Species Information paniculata), Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius) and
Center website. English ivy (Hedera helix).
Everyone has a responsibility to prevent the Growers must also be cautious to avoid introducing
introduction of invasive alien pests. Anyone new invasive weeds on imported nursery stock.
importing plants or propagative material should be
The majority of ornamentals propagated and offered
aware of and comply with import regulations. For
for sale are not a threat to the environment. The
more information, see Chapter 2, Plant Movement
following steps will aid in preventing damage to
Regulations.
natural resources from the escape of aggressive
Growers can also aid in the detection of newly nursery stock or the inadvertent introduction of new
introduced alien species by reporting detections of weeds:
unusual plants or pests to their nearest BCAGRI or • Assess new introductions for invasive potential.
CFIA office (contact information is provided in Some ornamental species are close relatives of
Appendix S). The BCAGRI and CFIA websites known invasive plants and may also have
contain information on invasive alien species of aggressive tendencies.
concern to BC. The Ministry’s Plant Health
• Monitor imported nursery stock for new,
Laboratory in Abbotsford will accept suspect
unfamiliar weeds or weed parts such as nutlets
invasive alien species for identification free of
and rhizomes. Invasive weeds (e.g. purple
charge. A copy of the submission form is available
nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus), creeping yellowcress
on the Ministry’s website and in Appendix R. If you
(Rorippa sylvestris) and parasitic dodder (Cuscuta
have any questions about the submission process,
sp.)) have been detected in nursery stock imported
contact the lab at 1-888-221-7141. Samples
into BC.
determined to be invasive alien species will be
forwarded to the CFIA. Early detection and • Discontinue production and sales of species
identification will greatly improve chances of known to be invasive in BC.
eradicating exotic pests or slowing their spread and • Substitute less aggressive plants in the landscape.
damage. • Monitor spread of stock in adjacent natural areas,
and control escapes.
• Grow creeping plants in contained areas only; do
not plant next to forested areas or natural
meadows.
• Prevent seed production of invasive ornamentals.
2 ● Invasive Alien Species Nursery Production Guide

Plant Movement Regulations 2
(updated July 2013)
British Columbia Plant Protection Regulations

Balsam Woolly Adelgid To reduce this risk, all Abies species (Grand Fir,
Noble Fir, Fraser Fir, etc.) must be grown under
Balsam Woolly Adelgid (BWA) is a tiny (less than permit. Annual permits expire on December 31st
1/10 mm), inconspicuous, aphid-like pest that and can be obtained from the Entomologist with
feeds exclusively on true firs (Abies species). the BC Ministry of Agriculture in Abbotsford.
Despite its small size, it is an extremely destructive When offered for sale or moved from the nursery,
pest that can kill a tree after several years of heavy plants no longer require the tag to verify they were
feeding. This is especially true for Abies lasiocarpa. grown under permit. Growers can provide a copy
There are no known pathogens of the adelgid and of their Abies Permit to verify they were grown
attempts to control it with chemicals are usually under permit.
ineffective. There is tremendous concern it will
The area regulated in BC for BWA was expanded in
spread into the Interior and infest the very
July 2006 (see Figure 2.2). Trees grown outside the
important and widely distributed A. lasiocarpa
quarantine area have free movement within the
forests. The movement of Abies for use in
province. Abies grown in the quarantine area
reforestation, or as an ornamental or a Christmas
cannot be shipped outside the area within BC.
tree, poses a significant risk of spreading this pest.
There are no restrictions on the domestic
movement of Abies outside of BC. Sale and
movement of cut trees or foliage of Abies grown in
the quarantine zone is prohibited between January
31 and November 1 anywhere in the province.
However, cones and seeds of Abies are exempt from
this regulation. When moved between November 1
and January 31, cut Christmas trees, boughs for
wreaths or decorations, and cones are exempt from
area restrictions.
Little Cherry Disease

The Little Cherry Control Regulation prohibits the
movement of flowering cherry species (including
Prunus serrulata, P. subhirtella, P. sieboldii, P.
vedoensis and P. incisa) into the Little Cherry
Control Area of the southern Interior. Flowering
cherries cannot be grown in the landscape in the
control areas. With special permission from the
Ministry of Agriculture, flowering cherries may be
propagated by nurseries in the control area for sale
outside of the control area.
The Little Cherry Control Regulation also regulates
the movement of cherry stock (Prunus avium, P.
Figure 2.1. A fir branch infested with BWA
cerasus) into the Little Cherry Control Areas. No
showing the common symptoms, which include
person shall move a cherry tree, rootstock of a
needle yellowing and premature needle loss, and
cherry tree or the buds of grafting wood for a
swelling of branch nodes and terminal buds.
cherry tree into the Little Cherry control Area
without the written permission of the manager of
Nursery Production Guide Plant Movement Regulations • 1

the Crop Protection Program, Ministry of Domestic (D-97-01): Shippers of junipers and
Agriculture. pears should obtain a master Movement Certificate
from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency if
The Little Cherry Control Regulation was amended product is being moved from the pear trellis rust
in May 1994. The control area now includes the quarantine area. All other regulations regarding
Creston area (Electoral Districts A, B and C of the nursery stock movement are still in effect.
Central Kootenay Regional District) in addition to
Import: Importers of junipers and pears will still
the original control area that covered the Okanagan
need to obtain import permits and phytosanitary
and Similkameen Valleys. See Figure 2.2 for more
certificates for these types of plants. All other
information on the boundaries of the Little Cherry
import requirements remain in effect.
Control Area.
Note: The nursery certification procedures are no
Pear Trellis Rust longer required.
The following conditions apply to the movement of
junipers and pears from infested to non-infested
areas.
Figure 2.2. Areas within BC regulated for Balsam Woolly Adelgid and Little Cherry Disease.
2 • Plant Movement Regulations Nursery Production Guide

European Elm Bark Beetle In 1996, a voluntary nursery certification program
was initiated in BC to protect elm stock from attack
The current pandemic of Dutch Elm Disease in by the bark beetle. The program incorporates
North American is caused by a fungus called insecticide applications to prevent adult beetle
Ophiostoma novo-ulmi or Ceratocystis ulmi. The feeding, removal and destruction of dead or
disease is spread by the European Elm Bark Beetle weakened limbs to discourage beetle egg laying,
(Scolytus multistriatus) and the Native Elm Bark and visual inspection for feeding damage. Trees
Beetle (Hylurgopinus rufipes). The European Elm showing evidence of feeding cannot be shipped to
Bark Beetle has been in the Interior since 1979 and Alberta. Contact the Industry Specialist-
in 1996 was found for the first time in the Lower Ornamentals with the Ministry of Agriculture and
Mainland. Lands in Abbotsford for information on or to be
included in the certification program.
Federal Plant Quarantine Regulations

track of their expiry date. The CFIA does not
Import Requirements advise clients prior to permit expiration and an
importer must have a valid permit prior to
Imports of nursery stock from all countries must be
importation.
covered by a Phytosanitary Certificate issued by
the exporting country. Domestic Movement Prior to clearance with Canada Customs, entry
Certificates are required for movement of regulated documents must be presented to the CFIA.
nursery stock within Canada.
Canadian Plant Protection
Permit to Import Regulations
Each shipment of nursery stock from any country There are plant protection regulations governing
other than the continental US must be imported in the movement of the following nursery stock into
accordance with a valid import permit. The permit BC from other countries and provinces. The CFIA is
application enables the Canadian Food Inspection responsible for the administration and enforcement
Agency (CFIA) to advise an applicant whether the of the Plant Protection Act and regulations
commodity they intend to import is prohibited thereunder. Copies of the policy directives (for
from entering Canada or is allowed to enter subject example D-94-35) that describe the importation
to certain restrictions. Permits are required for any prohibitions or restrictions listed below are
nursery stock from the continental US for which available on the Agency’s web site.
there are specific requirements. Permits are
required for all material from Hawaii. Information Contact the CFIA for information on quarantine
on regulated commodities is available on the areas, certification requirements, etc. for the
Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) importation regulations listed below.
website.
A single Permit to Import can be obtained for
multiple destinations if specified on the import
permit application form. For further information
contact your local CFIA office.
The Import Permit application form is available on
the CFIA web site (form number 5256). It includes
information on how to complete the form and fees
for permits. The permit application form should be
submitted at least 4 weeks prior to the importation
date. Importers are advised to send in their
applications outside the peak processing period
(i.e., January to April) to avoid delays. Many
permits are valid for three years, so always keep

Table 2.1. Index to plants subject to federal importation prohibitions or restrictions.
Botanical Name Common Name Comment # Botanical Name Common Name Comment #
Abies True Firs 7, 21 Gaylussacia Huckleberry 16
Acer Maple 21, 29 Griselinia NZ Privet 21
Adiantum Maidenhair Fern 21, 25 Grossularia 17
Aesculus Horsechestnut 21, 29 Hamamelis Witch Hazel 21
Alnus Alder 20, 25, 29 Heteromeles Toyon 21
Arbutus Madrone 21, 25 Ilex Holly 21, 29
Ardisia Coralberry 21 Kalmia Mountain Laurel 21
Arctostaphylos Kinnikinnick 21 Larix Larch 13
Berberis Barberry 3 Laurus Laurel 21
Calluna Heather 21 Leucanthemella 19
Calycanthus Spice Bush 21 Leucothoe Leucothoe 21
Camellia Camellia 21, 25 Lithocarpus Tanbark Oak 10, 21
Castanea Chestnut 10 Lonicera Honeysuckle 21, 25
Castanopsis Chinquapin 10, 21, 29 Loropetalum 21
Ceanothus Ceanothus 21, 25 Magnolia 21
Chaenomeles Quince 1, 29 Mahonia Oregon Grape 3, 21
Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum 19, 21, 25 Mahoberberis Mahoberberis 3
Cinnamomum Cinnamon 21 Maianthemum False Solomon’s Seal 21
Clintonia Bluebead Lily 21 Malus Crabapple, Apple 1, 4, 5, 25, 29
Cornus Dogwood 21, 29 Manglietia 21
Corylopsis Winter Hazel 21 Michelia 21, 25
Corylus Hazelnut, Filbert 8, 21, 29 Nerium Oleander 21
Crataegus Hawthorn 4, 29 Nothofagus Roble Beech 21
Cydonia Quince 1, 25, 29 Osmanthus American Olive 21
Dendranthema 19 Osmorhiza 21
Distylium 21 Parrotia Ironwood 21
Drimys Winter’s Bark 21 Parakmeria 21
Dryopteris Wood Fern 21 Pelargonium Geranium 24, 25
Eucalyptus 21, 25 Photinia 21, 25
Euonymus 21, 25 Picea jezoensis and P. polita 25, 26
Fagus Beech 21 Pieris Andromeda 21
Fragaria Strawberry 15, 25 Pinus Pine 12, 18, 25, 29
Frangula Cascara 21 Pittosporum Victorian Box 21, 25
Fraxinus Ash 21, 23, 29 Populus Poplar 14, 25, 29
Garrya 21 Prunus Plum, Cherry, etc. 1, 4, 5, 21, 22, 29
Gaultheria Salal 21 Pseudolarix 13

Table 2.1. Index to plants subject to federal importation prohibitions or restrictions. (Cont’d)
Botanical Name Common Name Comment # Botanical Name Common Name Comment #
Pseudotsuga Douglas Fir 21, 25 Syringa Lilac 21
Pyracantha Firethorn 21, 25 Taxus Yew 21
Pyrus Pear 1, 25 Torreya 21
Quercus Oak 10, 21, 25 Toxicodendron Poison Oak 21
Rhamnus Buckthorn 6, 21 Trientalis Western Starflower 21
Rhododendron Rhododendron 21 Tsuga Hemlock 26
Rhus Poison Oak, Sumac 21 Ulmus Elm 9
Ribes Currant 17, 25 Umbellularia Oregon Myrtle 21
Rosa Rose 21, 25 Vaccinium Blueberry 16, 21, 25
Rubus Brambles 21, 25 Vancouveria 21
Salix Willow 11, 21, 25 Viburnum Arrow Wood 21, 25
Schima Samak 21 Vinca Periwinkle 25
Sequoia Coast Redwood 21 Vitis Grape 2, 25
Solanum Nightshade 24 Zelkova Zelkova 9
1. Fruit tree stock and ornamentals (includes all approved for importation from the continental
species of Malus, Pyrus, Prunus, Cydonia and US and movement within Canada. These
Chaenomeles) (D-94-35): Must be from an varieties are highly resistant to Black Stem Rust
approved virus certification program to be and includes: ‘Aurea Nana’, ‘Bail Green’,
eligible for entry into Canada. Fumigation is ‘Cherry Bomb’, ‘Concorde’, ‘Emerald
required for these hosts of Oriental Fruit Moth Carousel’, ‘Golden Nugget’, ‘Rose Glow’,
when destined for BC if originating from ‘Royal Burgundy’, ‘Royal Cloak’, ‘Ruby
infested areas, including infested provinces of Carousel’ and ‘Sunsation’. A Permit to Import
Canada. and a Phytosanitary Certificate are required to
import stock. In addition, the plants must
2. Grapevines (D-94-34 and D-94-35): Must be
originate from a nursery in the Barberry
from an approved virus certification program
Certification Program. Imported plants cannot
to be eligible for entry to Canada. Only
be used for direct sale, distribution or
grapevines that have been fully tested in
multiplication until the CFIA has released
Canada (includes woody indexing) are
them. Canadian nurseries approved under the
approved for import. All rooted plants from
Barberry Certification Program are permitted
any source (including other provinces) must be
to multiply the eleven varieties by clonal
treated to control Grape Phylloxera and virus-
propagation only. Application forms are
vectoring nematodes. Hot water treatment at
available from the CFIA. There are also strict
50° C for 35 minutes is a requirement that must
labelling and record keeping requirements (see
be done either prior to export, or at an
the directive for additional details).
approved Canadian facility. The approved
treatments are further described in D94-34. 4. Malus, Crataegus, Prunus avium and P. cerasus
(D-00-07): In order to prevent the spread of
3. Berberis, Mahonia and Mahoberberis (including
apple maggot, Rhagoletis pomonella, there are
seed) (D-01-04): The propagation, sale or
restrictions on the movement of these crops
movement within or into Canada of all species,
from the continental US, Mexico or other
hybrids and cultivars is prohibited except those
Canadian provinces. The regulated crops must
considered to be immune to Puccinia graminis
be free of soil and fruit, or be from a county of
(Black Stem Rust of Wheat).
California, Idaho, Oregon or Washington
Eleven varieties of Berberis thunbergii are where apple maggot does not occur, to be

shipped into BC. This regulation only applies program that was pre-approved in writing by
to Crataegus imports from Mexico, since Malus the CFIA. Seeds and nuts for propagation are
and Prunus species are presently prohibited prohibited into the province from all sources
from Mexico due to other pest concerns. due to filbertworm.
Exempt products include unrooted cuttings, if
9. Ulmus and Zelkova (D-97-07): Propagative and
free of soil and fresh fruit, and seed of the
non-propagative (with bark attached) material
regulated species, hybrids and varieties.
are prohibited entry into BC and other
Regulated nursery stock imported into BC from
provinces of Canada that are free of Dutch Elm
the US and Mexico requires a Permit to Import
Disease. Seeds are exempt from regulation.
and a Phytosanitary Certificate, whereas stock
Movement of propagative material into BC (a
from other provinces in Canada requires a
pest-free province) is prohibited from generally
Movement Certificate. The phytosanitary or
infested provinces and from an infested area
movement certificate must state the stock is
within a partially infested province. Movement
free of fruit and washed free of soil, or was
of propagative material into BC from a pest-
grown in a county in the US that apple maggot
free area within a partially infested province
does not occur. Note restrictions on Malus in
may be permitted on a case by case basis.
Comments 1 and 4. Due to recent finds of this
Movement will require the issuance of a
pest in the Abbotsford area in BC, please
Movement Certificate by an authorized CFIA
contact the CFIA if you are planning to move
inspector. Movement of propagative material
apples, apple trees or other host plants with
from a pest-free area to a pest-free area
soil, or nursery stock of apple, crabapple or
between the provinces of Newfoundland,
hawthorn, out of the Abbotsford area.
Alberta and BC is subject to provincial
5. Malus (D-96-02): All of BC is considered to be a requirements where they exist.
quarantine zone for Apple Ermine Moth
10. Quercus, Castanea, Castanopsis (Chinquapin) and
(Yponomeuta malinellus). In order to move
Lithocarpus (Tanbark Oak) (D-99-03): Require a
plants or plant parts of Malus species from
Permit to Import and a Phytosanitary
within the quarantine zone to any other area of
Certificate in order to enter Canada when
Canada the plants must be certified free from
originating from states in the continental US
this pest, be grown under an approved
that are regulated for Oak Wilt Disease
certification program and be accompanied by a
(Ceratocystis fagacearum). The certificate must
Movement Certificate.
state that the "material was produced in a
6. Rhamnus: The propagation, sale or movement nursery declared to be free of oak wilt disease
within or into Canada of plants or any parts (Ceratocystis fagacearum) on the basis of
thereof, including seed of all species, hybrids inspection during the previous growing
and cultivars of Rhamnus species (except R. season."
crenata, R. latifolia) are prohibited. The
11. Salix (except seed): All species are prohibited
exceptions are considered immune to Puccinia
from countries where Watermark Disease
coronata (Crown Rust of Oats).
(Brenneria salicis) is known to occur. This
7. Abies (except seed): All species are prohibited disease does not occur in North America.
entry into the province from all countries and
12. Pinus (D-98-02): The movement of plants and
provinces.
propagative material, except seeds, is regulated
8. Corylus (D-00-03): Corylus cannot be imported from areas within Canada and the continental
into BC from the US (except the states of US where the European strain of Scleroderris
Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada Canker (Gremmeniella abietina) occurs. A
and Utah) and all other provinces of Canada Movement Certificate is required for domestic
because of Eastern Filbert Blight. Tissue- movement of Pinus species from regulated
cultured plantlets are now admissible into the areas to all other areas within Canada. There
province (D-00-03). US shipments require a are no restrictions on domestic movement of
Permit to Import and a Phytosanitary Pinus species that originate from non-regulated
Certificate, while plantlets produced in Canada areas for scleroderris canker. For importation
require a Domestic Movement Certificate. The from regulated and non-regulated areas of the
plantlets must originate in a state or provincial US, a Permit to Import and a Phytosanitary

Certificate are required. Approval from the material from other off-continent sources will
Plant Protection Division is required prior to require prior approval.
importing Pinus species from other countries.
18. Pinus (D-94-22): Importation into Canada of all
See also Comment 20.
species of nursery stock and Christmas trees
13. Pseudolarix and Larix (D-97-10): All species from countries other than the continental US
from countries and areas in Canada where are prohibited. BC is a non-regulated area for
European Larch Canker (Lachnellula willkommii) Pine Shoot Beetle (Tomicus piniperda) since it is
occurs are prohibited entry into BC. Seeds of free of this pest. Nursery stock and Christmas
both genera must be certified free of this trees from areas of the US regulated for the
disease from all countries. All species are beetle can be shipped to non-regulated areas in
prohibited movement within Canada if Canada as long as the plants were:
originating from an infected area. A Movement
 produced in a plantation with a program to
Certificate must accompany seeds originating
control or eradicate the beetle, and has
from an infested area in Canada. See also
been inspected and found free from Pine
Comment 14.
Shoot Beetle, or
14. Populus (except seed): All species are prohibited  100% inspected and found free from Pine
entry into Canada from countries where Shoot Beetle, or
Bacterial Canker of Poplar (Xanthomonas populi)  produced in a county where Pine Shoot
is known to occur. This disease does not occur Beetle is not present, or
in the US.
 treated with methyl bromide.
15. Fragaria: Plants are prohibited from all Pine nursery stock and Christmas trees
countries other than the continental US. Special imported from regulated states in the US must
permits may be possible for small quantities be presented for clearance upon entry into
from prohibited areas to be grown under post- Canada. Shipments not in compliance with the
entry quarantine conditions. directive will be detained, prohibited entry, or
16. Vaccinium and Gaylussacia (D-02-04): Plants disposed of as specified in writing by a CFIA
from areas of Canada or the US that are inspector. Stock is free to move from non-
infested with Blueberry Maggot (Rhagoletis regulated states of the US to all areas of
mendax) must be certified to ensure freedom Canada. There are no restrictions on the
from this pest. domestic movement of pines from BC for Pine
Shoot Beetle. Pines moving from regulated
17. Ribes and Grossularia (D-94-18): To prevent the areas of Canada into the province require a
importation of Black Current Reversion Movement Certificate. A Movement
disease, all propagative material of Ribes spp. Certificate will only be issued for stock that
(currants and gooseberries) from Europe is has been fumigated with methyl bromide, has
prohibited entry into Canada. This includes passed inspection, or has been grown under a
both fruit-producing and ornamental varieties. Pine Shoot Beetle Management Program with
Commercial importation of propagative the Agency. See also Comment 14.
Table 2.2. Phytosanitary certificate and import permit requirements to import pine nursery stock and
Christmas trees into BC from the US.
Pine Shoot Beetle Permit to
Crop Status of the Exporting State Phytosanitary certificate import
Pine Nursery Stock Partially regulated Yes Yes
Non-regulated Yes, but not required for PSB. May be required to certify Yes
freedom from another pest(s) depending on origin.
Pine Christmas Trees Partially regulated Yes No
Non-regulated No phytosanitary certificate required for the beetle. No
Phytosanitary certificate may be required to certify
freedom from another pest(s) depending on origin.

19. Chrysanthemum, Dendranthema and species susceptible to the virus can be imported
Leucanthemella serotina (D-97-05): Importation is from states that have an approved virus
regulated to prevent introduction of certification program (e.g. California, Idaho,
Chrysanthemum White Rust (Puccinia horiana). Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana,
This regulation applies to all plants, including Oregon, South Carolina and Washington). A
finished pot mums and garden mums; plant permit to import and a phytosanitary certificate
parts, including cuttings for propagation; and are required. All nursery stock must originate
tissue cultures. Seeds are exempt from the from mother stock that tested negative for the
regulation. An Import Permit and a virus by an accredited laboratory. The mother
Phytosanitary Certificate are required to import material and nursery stock must have been
these plants into Canada. In addition, for grown under a Canadian approved virus
regions where the disease is suspected or certification program. The importation of
known to occur, material can only be imported Prunus species not susceptible to the virus (e.g.
from growers that have been approved by the cherries and cherry laurels, subgenera Cerasus,
CFIA and that can demonstrate a production Laurocerasus and Padus) requires a permit to
practice which excludes the risk of import and a phytosanitary certificate. Stock
Chrysanthemum White Rust. can only be imported from states with an
approved virus certification program. Domestic
20. Alnus (D-00-08): Importation to Canada is
movement of seed from within the quarantine
prohibited from European countries (e.g. Great
zone will be permitted anywhere in Canada if
Britain, Sweden, France, Germany, Austria and
it originates from individually tested mother
Netherlands) that have the newly reported
stock found to be negative for Plum Pox Virus
Phytophthora species that affects alders. This
strain D.
prohibition does not apply to seed and
unrooted cuttings. Rooted plant material 23. Fraxinus (D-03-08): Importing nursery stock
originating from non-regulated countries from areas regulated for the emerald ash borer
requires approval prior to importation. (Agrilus planipennis) is prohibited. The
regulated areas include: counties in eighteen
21. Hosts of Ramorum Blight and Dieback (caused
US states (Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa,
by Phytophthora ramorum) (D-01-01): The
Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts,
directive regulates the importation of plants
Michigan, Missouri, Minnesota, New York,
and plant parts (including rooted plants,
Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, West
branches, wreaths, greenery, cuttings and
Virginia, and Wisconsin), and parts of Ontario
prunings, and cut foliage) of 89 genera of
and Quebec. Seeds and foliage are exempt. An
plants from 14 counties in California, Curry
import permit and a phytosanitary certificate
County in Oregon, from all countries of the
are required to import Fraxinus from a non-
European Union, and from Norway and
regulated county in a regulated state. The
Switzerland. Soil and growing media, either
certificate must declare that the material was
alone or in association with plant material, are
produced in a county where the emerald ash
also regulated. Seeds, and wood chips and
borer does not occur, based on official surveys.
sawdust made from debarked logs are exempt.
Import permits will not be granted for host 24. Pelargonium spp. and Solanum spp. (non-tuber-
plants that originate from a regulated area, bearing) (D-03-09): Propagative material can
unless the material is produced in a CFIA only be imported into Canada from a country
approved certification program, and is known to be free of Ralstonia solanacearum, Race
accompanied by a Phytosanitary Certificate. 3 (Biovar 2), or from a facility that has been
sampled and tested by the NPPO and found
22. Prunus (D-99-07): Movement of regulated
free of R. solanacearum, Race 3 (Biovar 2). Seeds
material, with the exception of seed, from the
and fruit of all hosts are exempt. An import
Plum Pox Virus quarantine areas of Canada
permit is required from all countries other than
and Pennsylvania is prohibited. Regulated
the continental US. A phytosanitary certificate
material includes all propagative material of
is required for all regulated commodities
Plum Pox Virus-susceptible Prunus species (e.g.
imported to Canada. In lieu of a phytosanitary
plums, apricots, peaches and almonds),
certificate, regulated plant material originating
including seed, pollen, trees, cuttings,
from a designated facility in the continental US
budwood, scionwood and rootstocks. Prunus

may enter Canada if produced in compliance in tissue culture (e.g. sealed flasks of agar) are
with the Greenhouse Certification Program. exempted from soil, nematode and insect
regulations. All regulations pertaining to plant
25. Hosts of Light Brown Apple Moth (Epiphyas
diseases still apply. The US prohibits entry of
postvittana) (D-07-03): The directive regulates
plant materials originally imported to Canada
the importation of rooted and unrooted
using the Canadian Growing Media Program.
cuttings, cut flowers, cut foliage and decorative
branches of 142 genera of plants. Dormant 29. Hosts of Anoplophora spp. (D-11-01): D-11-01
plants and seeds are exempt from regulation. Regulates domestic movement and importation
The areas regulated include Australia, Ireland, of Anoplophora spp. host material. Host material
New Caledonia, New Zealand, Great Britain, is all rooted and unrooted plants and fresh
California and Hawaii. An import permit and branches that have a diameter of 10 mm or
a phytosanitary certificate are required to more at their widest point. A list of host plants
import plants for planting from the regulated for Anoplophora spp. can be found in Appendix
areas. 1 of D-11-01, and includes many common
nursery plants in British Columbia. All
26. Tsuga, Picea jezoensis and P. polita (D-07-05):
countries are considered regulated areas for
Domestic movement and importation is
this group of pests. Although there are many
regulated in Canada to prevent the spread of
different requirements for different regulated
Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (Adelges tsugae). BC
areas (See D-11-01), the movement of regulated
is the only area in Canada where the adelgid is
nursery stock from areas of the Continental US
known to occur, and is the only area regulated
where Anoplophora spp. is known not to occur
for the pest. Nurseries must be registered with
requires a phytosanitary certificate with no
the CFIA’s HWA Nursery Program to ship
specific Anoplophora spp. additional
these crops to another province. There are no
declaration. Please consult D-11-01 for the full
restrictions on movement within BC. Growers
requirements for movement of regulated
must apply annually (by January 15th) to be on
material.
the Nursery Program.
Note: Special certification is required for plant
27. Soil importation is prohibited from all
material and related matter from areas in the US or
countries except the continental US (D-95-26).
Canada infested with Asian Gypsy Moth (D-96-19),
A permit is required to import soil without
Columbia Root Knot Nematode, European Brown
plants from the US. The definition of soil
Garden Snail, Golden Nematode, Japanese Beetle
includes sand, earth, clay, compost, humus,
(D-96-15), North American Gypsy Moth (D-98-09)
unprocessed manure, mulch, peat, plant litter
and Soybean Cyst Nematode. For details on areas
or related debris. Artificial media in which
and commodities contact the CFIA.
plants are growing is also defined as soil.
Import requirements are in place for soil
individually or in association with plants, plant Inspection of Imported Nursery
material, and other things such as vehicles, Stock
equipment, seed, hay and containers. Soil from
golden nematode control areas of Central • It is the responsibility of the importer to
Saanich must not be moved out of the provide the labour required to present
quarantine zone. Growers in Central Saanich imported product for inspection, which could
should contact the CFIA office in Victoria for include moving or unloading product from
more information on the Golden Nematode the truck.
Control areas. Soil from areas of PEI • Cost of treatment, destruction or return of
quarantined for potato wart cannot be moved nursery stock is the responsibility of the
to other areas of PEI and other provinces. importer.
28. Canadian Growing Media Program (D96-20):
Plants rooted in a growing media from all
countries from which sand, soil and earth is
prohibited may be imported to Canada under
an approved program. For additional
information contact the CFIA. Plants growing

Export Requirements certificate or a copy of the invoice with a CFIA
label (Canadian Nursery or Greenhouse
For first-time exporters, preparing a shipment for Certification Programs only) is required by the
export is a daunting task. The following is a general US Department of Agriculture. If this is not
outline for determining plant health requirements included with the shipment, it will not clear
for a particular export market. The most common customs. The invoice and the phytosanitary
examples are noted, but other conditions and certificate must be for the same type and
requirements can exist, along with various number of plants. Nurseries planning to
combinations of the examples shown. When a export nursery stock should contact CFIA as
Phytosanitary Certificate is issued, it indicates that early as possible so that certification
the requirements of the importing country are met. requirements of the importing country can be
met, and growing season inspections can be
done if required. Enquiries may be directed to
Research Your Market the Operations Directorate or to your nearest
Will my product(s) meet the plant health import CFIA office (contact information is provided
requirements at my customer’s location? When in Appendix S).
determining export requirements, the product to be d) North American Free Trade Agreement
exported needs to be adequately described, Certificate of Origin: under the Agreement, all
including: merchandise manufactured in Canada, as per
a) the common and scientific names (Genus, the Rules of Origin, is duty free. Nursery stock
species), is eligible. A Certificate of Origin form must
be completed to insure the product complies
b) whether the plants are shipped as propagative
with the Agreement. This form can apply to
or non-propagative material, and
an individual shipment or a one-year period.
c) if they are for planting, what form they are in,
i.e. cuttings, bareroot, balled & burlapped, d) General Permit and CITES (Convention on
pots, dormant, etc. International Trade and Endangered Species)
(permit &/or certificate): a general permit is
required by all US businesses that import,
Sources of Information export or re-export endangered and
a) the customer threatened US native plants. The US
Endangered and Threatened Plant List (Title
b) foreign government or authority
50, Section 17.12) is extensive and is available
c) CFIA on the Fish & Wildlife Service web site. The
d) customs brokers – are licensed by the US list includes some genera that are widely
Customs to transact customs business on grown by the industry (e.g. Arctostaphylos,
behalf of others. For a listing of companies, Clematis and Rhododendron), but the
look up Customs Brokers in the Yellow endangered species are different from those
PagesTM. commonly propagated in the industry. The
CFIA checks whether a General Permit is
required for a shipment when they prepare
Results of Market Research the Phytosanitary Certificate. If a General
Market research may reveal a variety of Permit is required, the inspector will ask the
documentation requirements, plant protection exporting nursery whether or not the importer
conditions and certification options. Note that in has a permit.
the case of a country like the US, there may be
Some plants, for example orchids and cacti,
individual state requirements in addition to
are covered by the Convention on
national import requirements.
International Trade in Endangered Species of
Wild Fauna and Flora and a CITES permit
Documents must be obtained before they can be imported
or exported. For more information, contact
a) Import permit (usually for importer but
Environment Canada, Canadian Wildlife
sometimes exporter)
Service in Ottawa (Phone: 819 997-1840; Fax:
b) Phytosanitary Certificate: the original 819 953-6283) or refer to the CITES home page.

e) Invoice: a proforma invoice is not required, online. Please note there are fees associated with
but it is a good format to follow since proper phytosanitary inspection and certification. The
invoicing will reduce delays in processing the applicable rates are available from the CFIA at your
shipment. The invoice must be legible and in local office or on the Internet. Fees may be paid by
the English language. US Customs requires cash, approved credit card or on account.
three copies of the invoice to move with the
Give as much notice as possible to allow the
shipment. The invoice must include the
Agency to schedule your inspection. If a new
Internal Revenue Service tax number or social
market is being accessed, up to 2 weeks notice is
security number of the importer, name of the
required, to allow for research into foreign plant
carrier, country of origin, full description of
protection import requirements. The process may
goods, and the unit price and total value of the
take longer, if negotiation with the foreign
shipment.
government is required.
If the shipment includes orders for several
Before the inspector arrives:
destinations, it can enter as a single entry if a
Proforma Invoice is used and the product a) assemble all documents for each shipment;
enters care-of a customs broker in Blaine, WA.
b) assemble all products to be inspected and
f) Customs Power of Attorney: only required if a certified, and ensure access to all portions of
customs broker will be used. This document the shipment; and
enables the broker to act as your agent/power
c) designate a contact person to assist the
of attorney, and permits them to clear your
inspector.
goods and sign documents on your behalf.
Plant Protection Conditions Marking of Goods

It is required that the final consumer of the product
a) no restrictions
must know the country of origin. Therefore, all
b) general freedom from pests goods that are capable of being marked must be
marked legibly and permanently with the English
c) freedom from specific pests
name of the country of origin, such as “Made in
d) production area or province/country free of Canada” or “Product of Canada.” The outermost
specific pests container of the goods must be marked, if
e) specific treatments applicable, in addition to each individual article.
The country of origin can be marked directly on the
f) prohibition of specific plant species (i.e. US - nursery container or on a tag applied to the
no citrus, prohibited palms, etc.) product.
Phytosanitary Certification Options Shipping

a) no certification required There are eight common types of entry recognized
b) product prohibited (no certification permitted) by the US Customs. Nursery stock is most
commonly shipped as a consumption entry,
c) treatment (and certification) temporary importation bond, or as an informal
d) inspection (and certification) entry.
e) post entry quarantine Consumption (Formal) Entry applies to product

that enters for consumption and has a value in
excess of $2,000 (Canadian). This is the
Arranging for Inspection and predominate method of entry. Formal entries
Phytosanitary Certification require a broker and a customs bond to protect the
importer if there is a problem with the entry. You
Make a written request for inspection and can obtain either a single transaction bond or a
certification to one of the addresses shown in this continuous bond. The continuous bond is good for
section or to your nearest CFIA inspection office. numerous transactions for one full year and costs a
The Export Application (Form # 3369) is available minimum of $50,000.

Temporary Importation Bond applies to non- Regulations Pertaining to Foreign
consumable products that enter the US on a
temporary basis. The products usually must leave Vehicles Picking-up Nursery Stock
the US within one year. Display materials for a in BC
trade show should be declared on a temporary
Out-of-province customers that wish to pick up
importation bond. However, since nursery stock is
stock at a nursery in BC need to be licensed under
duty free under the North American Free Trade
the International Registration Plan or the Canadian
Agreement, it may be more cost effective to make
Agreement on Vehicle Registration. If their vehicle
consumption entry if the US Customs will permit.
is not licensed, the importer will need to get a non-
Informal Entry applies to most shipments of resident commercial permit. Permits may be
products with a value equal to or less than $2,000 obtained from any weigh scale station, appointed
(Canadian). Informal entries do not require agent, or government agent. The cost of the permit
exporting forms, which is where most problems will be based on the gross vehicle weight and the
arise when exporting product. The shipment will duration of the permit (e.g. single trip or quarterly).
require a phytosanitary certificate, an invoice, and a
There are additional requirements, including the
CITES permit if there are any endangered plant
vehicle’s insurance must be on file with the
species in the shipment. Contact a Customs Broker
Insurance Corporation of BC (ICBC), and they must
to determine whether or not the product qualifies
either be a member of the International Fuel Tax
for informal entry.
Agreement or have a Temporary Motive Fuel User
Emblem. The temporary emblem can be purchased
at provincial weigh scales.
More information on these requirements is
available from ICBC or you can contact the Pacific
Weigh Station (604 538-1121; 800 559-9688), which
is located three blocks north of the Pacific border
crossing.
Canadian Nursery Certification Program (CNCP)

Background and Scope Participating producers are required to define in a
CNCP Manual the procedures undertaken in the
Export certification of nursery plant material is a nursery to meet the quarantine standard D-04-01
quarantine requirement of importing countries. on the CFIA website.
The Phytosanitary Certificate, verifying pest
The methods must assure the following: the
freedom is normally issued following pre shipment
preclusion of specified pests; suggest the means by
sampling and inspection. The Canadian Plant
which the responsible parties within the nursery
Protection Act provides the authority for the CFIA
will inspect and verify that the products are free of
to conduct inspections and issue Phytosanitary
pests; and a system by which records attesting to
Certificates.
these processes are retained. The Agency will
However, with greater calls for increased confirm compliance of the standard through
efficiencies and a demand by clients to reduce the regular audits of the nursery’s production
costs associated with export certification, the practices.
Agency has developed a collaborative program
with nursery partners. Following the guidelines of
the ISO 9000 series (International Standards
Responsibilities of a Canadian
Organization), the program certifies qualifying Certified Nursery
nurseries consistently producing products free of
The producer must ensure that all plants and plant
quarantine pests and substantially free of all other
material, within the establishment and those
injurious pests (the quarantine standard).
destined for export, are free of quarantine pests and
substantially free of all other injurious pests.

The producer must employ a group of individuals The Certification Manager or the Crop Protection
that includes a Certification Manager and a Crop Manager(s) must verify that export material meets
Protection Manager. the import requirements of the US (including
freedom from specific state quarantines).
The Certification Manager will be a member of the
facility’s management team, and must have a Plant material entering the establishment must be
thorough understanding of the CNCP and of the verified free of pests and diseases.
systems approach to mitigating pest risk. The Crop
The CNCP facilities will generate CNCP
Protection Manager, whose education and training
Phytosanitary Certification Labels on site to include
as established by the CFIA, assure(s) a minimum of
with their export documentation for the US border.
knowledge of pest management, quarantine
Copies of the Phytosanitary certificate labels must
principles and regulatory requirements.
be retained. Ability to trace the label to all
The Crop Protection Manager(s) must conduct inspection, treatment and origin information is
routine inspections of plant material within the required.
establishment and of plant material being exported
The Certification Manager must agree to inform the
to the US. Results of the inspection and any
Agency of any information regarding the presence
treatments conducted to eliminate pests must be
of a quarantine pest found in the establishment, or
recorded and retained.
on products entering the establishment or in transit
The Certification Manager must develop, to the to or at a sale destination.
satisfaction of the Agency, a CNCP Manual that
outlines the production practices used by the
nursery to preclude pests. The CNCP Manual has
Responsibilities of the CFIA
two key components: the CNCP Manual and a under the Canadian Nursery
description of the Phytosanitary Management
System, which must include procedures for
Certification Program
sourcing plant material, maintaining product The Agency evaluates the Phytosanitary
identity, shipping certified material, controlling Management System and the Pest Management
non-conforming product, conducting internal Plan detailed in the CNCP manual. The
audits, generating corrective action requests, qualifications of the Certification Manager and the
improving and maintaining the Phytosanitary Crop Protection Manager are evaluated according
Management System. The CNCP Manual must also to the Canadian Nursery Certification Program
have a Pest Management Plan, which is a written standard.
description of procedures or processes designed to
CFIA staff conducts audits to confirm adherence to
eradicate, control or suppress pest populations to a
the Phytosanitary Management System and Pest
level that meets the phytosanitary standard.
Management Plan, origin requirements and record
Records attesting to the product identity and trace
maintenance as outlined in the CNCP manual.
back and trace forward of certified plant material
must be retained for seven (7) years. Other records The Agency provides the results of audits to the
that are required by the CNCP must be maintained Certification Manager and the Crop Protection
for a minimum of three (3) years. Manager.
To Participate
Copies of the CNCP directive D-04-01 can be obtained online. Questions about the program can be directed to
the following people from CFIA.
Kara Soares Rob Ormrod
Program Officer, Plant Health Horticulture Program Specialist
Surrey District Office Western Area Plant Products Program Network
17735 1st Ave, Suite 175 1905 Kent Road
Surrey, BC V3S 9S1 Kelowna, BC V1W 4B5
Phone: 604 541-3366 Phone: 250 470-4893
Fax: 604 541-3375 Fax: 250 470-4899
Email: kara.soares@inspection.gc.ca Email: rob.ormrod@inspection.gc.ca

Field Culture 3
(updated July 2013)
This chapter covers the basic principles of soil, water and nutrient management in field nursery production.
Some information is relevant to both field culture and container culture. However, it will only be covered in
this chapter, and will be referenced to in Chapter 4, Container Culture.
Site Selection depth will vary based on the nutrient to be

analyzed. Soil samples for phosphorus and
When starting an operation to produce field-grown potassium analyses are best taken to a depth of 15
nursery stock, knowledge of the soils and site cm while soil for nitrate-nitrogen analysis are
conditions is essential to success. The location and typically sampled to a depth of 30 cm. All soil
layout of the operation can also greatly influence samples can be collected using a soil probe or
profit and even survival. Land suitable for nursery spade, from at least 25 locations per hectare. The 25
stock production should be devoid of low frost soil samples should be mixed thoroughly in a clean
pockets and stones, and should have a layer of container and a cupful selected for analysis. Areas
loam topsoil at least 60 cm deep. Slightly sloping of different soil types, or areas of poor drainage,
land is best. Clay loam is required for the should be sampled separately. More detailed
production of balled stock and a sandy loam is best information is available in the Soil Sampling for
for the production of bareroot stock. The optimum Nutrient Management factsheet. Information on
soil pH for most woody plants is between 5.0 and 7.2. private soil testing laboratories is available in the
Sites with soils that have good structure, porosity and Nutrient Testing Laboratories factsheet and from any
pH within or close to the above range are best. office of the British Columbia Ministry of
Agriculture. State the crop to be grown on the
request form, so that appropriate recommendations
can be made.
Again, nursery stock grows best in a pH range of
5.0-7.2 because most nutrients held in the soil are
available in that range. On the Coast, most soils
tend to be acid and require lime. Soil pH is neutral
or slightly alkaline in the Interior and quite varied
on Vancouver Island. Ground limestone (calcium
carbonate) is the most common form of lime used
to adjust soil pH. It supplies calcium to the soil and
raises soil pH. Dolomitic limestone provides both
calcium and magnesium and also raises the pH.
Figure 3.1. Field-grown shade trees. Agricultural sulphur is used to lower the pH, but is
For established nurseries it is difficult to change the generally not very effective.
physical nature of the soil. The only tool available is Weeds can damage or make a crop unmarketable.
appropriate management. The following sections It is recommended to control perennial weeds, such
cover basic management options for both new and as bindweed and field horsetail, before planting.
established operations. Apply a systemic, broad-spectrum herbicide to kill
existing perennial weeds at least three weeks before
turning sod in preparation for planting. The soil
Soil Preparation should be ploughed, then disced and power
In October of the year proceeding spring planting, harrowed to produce a weed-free surface for
soil samples for nutrient and nematode analysis planting. Lime and all required nutrients except
should be taken. A soil analysis is the only accurate nitrogen should be incorporated in the top 20 cm of
guide for fertilizer and lime requirements to correct soil during the latter operation to ensure even
low pH and nutrient deficiencies. Soil sampling distribution.
Nursery Production Guide Field Culture • 1

Animal manure can also be incorporated at this Spring planting is preferable to fall, as plants not
time. The addition of manure will improve water- established in their new location before winter are
holding capacity in sandy loam, improve the subject to frost heaving and winter kill. Avoid
structure of a clay loam (workability) and add planting during warm, dry periods. Keep root
nutrients to all soils. The organic matter content of systems moist before planting. Bareroot material
the soil should be at least 3-5% (reported in soil can be dipped in a pail of water before planting,
test). Manures continue to supply some plant food but do not let the plants stand in water.
in subsequent years. The amount of chemical
Loosen the root ball of container-grown liners at
fertilizer used may be reduced according to the
planting, so that the roots will penetrate the
amount and type of manure applied. (More
surrounding soil readily. An alternative approach
information on the amount and timing of manure
is to shave 2.5 cm of soil from the sides and bottom
and nutrient applications to prevent nutrient
of the root ball. Shaving the root ball reduces the
leaching and runoff is available in the Reference
occurrence of root defects post-planting, which can
Guide: Canada-BC Environmental Farm Plan Program
be a problem with pot-bound transplants. Place the
and the Nutrient Management Reference Guide).
root system in the hole or trench and cover to the
same depth at which the plant was grown
Planting previously. Irrigate immediately after planting.
Planting blocks should be laid out in an orderly

fashion. Long, straight rows increase maintenance Root Pruning
efficiency. Different cultivars of the same species
The root system should be pruned of plants that are
should be planted in different rows, or
left in the same spot in the field for more than 2
identification stakes should be placed in partial
years. Pruning produces a more fibrous root system
rows. Skipping a row every 20 or so will provide
and ensures that a larger portion of the root system
access for larger equipment.
is taken with the plant when it is dug. Small
Spacing within the planting block is important for production areas can be done by hand with a long
adequate air circulation and light penetration to the spade. Half of the roots should be cut just inside of
base of the plant throughout the production cycle. the point where the roots will be cut when dug.
Spacing between rows is determined by the size of This will depend on the ultimate size of the plant
the equipment to be used in the field (up to 2.0 m). when sale is expected. Root pruning should be
The species grown, the growth habit and the size at done in the early fall preferably 2 years before sale.
which it will be sold will determine the spacing This is essential for plants grown from rooted
between plants within a row. Bareroot deciduous cuttings or small plugs but is not so important for
shrubs and trees are planted 23-46 cm apart within plants grown from one gallon or larger containers.
the row, and balled conifers are planted 76-120 cm Irrigate immediately after root pruning to prevent
apart and caliper shade trees are planted 1.5 m or water stress.
more apart. The number of trees planted per
hectare at different spacing is presented in Table
3.1. Digging
Table 3.1. Number of trees planted per acre at Plants are dug for sale either in early spring or after
different spacing. the fall rains start at the Coast. Conifers and
Trees per Acre broadleaf evergreens are dug, and balled and
Tree Spacing (in feet)
burlapped, which means that a quantity of soil is
1x4 10,890
left around the roots and is secured with burlap
3x4 3,630 and twine. It is extremely important to not disturb
3x6 2,420 the root system within the ball of soil. A broken ball
3x8 1,815 usually results in a poor or unsuccessful transplant.
5x6 1,452 The size of the ball is related to the size of the plant.
Guidelines are available in the BC Landscape
5x8 1,089
Standard, which is co-published by the BC
6x6 1,210 Landscape & Nursery Association and the BC
6x8 908 Society of Landscape Architects.
2 • Field Culture Nursery Production Guide

In order to conserve topsoil on the site, efforts Soil management problems are generally related to
should be made to replace soil removed in the root soil texture, soil structure, drainage and erosion.
ball by the addition of amendments (e.g. compost)
or the use of cover crops. When possible, reduce
the size of the root ball to conserve soil. Soil Texture
Deciduous trees and shrubs are dug in the fall if The mineral components in soil are simply small
storage is available. Bareroot plants are stored at 2- fragments of rock or mineral materials derived
4oC and 98% relative humidity. On the Coast, it is from rock that were altered by water and chemical
possible to overwinter some material in a deep bed reactions in the soil. Soil particles are grouped into
of sawdust. Rodents must be controlled since they four particle sizes: gravel, sand, silt and clay. In
will eat the bark on trees in storage. Dormant describing soil, “texture” refers to the relative
plants dug bareroot must be graded to conform to percentages of sand, silt and clay sized particles in
size standards and bundled. Steps must be taken to the soil material. Soil texture is a permanent
prevent the root system from drying out. Heeling characteristic. Texture will not change unless a
in sawdust or holding in a humidified storage area large quantity of soil material of another texture is
will minimize desiccation. added to it, such as might occur during land
clearing or very deep plowing into subsoil of a
different texture.
Soil Management Problems related to soil texture are common. Stony
Good soil management begins before planting. soils may reduce the suitability for growing balled
Assess the soil conditions of each field and nursery stock. Stones can interfere with tillage and
understand the potential problems as a first step to digging operations, and will reduce the overall
planting a crop. Land may be inadequately nutrient and water storage capacity when they
cover greater than 50% of the surface area or make
drained, have shallow topsoil, have impermeable
up more than 75% of the soil volume. Fine-textured
subsoil or be too steeply sloped for successful
soils (silts and clays) are often subject to
cropping.
compaction or drainage issues.
Use the following resources to help identify
potential problems:
 soil survey reports and maps (some are Soil Structure
available online;
In soil, individual sand, silt and clay particles
 Ministry of Agriculture publications: Soil
become more closely packed and bonded together
Management Handbook for the Lower Fraser Valley
to form larger particles called aggregates. “Soil
and Soil Management Handbook for the Okanagan
structure” refers to the type and arrangement of
and Similkameen Valleys;
aggregates found in soils. Aggregates occur in
 specific sections in this guide; and
almost all soils, but their strengths, sizes and
 professional soil management consultants. shapes vary considerably among soil types. Some
The handbooks discuss general soil management of these aggregates are in stable forms that are not
topics including: identification of soil texture and easily broken down by water or physical forces. In
structure, tillage methods, recognition and reversal addition to the soil texture, the organic matter
of soil compaction, and issues related to soil content can play a significant role in the
conservation practices. Recommendations in all development of good soil structure.
manuals, including this production guide, are
The formation of soil structure results from many
general guidelines only. Qualified soil management
different processes, including the growth of plant
consultants are available on a fee-for-service basis
roots, activities of soil organisms, wetting and
to give recommendations specific to each farm.
drying, freezing and thawing, and tillage. Plant
Growers planning to plant a new parcel of land
roots excrete sugars and resins that bind aggregates
should consult with a professional for
or create pores in the soil when they die. Soil
recommendations on soil suitability and
organisms also bind aggregates with “glues” or, as
management. Management includes advice on
in the case of earthworms, create channels that
nutrient management, irrigation and drainage.
improve drainage and aeration.

Soil structure also affects the internal drainage of to bare land due to the potential to leach and/or
the soil, water holding capacity, temperature and volatilize. Based on soil test results, a light manure
the growth of plant roots. In soils under cultivation, application may be applied in late summer if it is
most aggregates at the surface tend to break down followed (after approximately 1 week) by seeding a
under the forces of rainfall, irrigation, tillage and winter cover crop, which will act to ‘catch’ the
traffic. When soils are left exposed to rainfall or are nutrients. When manure is used, fertilization rates
excessively cultivated under less than ideal should be reduced. For more information on manure
moisture conditions, the result is the degradation of application rates and considerations, contact your local
soil structure. Structure degradation leads to Ministry of Agriculture office.
crusting or puddling of the soil surface, or
Compost applications are another option that adds
compaction deeper within or below the root zone.
humus to the soil with the advantage of not tying up
This can lead to poor crop growth, poor drainage
nutrients. Non-composted materials should not be
and soil erosion.
used, as they will cause nutrient tie-ups (e.g. nitrogen).
In order to avoid this, urea or an ammonium salt
Maintaining Soil Structure should be added at the same time at a rate of 20-40
kg/ha. Woodwaste should only be applied in the top
Soil structure is the most important soil 10 cm of the soil.
characteristic to consider when managing soils as it
is most affected by farming practices. It also is one Appropriate and Timely Tillage: When a tillage
of the most important factors in crop growth, along operation is carried out, ask the following
with water and nutrients. The main objective in soil questions:
management is to promote and maintain good soil 1. What is the purpose of the tillage operation?
structure that will be favorable to crop growth.
2. Is the timing of the tillage operation best for the
Soil structure degradation can be reversed by soil moisture and weather conditions?
carefully using these cultural practices:
3. Is the tillage implement the best for the
 add organic matter from manure or compost; intended purpose?
 use appropriate and timely tillage; Tillage is used to:
 protect the soil surface by using cover crops;  prepare a suitable planting bed;
and
 bury or incorporate crop residues, fertilizers,
 encourage beneficial soil fauna such as lime, manure or other soil amendments;
earthworms.
 kill weeds; and
Adding Organic Matter: Managing soil organic
matter is integral to sound soil management and is a  form raised planting beds.
key to long-term productive field operations, There are two groups of tillage implements.
particularly where significant quantities of topsoil are Primary tillage implements such as plows, discs,
removed over time. Organic matter confers structure subsoilers and rotary spaders are used to break soil,
to soil, increases water holding capacity and is a major reverse compaction and incorporate residues.
source of phosphorus, sulphur and the primary source Secondary tillage implements such as cultivators,
of nitrogen. Numerous, readily available soil harrows and rotovators are used to prepare
amendments can be applied to the land. Use of planting beds and incorporate soil amendments.
amendments can increase the level of organic Secondary implements can have a large impact on
matter in the soil. However, the nutrient content of soil structure by breaking soil aggregates.
these materials must be considered before use.
Added nutrients from manure or compost must The effects of tillage vary with soil type. Medium to
match the crop’s nutritional requirements. fine textured soils are the most susceptible to
structural damage. Attention should be paid to the
Rates and times of manure application must be moisture content of such soils prior to plowing,
considered, as well as the nutrient requirement of the discing and cultivating. Repeated plowing to the same
nursery crop, the soil characteristics (e.g. drainage and depth may form a compacted layer that can impede
slope of land) and the presence of surface and ground water and root penetration. Many nursery operators
waters. Manure should, in most cases, not be applied rely on the conventional rototiller for tillage, residue

incorporation and/or for weed control between the winter. Bare or compacted soils are at the
nursery rows. Too much cultivation with greatest risk of soil erosion losses under winter
rototiller/rotovators will pulverize the soil and rains. In interior regions, fine textured soils are
compact the subsoil over time. Avoid slow tractor susceptible to water erosion during peak run off
speeds that result in excessive pulverizing of the soil. events from storms, snow melt or poor irrigation
An alternative tillage implement that is not as practices. Water erosion damage is most severe on
deleterious to soil structure is the spading machine. long (over 100 meters) or steep slopes (over 5 to
10%) where the crop rows run up and down the
Using Cover Crops: Cover crops have many
slope or where cropping practices leave the soil
benefits in addition to improving soil structure.
surface exposed to rainfall impact. It can also occur
Refer to the section on Cover Crops on page 6.
on sites where soil becomes saturated. Valuable
Encourage Beneficial Soil Insects: There are many topsoil is washed away from the upper slopes and
soil insects and other fauna that can assist in can bury plants on the lower slopes. Evidence
maintenance and improvement of soil structure. collected from field sites in the Lower Fraser Valley
Worms can create drainage passages that move indicates that when crops are planted up and down
water and air through the soil. Bacteria, fungi and slopes, soil losses may exceed 10 tonnes per hectare
worms can improve soil fertility and nutrient per year. In long duration rainfall events, as much
availability. The quantity of beneficial fauna in the as 55% of the rain runs off the field.
in the soil can be increased by the addition of
Wind erosion is most serious on light, sandy soils
organic matter (manure/compost), use of cover
that are left bare over the winter. Wind erosion has
crops and crop rotations. Reduced tillage can
been a serious problem on the Sumas Prairie
maintain or improve worm populations and benefit
during winter outflow wind conditions. Wind
the survival of mycorrhizae colonies that provide
erosion can occur on most soils if the surface soil
nutrients such as phosphorous to plants.
layer is dry, unprotected and has poor structure.
Drainage Erosion Control

Most nursery crops require moderately to well-
Where possible, use the following practices to
drained soils with at least 0.5 m unrestricted
minimize the loss of soil by water or wind erosion.
rooting depth for successful cropping. Many
Although any of the listed practices will help
lowland soils in BC have poor natural drainage
control erosion, the best control is achieved by
with a high water table during the fall, winter and
using as many of the practices together that are
spring. These soils often need a subsurface and
appropriate.
regional drainage system to remove excess water
from the rooting zone for crop production. Water erosion:
Soil in upland areas may have a hardpan within 0.5  drainage systems (refer to the section on Water
m of the surface. In most cases, this hardpan will Management);
not allow the soils to drain during the fall, winter
 contour planting (across the slope);
and spring. Such soils require a subsurface
drainage system to remove excess water from the  winter cover cropping; and
rooting zone. Hardpan soils may also require deep
 permanent cover cropping on field roads, field
tillage with a subsoiling implement.
margins and water runs.
Refer to the Water Management section in this
Wind erosion (these slow the wind speed at the
chapter for more information on drainage.
crop or soil surface):
 windbreaks (e.g. tree rows, snow fences or
Erosion hedges);
Topsoil is valuable and very difficult to replace.  crop residue (should be anchored to the soil);
Sediments entering watercourses can cause and
negative impacts to fish and to drainage systems.
 cover cropping.
In the coastal region, all soils are susceptible to
water erosion when cultivated and left bare over

Cover Crops the planting date and subsequent management.
Spring cereals sown in late summer or early fall
Cover crops are grown to protect against soil will usually provide good early growth and soil
erosion, to improve soil structure and fertility, to cover. They are often winter-killed, leaving a
suppress some insect pests and weeds, and to protective mat on the soil. Spring cereals
promote some beneficial insects. They are not breakdown early in the spring and will tend to
usually grown for harvest or forage. They are release any trapped nitrogen at a time when it can
planted when portions of the field, or the entire be used by the subsequent crop.
field, are left bare. Cover crops are also called green
manure, living or dead mulches, plow down, Winter cereals will usually grow slowly over the
companion, relay, double or catch crops depending winter, producing the majority of their growth in
on their specific use. Cover crops are known to the spring. These crops tend to be more resistant to
reduce water erosion by over 50% in the South damage from waterfowl grazing than either spring
Coastal area. cereals or any of the legumes or brassicas.
Overwintering cereals may require a change in
Before planting a cover crop, it is important to nitrogen management practices as they tend to
know the soil problem that needs to be addressed. release any trapped nitrogen late in the summer.
For example, cover crops will not prevent flooding Winter cereals require a spring management
but can improve the movement of rain water into program, which may include additional discing or
the soil and to the drains. In addition, planning mowing to chop the crop and make it easier to
future crop rotations will assist in choosing the incorporate.
correct cover crop. Some cover crops can harbour
beneficial insects such as ladybird beetles or Legume crops, such as hairy vetch or crimson
ground beetles. Other cover crops may act as a clover, can be used if early planting dates are
green bridge for harmful insects or diseases. The available. These legume crops are normally grown
risk of pest transmission can be limited by choosing in a mix with a cereal crop to provide some
the correct cover crop to fit the desired crop protection from waterfowl. Hairy vetch is the most
rotation. This will allow the grower to reap the soil reliable. Both crops will provide nitrogen to the
conservation benefit of the cover crop. subsequent spring crop after they are tilled under
in the spring. Hairy vetch exhibits ‘hard
seededness’ and may volunteer in subsequent crop
Choosing a Cover Crop years. Winter peas may also be used.
Once the purpose of sowing a cover crop is
established, important factors to be considered are
Table 3.2. Recommended seeding rate and planting dates for various cover crops.
Types Seeding Rate Recommended Seeding Dates

Spring cereals (barley or oats) 80 - 150 kg/ha  before September 10
(30 - 60 kg/acre)
Winter cereals (winter wheat or fall 80 - 150 kg/ha  after August 15 and before September 30
rye) (30 - 60 kg/acre)  fall rye better for late seeding
Winter legumes (hairy vetch or 15 - 30 kg/ha  before September 15

winter pea) (6 - 12 kg/acre)  best seeded in a mix with winter cereals
Legumes (crimson clover) 10 - 20 kg/ha  September 10 (later plantings will fail)
(4 - 8 kg/acre)  need drained conditions
Brassicas (forage rape or kale) 10 - 15 kg/ha  after August 15 and before September 30
(4 – 6 kg/acre)
Annual grasses (annual ryegrass) 20 - 40 kg/ha  up to September 15
(8 – 16 kg/acre)  can be seeded as in season cover
Grass mixes (containing creeping red 20 - 40 kg/ha  generally recommended for spring seeding or
fescue, Sheep’s fescue, hard fescue or (8 – 16 kg/acre) when soil moisture is available in late summer
perennial ryegrass)

Brassica crops, such as forage rape or kale, are salts. Drainage systems give the following
excellent at tying up soil nitrogen. benefits:
Mixes of grasses are recommended for permanent  increased trafficability,
covers along field margins, ditch banks or  extended crop season,
roadways.
 increased crop yields due to improved
Some specific varieties of cover crops have been nutrient uptake,
reported to suppress pests or increase the  improved aeration of the root zone,
population of beneficial insects. Others may be
useful for specialized conditions or specific soil  warmer soil temperatures,
management concerns. Table 3.2 lists the best  crop protection from “drown-out” and certain
types, seeding rates and planting dates for cover seedling and root diseases,
crops used in nursery crop production.  control of water erosion, and
Spring Management of Cover Crops  increased land values.
For spring cereal crops, crop residues can be Drainage systems usually have a surface and a
disced, or disced and plowed, depending on the subsurface component. Both must be well
amount of residue. Chop heavy residues first to planned, installed and maintained to be effective.
prevent the formation of a mat of under- Subsurface drainage with a functioning outlet is
decomposed residue. the best way to control water on most soils.
Lightweight, continuous, flexible, perforated
Winter cereal crops or cover crops that survive the plastic drainpipe is used. On sloping land, porous
winter should be mowed or killed with a broad surface or blind inlets may be needed to lead
spectrum herbicide before plowing down. If large water to the subsurface drains in order to reduce
amounts of plant material are to be turned under, overland flow and erosion. On sandy soils,
apply a light application of manure or 20-30 kg/ha geotextile filters are needed around the perforated
of fertilizer nitrogen to speed decomposition. pipe to prevent sand from clogging the drain tube.
Chop and incorporate the crop residue with a disc Filters should not be used on organic soils.
prior to plowing. Rotovating or plowing alone is
not recommended. Plastic drain pipe is quickly installed by drainage
contractors using specialized equipment.
Installation depth and spacing differs with fields
Water Management and is mainly based on the climatic conditions and
soil type. Pumps are sometimes needed in low-
Water management is an essential part of nursery
lying areas that lack gravity outlets.
production. Plant growth and yield can potentially
be optimum when a reasonable measure of water Drainage systems must be maintained. This
control is achieved in the soil. Too little or too includes periodic cleaning of drainpipes, outlets
much water can result in crop losses as natural and ditches, and careful in-field soil management.
conditions rarely satisfy crop needs. In some cases, Soil conservation and best management practices
water is also required for pest control or nutrient should be followed to reduce the need for ditch
application. Water quality must be considered cleaning and to avoid damage to soil tilth.
because unsuitable water can impact nursery crop Agricultural ditches are often connected to
growth and quality. channels and streams that contain fish and have
good fish habitat. Producers must follow the
Drainage Management Guide that was prepared by
Drainage the Partnership Committee on Agriculture and the
Removing excess water in spring, fall and winter Environment, when conducting channel
is usually necessary in South Coastal BC and, to a maintenance.
lesser degree, in some Interior areas. In the The BC Agricultural Drainage Manual, and Ministry
Interior, drainage is frequently required for of Agriculture factsheets provide more
reclamation and control of soil salinity and information and details on installing a subsurface
alkalinity. Many coastal floodplain areas can also drainage system.
benefit from drainage to reduce or remove saline

Irrigation fertilizers or other chemicals into an irrigation
system, proper safety procedures must be
In almost all parts of the province, the natural followed. The booklet Chemigation Guidelines for
rainfall is not sufficient for at least part of the British Columbia provides information on injection
growing season to replace water lost from the soil rate calculations and safety considerations.
due to evaporation or crop usage. At these times,
irrigation can result in higher yields and, in some
cases, prevent crop failure. Irrigation is especially Water Quality for Irrigation
necessary in new plantings where plants have Irrigation water comes from surface or
small and shallow root systems. groundwater sources. In many areas, ditch water
Irrigation systems include drainage systems used is used for irrigation. Ditch water may contain
for subirrigation, trickle and drip and various high levels of micro-organisms, salts, metals or
forms of sprinkler irrigation. All have their own organic compounds that can affect crop
merits. The systems must be properly designed, performance or quality. Some groundwater
installed and maintained to be effective. Efficient sources may also contain high levels of ions or
delivery and distribution systems conserve water nutrients that may impact crop performance.
and save on power and fertilizers. Applying too Water quality should be checked at a laboratory
much water or having leaky pipes may lead to soil before planting a crop. If the crop is established,
erosion, reduced production and higher operating check the water before applying to the crop. The
costs. Over-application of water will also result in Nutrient Testing Laboratories factsheet provides
leaching of nutrients such as nitrogen and boron. information on labs that conduct soil, plant tissue
Check and repair or replace pipes, pumps and and water tests. Water tests should assess salt
sprinklers on a regular basis. The Irrigation levels (both electrical conductivity and sodium
Industry Association of BC (IIABC) certifies adsorption ratio), pH, metals, nutrients, possible
irrigation system designers and companies that toxic elements and coliforms (see Table 3.3). Also
can provide efficient plans and products to check the levels of bicarbonate (HCO3), calcium
growers. The Association can be contacted at 604 and magnesium. High levels will cause
859-8222 or by email at iiabc@irrigationbc.com. precipitates to form on the crop or possibly plug a
A water license is required to use irrigation water drip irrigation system. The BC Sprinkler Irrigation
from surface water sources. Licenses can be Manual and the BC Trickle Irrigation Manual
obtained from the BC Ministry of Environment. provide further information on irrigation water
Groundwater is not licensed at the present time. quality guidelines. Table 4.9 shows the acceptable
For more information on irrigation system design, levels of specific elements in irrigation water.
operation and maintenance, refer to Ministry of The presence of plant-available nutrients in the
Agriculture factsheets or to the BC Trickle Irrigation greenhouse water supply does not usually present a
or Sprinkler Irrigation manuals that are available problem, unless they exceed the amounts normally
from the IIABC. For information on irrigation fed to plants. However, they must be taken into
system assessments, irrigation scheduling, water account when formulating nutrient solutions. Certain
and energy conservation, and other beneficial fertilizer materials, such as phosphoric acid, will react
management practices, refer to the BC Irrigation at high concentrations with dissolved calcium, iron
Management Guide that is available from the IIABC. and magnesium to form insoluble precipitates that
may clog drippers. The risk of precipitates forming is
high for water that contains greater than 50 mg/L of
Chemigation calcium and magnesium, or greater than 1.5 mg/L of
Chemigation refers to the injection and application iron. Water supplies high in calcium and magnesium
of pesticides or fertilizers (fertigation) through an may not be suited for use in mist systems due to the
irrigation system. Growers who have solid set accumulation of unsightly mineral residues on plant
sprinkler or trickle irrigation systems may use surfaces.
chemigation as a method of applying nutrients.
More information on greenhouse water quality is
However, pesticides must be registered for
provided in the factsheet Irrigation Water Quality for
application through an irrigation system. Check
British Columbia Greenhouses available from the
the label to make sure this method can be used to
Ministry of Agriculture.
apply a specific pesticide. Prior to injecting

Table 3.3. Water quality evaluation characteristics.
Characteristic Level that indicates contaminated Concern

water
Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) > 40 for small streams or Danger to fish stocks
> 60 for larger streams
Total Iron (Fe) > 3 mg/L Crop staining
Nitrate (NO3-N) > 5 mg/L Danger to human health
Total Suspended Solids (TSS) > 75 mg/L Danger to fish stocks
Ammonia (NH4-N) > 10 – 15 mg/L Danger to fish stocks
(depends on pH and temperature)
Fecal Coliform a) > 100 CFU/100 mL a) Reduced crop quality
b) > 0 CFU/100 mL b) Danger to human health
(CFU = colony forming units)
Tannin and Lignin (resin acids) > 9 μg/L TRA or Danger to fish stocks
> 80 μg/L DHA Crop staining
(TRA = total resin acids)
(DHA = dehydroabietic acid)
Protecting Water Quality Nutrient Management

Waste products generated during the planting,
maintenance and harvesting of nursery crops may Soil Testing
have negative impacts on water (see Table 3.3).
Growers who operate at the highest environmental A soil analysis is the most accurate guide to
standards will be better able to protect themselves fertilizer and lime requirements. It is especially
from possible challenges to their operations. Proper important before planting to determine soil fertility
use and storage of pesticides, fertilizers, manure and pH levels. The necessary lime and fertilizer can
and woodwaste will help to protect water quality. then be added when the field is prepared. Soil
Growers are reminded to use best soil management testing and tissue testing are useful tools for
practices in the field and appropriate waste determining fertilizer requirements in established
handling techniques during on-farm washing and crops. However, sampling must be done accurately
grading activities. Follow the recommendations in and carefully so the samples are representative of
this guide and also refer to the Reference Guide: soil and crop conditions. Refer to the BC Ministry
Canada-BC Environmental Farm Plan Program. of Agriculture document, Soil Sampling for Nutrient
Growers are encouraged to take advantage of the Management for more information on collecting and
Canada-BC Environmental Farm Plan Program. handling a soil sample.
Farmers participating in the program will gain The basic steps for soil sampling are:
more detailed information on a range of
environmental issues including water  Use the same sampling method and pattern
management. For more information, see the section every year.
on Environmental Farm Plans at the end of this  Use clean tools (e.g. garden trowel) to collect
chapter. the sample.
 Use a clean pail (e.g. ice-cream bucket) to hold
all samples for one combined analysis.
 Wear disposable gloves when sampling for
micronutrients.
 Record relevant information about the location
and type of sample.

Table 3.4. Suggested standards of soil fertility for growing woody plants in field production nurseries.
Available (kg/ha)a Exchangeable (mEq/100 g)b
Group CEC c P K Ca Mg
Silt loam to loam 12-16 39-79 169-225 5-10 2
Sandy loam 5-10 28-39 113-169 2.5-4.0 1
Loamy sand to sand 2-4 17-28 68-113 1.5-2.0 0.5
a P X 2.3 = P2O5; K X 1.2 = K2O.
b 1 mEq/100 g Ca = 450 kg/ha; 1 mEq/100 g Mg = 270 kg/ha.
c CEC = cation exchange capacity, which is a measure of the soils ability to hold certain nutrients.
Adapted from: Davidson, Mecklenburg and Peterson (1988)
 Mark the locations on a field map where Samples may be taken at other times of the year, if
samples are to be collected. Avoid non-uniform nutrient deficiency symptoms appear.
areas.
Tissue analysis is a method to determine nutrient
 Take 10 to 20 individual samples to a depth of imbalances within a plant. Based on the results,
15 cm (6 in) for most nutrients. Sample to 30 cm corrective actions can be implemented. If nutrient
(12 in) when sampling for nitrate-nitrogen in deficiencies are experienced, foliar feeding can be
the fall for ‘report card’ testing. Try to collect a an effective, short-term solution for micronutrient
uniform sample width through the entire 1-15 deficiencies. Foliar feeding is not effective for
cm (or 30 cm) profile. Purposefully designed macronutrient deficiencies, since the amount of
soil samplers remove a core about 2.5 cm (1 in) fertilizer required to correct macronutrient
wide. deficiencies is more than can be supplied.
 Thoroughly mix the soil in the collecting pail. Correct sampling is important. Before collecting a
sample, contact the lab for advice on how to collect
 Put about 300 mL (~1 cup) of the mixed soil a good tissue sample. The following is a basic guide
into a clean plastic bag or box. to taking plant tissue samples:
 Store the sample in a cooler until it is taken to  Sample using clean hands or use plastic gloves.
the laboratory.
 Select about 50 fully expanded leaves midway
Several private laboratories conduct soil testing in along the current years shoot growth for
BC. The Ministry’s Nutrient Testing Laboratories deciduous and broadleaf evergreens.
factsheet contains a list of testing laboratories.
 Select about 20 (10 cm long) shoots of current
Where possible, use local laboratories as they have
year growth for conifers. For pines, spruces and
knowledge of local conditions to conduct the
firs remove the needles from the twigs and
appropriate analyses and give correct
submit only the needles for analysis.
recommendations. Use the same laboratory each
year for consistent interpretations and  Sometimes the damaged portion of the leaf is
recommendations. very small, such as with marginal necrosis. If
the entire leaf was analyzed the nutrient
deficiency or toxicity in the leaf margins could
Plant Tissue Testing (Foliar be masked due to nutrient levels in the rest of
the leaf. In such cases, it is recommended to
Analysis) only collect tissue from the damaged portions
Foliar analysis may be the best way to determine if of the leaf.
a crop is experiencing a nutritional problem. It  Collect as little woody material as possible.
measures the nutrient content of plant tissue and, Woody tissue is relatively low in nutrients and
when used to compare "good growth" with "poor therefore will reduce the nutrient levels
growth", can be an excellent diagnostic tool. It can detected in the sample.
be used for both field and container-grown stock.
 Rinse foliage in clean water if it is dirty,
Nutrient levels vary widely with age. The best time otherwise submit as is.
to take tissue samples is in July and August.

 Samples should be kept cool and delivered to Calculation of Fertilizer Rates
the laboratory as soon as possible. If they
cannot be delivered immediately, air-dry the Fertilizers are labelled by percentage according to
samples and ship in paper bags to avoid their guaranteed minimum analysis of nitrogen
spoilage. (N), phosphate (P2O5), potash (K2O), and other
 As mentioned above, it is important to submit nutrients that may be present. Five 20 kg bags (100
samples from healthy and affected plants. kg total) of 12-51-0 contain 12% nitrogen (12 kg N),
51% phosphate (51 kg P2O5), and no potash (0 kg
Table 3.5. Average nutrient contents in leaves of K2O). The rest of the material in the five bags is
healthy and nutrient deficient trees. other elements that are part of the fertilizer
compounds carrying the nitrogen, phosphate, and
Nutrient Healthy Nutrient Deficiency potash. See below for sample fertilizer calculations
Foliage Symptoms
for field crops.
(dry weight) (dry weight)
Nitrogen 1.5 % -
Sample Fertilizer Calculations
Phosphorus 0.12 – 0.15 % < 0.09 – 0.1 %
A. The amount of fertilizer required = (recommended
Potassium
rate X 100) ÷ fertilizer analysis
conifer 0.4 – 1.0 % < 0.2 – 0.4 %
Example:
broadleaf 1.0 – 1.5 % < 0.6 – 1.0 %
Calcium 1.5 % - Recommended rate of potash = 135 kg/ha
Magnesium 0.1 – 0.2 % < 0.08 % Fertilizer analysis = 0-0-60
Sulfur 0.2 % < 0.15 % The amount of fertilizer required = (135 kg/ha X 100) ÷
Boron 15 – 100 µg/g < 15 µg/g 60 = 225 kg of 0-0-60/ha
Copper 5 – 15 µg/g < 4 µg/g
Iron 40 – 100 µg/g 25 – 40 µg/g B. The amount of nutrient applied by a fertilizer =
Manganese 50+ µg/g 5 – 40 (usually < 20) (fertilizer applied X fertilizer analysis) ÷ 100
µg/g Example:
Molybdenum 0.05 – 0.15 µg/g -
Amount of fertilizer applied = 225 kg/ha
Zinc 12 – 80 µg/g 5 – 20 µg/g
Source: Diseases of Trees and Shrubs, 1987. Sinclair, Fertilizer analysis = 13-16-10
Lyon and Johnson. Amount of N supplied = (225 kg/ha X 13) ÷ 100 = 29 kg
N/ha
Record Keeping Amount of P2O5 supplied = (225 kg/ha X 16) ÷ 100 = 36

kg P2O5/ha
For the most effective nutrient management
program, it is essential to keep track of soil and Amount of K2O supplied = (225 kg/ha X 10) ÷ 100 = 22.5
tissue testing results along with all information kg K2O/ha
about the rates, type and timing of fertilizer,
manure or soil amendment applications. Other
observations on crop growth, yield, quality and
weather during the growing season are also useful. Methods of Fertilizer
Use test strips (‘checks’ or ‘control strips’) to test Application
changes in a nutrient management program. Then
Broadcasting and incorporation refers to
the old practice can be compared to the new
practice to see if the crop is affected. This spreading fertilizer on a soil surface before the
crop has been planted, then incorporating the
comparison can only be made when the old and
new practices are evaluated under the same field fertilizer into the soil by tillage. Broadcast
application is not recommended for most field
and management conditions.
stock because fertilizer applied between the
rows is wasted. Fertilizer can also lodge in the
foliage and cause chemical burn. This problem

is particularly common in hedging cedar Table 3.6. Primary nutrients in common fertilizers.
production.
Nitrogen Materials Guaranteed
Top-dressing refers to spreading fertilizer on a Minimum Analysis
field when a crop is growing. It is not
incorporated, but sprinkler irrigation will wash Urea 46-0-0
fertilizer off the leaves and a few centimetres Ammonium Nitrate 34.5-0-0
into the soil. For field stock, fertilizer can be
dropped around each plant by hand. Hand Ammonium Sulphate 21-0-0 + 24S
dropping the fertilizer ensures application to Sulphur Coated Urea 37-0-0 + 15S
the root zone of the plant. The placement
should be 15-30 cm (6-12 in) away from the Calcium Nitrate 15-0-0 + 20Ca
main stem to prevent chemical burn to the Phosphate Materials
bark.
Diammonium Phosphate 18-46-0
Banding refers to the application of fertilizer at the
time of planting in continuous bands that are Ammonium Phosphate 16-20-0 + 14S
2.5 cm or more to the side of the plant and 5 Sulphate
cm or more deep, depending on the crop. Mono Ammonium 12-51-0
Side-dressing refers to the banding of fertilizer Phosphate
after plants are established. Care should be Triple Super Phosphate 0-45-0
taken not to disturb the roots of the plants.
Potash Materials
Deep-banding refers to banding fertilizer at a
depth of 5 cm or more prior to planting. There Muriate of Potash 0-0-60
is scientific evidence indicating that this results Sulphate of Potash 0-0-50 + 17S
in greater fertilizer efficiency than surface
broadcasting for deep-rooted row crops. Sulphate of Potash 0-0-20 + 20S + 10Mg
Magnesia
Fertigation refers to the application of fertilizer in
irrigation water.
Nitrogen (N)
The most common forms of fertilizer nitrogen are
Fertilizer Materials nitrate (NO3), ammonium (NH4) and urea
(CO[NH2]2). All three forms are highly soluble in
Some basic fertilizer materials are listed in Table
water. Urea is converted to the ammonium form by
3.6. These materials are used as the basis for many
enzymes in the soil. Ammonium nitrogen is
custom fertilizer blends. Please see your local
adsorbed (chemically bound) to clay minerals and
fertilizer supplier for the custom blends available.
organic matter and is, therefore, retained by the
soil. Some ammonium and urea nitrogen may be
Nutrient Reactions in Soils converted to ammonia gas that escapes into the
atmosphere. This usually occurs in dry soil with
Nutrients added to the soil may become more or surface-applied fertilizer. Ammonia losses are
less available depending on the type of fertilizer, reduced or eliminated by ensuring that the
the soil moisture, the pH conditions, the nature of fertilizer is well covered with moist soil. Losses are
the soil, the amount of organic matter and rainfall, minimized by banding, immediate incorporation
and the temperature. Some nutrient elements may after broadcasting, irrigation following application
be completely lost while others may be ‘tied-up’. or broadcasting onto moist soil in cool weather.
This section gives information on nutrients from
Slow release forms of fertilizer have the same
conventional fertilizer sources (i.e., not organic
reactions in the soil as non-slow release forms, once
sources such as manure).
the nitrogen is released. The slow release
mechanism, whether it is a capsule like sulphur
coating or a blend like a polymer, is designed to
overcome problems with nitrogen losses and
availability.

Nitrate nitrogen is not held by the soil and can be Potassium (K)
leached by water. Leaching losses of nitrate-
nitrogen are most severe in sandy soils, in areas Potassium fertilizers are all simple potassium salts,
with high rainfall, and under intense irrigation. such as potassium chloride, potassium sulphate,
Some nitrate-nitrogen may be converted to gases potassium-magnesium sulphate or potassium
that escape into the atmosphere. This frequently nitrate. All are readily water-soluble. Potassium is
occurs in wet soils during fall, winter and spring. adsorbed to some extent to organic matter and clay
minerals. However, it is subject to leaching,
Nitrogen should be surface applied in the spring especially in sandy soils. Potassium should be
each year. The actual rate of application varies with applied in split applications over the season. More
the amount available in the soil, the soil potassium will be required in sandy relative to clay
environment, the plant type and size, and the soils.
objective of the grower. A rate of 150 – 200 kg N/ha
is suggested but can be modified with experience.
Higher rates are used in areas of intensive Secondary Nutrients
production, particularly deciduous stock at close
spacing. Lower rates are used on more extensive The level of magnesium (Mg) and sulphur (S) in the
field plantings and slow-growing conifers or first soil may be deficient for good crop growth. Soil
year transplants. The total amount of nitrogen and tissue testing are the only accurate ways to
should be divided into 2-3 applications. Apply the determine if they are lacking. A number of
first and largest installment in early spring, either fertilizers are available that contain sulphur or
before new growth begins or just after planting. magnesium. Calcium (Ca) is rarely deficient in soils
Spread the remaining smaller application(s) over since it is a component of agricultural lime and
the next 3-4 months. Do not apply nitrogen after many common fertilizers.
August 15 on the Coast and July 15 in the Interior,
as induced late growth may suffer winter injury. Micronutrients
Slow release forms of nitrogen fertilizer can be
used. More nitrogen will be required in sandy Micronutrients are required only in very small
relative to clay soils. amounts by plants, yet the quantity of iron (Fe),
manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn) and boron
(B) in the soil can be insufficient for optimum crop
Phosphorus (P) production. It is important to ensure that
All phosphorus fertilizers are phosphate salts. They micronutrient fertilizers are applied at the correct
are water soluble, but tend to form insoluble rate. High levels of micronutrients, especially boron
compounds when incorporated into the soil. Unlike and manganese, are toxic to plants. Soil and/or
nitrogen and potassium, phosphorus does not tissue testing are the only accurate ways to
readily move in the soil. It tends to remain where it determine if these elements are lacking. If they are
is placed. Therefore, it is important to place needed, micronutrients can be added to blended
phosphorus fertilizer in the rooting zone of the fertilizers and applied along with the routine
crop before the crop is established, or to band it fertilizer program. Alternatively, micronutrients
next to the roots in the established crop. An entire can be applied in irrigation water (fertigation) or
year’s phosphorus supply may be applied with one with a crop sprayer (foliar feed). Foliar sprays often
early spring application. Surface application give fast response but they should not be applied at
without incorporation is the least efficient way to higher than recommended concentrations or crop
use phosphorus fertilizer. In some soils, damage may result. Use enough water to wet the
phosphorus becomes “tied-up” if the pH is below foliage and apply under slow drying weather
6.0 or above 7.5. conditions.
Note: In general, very little phosphorous leaches Boron deficiency can cause a wide variety of
from the soil, unless soil phosphate levels are abnormalities in crops. Fertilizers that include
excessively high. Phosphorous can also be lost in boron can be obtained in most areas. Caution: Do
soil sediment during erosion. not exceed the recommended amount of boron per
hectare as it may cause plant injury. If boron-
deficiency symptoms occur during the growing
season, boron can be applied as a foliar spray.

Apply Borospray, Solubor or Borax at
manufacturers’ directions. In the Interior, boron
Soil pH
should be applied in the fall. At the Coast, it should Soil pH refers to the acidity or alkalinity of the soil.
be applied in the spring where a need for it has Soil pH is very important because it affects the
been shown. availability of nutrients to the plant. Most nursery
crops do not respond to fertilization when the pH is
very low (extremely acid soils, pH less than 5.0) or
Nutrient Deficiencies very high (extremely alkaline soils, pH above 7.5).
A nutrient deficiency can cause plant growth to be Calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and
chlorotic (= yellowing), necrotic (= browning) molybdenum are the nutrients that are most likely
abnormal, stunted, cracked, or a combination of to be deficient under acid soil conditions. Test the
these symptoms. Table 3.7 provides a summary of soil to determine pH before planting and every 2-3
the typical symptoms associated with specific years to monitor changes. Soil pH can usually be
nutrient deficiencies. When diagnosing nutritional modified to obtain a suitable pH for good nursery
problems it is important to observe whether the field production.
symptoms occur on new or old leaves. This will
provide evidence to determine whether the Raising Soil pH
deficiency id due to a mobile or non-mobile
nutrient. Mobile nutrients can move from older Soils in South Coastal BC are typically acidic and
tissues to new growth, and therefore deficiency modification of soil pH is not required for most
symptoms will occur first on old growth. In acid-loving nursery crops. Lime application to raise
contrast, non-mobile nutrients will not move from soil pH is usually required, however, for species
old to young growth, and deficiency symptoms that are not acid-loving. When the soil pH is not
develop first on young growth. known, a soil test should be performed.
The nutrient required may be present in the soil but Agricultural grade limestone (calcium carbonate,
unavailable to the plants because of weather or soil CaCO3) is generally recommended to correct soil
conditions. Some nutrients will slow down the acidity. For the Fraser Valley, the general
uptake of other nutrients unless they are present in application rate is 1-2 tonnes/ha/yr (400-800
the correct proportion (Table 4.7 lists nutrient kg/acre) for pH sensitive crops. Rates higher than
deficiencies that can occur when specific nutrients 2-4 tonnes (800-1,600 kg/acre) are not
are available in excess). For example, excess levels recommended due to soil reactivity and the
of potassium or calcium can lead to symptoms of difficulty of incorporation. Lime should not be
magnesium deficiency (e.g. interveinal chlorosis of applied within 1 week of applying nitrogen
older leaves) because they interfere with fertilizer or manure, since the high soil pH that
magnesium uptake by roots. Excess fertilizer may occurs shortly after liming will increase the loss of
also cause leaf “burn” or stunted growth. ammonia.
All nutrients have a pH range at which they are If calcium levels are low, gypsum or fertilizers such
most available to the plants, providing other factors as calcium nitrate may also be used to supply
are favourable. If the soil pH is incorrect, it will calcium, rather than using lime. Gypsum (CaSO4) is
affect nutrient availability. For example, at a high not a liming agent and will not increase soil pH.
soil pH iron is less available and will lead to iron
deficiency.

Table 3.7. Diagnosing plant nutrient deficiency symptoms.
Symptoms Deficient Nutrient
Stunting of Shoot Tips

Young leaves are thick, leathery and chlorotic; stems are brittle; “Witch’s  Boron
broom” appearance; poor flowering
Young leaves chlorotic or distorted (crinkled, strap-like, downward curling  Calcium

of leaf tips); roots may become short, stunted and thick; weakened stems
Wilting and dieback of shoot tips; poor pigmentation  Copper
Interveinal Chlorosis
A. Young leaves
Veins usually remain distinctly green; chlorosis progresses to older leaves;  Iron
leaves may appear white; twig dieback
Gradation of colour from yellow to dark green at the midribs, often not a  Manganese
sharp distinction between yellow and green areas; leaves may develop
brown or purple spots, and become necrotic
Terminal growth stunted, forming a rosette  Zinc
B. Older leaves
Upward curling along leaf margins; mid-rib areas remain green  Magnesium
Overall Leaf Chlorosis

A. Occurs first on young leaves
Associated with leaf wilting  Chlorine
Stunting and lack of vigour; distorted ‘whiptail’ leaves or leaf scorch  Molybdenum
Slow, spindly growth; leaves may turn beige  Sulphur
B. Occurs first on older leaves

Leaves may become necrotic; stunted, slow, spindly growth  Nitrogen
Plants Dark Green With Purple Coloration of Older Leaves

Slow growth; stunted plants; older leaves turn chlorotic, then necrotic  Phosphorus
Necrotic Spots on Margins or Tips of Older Leaves

Weak stems and stalks that fall over easily; slow growth; small flowers  Potassium
Effects of Lime  High rates of lime may help digest organic

matter and release nitrogen for a short period
 Corrects soil acidity. after application.
 May improve the physical condition of the soil.  Above 5 tonnes/ha may tie up some
 Dolomitic limestone is used to provide calcium micronutrients such as boron. Magnesium
and magnesium. deficiencies may be aggravated, especially in
sandy soil. Where this is a problem, some
 Favours bacterial action, thus hastening the dolomitic lime should be used.
decomposition of organic matter and releasing
additional plant foods.  Excessive use of lime may cause nutrient
imbalances, so lime should be used in
 Improves conditions for availability of other conjunction with a planned soil testing and
nutrients, notably phosphorus and some minor fertilizer program.
elements.
 Increases rate of organic matter depletion.
 Reduces the toxicity of some elements such as
manganese and aluminum.

Forms of Lime Used  Gypsum (CaSO4) is not a liming agent. It will
not increase soil pH, and under certain
Calcium oxide: quicklime, caustic lime, burnt lime. conditions it is used to lower pH.
Not recommended for use on agricultural
land.
Calcium hydroxide: hydrate or slaked lime. Should Lowering Soil pH
only be used as a spring application for rapid Sometimes it is advantageous to lower or acidify
results. Excessive rates above 1,100 kg/ha (450 the soil pH. In Interior areas, alkaline mineral soils
kg/acre) may be quite caustic and “burn out” may need to be acidified for nursery crop
organic matter. Only occasional use is production.
recommended on agricultural land.
The principal materials used to lower soil pH are
Ground limestone: calcium carbonate elemental sulphur, sulphuric acid, aluminum
(“agricultural lime”). The most convenient sulphate and iron sulphate (ferrous sulphate).
form to handle. May be applied at any time of Ammonium sulphate, ammonium phosphate and
the year. It dissolves slowly and lasts longer in other ammonium containing fertilizers are also
the soil. (Usually gray lime material, sold in quite effective when the soil receives sufficient
bulk in South Coastal BC.) water, though they are primarily sources of plant
Ground dolomite: calcium-magnesium carbonate. nutrients.
May be substituted for ordinary limestone; For large areas, elemental sulphur is probably the
contains magnesium. most economical product to use. The finer ground
Notes: the sulphur, the more quickly it will react in the soil
to lower the pH. Flower sulphur is very fine
 Fineness of grind is very important. Finer (powder) and reacts relatively quickly. Solid
grinds (100 mesh and above) react in soil much sulphur prills (granules) are less finely ground and
quicker than coarse grinds (10-100 mesh). Very therefore react more slowly and they are more
coarse limestone (less than 10 mesh) is not convenient to apply. Finely ground sulphur is
recommended. Some coarse material is sometimes available in prills that contain a mixture
desirable to facilitate lime handling. of flower sulphur and bentonite clay that improves
Excessively fine material will not flow readily the handling, stability and safety of the material.
and is subject to wind drift during spreading.
Soil test laboratories can, by request, determine
 Lime does not move through the soil – it must total soil acid and calculate the sulphur required to
be incorporated. attain a desired pH. As a general recommendation
apply the equivalent of 2 tonnes/ha (800 kg/acre)
in a band where the planting beds will be formed.
Table 3.8. Soil conductivity readings (derived from field soil samples using a 2:1 water and soil paste
mixture).
Conductivity Reading Rating Plant Response
(milliSiemens/cm)
0-0.25 Low Suitable for most plants when using recommended amounts of fertilizer.
0.26-0.45 Medium Suitable for most plants when using recommended amounts of fertilizer.
0.46-0.70 High May reduce emergence and cause slight to severe damage to salt sensitive
plants.
0.71-1.00 Excessive May prevent emergence and cause slight to severe damage to most
plants.
1.00 Excessive Expected to severely damage most plants.
Source: OMAFRA Nursery & Landscape Plant Production, Publication 383

Soluble Salts in Soil Regulation under the Environmental Management
Act. The Code describes general practices for the
Elevated salt levels in soils will interfere with water use, storage and management of agricultural waste
uptake by plants and eventually crop growth. The in an environmentally sound manner. Growers are
effects range from delayed or non-germination of encouraged to take advantage of the Canada-BC
seed to death of new transplants and serious Environmental Farm Plan Program. Farmers
reduction in growth of new or established plants participating in this program will gain more
(see Table 3.8). Most soils in BC are low in soluble detailed information on a range of environmental
salts. However, there are regions where salts can issues including proper use of manure and
accumulate, such as lowland areas adjacent to woodwastes. See the section on Environmental Farm
ocean dykes, areas where salt-water intrusion may Plans at the end of this chapter.
affect irrigation water, alkali seep areas in the
The Code requires that agricultural waste,
Interior and areas where road salts or fertilizer salts
particularly manures, be kept in a storage facility or
have accumulated. The problem with soluble salts
covered if not used immediately. The storage must
is most severe when soil moisture is low and salt
prevent escape of manure to the environment that
concentration is high.
could cause pollution. Manure may be stored
uncovered in the field for up to 2 weeks prior to
Manure and Waste use. Manure may be stored in the field for up to 9
months if it is kept in a temporary storage facility
Management that prevents the escape of nutrients to the
environment, e.g. securely covered with a tarp on a
Code of Agricultural Practice dry site. Areas of the Province, including the Lower
Fraser Valley and Vancouver Island regions, that
for Waste Management receive total average precipitation greater than 600
mm (24 inches) from October 1 to April 30
The storage and use of livestock manure and
inclusive, must cover field stored solid agricultural
agricultural vegetation wastes is covered by the
wastes (except vegetation waste). The field storage
Code of Agricultural Practice for Waste Management.
facility must be 30 meters from a watercourse or a
This Code is part of the Agriculture Waste Control
water source used for domestic purposes.
Table 3.9. Typical nutrient content of various types of manure.

Nutrient Contenta kg/tonne (kg/m3)
Type of Manure Moisture % Total Nitrogen P2O5 K2O
Beef (solid) 68 4.2 (2.1) 4.8 (2.4) 8.2 (4.1)
Dairy (solid) 77 3.9 (2.0) 3.4 (1.7) 9.0 (4.5)
Dairy (liquid) 91 2.9 (1.5) 2.1 (1.1) 4.5 (2.3)
Swine (covered pit) 93 6.3 (3.2) 3.3 (1.6) 3.9 (2.0)
Swine (uncovered pit) 98 3.5 (1.8) 1.5 (0.8) 1.7 (0.8)
Horse (with shavings) 72 2.4 (1.2) 1.7 (0.8) 3.2 (1.6)
Spent mushroom compost 70 5.8 (2.9) 2.5 (1.2) 8.5 (4.2)
Poultry (broiler) 25 31.6 (15.8) 22.8 (11.4) 12.2 (6.1)
Poultry (layer) 50 22.8 (11.4) 29.2 (14.6) 11.2 (5.6)
a Nutrient values for manure assumes proper storage, handling and application to minimize losses.
Conversions:
1 tonne of liquid manure = approximately 1,000 litres = 1 m3 = 220 Imp. gallons
1 m3 = 1.25 yd3 = 28 bushels
1 tonne of solid manure = approximately 2 m3 = 2.5 yd3
To convert kg/tonne to lb./ton, multiply by 2.0
To convert kg/m3 to lb./yd3, multiply by 1.7

Nutrient Value of Manure Using Manure as a Soil
Manures supply plant food over a period of time. Conditioner
Table 3.9 shows the typical amount of nutrients
Manure is primarily considered a fertilizer as their
supplied in various types of livestock manure. Note
carbon to nitrogen ratio (C:N) is typically less than
the moisture and nutrient content varies as a result
30:1. However, manures with a C:N greater than
of storage method, litter content, and/or the age of
30:1 can be used as a soil conditioner if its nutrient
manure. The nitrogen values given in Table 3.9 are
content is known and no more is applied than the
for total nitrogen. For all types of manure, the
crop requires for nutrients. Using manure together
amount of nitrogen that is available to the crop
with cover crops can improve soil structure. The
after it is applied may vary from the value listed in
decomposition of the manure in the presence of
the table. Incorporate all manures (solid or liquid)
cover crop roots stimulates biological activity, and
within 12-24 hours of spreading to reduce ammonia
increases aeration, permeability and water-holding
volatilization and to achieve the greatest benefit
capacity of the soil. Do not apply manure to bare
from the manure nutrients. Nitrogen losses after
ground in the fall or winter (mid-September to
spreading range from less than 10% if the manure
March 1) or if the field will not be seeded within
is incorporated soon after spreading, to as much as
two weeks. Manure may be applied in February, or
50% if the manure is left on the soil surface.
later, to fields that have a well established and
Have the manure tested for nutrient content prior actively growing cover crop.
to farm delivery to ensure that the volume (of
manure) and nutrient concentrations match your Applying Manure
crops’ needs. The nutrient content will not change
significantly if the manure is kept covered by either Under the Code, manure can only be applied to
a roof or a tarp. If a manure test is unavailable, the land as a fertilizer or soil conditioner.
table values can be used but they may require In South Coastal BC, apply manure to field crops
adjustment of moisture content for the manure to between mid-March and early July. Be sure that the
be used. amount of manure applied is no more than what is
Nutrient applications from all sources, including needed to fertilize the crop. Manure can be applied
manure and commercial fertilizer, should be to a cover crop between July and October if, based
balanced to meet the crop requirements for on a soil test, the application rate matches the
nutrients. The release of nutrients from manure is crop’s nutrient requirements.
not consistent. Therefore, in any year manure In the Interior of BC, spread manure only when
should only be used to supply up to 75% of the there is no risk of run-off. Manure should not be
crop’s nitrogen requirement. About 50% of the applied to frozen or snow-covered ground. Manure
phosphorus in manure is readily available in the may be applied in the fall if the application rate is
year it is applied. Where manure has been used equivalent to the crop’s nutrient requirements and
repeatedly, phosphorus is assumed to be 100% there is a cover crop in place.
available. All potassium from manure is available
in the year of application.
Determining the Amount of
The availability of the nitrogen in composted
manure is typically lower than raw manure
Manure to Spread on the Field
because the nitrogen is held in a more stable form To spread manure as a fertilizer the following must
by the organic matter of the compost. Composted be known:
manure may be expensive for large-scale field
 the nitrogen content of the manure,
production. The benefits of using composted
manure include reduced nitrogen loss through  the amount of nitrogen supplied by the manure,
volatilization and its usefulness as a supplement or
replacement for other organic matter in plant  the amount of manure the spreader can hold
(its capacity),
production.
 the nitrogen needs of the crop, and
 the number of spreader loads of manure per
area in the field.

Follow the steps below to calculate the amount of particulate matter from the woodwaste must not
manure to spread. enter ground or surface water. Woodwaste must
not be used as landfill. It is generally accepted that
Note: This is a simplified scenario that may be
the depth of woodwaste should be limited to 30
suitable if soil tests do not show excessive levels of
cm. This is the depth that it can be readily
phosphorous (P) and potassium (K). If soil P + K
incorporated into the soil.
levels are excessive, a nutrient management plan is
recommended to help better determine how much Nursery producers intending to use woodwaste as
manure should be spread on a field. a soil amendment should have a plan to manage
the carbon to nitrogen ratio of the soil after
Additional Precautions woodwaste application. Smaller particles
Concerns have been raised over the potential breakdown more rapidly placing a higher demand
contamination of watercourses with constituents of on the soil for nitrogen. Large particles are harder
manure. Water in ditches is often used for to manage from a tillage standpoint.
irrigation and crop washing, so its quality is
important. Nursery growers are encouraged to use
best management practices to avoid direct
Composting Nursery Green
discharge or run-off losses of manure into Wastes
watercourses. This concern applies not only to the
nutrient and solid fractions, but also to the In most cases nursery crop growers will not
potential pathogens that may exist in animal produce a large amount of compostable material if
manure. the operation is solely field-grown stock. Prunings
and dead plant material is normally assimilated
into the soil during cultivation for weed control or
Non-Agricultural Wastes nutrient application. When larger quantities of
green waste from prunings or diseased plants are
(Biosolids, Whey, Yard Waste, accumulated, then composting may be the best on-
Pulp Sludge, Fish Waste, etc.) site approach to manage these wastes.
Caution: Many wastes generated off-farm are being Growers who operate container operations or have
offered, or sold to farmers for use as a fertilizer or container stock are more likely to have green
soil conditioner. The use of all agricultural wastes is wastes from propagation, pruning, dead plants and
covered by the Environmental Management Act in old or unused media which must be managed. In
BC. Use of these materials may be allowed under some cases growers may have agreements with
Regulation or an authorization under the Act. landscape companies to use yard and garden waste
Many of these materials can provide benefits to the generated during landscape maintenance as a
soil or crop. However, they come with substrate for compost at the nursery.
characteristics or contaminants that can be In all cases the material produced is generally
undesirable to growers. Refer to the Ministry’s characterized as "Yard and Garden Waste" in
factsheet Use Caution When Bringing Non- composting reference material. It can have a wide
Agricultural Waste or Products on to Your Farm. range of carbon to nitrogen ratios and a wide range
of particle sizes and moisture content. Yard waste
consists of a variety of different materials, each of
Woodwaste which has its own characteristics and requirements.
“Woodwaste (as defined under the Code of When combining different materials such as leaves,
Agricultural Practice for Waste Management) includes grass clippings, prunings or growing media to
hog fuel, mill ends, wood chips, bark and sawdust, make compost, the concept of carbon to nitrogen
but does not include demolition waste, ratios is critical. The ideal proportion of these two
construction waste, tree stumps, branches, logs or elements is about 30 parts carbon to 1 part nitrogen
log ends.” Under the Code, woodwaste can be by weight, although this ratio may need to be
used as a plant mulch, soil conditioner, ground adjusted based on the bioavailability of carbon and
cover, and on-farm access ways as long as the nitrogen.
storage or use of the woodwaste does not cause
pollution. This means that any leachate or

Calculating Manure Applications
Step 1. Determine the nitrogen content of the manure.
Refer to Table 3.8 for typical total nitrogen contents of various types of livestock manure. Use these
values if a laboratory or quick test value is not available. Nitrogen comes in several forms in manure. The
amount of nitrogen in manure also varies and is subject to many management and environmental
conditions that can result in nitrogen losses.
Step 2. Calculate the approximate amount of nitrogen supplied by the manure (kg N/yd3).
Losses of nitrogen upon application of manure can range from less than 20% if manure is incorporated
within 24 hours, to over 50% by volatilization if the manure is left on the soil surface. Volatilization of
nitrogen increases with increased wind speed, temperature, and ammonia and dry matter concentration
of the manure.
N supplied by manure (kg/m3) (see Table 3.8) X initial application loss factor*
1.31 m3/yd3
*Initial application loss factor = 100% - % nitrogen lost
Step 3. Determine the capacity of the manure spreader (yd3).
Box length (ft) X width (ft) X average depth of manure in spreader (ft)
27 ft3/yd3
Step 4. Determine the nitrogen needs of the crop (kg/ha).
Refer to specific crop recommendations in the results of a soil test.
Step 5. Calculate the number of spreader loads of manure per area in the field (loads/ha).
Crop N requirements (kg N/ha) ÷ spreader capacity (yd3/load)
N supplied by the manure (kg N/yd3)
Example:
A spreader has a box that is 7.5 feet long and 4 feet wide. It is filled with solid poultry (broiler) manure to
an average depth of 2.25 feet. The manure will be spread prior to planting a crop that, based on soil
testing, requires about 80 kg/ha (32 kg/acre) of nitrogen. The manure is to be broadcast over the entire
area using a conventional spreader. How many loads are needed to supply the crop’s nitrogen
requirements?
Step 1. Determine the nitrogen content of manure.
From Table 3.8, poultry manure contains 15.8 kg N/m3
Step 2. Calculate the approximate amount of nitrogen supplied by the manure (kg N/yd 3).
= 15.8 kg N/m3 (from Table 3.8) X 0.80 = 9.6 kg N/ yd3
1.31 m3/yd3
Step 3. Determine the capacity of the manure spreader (yd 3).
= 7.5 ft long X 4 ft wide X 2.25 ft deep = 2.5 yd3/load
27 ft3/yd3
Step 4. Determine the nitrogen needs of the crop (kg/ha).
80 kg N/ha (32 kg N/ac) (based on soil testing)
Step 5. Calculate the number of spreader loads of manure per area in the field (loads/ha).
= 80 kg N/ha ÷ 2.5 yd3/load = 3.3 loads/ha (÷ 2.47 = 1.3 loads/acre)
9.6 kg N/yd3

If carbon and nitrogen are too far out of balance, seedling or transplant production is critical.
the microbial system will suffer. When there is little Generally less than 50% of growing media by
nitrogen, the microbial population will not grow to volume should be made up from compost and this
its optimum size, and composting will slow down. may be even lower for composted manure.
In contrast, too much nitrogen allows rapid
When using compost in field stock production
microbial growth and accelerates decomposition,
growers need to have a manure spreader that can
but this can create serious odour problems as
be accurately calibrated and will provide a uniform
oxygen is used up and anaerobic conditions occur.
spread of the compost. Composts can be used along
In addition, some excess nitrogen will be lost as
with cover crops to rebuild soils depleted by long
ammonia gas that generates unpleasant odours
term production of balled stock. Composts have
while allowing valuable nitrogen to escape.
also been reported to provide disease suppression
Therefore, materials with a high nitrogen content,
or control as well as to inoculate soils with
such as grass clippings, require more careful
beneficial organisms.
management, with adequate aeration or frequent
turning as well as thorough blending with a high
carbon waste.
Canada-BC Environmental
Waste materials can be blended to improve the
carbon to nitrogen balance and hasten Farm Planning (EFP)
decomposition. For example, leaves are typically in
The long-term prosperity of British Columbia’s
a ratio of 40-80 units of carbon to 1 unit of nitrogen.
agricultural sector is linked to its environmental
Adding one part grass clippings to three parts
sustainability. With increasing agricultural
leaves will balance these nutrients and help
production intensity and expanding knowledge of
composting proceed in the shortest possible time.
our biological and physical environment, the need
See Table 3.10 for estimates of carbon to nitrogen
for improving farm practices has been recognized.
ratios of various compostable materials.
The goal of Environmental Farm Planning is to
raise awareness amongst producers and enhance
Table 3.10. Estimates of the carbon to nitrogen ratio environmental farm stewardship. This can be
(C:N) of various compostable materials. accomplished through the establishment and
implementation of Environmental Farm Plans.
Compostable Material C:N
Environmental Farm Planning (EFP) is normally
High Nitrogen Materials: seen as a voluntary, confidential, producer-driven
Grass clippings 19:1 planning exercise that uses specifically designed
Food wastes 15:1 resource materials and technical assistance. In
Cow manure 20:1 British Columbia both the senior governments and
High Carbon Materials: the agriculture industry recognize the value of
EFPs, and programming is available in all
Leaves and foliage 40-80:1
agricultural regions of the Province. Between 2003
Bark 100-130:1
and 2008, recognized planning advisors working
Wood and sawdust 300-700:1 under the Canada-British Columbia Environmental
Farm Planning Program provided Planning
For more information on composting and compost Workbook and Reference Guide materials to
use, refer to the British Columbia Agricultural participating farmers. These materials are used to
Composting Handbook. develop a farm plan that identifies on-farm
environmental risks and subsequently establishes a
It is very important to know the nutrient priority sequence of action items for addressing
availability and salt content of compost, whether those risks.
the compost is derived from animal manure or
plant wastes. Nutrients will be released slowly The EFP concept has been around for over two
from compost, but there is often a flush of readily decades. The first in North America was the Farm-
available nutrients and salts from compost that has A-Syst program in Michigan. This was adapted by
not been fully cured or slightly weathered prior to the Ontario Farm Environment Coalition for use by
use. Checking salt content prior to use as media for Ontario farmers. The Ontario program has been in

place for well over 10 years. Since 2004, all • To demonstrate due diligence on the part of the
Canadian provinces have had an EFP program in producer.
place. EFPs are voluntary. There are no government
• To reduce potential for new legislation/
laws or regulations that require a farmer or rancher
regulation.
to prepare a plan. However, institutions such as
banks, insurance companies and food processors • To improve relationships with regulatory
and buyers are paying increasing attention to the agencies reducing the need for further
impact of agriculture on the environment and are regulation.
requesting some form of environmental risk
The EFP program currently provides funding for
assessment from their customers. Farmers may find
projects that include waste management, air quality
their environmental farm plan to be a very useful
control, emissions control, soil and riparian
tool when dealing with these other organizations.
integrity, water quality and on-farm materials
storage. For information on the EFP program or to
What is an EFP? apply for funding, please see the ARDCorp
website.
An EFP is an agriculture-environment risk
identification process. It is conducted through a
comprehensive review of activities and facilities
that exist on the farm or ranch with respect to their
impact on the environment. The review also looks
at the impact of the environment on the farm, for
example impacts from wildlife or flooding. The
review considers current environmental regulation
requirements and beneficial management practices
that should be in place on farm. It looks at the risk
of the operation to the environment as well as the
risk of the environment to the farm or ranch
operation.
Why Do an EFP?
• To determine the standing with respect to
environmental rules and regulations and the
environmental risk of management practices.
• To sustain the resources used and affected by
farming practices for long-term production.
• To increase public confidence that BC farmers
are “doing it right” with respect to the
environment.
• To improve farm/ranch profitability. Some
potential economic benefits include making
fertilizer dollars go further through nutrient
management planning, reducing tillage costs
by converting to conservation tillage practices,
and minimizing cost of pesticides by using
integrated pest management techniques.
• To differentiate your product(s) in the
marketplace and thereby maintain or enhance
marketing opportunities.
• To help plan for unforeseen contingencies such
as floods, spills or fires.

Container Culture 4
(updated July 2013)
This chapter covers a range of topics related to the propagation and culture of container nursery stock.
Information on topics such as drainage, irrigation and compost are covered in more detail in Chapter 3, Field
Culture.
Site Selection Cuttings must be taken at the appropriate time of

year and stuck immediately. Water management is
The area used for container production should be another key to success. Humidity created by the
on a slight slope, have no frost pockets and be well mist or fog system prevents drying before roots are
drained. A master plan to organize efficient formed. However, too much water can promote rot
and death of the cutting. Proper water management
movement of plant material through the
takes several years to perfect through trial and
propagation, potting up, growing on and shipping
error. Keep records of successes and failures so that
stages is important. Road access for vehicles
mistakes are not repeated.
through the container blocks should be at least 7.5
m wide. The irrigation/drainage systems should be Bottom heat must be supplied for winter
installed before planting. Refer to Chapter 3, Field propagation. The most common temperature
Culture for information on problem soils, drainage setting is 22oC. For small propagation areas, electric
and erosion control. cables can supply bottom heat. A more uniform but
somewhat more expensive system is the use of hot
water in tubes. Anticorrosive agents must be added
Propagation to the water to prevent boiler corrosion. It is
important to avoid overheating and drying out of
Many nurseries produce some of their own liners
the rooting media. This sometimes occurs as a
(rooted cuttings) and seedlings. Skill and
result of faulty placement of heat cables and
experience are required to be a successful
thermostats. Cover the heat cables with a layer of
propagator. Beginners should start on a small scale sand or similar material to provide even heat
and increase volume only after successful results distribution. It is advised to moisten the sand
have been achieved. before placing a crop of cuttings on the bed, since
moist sand is better than dry sand at conducting
Structures heat and providing uniform heating.
Propagation facilities range from inexpensive cold

frames to elaborate gutter connected polyhouses. Methods
The structure should be able to maintain a Some ornamental conifers, rootstock, ground
temperature of at least 4oC in the winter and must covers and herbaceous perennials are produced
have ventilation and 60% shade for the spring to from seed. Because of natural genetic diversity, the
fall period. Beds may be at ground level or raised. seedlings will vary in size, shape and colour of
For some species the beds should be equipped with foliage. Seeds may require pretreatment, commonly
plastic tents and removable shade cloth to maintain exposure to cool and moist conditions, to ensure a
high humidity with minimal misting. The beds high percentage of germination.
should have a mist system that evenly covers the
whole bed. Time clocks are commonly used to Propagation by cuttings ensures uniform
automate misting, although other devices are characteristics because each plant is a genetic clone.
available. The mist interval may need to be Plant cultivars should be propagated asexually
adjusted daily to correspond to the temperature (cuttings or grafting) to maintain the plant’s unique
and amount of sunlight. Fog systems, although traits. For best results, different plant types may
expensive, are used by some nurseries to root need to be propagated at different times of the year.
cuttings. Fog is used in conjunction with mist to Deciduous shrubs and trees are often propagated
raise the relative humidity and lower the air by softwood cuttings taken in July. Broadleaf
temperature for summer propagation. evergreens are propagated as semi-hardwood
Nursery Production Guide Container Culture • 1

cuttings taken from August to October. Dormant the hormone is matched to the woodiness of the
conifers and some deciduous shrubs are stem.
propagated as hardwood cuttings taken from
After rooting, the cuttings will require
December to February. Softwood and semi-
hardwood cuttings are rooted in cool houses with supplemental nutrition. A dilute liquid fertilizer
bottom heat. Hardwood cuttings are held in cold applied twice per week (for example 50 ppm N)
storage until early spring and stuck in a prepared will maintain cuttings until transplanting. Slow and
field. controlled-release fertilizers can be incorporated
into the mix at one-quarter application rate before
Propagation by grafting is the process of joining sticking. This fertilizer will release continually
parts of plants together so they will unite and because of the temperature of the rooting media.
continue their growth as one plant. The top portion Extra misting to leach excess salts from the media
of the graft is termed the scion, and the lower may be required once per week.
portion is termed the rootstock or understock. All
methods of joining plants are properly termed
grafting, but the operation is termed budding when Sanitation and Fumigation
the scion is a small piece of bark or wood that
Sanitation is the simplest and most economical
contains a single bud.
means of controlling insect and disease problems.
Grafting is used to perpetuate varieties that cannot To prevent introduction and spread of pests, only
be reproduced by other means. It is commonly use plants that are free of pests as propagation
used with fruit trees, shade trees, roses, specific stock plants. Clean benches and flats, sterilized
cultivars of coniferous trees and to produce unique media, good quality water, and a preventive
and distinctive cultivars such as weeping or fungicide program are important components of
pendent forms. Grafting is limited to plants that are propagation. All equipment including houses,
closely related and is a highly technical operation. benches, tools, flats, containers and soil should be
disinfected or sterilized. Use one of the following:
More detailed information is available in
propagation reference books (see Appendix 17). An Steam - Items to be steamed should be placed on a
excellent source for propagation protocols is the bench, or stacked and covered with a tarpaulin,
Combined Proceedings of the International Plant beneath which steam is released to maintain a
Propagators’ Society. Society members receive a copy minimum temperature of 82oC for 30 minutes.
of the Proceedings each year. The Proceedings are
Other Useful Disinfectants - For dipping tools,
available online and at some university libraries.
washing down benches, etc., the following are also
effective disinfectants: quaternary ammonium
Rooting Media compounds at 1 part in 80; 50% phenol-based lysol
at 1 part in 10; and household bleach at 1 part in 10
Seeds are sown in either flats (small seeds) or plug
parts of water.
trays. Prepared seedling media are commercially
available, or a grower can prepare an in-house mix See the section on Sanitation in Chapter 8, Integrated
from peat and vermiculite or peat and sawdust. Pest Management for additional information on
Seed can also be sown directly into a prepared field greenhouse sanitation.
bed. It may be beneficial to fumigate the soil before
seeding (see Chapter 5, Soil Pasteurization and
Fumigation). Dilute liquid fertilizer can be applied Bed Preparation
after germination. Incorporating controlled-release Containerized plants are arranged by crop type in
fertilizer in the media can create a high salt blocks. The width of the block is determined by the
environment and stunt seedling growth, and methods used for pest control, fertilizer application
should be used with caution in propagation media. and pruning, and is commonly 3-6 m. Plants should
Cuttings can be rooted in a variety of media. be grouped within a block by irrigation demand
Washed sand, combinations of peat moss and and by cultivar. Each group should be clearly
perlite or vermiculite are all used. Premixed rooting labeled. Woodwaste or gravel is often used to make
media are also commercially available. Cuttings nursery beds, since they promote rapid drainage away
can be inserted straight into the bed (usually sand), from the base of the container and provide a clean,
or into flats or individual pots. Rooting hormone weed-free surface. Sometimes beds are covered with
can be used to accelerate rooting. The strength of ground cloth. An advantage of covering beds with
2 • Container Culture Nursery Production Guide

 very low nutrient retention capacity based on
volume. Some of the reasons for this are the
high porosity of soilless media, their lack of
mass to hold nutrients and their lack of fine,
colloidal materials. Phosphorus is tightly
bound in mineral soils. This is not the case in a
standard container media. Research has shown
that 76% of soluble super phosphate leaches
from a soilless media in 3 weeks.
Growers of container stock must take steps to
mitigate the inherent problems of container
production systems. One key to success is to use a
growing media that sustains healthy and vigorous
Figure 4.1. A gravel nursery bed covered with ground root growth. The root system has a very important
cloth fabric. role in overall plant health and growth.
ground cloth is plant debris can be removed with ease Unfortunately, the needs of the root system are at
from the surface. The existing vegetation should be times overlooked. Active root growth and the
killed with a nonselective, systemic herbicide before development of new root hairs is required to
the bed material is applied. Because of environmental optimize plant growth because almost all water
considerations, the layer of woodwaste should not and mineral absorption occurs through root hairs,
exceed 30 cm in depth and should be setback from but root hairs only live a matter of days. The needs
water courses (ditches included). Compliance with the and health of the plant’s root system must be taken
Code of Agricultural Practise for Waste Management into account when developing a container media.
(Waste Management Act) and the Soil Conservation Act There is tremendous variability in the types of
and Regulations is mandatory. Leachate from media used in the industry, ranging from 100%
woodwaste at certain concentrations is toxic to fish. bark or other woodwaste material to complex
For more information refer to the Reference Guide: mixes comprised of several components. The cost
Canada-BC Environmental Farm Plan Program. of media components often plays a role in
The number of containers that can be produced in a determining the type of media used. There is equal
given area depends on a number of factors, variability in the quantity and type of inorganic
including the container size and spacing. As a amendments added to the media. The bottom line
general guide, approximately 56,000 #1 containers is there are numerous media formulations that will
(30 cm spacing on-center), 13,000 #3 containers (60 promote good growth of a given nursery crop.
cm spacing on-center), and 1,740 #25 containers can Whether a nursery prefers to prepare their own
be produced per production acre. media or to have a custom blend prepared for
them, growers should be aware that proper
selection and management of the media is critical to
Growing Media the success of a crop. This section provides
information on the properties that make a good
Container production differs significantly from
media for the production of containerized nursery
field production. First, containers have a very
stock.
limited volume and, therefore, have a limited
capacity to provide the quantity of water, nutrients
and oxygen required for plant growth. Second, Media Components
soilless media are not equal to soil. Relative to
A wide range of commercial materials are available
mineral soil, soilless media have:
for use in growing media. Most media used today
 limited water retention and, depending on the are soilless or contain only a small fraction of soil.
medium used, 30% of the water in the Soil, if not pasteurized, will add weed seeds and
container may not be available to the plant, pathogens to the media. Soil will also reduce the
media’s drainage and will significantly increase its
 high total porosity, initially somewhere
bulk density. For these reasons, soilless media are
between 65-90% by volume, and
recommended for container production.

A type of woodwaste is a common component of used to increase bulk density. Perlite and pumice
soilless media in British Columbia. The types of are produced by the rapid cooling of molten rock.
woodwaste used include hog fuel, bark mulch, Water trapped in the rock turns into vapor which
sawdust and wood chips. Other components used causes the rock to expand, thereby producing many
include sand, perlite, pumice, vermiculite, several small holes/pores in the material.
different products made from coconut husks, and
Composts are being used increasingly in nursery
various forms of compost. To lessen the quantity of
media as a peat replacement. Research has shown
organic wastes that are sent to landfill sites, there is
that mixes containing 25-50% compost result in
increasing interest in the use of compost in
excellent plant growth. Wide acceptance of
container media. Products being trialed include
compost is being curtailed in part due to product
pulp mill and sewage sludges.
inconsistency. The salt level of compost should be
Woodwaste often is the main constituent in soilless tested prior to use and it should be leached if
media for #1 or larger containers, and will account necessary to remove excess salts. If not removed,
for 65-100% of the media by volume. In general, the excess salts will burn young roots and
chopped bark produces a superior media to a potentially kill the crop.
sawdust-based media. Bark should be composted
or aged for at least 6 months prior to use, to permit
the leaching of excessive salts or organic material
Air and Water Porosity
that may be toxic to plants. Composting will also Growing media consist of solid particles as well as
reduce the carbon to nitrogen ratio of the material. pore spaces between and within these particles.
This is important to reduce the nitrogen demand of These pore spaces are categorized into either large
the mix. Non-composted woodwaste will have a pores that are normally filled with air, or small
high nitrogen demand to support the growth of pores that can be either filled with air or water. It is
micro-organisms that are breaking down the important to use a media that has a mixture of large
material. If bark is used, hemlock and Douglas fir and small pores that provides adequate aeration
are recommended. Western red cedar bark is not without unduly compromising water-holding
recommended for use. capacity. This can be achieved by testing and
adjusting the media to achieve the recommended
Peat moss is still a common component of soilless
levels of porosity.
media. For small containers, peat may comprise 50-
100% of the media. For larger containers, usually Three attributes that are used to define media
not more than 25% peat by volume is used. It is quality are the total porosity, aeration porosity, and
best to use a good quality, fibrous sphagnum peat the water-holding capacity. Total Porosity is a
moss rather than a more decomposed, less fibrous measure of the total open space in a media that
type like hypnum. Fibrous, less decomposed peat could be filled with either water or air. The total
provides superior drainage and is better able to porosity should be equal to or greater than 50%.
support a healthy community of soil micro- Aeration Porosity is the amount of air space in the
organisms. The enhanced microbial growth leaves media after the free irrigation water has drained
pathogens at a competitive disadvantage and gives out. The optimum aeration porosity for woody
the media some disease suppressive traits. The plants is 20-30%. Water-Holding Capacity is the
level of decomposition of peat moss is measured on amount of available water held by the media after
a von Post scale (H1 – H10). Peat moss >H4 is finer watering and drainage. It is directly related to
in texture and more decomposed, and thus has a media porosity and the optimum level is 20-25%.
lower air porosity.
Aeration porosity and water-holding capacity are
Sand (less than 10% by volume) can be added to inversely related. If the aeration porosity is too
the mix to increase weight and water-holding high, then the water-holding capacity will be low
capacity. Unlike in a field situation, the addition of and the media will need to be watered frequently.
sand to a container media does not improve Likewise, if the water-holding capacity is high, then
drainage. If more than 10% by volume is used, sand the media will generally be poorly aerated and the
will actually reduce water flow through the media. plants will be more susceptible to root death. Thus,
a balance needs to be achieved between aeration
Perlite and Pumice (up to 30% by volume) are used
porosity and water-holding capacity of the media.
most frequently in small pots (9-15 cm) to improve
The climate where the plant is grown and the type
drainage and increase air porosity. Pumice is also
of plant (e.g. azaleas require oxygen concentration

of at least 20% in the media) are two factors to be water to drain completely. Measure and record
considered when deciding upon the most the volume of water drained as C.
appropriate values for a media.
5. Use the volumes A, B and C in the following
Increase the aeration porosity of a media by: formulas to evaluate the media’s:
 using coarser media components and deeper  % Total Porosity = B / A x 100
containers,
 % Aeration Porosity = C / A x 100
 avoiding the use of fine-textured components
since they fill the large pore spaces, and  Water-Holding Capacity = Total Porosity -
Aeration Porosity
 using components that are stable and that will
not readily decompose.
Example:
Improper media handling and irrigation practices
can reduce the porosity of a soilless media. The Pot volume (A) = 6,000 mL
porosity of a media will be reduced by over- Water added to the media (B) = 3,000 mL
mixing, which will effectively reduce the particle
size of media components. Porosity will also be Water drained (C) = 1,250 mL
reduced if the media is compacted by over-packing Total Porosity = 3,000 mL / 6,000 mL x 100 = 50%
at filling or if the crop is irrigated with excessive
Aeration Porosity = 1,250 mL/ 6,000 mL x 100 = 20.8%
water pressure.
Water-holding Capacity = 50% - 20.8% = 29.2%
The pattern of root growth in a container can
indicate problems related to media porosity and
watering practices. A lack of root growth at the
bottom of the container is an indicator of poor
Perched Water Table
drainage or over irrigation. In contrast, greater root Placing a growing media in a container leads to a
growth in the bottom as opposed to the top of the “perched” water table or saturation of the media at
container is an indicator of high media porosity or the bottom of the container. The depth of the
insufficient irrigation. saturated zone cannot be reduced by increasing the
number or size of drain holes in the container; it is
Calculating Media Porosity and determined by the porosity of the media. A
perched water table is usually not a problem in the
Water-holding Capacity field, since the water table is relatively deep in
1. Cover or plug the drain holes in a container. comparison to the situation in a container.
This can be done by lining the pot with a
One way to reduce the effects of a perched water
plastic bag of similar size or by putting tape
table is to increase the depth of the container. The
over the drain holes.
percentage of water-saturated media at the bottom
2. Fill the container with water to the level it of the container is inversely related to container
would normally be filled with potting media. depth. Increasing the depth of the container will
Measure and record this volume of water as A. increase drainage and media aeration (see Table
4.1).
3. Empty the container and fill it to the same level
with dry media. Slowly add a pre-measured
In many cases it is not practical to use deeper
volume of water until the media is completely
containers. Deeper containers should be considered
saturated. A very thin slick of water will
in cases where saturated media is a problem, such
appear on the surface of the media when
as in propagation. This may make particular sense
saturation is reached. This process may take 1-2
with difficult-to-root species where excess water is
hours. Record the volume of water added to
not immediately taken up by roots. The increase in
the container as B.
aeration and the concurrent reduction in water,
4. Hold the container over a bucket or catch-basin particularly at the surface of the media, can also
and carefully open the drain holes. Allow the help to reduce the presence of moisture dependent
water to drain freely. It is important to keep the pests like algae, liverworts, moss and shore flies.
pot level at all times. Allow sufficient time for

Table 4.1. The effect of container size on media indicators of nutritional problems are the pH and
aeration. total soluble salts. Both are relatively easy to
measure on container-grown crops. With routine
6" Pot 4" Pot Plug Tray testing of media salts and pH, and occasional
Aeration Porosity 22% 15% 3% complete laboratory analyses, it is possible to
eliminate most nutritional problems in container-
Water-holding 49% 56% 68%
Capacity grown stock.
Solid Material 29% 29% 29%

pH
As mentioned previously, soilless growing media
Media Temperature are not equal to soil. This is a very important
High media temperature can be a serious problem concept to remember when selecting a media pH
in container stock. The traditional black nursery for container crops. As a general rule, it is
container is very effective at absorbing heat from recommended that the pH of a container media be
the sun, which leads to the southwest side of the one pH unit lower than the crop’s optimum pH
container exceeding 55 oC on a hot day. Since roots level when grown in soil. The alkalinity of the
start to die at 36oC, this explains why roots on the irrigation water should also be considered when
side of a container exposed to the sun are choosing a media pH. Irrigation water that has a
blackened and dead. Root damage caused by high high alkalinity will supply adequate (greater than
media temperature can result in a 40-60% reduction 5-10 ppm) calcium and magnesium for crop growth
in plant growth. Research has shown that the and will make liming unnecessary. If the pH of the
damage can be significantly reduced by using media is incorrect, the pH can be raised with the
lighter pot colors that reflect (white or silver) addition of limestone or dolomite, or lowered with
versus absorb (black and green) solar radiation. An the addition of sulphur or iron sulphate (see Table
alternative approach being used by some nurseries 4.2).
is the application of white polyethylene sleeves to
containers to reduce solar heating of the media. Table 4.2. The quantity of dolomitic limestonea or
sulphur needed per cubic yard of a peat media to
affect the desired pH change.
Media Stability
Desired Media pH
The stability of a planting media needs to be
considered. It is undesirable to use a media that Original 4.5-5.2b 5.3-6.2c
decomposes quickly, since this will result in a Media pH
dramatic reduction in media porosity. The need for 3.4-3.9 3.6 kg of limestone 6.3 kg of limestone
stable media components is especially important
4.0-4.4 1.8 kg of limestone 4.5 kg of limestone
for larger containers, which require more than a
growing season for the plant to reach a marketable 4.5-5.2 none 2.25 kg of limestone
size. In general, the use of sawdust is not 5.3-6.2 0.9 kg of sulphur none
recommended because it breaks down rapidly, and
6.3-7.0 1.8 kg of sulphur 0.9 kg of sulphur
ties up nutrients during decomposition. Peat,
a If obtainable, a mixture of equal parts of dolomitic and
composted bark and coconut products tend to be
quite stable organic amendments. Inorganic calcic limestone is preferred to using only dolomitic
components such as perlite, pumice and limestone.
b Desirable pH for Euonymus, Pieris, Rhododendron, many
vermiculite have the advantage of not being subject
conifers including Taxus, and tropical plants.
to decomposition, although vermiculite can lose c Desirable pH for bedding plants, Juniperus, Thuja and a
much of its porosity through compaction. wide range of other woody nursery plants and most
herbaceous perennials.
Media pH and Electrical
Conductivity Media pH should not exceed 7.0. Although
Juniperus and Thuja will grow adequately at a high
Nutritional problems are a primary cause of pH, plants such as Euonymus, Rhododendron and
economic losses associated with poor crop quality Taxus will exhibit iron and/or manganese chlorosis
and growth. Two media properties that are useful

if the pH is above 7.0. With pH-sensitive crops, do the media will approach that of the irrigation
not use alkaline sand in the mix. water, indicating the need for fertilization.
pH Testing: Although pH can be measured by Conductivity Testing Methods: An electronic
chemical titration and with the use of colour conductivity meter provides the most accurate and
indicating litmus papers, an electronic pH meter practical means of on-site testing. Follow the
provides the most accurate and practical means of instructions provided with the meter and be careful
on-site testing. Follow the instructions provided to rinse the electrode surface after use and store the
with the meter and be careful to rinse the electrode instrument properly. Standard salt solutions are
after use and store the instrument properly. available to calibrate conductivity meters. The
Buffered calibrating solutions are usually supplied meter should be calibrated before each use. The
with pH meters. The meter should be calibrated moisture content of the media will influence the
before each use. conductivity measure, since the salinity increases as
the media dries. Therefore, the moisture content of
The level of fertilizer salts in the media will
the media should be consistent between different
influence the pH. When salt levels are high,
sampling periods to enable accurate comparison of
hydrogen ions will be displaced from binding sites
test results.
on the media components. The increase in the
concentration of hydrogen ions in the media will
lower its pH. Record Keeping
Growing media should be tested for salts and pH
Total Soluble Salts on a routine basis. Testing should begin before the
Fertilizers and other dissolved salts change the crop is planted and be performed at least every two
ability of a solution to conduct electricity. Pure weeks. It is important to keep records to chart the
water is not a particularly good conductor, but as change in pH and conductivity levels over time.
the salinity level increases so does its conductivity. Graphically charting these values will provide a
Salt meters (conductivity meters) are used to trend of timely information on whether they are
measure the electrical conductivity of solutions. rising, falling or staying steady. This is at least as
Since conductivity is directly related to the total important as the actual reading. It will enable
level of soluble salts, it thereby provides a rough informed decisions to be made about fertilizer
indication of the fertilizer content in a solution. One concentrations, watering frequencies and leaching
factor that must be kept in mind is that not all salts rates. Growers that use routine media testing often
are fertilizers. Some water sources are high in non- find they can produce superior crops with less
fertilizer minerals that tend to increase the overall fertilizer and lower leaching rates, thereby
conductivity. Therefore, while conductivity reducing waste and the possibility of
measurements are a good indicator of relative environmental contamination.
fertility levels, particularly if measured regularly
and tracked over time, it is important to establish Collecting a Media Sample
the background mineral content of irrigation
sources and to have an occasional complete mineral There are two strategies available for media
analysis performed to determine the balance of sampling. First, several samples can be collected
nutrients in the media. Another point to remember and measured individually. This would provide a
is that different fertilizers have different salt good indication of the uniformity of the watering
indexes. and fertilizing program. If the results are
dramatically different between pots or locations,
The rate of nutrient release from some fertilizers is this might provide a clue to uneven growth or
directly related to temperature. This can lead to the other crop problems. However, collecting and
accumulation of damaging levels of salts at high measuring individually 10 or more separate
media temperatures, which may need to be leached samples can be very time consuming, and may not
out with additional irrigation. Regular monitoring provide information that is any more useful than
of soluble salt levels is a simple way to keep track an average sample. In any case, it is not practical to
of nutrient release. In addition, media conductivity water and fertilize each plant individually. For
testing can identify when the fertilizer is exhausted. these reasons the second or representative sample
As the fertilizer becomes exhausted, the salinity of method is usually the one to use.

Several sub-samples should be combined to obtain clean container or bag and mix thoroughly, taking
a representative sample. Depending on the size of care not to crush controlled-release fertilizer prills
the crop, samples from about 10 or more pots or in the sample. The sample can then be sent in for
growing bed locations are required. Combined professional analysis, or measured on-site.
samples should always be from within one distinct
growing unit, environment or irrigation zone. The
samples should be obtained from uniform plants
Extraction Methods
that are the same type, age and in the same size Over the years, several dilution and extraction
container. Try to collect samples at the same time methods have been devised. All have advantages
between irrigations (i.e. just before the next and disadvantages, and all may provide different
watering). Avoid sampling the top 2 cm of media instrument readings. This often leads to confusion
since there is often an accumulation of salts in this when trying to discuss or compare values obtained
zone. Collect samples from the mid-range of the from different extraction methods.
pot, making sure to include more than just the soil
Three methods are described in the factsheet On-
at the outside edge of the container. Often 10% of
Site Testing of Growing Media and Irrigation Water.
the media can be removed without harming the
The factsheet details the materials and procedures
plant. Fresh, moistened growing media can be used
for the 1:2 extraction, the saturated media
to replace the soil removed for the sample. Follow
extraction and the pour-through method (see Table
the same procedure for growing beds, but avoid
4.3 and 4.4 for a listing of the desirable soluble salt
the top 2 cm and collect the sample from the area of
readings for the different extraction methods). The
most active root growth. It is very important to be
1:5 and 1:1.5 dilution methods are described briefly,
consistent in sampling methods, so the results will
although they are not commonly used.
be accurate when tabulated over time. When all the
sub-samples have been collected, place them in a
Table 4.3. Interpretation of soluble salt readings for the saturated paste extraction method.
EC Reading (mmoho/cm) for a Interpretation
“Saturated Paste” Extract
0-0.6 Insufficient fertility.
0.6-2.0 Satisfactory for most nursery crops. The lower range should be used
for seedlings.
2.0-3.5 Optimum nutrition.
3.5-4.5 Reduction in growth may occur due to the high level of salts.
4.5+ Very high, injurious salt levels.
Table 4.4. Interpretation of soluble salt readings for the pour through extraction method.
EC Reading (mmoho/cm) for a Interpretation
“Pour Through” Extracta
<0.015 Too low, plants are usually starved.
0.015-0.5 Fertilizer addition is required.
0.5-2.5 Satisfactory range for most plants.
2.5-3.5 May slow growth. If conditions are very warm, leaching may be
necessary.
>3.5 Leaching of media is necessary. After drainage is complete, application
of the liquid feed is required to replenish the growing media.
a The procedure to collect an extract: (1) Do not perform the test until 2 hours after an irrigation when the excess water has
finished draining from the container and the solution has equilibrated with the media components. (2) Pour 100-200 mL of
water through the one gallon pot and collect the drained portion.

For peat-based media, a sample can also be
collected by gently squeezing the media. Since
Nutrition
water was not added to the media to collect the To maximize the growth and quality of nursery
sample, the conductivity level measured will be stock, fertilization is extremely important. All plant
higher than for the other methods. Care must be health is dependent on proper nutrition. An
taken to not crush fertilizer prills in the media understanding of fertility management is critical if
when collecting a sample, since this will inflate the problems are to be avoided. This includes
salt reading. knowledge of the essential elements required (see
Table 4.6) and the relative nutrient levels needed
for optimum plant growth (Table 4.5). A tissue
analysis can be used to determine the levels of
elements actually present in a plant and, thereby,
verify fertilizer imbalances. For more information,
see Plant Tissue Testing in Chapter 3.
Table 4.5. Suggested nutrient levels for most container crops.

Nutrient Concentration What to Do
Nitrogen (as water-soluble nitrate N)
Low 0 - 39 ppm Add extra nitrogen to the feeding program, especially if using slow-release materials.
Normal 100 – 199 ppm Continue feeding at high levels and check total salts.
Excess 250+ ppm Discontinue feeding nitrogen and check total salts as root damage may occur. Higher
with high rates may be needed for optimum growth in a bark mix and to maintain the same soil test
salts level as in a peat mix.
Phosphorus (as water-soluble P)
Low 0 – 2 ppm Add additional phosphorus to the feeding program.
Excess 50+ ppm Discontinue feeding phosphorus.
Potassium (as water-soluble K)
Low 0 – 59 ppm Add additional potassium to the feeding program.
Excess 350+ ppm Discontinue feeding and leach. Plants may tolerate higher levels if the mix contains a
high proportion of organic material. (Leaching is ineffective for removing incorporated
controlled-release fertilizer.)
Total Salts in mS/cm (mhos x 10-3)
Low 0 – 0.75 ppm Check for adequate nitrogen and potassium levels.
Normal 2.0 – 3.5 ppm Continue the feeding program.
Excess 3.5+ ppm Discontinue feeding. Plants may tolerate higher levels if the mix contains a high
proportion of organic material.
Calcium (as water-soluble Ca)
Low 0 – 79 ppm Add extra soluble calcium to the feeding program. (Calcium levels are easily raised by
adding dolomitic lime or gypsum to the media.)
Normal 200 – 300 ppm
Excess 400+ ppm
Magnesium (as water-soluble Mg)
Low 0 – 29 ppm Add 0.5 kg/1,000 litres of magnesium sulfate through the irrigation water.
Normal 70 – 200 ppm
Excess 200+ ppm
Source: Nursery & Landscape Plant Production, 2000. Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Publ. #383.

Table 4.6. Essential elements required for plant Most media components contain little to no
growth. available fertilizer, with the exception of some
composts. Thus, most soilless media will require
Primary nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium some form of chemical supplement to adjust the pH
Nutrients
and to augment the available nutrients. In the early
Secondary calcium, magnesium, and sulphur years of container production, short-term, water-
Nutrients
soluble fertilizers were incorporated into the media,
Micronutrients iron, manganese, boron, copper, zinc, or they were applied as a topdress or in the
molybdenum, and chlorine. Chlorine irrigation water. These fertilizers were low cost but
is required in minute quantities and is they needed to be reapplied frequently during the
usually available in quantities in excess
growing season. Today, supplemental nutrients are
of plant needs in water and in various
fertilizer compounds.
commonly applied by the incorporation of slow or
controlled-release fertilizers into the media.
oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen are not
From Air and
normally considered under the
Water
heading of plant nutrition. Slow and Controlled-Release
Table 4.7. Nutrient antagonisms that can occur
Fertilizers
when nutrient levels are high. For environmental and efficiency purposes, the
incorporation of slow and controlled-release
Excess Level of: May Cause Deficiency of: fertilizers in the media is the predominant choice
phosphorus iron, zinc, copper for container stock. Fertigation or the application of
water-soluble fertilizers in the irrigation water is
potassium nitrogen, calcium, magnesium
infrequently used by the nursery industry. It is
calcium magnesium, boron used primarily to correct nutritional disorders or
magnesium calcium, potassium for greenhouse crops. The shortcomings of water-
soluble fertilizers are:
iron manganese
 they have a short duration and, therefore, must
manganese iron, molybdenum
be re-applied frequently during the season,
copper manganese, iron, zinc
 they have a high potential for groundwater
nitrogen (especially potassium contamination due to leaching of nitrates and
ammonium-N) phosphates from the containers,
zinc manganese, iron  they can cause plant damage due to fertilizer
molybdenum copper salt residues left on the leaves after fertigation,
 they can result in uneven plant growth due to
The relative concentration of different nutrients, or cycles in the amount of fertilizers available in
nutrient ratios, can be as important to measure as the media, and
the actual nutrient levels in the media. This is  they have low nutrient efficiency.
because some nutrients will block or increase the
While the terms "controlled-release" and
uptake of other nutrients (see Table 4.7). For
"slow-release" fertilizer are often used
instance, the ratio of calcium to magnesium should
interchangeably, the compounds they describe are
be maintained at 1:0.4 for optimal uptake of both
quite different.
nutrients. In addition, the ratio of some nutrients
will influence plant growth. A nitrogen to Slow-release fertilizers can be divided into two
potassium ratio of 1:1 will generally produce groups: 1) naturally occurring organic materials,
normal growth and height development, whereas a such as manure, urea, dried blood, and hoof and
ratio of 5:8 will often produce plants that are darker horn mixtures, and 2) synthetic, low-solubility
green and shorter. It is also important to be aware organic compounds like isobutylidene-diurea
that nutrient demand will differ depending on (IBDU).
whether the plant is in a vegetative or reproductive
Controlled-release fertilizers are coated with
stage of growth. Vegetative plants will require
materials like polyethylene, acrylic resins, latex,
more calcium and nitrogen, while a flowering plant
waxes and sulphur. These materials keep the
will require more phosphorus and potassium.

fertilizer from being immediately soluble and release characteristics of different slow and
available to plants. An advantage of plastic-coated controlled-release fertilizer formulations (see Table
fertilizers is the rate of fertilizer release is primarily 4.8).
determined by temperature. Since temperature also
Talk to your fertilizer supplier about the range of
influences the rate of biochemical reactions
fertilizer blends that are available for use in
involved in plant growth, the release of fertilizers
container nursery stock.
from plastic coated products more closely
approximate plant demand.
Micronutrients
A micronutrient source is also incorporated into the
growing medium. Micronutrients may be added as
either fritted, sulphate-based or controlled-release
formulations. Chelated micronutrient formulations
are not recommended for incorporation into a
media. It is common for growers to use a premix
that contains the lime, micronutrients and gypsum,
rather than to add each component individually. It
is also possible to get custom premixes that include
a soluble nitrogen source, humic acid and other
nutritional additives. Contact your fertilizer
supplier for recommended rates.
Figure 4.2. Top-dressed prills of a controlled release Tissue Analysis: A tissue analysis can be used to
fertilizer on a grafted maple. determine the levels of elements actually present in
a plant and verify fertilizer imbalances. It can be an
The period of nutrient release will be stated on the
excellent diagnostic tool. For more information, see
product label. The release period is typically
Plant Tissue Testing in Chapter 3.
determined under laboratory conditions, not actual
plant production. Thus, it is crucial to understand
the plant production conditions that affect nutrient
Table 4.8. Factors that affect the rate of nutrient release from slow and controlled-release fertilizers.
Fertilizer Typea Main Factors Causing Comments
Nutrient Release
Organic Slow-release
Fertilizers
Animal by-products (e.g. Microbial activity (fungal Small particle size. Moderately high temperatures and
hoof and horn mixtures, and bacterial) water content speeds breakdown and could give rise to
dried blood, urea, manure) conditions of ammonia toxicity.
Urea formaldehyde (e.g. Bacterial activity Release is unpredictable, can be increased by high
Urea Form, Nitroform) temperatures and low pH.
Low Solubility, Slow-
release Fertilizers
Magnesium ammonium Particle size and moisture Low pH and high moisture content increase the rate of
phosphate (e.g. MagAmp) release.
Isobutylidene-diurea Particle size, hardness and Low pH and high moisture content increase the rate of
(IBDU) moisture release.
Controlled-release
Fertilizers
Sulphur-coated urea (SCU) Coating thickness, Imperfections in coating may cause a high and sudden
temperature and moisture release. Micro-organisms may breakdown the coating.
Resin and polymer-coated Coating thickness and Research indicates that release rates from fertilizer held
materials temperature at 38oC could be up to 60% higher than those from
fertilizer held at 27oC.
a Some fertilizers may contain a combination of different controlled-release products. Always read the label or associated
technical literature before using a product.

Table 4.9. Desirable ranges for specific elements in shows any substantial salt content (0.5 mS or
irrigation water. above), an irrigation water quality analysis should
be performed by a testing laboratory to determine
Characteristic Quantity
the background mineral content. The report should
Set 1 (the minimum list of include the elemental content, including the level of
analyses that should be bicarbonates. Once a background electrical
done regularly): conductivity is known, it must then be taken into
pH 5-7 account when measuring fertilizer content with a
Soluble salts 0-1.5 mmhos/cm salt meter. For instance, if your water has an initial
Phosphorus (P) 0.005-5 mg/L conductivity of 0.8 mS, then you will need to
Calcium (Ca) 40-120 mg/L subtract this amount from your fertilizer solution
readings to determine the actual fertilizer content
Sulphate (SO4) 24-240 mg/L
of your nutrient solutions. This is important
Alkalinity 0-100 mg/L as CaCO3
whenever you are checking the accuracy of
Sodium (Na) 0-50 mg/L injectors. Most commercial soluble fertilizers will
Boron (B) 0.2-0.8 mg/L indicate the conductivity value on the bag for
Fluoride (F) 0-1.0 mg/L various feeding concentrations. In order to check
Magnesium (Mg) 6-24 mg/L the calibration of an injector, the background
Chloride (Cl) 0-140 mg/L conductivity level must be subtracted from the
measured fertilizer conductivity value after
Set 2 (the desirable analyses,
but not absolutely necessary):
injection.
Nitrate (NO3) 0-5 mg/L If the pH of the irrigation water is high, it can be
Potassium (K) 0.5-10 mg/L acidified with nitric or phosphoric acid, depending
Zinc (Zn) 1-5 mg/L on the bicarbonate content of the water. The level of
bicarbonate and hydroxyl ions in the water is
Molybdenum (Mo) 0-0.02 mg/L
known as the alkalinity. Alkalinity is a better
Iron (Fe) 2-5 mg/L
indicator of the impact the water will have on
Copper (Cu) 0-0.2 mg/L media pH than the pH measure of the water.
Aluminum (Al) 0-5 mg/L Bicarbonates tend to buffer the media and are the
Sodium Absorption Ratio 0-4 component responsible for increasing media pH
(SAR)a over time. Bicarbonate levels greater than 50 mg/L
aSAR quantifies the sodium level in relation to the need to be corrected by acidification or another
calcium and magnesium levels. treatment. Some problems associated with allowing
From: Water Quality Reference Guide for Horticulture, the pH to climb include a greater risk of
Aquatrols Corporation of America Phytophthora infection and deficiencies of iron,
manganese, zinc and boron.
Irrigation Fertigation: Liquid fertilizer can be applied

through the irrigation system during the growing
season to either supplement the slow or
Water Quality controlled-release fertilizer or correct a nutrient
deficiency. Liquid feed is most efficiently applied
Irrigation water quality is an important on small pots that are tightly spaced. Drainage
consideration for a nursery. The quality of the
water must be monitored for nitrates when liquid
water used must be high. The water should have a feed is used. See the Reference Guide: Canada-BC
neutral to slightly acid pH and contain low levels of
Environmental Farm Plan Program for details. See
soluble salts (refer to Table 4.9).
Table 4.10 for a suggested liquid feed program.
The water source should be analyzed before use to Do not feed after August 15 on the Coast and July
determine the level of salinity and the initial pH. It 15 in the Interior. The plant must stop growth to
is important to allow tap water to sit for about 60 enter dormancy before the first frost. A very dilute
minutes when measuring pH. This allows any fertilizer solution could be applied if the plant
carbon dioxide gas dissolved in the water to come exhibits signs of nutrient deficiency.
to equilibrium with the air. Dissolved carbon
dioxide will tend to lower pH readings. If the water

Table 4.10. Suggested liquid feed application rates. Run-off water from irrigation can be contaminated
with fertilizer, woodwaste leachates and pesticides.
Nutrient Daily (ppm) Weekly (ppm)
This run-off can cause possible contamination in
Nitrogen 28-100 56-300 both surface and ground-water. It is critical that
Phosphorus 1-24 31-250 run-off is minimized by the efficient use of
Potassium 20-126 50-320 irrigation systems. See the Environmental Guidelines
Calciuma 40-150 75-320 for the Nursery and Turf Industry in British Columbia
Magnesium 10-50 48-173
and the irrigation discussion in Chapter 3, Field
Culture for additional details.
Sulphur 20-150 50-280
a Calcium should be kept in a separate stock solution to
avoid precipitation with sulphates or phosphates. General Crop Maintenance
Note: Applications made between growth flushes have
the greatest effect in uptake of nitrogen and subsequent Maintenance schedules are as varied as the plant
growth of the flush. Intermittent or interrupted material produced. In general, pruning, pot
applications are more efficient, as a plant will take up spacing, and pesticide and fertilizer applications
more nutrients when slightly “starved” than when are normal activities during the growing season.
constantly fed.
To produce compact, well-shaped, high quality
Suggestions: plants in containers, pruning is necessary after each
1. 15-15-18 Soilless Feed flush of growth (one to three times per season).
2. 20-20-20 All Purpose Fertilizer + MgSO4 @ 5 Sharp hedging shears are used to lightly shape the
mg of magnesium/L plant. Do not cut back into woody stems unless a
3. 15-15-15 Geranium Special + MgSO4 @ 5 mg of drastic change in shape is required. Newly
magnesium/L extended growth of rhododendrons can be
Trace elements may or may not be included in the pinched. Larger deciduous shrubs may require
formulation. Start with a general fertilizer and fine tune pruning to remove unwanted branches or suckers.
as you gain experience.
Plant debris should be removed from the growing
area to control pest problems. This is a mandatory
Water Quantity best management practice for container-grown
high risk host plants (e.g. Camellia, Rhododendron,
Overhead sprinkler irrigation is the standard
and Viburnum) in the Canadian P. ramorum Nursery
system used for container-grown nursery stock.
Certification Program. Infected leaves are a source
Overlap of the sprinklers must be complete to
of inoculum that must be cleared from beds on a
ensure all containers receive equal amounts of
regular schedule to minimize the risk of P. ramorum
water. A typical irrigation cycle would apply 1-2
infection.
cm of water. Containerized plants use water much
more quickly than field grown plants. The higher Plants must be monitored for disease and insect
porosity and temperature of soilless media pests throughout the season. Regular inspection
contribute to faster water loss. Typical irrigation and spot spraying will decrease the amount of
schedules range from twice per week to twice per pesticide required. Consult Chapter 8, Integrated
day. Pest Management for more detailed information on
crop monitoring and nursery sanitation.
Plants should be grouped into irrigation zones that
have similar water demands. Insert as many shut Controlled release fertilizer can be applied as a
off valves into a system as possible so that specific topdress in mid-season to ensure continued growth
areas can be watered more or less often depending to the end of the season. Plants carried over the
on the plants’ requirements. A timeclock will assist winter to be grown on in the same pot should be
in timing irrigation cycles. The volume of irrigation top-dressed early in the spring, just before growth
applied will depend on the flow rate, pressure and commences. Talk to your fertilizer supplier for
irrigation cycle duration. Early morning irrigation detailed recommendations.
is desirable for plants that are prone to foliar During the second year of growth many fast-growing
diseases. Drip irrigation is suggested for plants in shrubs must be spaced to ensure quality. Prearranged
#5 or larger containers. spacings that are equal in all directions from the pot
will result in even growth and orderly blocks.

Overwintering accumulates on them. Mice are always a problem in
covered stock.
The main emphasis when overwintering container Holding stock in an unheated polyhouse provides
stock is to protect the crop’s root system, since it is the greatest level of protection and is commonly
more susceptible to low temperature injury than used for broadleaf evergreens and all marginally
above ground parts of the plant. The winter hardy plants. The sensitivity of a crop’s root system to
protection system also protects against desiccation cold temperatures, the potential for disease problems
injury. Several systems of protection are used and susceptibility to desiccation injury are factors to
including to cover or consolidate stock, or to move consider when determining which plant types to
stock into an overwintering polyhouse. A factsheet protect.
on Reducing Low Temperature Winter Injury to
Containerized Nursery Stock is available from the BC Polyhouses covered with a double layer of plastic
Ministry of Agriculture and Lands. are the best overwintering structures. Clear or
white plastic can be used. White plastic reduces
Stock consolidation involves placing containers heat buildup in the house on sunny winter days. It
pot-to-pot tight. This creates a large mass of heat is recommended to use 6 mL, 3-year plastic to
from the containers and the soil beneath them, reduce tearing in high winds, at least for the
which will protect the inner plants from the cold. outside layer. Ventilation is required during sunny
However, the plants on the perimeter have no or bright weather, to prevent heat buildup and to
protection and will be the first to be damaged with reduce the humidity and the occurrence of Botrytis.
cold weather. Perimeter plastic wraps can be
applied around the consolidated stock to provide Due to the higher temperatures that occur in a
additional protection. The plastic does not provide polyhouse or under a cover, fertilizer salts may
any insulation, but it does help to trap warmer air accumulate in the media. If salts are allowed to
within the stock and thereby provides additional accumulate in the media, they will draw water
winter protection. The main benefit of the wrap is away from or out of fine roots. Dried roots cannot
to be a windbreak. Since the plastic has no absorb nutrients or be a passage way for water to
insulation value, the pots on the perimeter likely the foliage. As a result, the foliage dries or 'burns'
get minimal protection from this approach. Some and the plants stop growing. Excessive root
growers instead have used insulated microfoam damage can result in plant death. Also, injured
wraps. roots provide an easy route into the plant for root
rot organisms. Therefore, the level of soluble salts
For sensitive crops, additional protection can be in the media should be tested periodically (see the
provided by placing peat bales, sawdust, or 1-2 section on Conductivity Testing Methods in this
rows of pots filled with growing media around the chapter). If the soluble salt levels get too high, the
perimeter of the stock. The stock can also be stock should be irrigated to remove the excess salts.
mulched with a loose material, such as sawdust. Alternatively, the stock can be watered about once
Covers can be pulled over entire beds of per month to prevent excess salts from
consolidated containers in advance of cold weather. accumulating in the container.
The covers trap ground heat and block airflow out
of the crop, and provide a greenhouse effect. It is
important to use polyethylene that allows some
Environmental
light penetration to increase the temperature under Considerations
the cover. However, do not use clear polyethylene
because it will lead to a sharp temperature rise The production of nursery crops can have a negative
under the cover on clear days and will dry out the impact on the environment. The Environmental
stock more quickly. Thermal microfoam blankets Guidelines for the Nursery & Turf Industry in British
can also be used as a cover. Columbia provides growers with options for managing
a nursery in an environmentally sound manner,
Disease spread can be a problem underneath covers without contravening federal or provincial
and can lead to crop failure. A preventive fungicide environmental laws or regulations. Some steps
should be applied prior to covering the stock to growers can take to protect the environment include:
reduce disease development. Also, structureless
covers can lead to physical crop damage if snow  When used for a container bed, woodwaste
should be less than 30 cm deep and should be

placed back from any waterway including a
drainage ditch. The use of woodwaste products,
such as sawdust, chips or hog fuel is controlled
under the Waste Management Act because
leachates from these materials can be toxic to fish.
 To minimize the quantity of fertilizer leached
from a container, fertilizer should be applied as
a topdress just before a major growth flush.
Application after August 15 is not
recommended in the Lower Mainland region,
because a late-season fertilizer application can
trigger a late flush of growth, which is
susceptible to frost damage. Application after
July 15 is not recommended for the Interior.
 Irrigate only in the early morning to reduce the
incidence of foliar diseases and the need to
apply fungicides.
 Test and adjust the uniformity of the irrigation
system. An overhead sprinkler system, which
is the standard system used for container-
grown nursery stock, has an efficiency of 75%
at best. The efficiency will depend on many
factors, including crop type and spacing, wind
speed, water pressure and system design (e.g.
nozzle size and height). System efficiency
should be measured and the system modified
to improve uniformity. Wind and inadequate
water pressure have been found to be the two
major factors that reduce the efficiency of
overhead sprinkler systems.
 Good water management reduces plant stress
and susceptibility to insect and disease
problems.
 Recycling of irrigation run-off should be
accompanied with a water treatment program
to prevent the build-up of disease causing
organisms and algae.

Soil Pasteurization and Fumigation 5
(updated July 2013)
Soil pasteurization or fumigation can be used to control soil-borne diseases, insects, nematodes and weeds. It
is important to take steps to prevent pests from being re-introduced to treated soil. Some methods by which
pests gain entrance to the soil are:
1. splashing of disease inoculum by rain or watering,
2. the use of soiled containers, tools, equipment, crop covers and footwear,
3. placing clean containers on the ground, and
4. the use of infested cuttings or transplants.
See the Integrated Pest Management section for more information about nursery sanitation.
The following rules must be followed to achieve

Soil Pasteurization satisfactory results with chemical fumigation:
Steam is the most common form of heat used for 1. The soil temperature at 15 cm depth must be
soil pasteurization. It can be injected into piles of 13°C or higher.
soilless media or into ground beds. For ground
2. The soil must be in a loose condition to permit
beds, underground drain tiles or canvas hoses
thorough distribution of the fumigant gas.
covered with a tarp can be used to distribute the
Sods, lumps and plant debris must be
steam. The soil should be heated to 70oC, measured
thoroughly broken up.
at points farthest from the source of steam and
maintained for 30 minutes. This treatment should 3. If organic materials (manure, compost, etc.) are
eliminate most pathogens and all but the most heat- to be used, they must be incorporated before
resistant weed seeds. treatment so that recontamination does not
occur.
The steam should be aerated to prevent
4. The soil must be moist, but not wet, for even
overheating. Allowing the soil temperature to
distribution of the fumigant.
increase above 82oC can result in excessive release
of ammonia, manganese toxicity, elevated salt 5. Soil fumigation will suppress about 90% of the
levels, and the destruction of organic matter and micro-organisms, insects and weeds present at
beneficial organisms. the time of application. Most micro-organisms,
including pathogens, will eventually return to
pre-fumigation levels.
Soil Fumigation
Soil fumigants are volatile chemicals that produce a Soil Fumigants
toxic gas when incorporated into the soil.
Fumigation of large areas is expensive and should dazomet (BASAMID) releases toxic gases
be done only when a severe problem cannot be upon contact with moist soil. The gases spread in
controlled in any other way. The effectiveness of the air phase of the soil and control soil fungi,
soil fumigation is influenced by several soil insects, unencysted nematodes, weeds and weed
properties, including the moisture content, seeds. Basamid is toxic to all plants. Do not use on
temperature, level of compaction, structure and any crops and do not apply within one metre of a
organic matter content. plant or closer than the drip line of trees and large
shrubs. Remove all plants from greenhouses and
cold frames prior to treating with Basamid.
Registrant: Engage Agro Corporation, 1030
Gordon Street, Guelph ON N1G 4X5
When used: Do not use Basamid when the soil
temperature is below 6°C.
Nursery Production Guide Soil Pasteurization and Fumigation • 1

How to apply: The soil to be treated should be in Conditions under which poor results may be
seedbed condition (free of clods, undecomposed seen: Do not apply manure or lime shortly before,
roots and plant residues). Soil moisture must be during or immediately after an application of
maintained at a level suitable for seed germination Basamid. The use of plants not from a seedbed
for a period of 5-7 days before treatment. Soil and treated with Basamid or seed not coated with a
soil-peat mixes in the field, greenhouses or cold seed treatment may lead to recontamination of the
frames can be treated. treated soil.
Table 5.1. Application rate for Basamid 97% G. Table 5.2. The number of days after treatment with
Uses Rate Basamid before the field can be planted. The
waiting period will depend on the temperature,
Forest nurseries, seed or 3.25-5.0 kg/100 m2 moisture level and structure of the soil. This table
propagation beds (field, provides general recommendations for a medium
greenhouse) for conifer and soil.
deciduous ornamentals
Soil Temperature at a Period Between
Annual flower beds (field, Depth of 10 cm Treatment and Planting
greenhouse)
Over 18°C 10-12 days
15-18°C 12-18 days
Treated soil must be free of all toxic gases before
planting or sowing the crop (see Table 5.2). At soil 12-15°C 18-25 days
temperatures above 18°C (at a depth of 10 to 15 8-12°C 25-30 days
cm), the soil must remain sealed for 5-7 days. The 6-8°C 30-40 days
soil can then be cultivated to open it for aeration.
Aerate for about two days then perform the safety
Pesticide properties: Dazomet is an organic
germination test (see below). At cooler
compound which acts as a fumigant. When in
temperatures (below 8°C to 12°C) the soil should
contact with moist soil it breaks down and releases
not be worked for 2-4 weeks. The aeration period
a mixture of formaldehyde, hydrogen sulphide and
following cultivation is 10-15 days. Basamid should
methyl isocyanate gases.
not be used when soil temperature is below 6°C.
Protective equipment: Respirator – check with the
When aerating greenhouses, provide adequate
supplier of your particular make of canister
ventilation and be sure exhaust fumes do not flow
respirator for the correct canister for protection
over growing plants.
against Basamid. Cartridge respirators do not
Safety germination test: Do not use treated fields provide adequate protection. Clothing – overalls
until the safety germination test has been and rubber boots and gloves to avoid contact with
completed and indicates that the soil is free of toxic skin. If applying Basamid by hand, rubber gloves
gases. To test soil, take six random samples per acre must be worn.
or treated area to represent the whole area and
Re-entry to treated areas: Ventilate treated
depth of treatment. Fill glass jars half full with soil,
greenhouses thoroughly before entering or working
place moist cotton pads or filter paper on top,
in them.
sprinkle with cress seeds and seal the jars. Prepare
a similar test with untreated soil. Germination Toxicity: Oral LD50: 519 mg/kg; Dermal LD50:
should occur in about 48 hours. If germination is >2,000 mg/kg
suppressed or sprouting cress seed is discoloured
Precautions: May be harmful if swallowed. Dust
when compared to seeds in jars containing
may cause skin irritation. Do not breathe dust.
untreated soil, then aeration of the treated soil is
Avoid contact with skin. Wash hands thoroughly
not complete. Wait a few days and repeat the test.
after contact.
Cultivating the soil again may speed up the
removal of toxic gases. Do not plant or sow in the Storage: Store in a cool, dry place with
treated soil until the cress seed germinates evenly ventilation.METAM
in all jars of treated and untreated soil.
2 • Soil Pasteurization and Fumigation Nursery Production Guide

metam sodium (VAPAM) is recommended as How to apply: Do not apply on plants or within
a pre-planting treatment to control soil-borne pests one metre of the drip line of any plant. Do not use
that attack ornamentals and other crops. Do not in greenhouses where growing plants are present or
apply to crops. It controls soil-borne fungal diseases where fumes may enter nearby houses containing
(e.g. Fusarium, Pythium, Phytophthora, Sclerotinia, growing plants. Do not apply Vapam when the air
oak root fungus, Verticillium, clubroot of crucifers temperature is over 32°C, or when strong winds
and Rhizoctonia), nematodes, symphylids and would cause a loss of Vapam due to evaporation.
germinating weed seeds of annual grasses, Ideal conditions for use of Vapam include a soil
chickweed, dandelion, ragweed, henbit, lamb’s- temperature range of 4-32°C at a depth of 7.5 cm,
quarters, pigweed, purslane and suppression of moderate air temperatures and little or no wind.
perennial weeds such as quackgrass.
One week before applying Vapam, cultivate the soil
Registrant: AMVAC Chemical Corporation, thoroughly and deeply to ensure all clods are
Newport Beach, CA 92660 (323) 264-3910 broken up and the soil is loose. Keep the soil moist,
irrigating if necessary, during this week and for 24
hours after application. If the soil has crusted,
lightly cultivate immediately before applying
Vapam. Activity is increased by tarping the treated
area for at least 48 hours. Secure the tarp to prevent
removal by wind.
Table 5.3. Application methods of Vapam HL (42%) for limited areas.

Methods of Application for Small Rate1
Areas in Summer and Fall
Hose proportioner 0.75 L/3 L water in a container. Use a hose proportioner with a 1:15 or
2:20 ratio and apply to 10 m2. Use 1.1 L of Vapam on very heavy soil.
Sprinkle with water until soil is wet to a depth of 7.5-10 cm.
Soil injection for seed beds 410-670 L/ha (0.45-0.74 L/10 m2). Space injection shanks 13-15 cm apart.
Inject to a depth of 10-15 cm. Seal immediately with a roller and
immediately apply a water seal (within minutes) by lightly watering with
about 40 L of water/10 m2.
Sprinkling can method Place 0.37 L Vapam (0.56 L on very heavy soils or for deep-rooted weeds)
in a sprinkling can, fill with water, and sprinkle uniformly over 5 m 2 of
well-prepared soil. Sprinkle immediately with water until soil is sealed,
or tarp for 48 hours.
Pre-mix Mix 7.4 L/800 L of water in a drum or tank and agitate. Sprinkle evenly
over 100 m2 of bed. Use 11.2 L on very heavy or rich soils. The solution
may be applied from the drum or tank by using a portable pump or a
gear pump attachment on a tractor. Use a fan type nozzle that delivers
large size droplets. Do not use solid stream or mist spray.
Rotary tiller Spray or sprinkle diluted Vapam immediately in front of tiller. Use 0.75
L/10 L of water per each 10 m2. Follow immediately with a roller to
smooth and compact the soil surface. Light watering or a tarp after
rolling will help prevent gas escape.
1Best results will be obtained if the treated area is sealed with a plastic cover. Remove the cover after 48-72 hours.

Table 5.4. Application methods of Vapam HL (42%) for fields.
Field Application Method Rate
Sprinkling irrigation system Use 350 to 670 L/ha. Meter Vapam at a steady rate into the sprinkler
system during the entire irrigation period. Apply in a minimum of 25
mm of water/ha. Soil temperature should be in the range of 4 to 30 oC. Do
not apply if rain is forecast within 24 hours. Use only sprinkler systems
that give large droplets to prevent excessive loss and that have
antisiphon and check valves to prevent water source contamination.
Soil injection Recommended to dose at 279 to 696 L/ha. Space injection shanks 13-15
cm apart and inject 10-15 cm into well prepared soil. Follow immediately
with a roller to smooth and compact the soil surface. Best results are
obtained if a water seal or plastic tarp is spread over the treated area for
48 to 72 hours.
Table 5.5. Treatment of potting soil with Vapam HL (42%).

Methods of Application Rate
Sprinkle method 1. Spread soil in a smooth layer 10 cm high on concrete or on pre-treated

soil.
2. Sprinkle Vapam at rate of 0.25 L in 20 L of water per 10 m2 of surface
area.
3. Layers can be treated one on top of another.
4. Sprinkle top layer with sufficient additional water to seal the surface,
or cover with tarp (plastic, kraft paper, etc.).
Cement mixer 1. Add Vapam to soil mix at rate of 0.37 L/m3 of soil, in a cement or
similar mixer. Mix thoroughly.
2. After soil is treated and piled, sprinkle water over entire surface to seal
in gas. Or, cover with tarp (plastic, kraft paper, etc.).
Cultivation and planting after application: Vapam Application tips: Use promptly after mixing with
breaks down by 13% per day so most is gone in one water. Do not allow solution to stand.
week. For fall applications, lightly cultivate the soil
Conditions under which poor results may be
one week after applying Vapam. The following
seen: Contamination of treated soil with untreated
spring, repeat the cultivation one week before
soil from tractors, implements, workers’ boots, and
planting.
soil on transplants may reduce effectiveness.
For summer applications, lightly cultivate the soil
Pesticide properties: In moist soil, Vapam
one week after applying Vapam. Repeat as
decomposes into methyl isothiocyanate and
necessary to promote drying of the soil. Planting
hydrogen sulfide and escapes from the soil by
may take place 21 days following treatment on soils
vaporization. Vapam is corrosive to aluminum,
which are well drained, of light to medium texture
brass, copper and zinc. It is nonflammable. When
and are not wet or cold. On soils which are heavy,
diluted with water or heated, Vapam decomposes.
high in organic matter or remain wet and/or cold
(below 16°C) following treatment, wait a minimum
Protective clothing: Cartridge respirators do not
of 30 days before planting. If the application rate of
provide adequate protection. Check with the
Vapam was greater than 0.75 L/10 m2 wait a
supplier of your particular make of canister
minimum of 60 days. Frequent, shallow cultivations
respirator for the correct canister to use with
of cold or wet soil may assist in soil aeration. When
Vapam. Wear rubber gloves, protective clothing,
in doubt about the safety to transplant, plant a few
and goggles or a face shield.
seedlings and examine for injury before planting
the entire treated area. The cress seed germination Re-entry to treated areas: Do not enter treated
test described in the section on Basamid (dazomet) areas without a respirator until aeration of the soil
can also be used. is complete or until the concentration of Vapam in
the air is down to WorkSafe BC limits.
4 • Soil Pasteurization and Fumigation Nursery Production Guide

Toxicity: Oral LD50: 812 mg/kg; Dermal LD50: 2,020
mg/kg
Precautions: Harmful if inhaled or swallowed.
Irritating to eyes, nose, throat and skin. Avoid
breathing vapour or spray mist. Do not get in eyes,
on skin or on clothing. Wash and dry clothing and
shoes before reuse.
Storage: Do not store below -17°C. Do not store
near food, feed, or fertilizer. Keep container tightly
closed when not in use.

Integrated Weed Management 6
(updated July 2013)
Weed control is critical for the production of high quality trees and shrubs. Weeds compete, often
successfully, with plants for water, nutrients and light. They also harbour insects, disease and rodents that can
damage nursery crops and increase the need for pesticide applications. Nursery stock that contains hard-to-
control perennial weeds can be unmarketable, too. No one wants to purchase a plant that is infested with field
horsetail (Equisetum arvense). Yellow nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus) is another creeping perennial weed that is
being spread in nursery stock. It reportedly is present in about 5% of all container-grown stock in the
Southeast US. Some US states have expressed a desire to designate both yellow and purple nutsedge as
quarantine pests. Weed control must not be taken lightly and should be implemented on the entire site to be
successful.
There is increasing interest in non-herbicide methods of weed control in the industry, due to:
 growers’ concerns of herbicide phytotoxicity,
 a lack of effective herbicides registered in Canada,
 environmental concerns associated with herbicide run-off, and
 concerns of herbicide residues getting into irrigation ponds.
Herbicide use in the nursery and landscape can be reduced by adopting an integrated approach to weed
management. This program should include prevention, and physical, cultural and chemical control methods.
Prevention Before purchasing soil and media from a new

supplier, investigate the steps they take to keep the
Prevention is the most important but least used product clean. If the quality of the media is
weed management method. Two keys to weed questionable, check it for weed germinants with a
prevention are to limit the introduction of weeds germination test. Growing media is often blamed as
and weed parts, and to prevent weeds from going the source of weed problems. However, a trial
to seed. conducted at seven nurseries in North Carolina
found the immediate nursery environment, not the
Limit the introduction of weeds and weed parts. media components, to serve as the major source of
Weeds have evolved very effective mechanisms of weed problems (Journal of Environmental
dispersal and survival. For these reasons, weed Horticulture, 10:159-161. September 1992).
managers must adopt the philosophy that it is
easier to prevent or exclude weeds in the first place It is important to take steps to keep media clean
than to treat them once established. Weeds or weed once it arrives at the site. The media should not be
parts are often brought into a nursery or landscape stored outdoors where it will be exposed to
inadvertently on nursery stock or in soil or growing contaminants. It is preferable to use an enclosed
media. Weeds are also spread in improperly structure where the media will be kept dry and
managed compost and manures, on machinery, clean. If storage outdoors is the only option, then it
and in contaminated seed. is recommended to store it on an impermeable pad
and to cover it with a tarp. It is important to not
Media and plants brought onto a site should be allow surface water run-off to contact the pile, since
visually inspected for weeds prior to use. If weeds this water could contain weed seeds and plant
are present, quarantine (if possible) the plants until pathogens. It is also important to control weeds
the problem is corrected. Hand pulling established before they go to seed on the entire site to prevent
weeds often will not be sufficient. The soil will cross contamination.
likely still contain seeds and/or weed parts that
will permit them to re-establish. Follow-up
treatments will be required to prevent the weeds
from spreading at the site.
Nursery Production Guide Integrated Weed Management • 1

Never let weeds go to seed. Seed production,
particularly for annual weeds, is very high and Cultural Weed Control
these seeds can lie dormant in the soil for many Attempts should be made to modify the habitat to
years. For example, lamb’s-quarters and pigweed make it more favorable for growth of the crop
can produce up to 72,000 and 117,000 seeds per rather than the weeds. This is one of the most
plant, respectively. Their seeds can also remain effective, but often overlooked methods for weed
viable for 20 to 40 years. Perennial weeds are control. Weeds have evolved particular adaptations
equally insidious, since a new plant can arise from to environmental conditions (See Table 6.1).
small root fragments. It is recommended to spray Changing soil conditions (e.g. correct drainage, pH
creeping, perennial weeds with a systemic or compaction problems) and cultural practices
herbicide to kill their roots before cultivating the (e.g. fertilization, irrigation and pest control) can
field. Using cultivation alone will be inadequate provide a more effective and longer lasting solution
and will only spread the weed. There is no to a weed problem, since healthy and vigorous
disputing that weeds have evolved very effective plants are better able to compete against weeds.
mechanisms of self preservation. When planting ground covers, it is imperative to
Some weeds also have highly effective seed use competitive plants and to plant them close
dispersal mechanisms. The slightest touch of a together so they will fill in the area within a few
mature seed pod of bittercress (Cardamine years. An advantage of cultural methods, relative
oligosperma) will result in their seeds being shot up to herbicides, is they provide a longer term solution
to 0.6 m away. Dandelion and groundsel seeds are to weed problems.
attached to “parachutes” that are spread great
distances with the slightest breeze. Therefore it is
even important to control weeds on the perimeter
of the site to prevent spread into the growing area.
Such weeds can be controlled by mowing,
cultivation or chemicals.
Table 6.1. Preferred site conditions for the growth of weeds.

Scientific Name Common Name Preferred Site Conditions
Achillea millefolium Yarrow Drought, low fertility
Bellis perennis English daisy Low fertility, low pH, excessive moisture
Glechoma hederacea Ground ivy Excessive moisture and shade
Medicago lupulina Black medic Drought, low fertility
Plantago spp. Plantain Low fertility, compacted
Poa annua Annual bluegrass Low fertility, compacted, high moisture
Polygonum aviculare Prostrate knotweed Compacted, drought
Ranunculus spp. Buttercup Excessive moisture
Stellaria media Chickweed Excessive shade and moisture
Taraxacum officinale Dandelion Thin grass, low mowing, low fertility, drought
Trifolium repens Clover (white) Low nitrogen, drought, compacted
various genera Moss Heavy shade, poor drainage, low pH
Veronica spp. Speedwell Poor drainage, shade
2 • Integrated Weed Management Nursery Production Guide

Physical Weed Control Hand pulling, burning and even steaming of
emerged weeds can be effective but must be done
Mechanical Removal: Cultivation practices such as when weeds are young (prior to flowering and
rototilling or hoeing are common and effective seeding).
means of controlling weeds. Entire plants or plant Mulches: There are numerous benefits to using
parts may be buried, or weeds may be severely plant mulches. They can moderate soil temperature
stressed by cultivation. Periodic cultivation should and retain soil moisture, and organic mulches can
be carried out about 2 weeks after shoot emergence provide nutrients and organic matter to the soil.
when the shoots have taken up food reserves from Another benefit is weed control. Mulches control
the root system, but before significant levels of weeds by smothering small weeds, by excluding
photosynthates have been translocated down to the light that is required for seed germination, and by
root system. For this strategy, cultivation can creating a relatively dry surface that is inhospitable
simply consist of chopping off the tops with a hoe, for germination. If the mulch is fine-textured or
or using a line trimmer to cut the weed as low as highly decomposed, it will stay too wet and will
possible. By repeating this throughout the season, allow weed seeds to germinate. Therefore, it is
food reserves in the root system are eventually recommended to use a coarse mulch that has a low
depleted, or the weed is sufficiently stressed to water holding capacity.
succumb to pests, diseases or environmental
stresses (Figure 6.1). Two organic mulches commonly used in the
landscape are bark mulch and leaf compost.
Sawdust is not used in the landscape, but is used at
times as a mulch for field and container-grown
nursery stock. Organic mulches will tie up some
nitrogen as they decompose. Therefore, it is
recommended to add extra nitrogen to the mulch,
otherwise plant growth may be reduced. For
sawdust, it is recommended to add about 0.5 kg
N/m3.
Figure 6.1. Effect of cultivation on morning glory

root reserves.
Figure 6.2. Sawdust mulch on one gallon pot.
Extreme caution must be applied when cultivating
Inorganic mulches are also used. Mulches of
around crops to minimize injury to their surface
decorative stones and lava rock actually create a
roots and lower stems. Avoid cultivating soil when
more difficult weed control situation in the
it is very wet or dry. Cultivating wet soil will lead
landscape, since they impede physical cultivation.
to soil compaction, and cultivating dry soil will
damage the soil’s structure. Poor cultivation
practices and frequent cultivation or rototilling will
reduce soil tilth and usefulness.

If mulches are applied incorrectly, they can kill There are drawbacks that limit the use of mulches
newly-planted and established trees. When in containers. Mulches can be difficult and
applying mulch, two rules of thumb to keep in expensive to apply uniformly and efficiently, they
mind are do not apply it against a tree’s trunk, and do not all hold up well with heavy irrigation, and
do not apply more than a 10 cm deep layer. When their effectiveness is dramatically reduced if the
mulch is placed against a tree, it keeps the trunk integrity of the layer is disrupted by shrinkage or
moist and makes it susceptible to attack by pests. In shifting of the layer (Figure 6.3). At times the mulch
addition, it restricts the ability of the bark to breath. can even be phytotoxic. This occurred in tests with
Always remember that plant roots and the inner ProScape at Spring Meadow Nursery Inc. in Grand
bark are living, respiring tissues. Anything that Haven, MI (American Nurseryman, February 15,
restricts gas exchange from these tissues will stress 2001). The toxicity was discovered to be due to high
and perhaps kill them. For this reason, the use of levels of boron in the mulch.
black plastic as a weed barrier is also not
recommended. Weeds invariably establish through Living mulches can also be used. Sowing a fall crop
breaks in the plastic, as well it depresses the growth of spring barley between rows of nursery stock will
of landscape plants by impeding the infiltration of reduce the need to control winter annuals. This
air and water into the soil. cover crop will also provide erosion control and
increased trafficability. The cover crop can be
Mulches are being used to control weed growth in
cultivated the following spring.
container-grown ornamentals, too. Forest seedling
nurseries in BC routinely apply a thin layer of fine
gravel to container-grown seedlings for weed Chemical Weed Control
control. Similarly, some ornamental nursery
growers are using pumice or sawdust mulches. A 1 Chemical control should be used only when other
cm layer of sawdust mulch can provide 99% weed methods have not provided satisfactory weed
control for 2 months. Geotextile weed discs and control. This is particularly true in a landscape
plastic lids (Enviro Lids) are other options. The situation where the public may be directly
industry’s interest in mulches has resulted in an impacted by pesticide application, and where
explosion in the number of products available. guidelines for pesticide application may require
There are several new organic mulches being tested that people be informed about pesticide use. In
that are made from coconut fibres (AW-disk), straw general, if a herbicide needs to be used, select a
(BioTop), wood fiber (Corrudisc), or pelletized product that has low toxicity to humans and non-
sweepings from sheep shearing operations target organisms, and that has low residual activity
(Wulpack). The results with the latter products and minimal adverse effects on the environment.
have been mixed. Herbicides must be applied accurately, at the right
time and at the right stage of weed growth for
maximum effect. Always read the label and follow
label instructions. If the material is used contrary to
label instructions, the warranty is null and void.
Proper equipment must be used and adjusted
correctly to make accurate and thorough
applications. The spray pattern must be even and
uniform. Make sure granular materials are
uniformly spread. Check the calibration of the
spreader occasionally, and always recalibrate it
before using different sized granules. More detailed
information on calibration is presented in Chapter
16. Label information specifies the appropriate
application method(s) to ensure good weed control.
Liquid applicators include hand sprayers as well as
large power sprayers. Chemicals which dissolve
Figure 6.3. Liverwort growth occurs where soilless
readily may be adequately mixed by using
media is exposed due to lifting and curling of the
hydraulic agitation of a pump bypass. Oil-water
fabric weed disc.
emulsions and wettable powders usually require
constant vigorous mechanical agitation.

Always use clean water. Salty or hard water may Physical Methods: Since the prostrate
result in gumminess or precipitates that can plug thallus of liverwort is tightly attached to the
nozzles. Test a small amount of chemical with growing medium, it is very difficult to pull out.
water before mixing in the tank. This should be Liverwort removal is usually accomplished by
done the evening before spraying. If a precipitate scraping it off with a layer of medium. This method
forms, determine the cause and a solution before is expensive, potentially damaging to surface roots
applying. Have screens on hose lines and nozzles to of the crop, and relatively ineffective since
prevent plugging or back pressure. Replace worn liverwort will quickly re-establish from thallus
nozzles. Wettable powders are especially hard on fragments, vegetative propagules (gemmae), or
brass nozzles. spores left behind. In contrast, mulches that are
quick-drying can be very effective (Figure 6.4).
Case Study – Controlling
Cultural Methods:
Liverwort (Marchantia  wash and disinfest cuttings, and sanitize the
species) in Containers cutting preparation area and the propagation
beds before sticking cuttings
Liverwort is one of the most prevalent and  allow the surface of the medium to dry
troublesome weeds in container-grown nursery between irrigations; for this reason,
stock. Liverwort thrives under moist conditions. subirrigation systems are generally effective at
This is a reason why it often gets established during reducing the incidence of liverwort
propagation and overwintering.
 incorporate macronutrients, since topdress
Liverwort produces a green, spreading thallus that applications promote liverwort growth
clings to the soil by fine roots that are produced on
almost the entire lower surface of the thallus.  apply slow release micronutrients as a topdress
Heavy infestations can compete with the crop, (use sulfur forms preferably), since some
restrict water infiltration, and can make a crop micronutients are quite effective at suppressing
unmarketable. Shipments of nursery stock have liverwort growth (e.g. copper, iron oxide, and
been rejected due to the presence of liverwort. zinc) (Proceedings of SNA Research Conference,
1998, Vol. 43:396-402).
There are no effective herbicides registered in
Canada to control established liverwort. In
addition, even dead liverwort on nursery stock is
undesirable to some clients. For these reasons,
growers need to strive to prevent its growth. This
can only be accomplished by using a combination
of physical, cultural, and chemical controls.
Figure 6.4. The results of a 12-month study on the effectiveness of mulches to control weed growth in
container nursery stock. The data presented is the average number of weeds removed per container each
month during the growing season. All of the mulches, with the exception of corn gluten meal, significantly
reduced weed growth relative to the untreated control. Adapted from: Alternative Weed Control for Container
Nursery Production, 2004, Canadian Nursery Landscape Association Project # 2003-03.

Chemical Methods: c. Liverwort control on non-crop land – To be
successful, a weed control program must
a. Preemergent – BroadStar (flumioxazin) is include steps to reduce weed growth on non-
registered to control liverwort on outdoor crop land. SureGuard (flumioxazin) is
container-grown woody ornamentals. Ronstar registered for application to non-crop areas in
(oxadiazon) is also registered for preemergence and around ornamental nurseries. Although
weed control in some container-grown nursery the label does not state that it controls
crops. The Ronstar label does not make any liverwort, flumioxazin is known to control
claim about liverwort control, however liverwort. EcoClear 25% (acetic acid) is also
research has shown it to be moderately registered for weed control in non-crop areas at
effective (see Table 6.2). Similar results were nurseries, which includes in and around
found in research conducted at Cornell greenhouses. The label for EcoClear does not
University (Perennial Plants, Vol 5(4):7). claim to control liverwort, but research has
Uniform herbicide coverage is critical for demonstrated efficacy against this weed.
success. Safer’s De-Moss 40% (soap) has a domestic
b. Postemergent – over the years, the efficacy has registration for use in greenhouses to control
been tested of a wide range of products on moss, algae, lichens and liverwort. Warning:
liverwort established in container stock. None All of these products caution against spraying
of these products can be recommended for use desirable plants due to the risk of plant injury.
because of phytotoxicity problems and, more
importantly, they are not registered for this
use. Dr. Sven Svenson presented an excellent
review of these products at the 1997
International Plant Propagators Society
Meeting, Southern Region (IPPS Combined
Proceedings, 1997, Vol 47:414-422).
Table 6.2. The influence of irrigation and surface treatment on the percent cover of liverwort in container-
grown Picea glauca ‘Albertiana Conica’. The low irrigation treatment was watered every 3 days, and the high
irrigation treatment was watered daily. The Ronstar treatment was not part of the mulch experiment, but was
added for comparison purposes. Adapted from: S. Svenson, Proceedings of SNA Research Conference, 1998, Vol.
43:396-402.
Irrigation Treatment Weeks after Treatment

Frequency 3 6
Low No Mulch (control) 16% 55%
Hazelnut Shells 0% 4%
Pumice 0% 37%
Geotextile 0% 20%
Ronstar 0% 12%
High No Mulch (control) 22% 100%
Hazelnut Shells 0% 8%
Pumice 15% 85%
Geotextile 9% 32%
Ronstar 14% 45%

Herbicides 7
(updated December 2013)
This chapter is intended for reference and background information only; it is not intended to replace product
labels. All efforts were made to ensure the pesticide tables are correct, however always consult the label since
it is the primary source for information on safety, rates and application methods. Note that not all
formulations listed will necessarily be available. Material in this chapter was compiled from a variety of
sources, which included: Farm Chemicals Handbook 2001, Meister Publishing Co.; pesticide labels; The Pesticide
Manual, Twelfth Edition, Editor C. D. S. Tomlin, British Crop Protection Council, 2000; and the Handbook for
Pesticide Applicators and Dispensers by the British Columbia Ministry of Environment.
Herbicide Properties, Uses and Application Rates

This section is divided into three subsections, The systemic herbicides are effective against
nonselective postemergence, selective specific perennial and many annual weeds. In
postemergence, and selective preemergence contrast, non-systemic or contact herbicides (e.g.
herbicides. Refer to Table 7.23 (at the end of the acetic acid, diquat, paraquat and soap) only kill
chapter) or the pesticide’s label for a listing of the annual weeds. Repeat applications are required to
ornamental crops that can be treated with selective control perennial weeds.
herbicides. Refer to Table 7.24 (at the end of this
Nonselective, postemergence herbicides are used to
chapter) or the pesticide’s label for a listing of the
control weeds on land prior to working the soil and
weeds controlled by each herbicide presented in
planting nursery stock, or on non-crop land. Acetic
this chapter.
acid, glyphosate and paraquat can also be used as a
Information on herbicide relative acute toxicity directed spray to control weeds between
(expressed as its LD50) is included in this section. established nursery stock. Directed sprays are often
The LD50 value represents the amount of active applied with a shielded sprayer to permit spray
ingredient of the chemical, in milligrams used per coverage of the weeds but not of desirable plant
kilogram of test animal weight, that kills 50% of the material. Caution: for all of these herbicides, spray
population. It is expressed as oral (the amount contact with the foliage or green bark of desirable
ingested through the mouth or nose) and dermal plants can result in severe crop injury.
(the amount that penetrates through the skin). The
higher the LD50 figure, the less toxic the product is Selective, postemergence herbicides are
to humans. However, the figures do not indicate used to kill emerged weeds by over-the-top
the long-term or chronic health effects of pesticides. application to certain ornamental crops. Herbicides
Always keep pesticide exposure to a minimum by in this category include clopyralid, fluazifop-p-
wearing protective clothing, even when working butyl, hexazinone, oxyfluorfen and triclopyr.
with products that have high LD50 values. Unless Carfentrazone-ethyl is also a selective,
stated otherwise, the oral and dermal LD50 values postemergence herbicide, but it is only registered to
presented in this chapter are for rats and rabbits, manage sucker growth on nursery stock. These
respectively. herbicides must be applied at the correct rates and
in the correct manner. Without extreme care, crop
Nonselective, postemergence herbicides damage can occur and poor weed control may
kill any plant or plant part that is contacted by the result. Read the label for specific information about
spray, either intentionally or by spray or vapour soil type, temperature restrictions and time
drift. They are often most effective on young, newly required between transplanting and application.
emerged weed seedlings. Some nonselective
herbicides are systemic, which means they move Selective, preemergence herbicides are
within the plant. The systemic, nonselective used on weed-free soil or growing medium to
herbicides include amitrol and glyphosate. destroy specific weed seedlings as they germinate.
These products usually will not provide any control
of emerged weeds. There are products registered
for use in the field and for container-grown stock.
Nursery Production Guide Herbicides • 1

All of the selective, preemergence herbicides listed oxadiazon, oxyfluorfen, propyzamide, simazine, s-
in this chapter are registered for use on field-grown metolachlor and trifluralin. Many of these
ornamentals, with the exception of oxadiazon. herbicides are formulated as a granular products to
There is greater risk of crop injury when selective reduce crop injury. Granular herbicides should be
herbicides are applied to container-grown applied with an adjustable spreader that permits
ornamentals because herbicides are less readily accurate calibration and application of the product.
bound in soilless media and the roots are closer to If not applied accurately, poor weed control and/or
the surface of the media. The products registered crop injury can occur.
for use on container stock are dichlobenil,
Always read and follow the label directions to
dimethenamid-P, isoxaben, napropamide,
maximize herbicide performance.
Nonselective, Postemergence Herbicides

Unsprayed buffer zone around aquatic
acetic acid (ECOCLEAR & MUNGER environments: 15 m
HORTICULTURAL VINEGAR PLUS) is a
postemergence, foliar active, nonselective Storage: Do not freeze.
vegetation management product. It is non-residual
in the soil. It is recommended for the control of Table 7.1. Ornamental uses and application rates
herbaceous broadleaf and grassy weeds. Foliar for EcoClear (250 g/L) and Munger Horticultural
contact results in rapid burndown of annual weeds Vinegar Plus (20%).
and suppression (top growth reduction) of
Uses EcoClear or
herbaceous perennial weeds. Retreatment is
Munger HVP
required for complete control of perennials.
Early season, annual weed 1 L in 3 L of water
EcoClear is registered for use on non-crop land control (3–5 leaf stage)
areas, such as around greenhouses and plant
To control larger annual weeds 1 L in 2.25 L of water
nurseries. Munger Horticultural Vinegar Plus is
and top growth suppression of
registered for landscape and nursery use.
perennial weeds
Registrants:
EcoClear: Ecoval Corporation, Williamsville,
New York amitrole (AMITROL) is registered for use in
Munger Horticultural Vinegar Plus: Munger non-crop land (roadsides, fencerows, ditchbanks),
Lawnscape Distribution, Harrow, ON Tel: 519- pastures and shelterbelts. It controls many
738-2571 perennial and most seedling annuals. It is most
effective when sprayed on foliage of actively
When used: Best results are achieved when applied growing weeds. If used under desirable plants or
to actively growing young weeds (3-5 leaf stage). trees, avoid contact with foliage, green stems or
Application rate: Thorough coverage is necessary fruit since severe injury or destruction may result.
to achieve desirable control. Avoid contact of Registrant: Nufarm Agriculture Inc., Calgary, AB
desirable plants. Overspray or drift will injure
contacted vegetation. Do not apply to reactive Emergency Response Number: 1-800-424-9300
metals, such as aluminum, tin or iron to prevent When used:
staining or mottling of the metal surface.
Canada and Sow Thistles: Spray when thistles
Nozzle type: Flat fan nozzles. are in early bud to bloom stage. Treated plants
Conditions under which poor results may be should not be mowed, but may be tilled three
seen: weeks later.
 Treatment of larger, more established weeds. Dandelion: Treat when young and actively
 Treatment of mature, dormant or drought growing.
stressed weeds.
 Rainfall within 1 hour of application. Hoary Cress: Spray during advanced rosette and
bud stage. Do not mow. If necessary, retreat
Precautions: Skin irritant; corrosive to eyes. when sprouts are 10-15 cm tall.
2 • Herbicides Nursery Production Guide

Horsetail (Equisetum arvense): This weed can Spraying tips: Good coverage is necessary for
cause severe competition to field grown nursery complete weed control. Spray weeds to point of
stock. Amitrol is to be used prior to seeding or runoff. For best results, apply when the humidity is
transplanting beds. Ensure that the horsetail is high (early morning or evening) and do not apply
thoroughly wetted. Make the first application when the daytime temperature will exceed 25oC. If
during the first week of July when the horsetail is weeds are mature it may be advisable to cut and
growing vigorously. This should be followed by a then spray the regrowth. If practical, till 2-3 weeks
second application during the first week of after treatment. If cultivation is not practical, spot
September. Do not attempt to control this weed treat regrowth or re-spray the area with half the
by mechanical or chemical methods prior to or original rate. Do not mow or disturb the weeds for
after applying Amitrol. at least 3 weeks after treatment.
Leafy Spurge: Spray between the advanced Do not leave the spray solution in the sprayer any
flowering and early seed development stage. The longer than necessary. Rinse all spray equipment
area may be plowed after the top growth is with clean water immediately after use to prevent
bleached. Spot treat regrowth the following year. corrosion of metal parts.
Milkweed: Spray in early summer when the How it works: Amitrol is a systemic herbicide. It
majority of shoots have emerged. Spot treat inhibits plant chlorophyll formation and regrowth
regrowth the following year. from buds. Amitrol is inactive in most soil, where it
is degraded by soil microorganisms. It remains only
Quackgrass: Spray when plants are 10-15 cm tall.
in the root system of plants being controlled. It
Cultivate three weeks after treatment.
continues to affect shoots from the roots until the
Toadflax: Spray during advanced rosette to entire plant is dead. There is little breakdown in
prebud stage. Cultivate three weeks after sunlight.
treatment, when top growth is bleached. Spot
Expected results: Weeds start to turn white in 1-2
treat regrowth the following year.
weeks following treatment, depending on growing
conditions. Complete control usually occurs in 2-6
Table 7.2. Ornamental uses and application rates weeks.
for Amitrol 240 (231 g/L).
Uses Amitrol 240 seen:
 Inadequate spray coverage.
Shelterbelts 18.75-28 L in 100-300 L of water/ha
 The air is very dry and the daytime
(established) It is recommended to use the higher
temperature exceeds 25oC.
rates in Western Canada. Do not
 Weeds are under stress or are over mature.
allow spray to contact the trunks or
 Heavy rainfall within 10-12 hours of
foliage of shelterbelt plantings.
application may reduce effectiveness.
Spot treatment 165 mL in 10 L of water/100 m2  The area is cultivated within 2 weeks after
in non-crop land Weeds: Canada thistle, dandelion, treatment.
hoary cress, milkweed, poison ivy,
Precautions: Eye irritant; harmful if swallowed.
Tank mix with sow thistle and toadflax.
Low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral >10,000;
Roundup to 460 mL in 10 L of water/100 m2 dermal >5,000). Practically non-toxic to fish, bees
improve weed Weeds: horsetail, leafy spurge, and birds.
control. quackgrass and most other weeds.
Storage: Store container away from stoves,
radiators or any place where the temperature may
reach 50°C. Do not store below 4°C.
Incorporation: Not required.

fatty acids (SAFER’S DE-MOSS) is glyphosate (CREDIT, ROUNDUP,
registered to control moss on lawns. There is also a TOUCHDOWN) is registered to control
DOMESTIC product that is registered for use on emerged weeds prior to seeding or transplanting a
structural surfaces and in greenhouses. Treated field, and in-crop (directed spray only) or in non-
areas may be temporarily slippery. May cause a crop areas. Glyphosate kills seedlings by contact
white residue on brick and some types of concrete. and is readily translocated to the roots of many
Registrant: Woodstream Canada Corporation, perennials, giving good control of weeds such as
Scarborough, ON Tel: 1-800-800-1819 quackgrass, Canada thistle and field bindweed.
Experience has shown that Roundup may be safely
Application rate for lawns: 32 mL/L of water. used on all forest seedling beds, except larch,
Apply approximately 1 L of solution per m2. Wet providing the stock has hardened off. Apply as a
moss and lawn before spraying, and water treated broadcast or interdrill spray.
area 30 minutes after spray application.
Glyphosate is adsorbed and inactivated upon soil
Application rate for structural surfaces and in contact. Planting can take place as soon as the
greenhouses: 500 mL of spray will cover 1 m2. weeds are killed and the soil worked. Vegetation
Expected results: Moss sprayed during the development at application time is important to get
growing season should discolour within days of optimum translocation to the underground parts of
application. Effects are delayed during colder the plants. A large leaf cover must be exposed to
weather. the chemical for maximum efficacy.
Precautions: Eye irritant. Registrant: Roundup - Monsanto Canada, Inc.,
Winnipeg, MB
Crops: It is registered for use as a directed spray in
established tree plantings (e.g. Abies, Acer, Caragana,
fatty acids (SAFER’S TOPGUN) is a fast- Eleagnus, Fraxinus, Juniperus, Picea, Pinus, Populus,
acting, non-selective herbicide for use around Prunus, Salix, Sorbus, Syringa, Taxus and Ulmus). Do
shade trees, greenhouses, plant nurseries and prior not apply glyphosate directly to crops.
to planting grass, shrubs, flowers and vegetables. It
controls a broad spectrum of annual weeds and Weeds controlled: Annual and perennial weeds.
provides suppression or top-kill of some Application rates: Refer to the label for information
perennials. Avoid spray contact of desirable plants on the application rate and optimum growth stage
and grasses. May cause a temporary white residue for control of the labeled weeds.
on some types of brick or concrete.
Pressure: Do not use a pressure greater than 275
Registrant: Woodstream Canada Corporation, kPa.
Scarborough, ON Tel: 1-800-800-1819
Nozzle type: Use flat fan nozzles.
Application rate: 0.85-1.0 L of product in 5 L of
water. Apply to thoroughly wet foliage of weeds. Incorporation: Do not incorporate.
Repeat treatment as required every 14-21 days to Spraying tips: Do not mix, store or apply
control weeds growing from seed or regrowth of glyphosate or a spray solution of glyphosate in
perennial or large annual weeds. galvanized or unlined steel containers, as this could
Expected results: Browning of foliage will usually produce a combustible gas mixture. Use stainless
occur rapidly in 1-2 days. Effects are delayed steel, aluminum, fibreglass or plastic containers.
during colder weather. Spray coverage should be uniform and complete
but not to the point of run-off. Clean water, free of
Precautions: Eye irritant. suspended clay, silt or organic matter must be used.
Do not apply when winds are gusty or in excess of
8 km/hr. Clean sprayer and parts immediately
after using this product. Do not cultivate the land
for seven or more days after application. The land
can be cultivated three days after treatment if
controlling annual weeds only. Do not treat
Christmas tree plantations during the year of
anticipated harvest.

How it works: Glyphosate is a systemic herbicide When used: Effective only on emerged grasses and
that is translocated from the foliage to the roots. broadleaf weeds. Paraquat is not translocated and
will not kill roots of perennials such as quackgrass
Expected results: Visible symptoms on perennials
or horsetail.
will usually appear in 7 - 10 days. On annuals,
symptoms usually appear in 2 - 4 days. There is a
Table 7.3. Ornamental uses and application rates
gradual wilting progressing to yellowing then
for Gramoxone (200 g/L).
browning of the weeds. Cool or cloudy weather
may slow appearance of symptoms. Uses Gramoxone1
Conditions under which poor results may be weeds < 5 cm tall 2.75-5.5 L in 300-550 L of water/ha
seen: weeds > 5 cm tall 4.25-5.5 L in 300-550 L of water/ha
 Rainfall within six hours after application may 1Do not apply directly to crops; use a shield to prevent
reduce effectiveness. contact of green bark or foliage. Even a slight drift of
 Heavy rainfall within two hours after spray mist can cause plant damage.
application may wash the chemical off and
repeat treatment may be required. Spraying tips: Do not add a wetting agent because
 Weeds at incorrect stage of growth. one is included in the Gramoxone Liquid
 Poor quality water used in spray solution. formulation. Foliage must be thoroughly covered to
 Weeds growing under drought stress, disease obtain good results since Gramoxone does not
or insect damage and high temperatures at travel through the plant. Use high volume, low-
application time may result in reduced control. pressure type spray equipment. Can be used
several times during the year. Best applied on
Spraying weeds that have a heavy cover of dust cloudy days, during dull sunlight or just prior to or
will lead to reduced control. during the evening. Do not apply through mist
Movement in soil: Glyphosate is deactivated on blowers. Thoroughly wash equipment after
soil contact. spraying. Add a wetting agent to the wash water
(Agral 90 at 60 mL/100 L of water), flush and spray
Precautions: Eye irritant. Low mammalian acute out, then thoroughly rinse with clean water. If
toxicity (LD50: oral >5,000; dermal >5,000). Low possible, fill equipment with clean water and let
toxicity to bees and fish. Can be applied at any time stand overnight.
with reasonable safety to bees.
How it works: Gramoxone is a contact herbicide
Storage: Glyphosate will not freeze or crystallize that is not translocated in the plant. It interferes
when stored below 0°C. However, when with the photosynthetic process.
glyphosate is stored at cold temperatures, warm to
room temperature to facilitate mixing. Expected results: Yellowing usually will occur
within a few hours of application. Browning of the
leaves can occur within as little as 30 minutes under
paraquat  (GRAMOXONE) is used as a strong light conditions. Desiccation of the plant will
directed spray between rows of established nursery continue rapidly and the top growth will eventually
stock. It is a non-residual, non-volatile, fast acting die.
herbicide for the control of many emerged grasses Conditions under which poor results may be
and broadleaf weeds. The herbicidal effect varies seen:
with weed species, hence repeat applications may  Rainfall occurring before the spray solution
be necessary for certain perennial weeds. Annual dries on weed foliage.
weeds are generally killed with one application if  Use of poor quality (turbid) water. If water
growth has been completely covered with spray contains silt, clay or organic matter, the
solution. For control between rows, use equipment effectiveness of the chemical is reduced.
and nozzles designed to prevent spray contact with
the green foliage of nursery crop or other green Movement in soil: Gramoxone is adsorbed and
parts of plants. Do not use undiluted. inactivated by clay soil, but will persist in organic
soil containing no clay.
Registrant: Syngenta Crop Protection Canada Inc.,
Guelph, ON Tel: 1-877-964-3682

Precautions: Corrosive to eyes; skin irritant. Even Unsprayed buffer zone around aquatic
though it has a moderate mammalian acute toxicity environments: The size of the buffer zone is based
(LD50: oral = 150), paraquat should be handled as a on the depth of the freshwater habitat. The buffer
very toxic herbicide because there is no known zone is 50, 40 or 30 m, respectively, for habitats that
antidote. Slightly toxic to fish and moderately toxic are <1 m, 1-3 m, or > 3 m deep.
to birds.
Storage: Store above 0°C. If crystallization occurs,
warm to room temperature and agitate until
reconstituted.
Selective, Postemergence Herbicides

carfentrazone-ethyl (AIM) is a contact clopyralid (LONTREL) is registered for
herbicide that is registered to manage sucker selective weed control in non-cropland and for
growth and root sprouts on field-grown woody vetch control in Abies balsamea Christmas tree
ornamentals, such as Malus, Prunus and Sorbus. plantations and Malus trees.
Registrant: FMC Corporation, Philadelphia, PA Registrant: Dow AgroSciences Canada Inc.,
Tel: 1-215-299-6000 Calgary, AB Tel: 1-800-667-3852
When used: Apply as a directed spray to young When used: Apply when weeds are young and
suckers that have not hardened off. Do not allow actively growing, and when Canada thistle is in the
spray to contact desirable foliage or green bark. rosette to pre-bud stage.
Pressure: Do not exceed 210 kPa. Pressure: 200-275 kPa
Nozzle type: Avoid using fine droplet nozzles that Nozzle type: Flat fan nozzles are preferred.
produce a droplet VMD of 300 microns or less.
How it works: Lontrel is a systemic herbicide,
How it works: Aim EC inhibits chloroplast enzyme similar in mode-of-action to other hormone-type
activity which leads to destruction of cell herbicides. Once applied, it moves throughout the
membranes and leaf dessication. It is rapidly plant, attacking both the aboveground parts and
absorbed by foliage with limited translocation. the root system to provide season-long control.
Expected results: Aim EC is a contact herbicide and Expected results: Best results occur when weeds are
foliage will show signs of desiccation within a few growing actively and not heat or drought stressed.
hours of application.
Effect of rainfall: Do not apply within 6-8 hours of
for Lontrel 360 (360 g/L).
either rain or irrigation, or when heavy dew is
present on the crop. Uses Lontrel 360
Movement in soil: Aim EC is rapidly broken down To control vetch in 0.42 L in 150-200 L of water/ha.
in the soil by microbial activity. Abies balsamea Apply as a directed spray. Best
Christmas tree control is obtained when vetch
Precautions: May cause slight irritation. Low plantations stems are 10-15 cm long.
mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral = 4,077;
Spot treatment to 0.56 L in 200 L of water per 1,000
dermal >4,000).
control vetch in m2 area. Apply to vetch at the
Unsprayed buffer zone around terrestrial Malus early flowering stage. Do not
environments: 5 m to protect terrestrial habitat. spray the tree’s limbs.
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place; avoid excess heat. Non-crop farmland 0.83 L/ha
Table 7.4. Ornamental uses and application rates Effect of rainfall: Allow 4-6 hours between
for Aim EC (240 g/L). application and expected rainfall.
Uses Maximum Use Rate Movement in soil: Clopyralid binds to organic
Manage sucker growth or 150 mL/ha or 75 matter in the soil and is not likely to leach. It is
root sprouts of field-grown mL/100 L of spray; degraded through the activity of soil bacteria.
woody ornamentals apply with an adjuvant Residues can remain in the soil following the year
of use.

Precautions: A severe eye irritant; harmful if Conditions under which poor results may be seen:
absorbed through the skin. Low acute mammalian  If grasses are stressed by lack of moisture,
toxicity (LD50: oral >5,000; dermal >2,000). excessive moisture, flooding, low temperature
and/or very low relative humidity.
Unsprayed buffer zone around terrestrial
 If grasses are not actively growing or are
environments: 2 m to protect terrestrial habitat.
beyond the suggested application stage.
Storage: Store in heated storage; if the product is  If rainfall occurs within two hours after
frozen, bring to room temperature and agitate application.
before use.  If annual grasses have tillered and are under
moisture and/or temperature stress.

fluazifop-p-butyl (VENTURE) is a for Venture L (125 g/L).
selective, systemic, postemergence herbicide. It
Uses Maximum Use Rate1
controls a broad range of annual and perennial
grasses in many newly transplanted or established Ornamental plants, 2 L in 100-300 L of water/ha.
non-grassy ornamentals, trees, shrubs and ground shrubs, trees and Apply as an over-the-top
covers. Venture does not control broadleaf weeds, ornamental treatment for a broad range of
sedges, and fescue and bluegrass species. Do not nurseries (The ornamentals. For sensitive
use in greenhouses. Women in the child-bearing labelled crops are ornamentals, a directed spray is
years should use this product with extreme care. listed in Table 7.23.) recommended. Refer to Table
7.23 or the label for information
Registrant: Syngenta Crop Protection Canada, Inc., on crop tolerance.
Guelph, ON 1 Therate selected should take into account the type of
When used: Must be applied to grasses at the leaf grassy weed to be controlled.
stage specified, generally the 2-5 leaf stage. If used
in sequence with a postemergence broadleaf Table 7.7. The grassy weeds controlled by Venture
herbicide, apply Venture L first and wait at least L (125 g/L).
three days before applying the other herbicide.
Most effective control is achieved when application Grassy Weed to Control Rate1 Leaf Stage
is made to rapidly growing annual grasses that are Volunteer corn 0.6 L 2-5
not tillering. Johnson grass, Persian darnel, 0.8 L 2-5
Pressure: 200-300 kPa. Use higher pressures (up to barnyard grass, and volunteer
425 kPa) for dense weed infestations. spring wheat and spring barley
Nozzle type: Use 80° flat fan nozzles. Do not use Wild oats, wild proso millet, 1.0 L 2-5
flood jet or hollow cone nozzles. crabgrass, fall panicum and old
witchgrass
Incorporation: Do not incorporate. Do not cultivate Green and yellow foxtail 1.4 L 2-4
for five days after application.
Quack grass 2.0 L 3-5
Spraying tips: Apply to thoroughly cover foliage of Wirestem muhly 2.0 L 3-5
grassy weeds, but not to run-off. Do not apply 1 The rate is quantity of Venture in 50-200 L of water/ha
following an application of a broadleaf
postemergence herbicide.
Precautions: Eye and severe skin irritant; produces
How it works: Absorbed by foliage and moves
birth defects in rats. Women in the child-bearing
quickly to the growing points to stop growth of
years should use this product with extreme care.
both shoots and roots or rhizomes.
Low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral >2,712;
Expected results: Weed growth stops within 48 dermal >2,420).
hours of application. Young shoots turn brown
within eight days. Weed death is complete within
environments: 2 m for terrestrial habitat, and 0 m
three to four weeks.
for aquatic habitats that are > 1 m deep and 1 m for
Movement in soil: Tolerant species quickly aquatic habitats that are < 1 m deep.
metabolize the chemical.
Storage: Product is not affected by temperatures
below 0°C.

hexazinone (VELPAR) is registered for use Spraying tips: Do not use excessive agitation after
as a broadcast spray for selective control of certain initial mixing as foaming may result. Avoid storing
weeds in Christmas tree plantations. It is not mixed solution of Velpar overnight where
registered for nursery stock. Do not use on gravelly temperatures may fall below 7°C. Do not apply to
soils or soils having more than 70% by volume of frozen or snow-covered soil. Avoid overlapping
coarse fragments. Do not use on rocky soils or soils and shut off spray while starting, turning, slowing
where 25-90% is occupied by rock outcrops. Do not or stopping in order to avoid injury to desirable
apply to light or coarse soils consisting of sand, trees. Do not use mist blowers.
loamy sand and sandy loam. Do not apply to soils
How it works: Velpar is absorbed through the roots
with less than 1% organic matter.
and may demonstrate contact activity on foliage.
Registrant: DuPont Canada Inc., Mississauga, ON There is, however, limited long-term effect on
Tel: 1-800-667-3925 woody species following foliar application only.
Best results are obtained when Velpar is present in
When used: Apply in established Christmas tree
the root zone during active growth of the target
plantations in the spring, before flushing (bud
vegetation.
break) of the conifers and before weeds have more
than 5 cm of new growth. Applications should not Expected results: Symptoms usually appear in
be made after target deciduous species have herbaceous plants within two weeks after
achieved full annual growth. application under warm, humid conditions. Four to
six weeks may be required when weather is cool.
Picea glauca, P. mariana, bareroot Pinus banksiana
Symptoms usually appear within three weeks in
and P. rubens stock may be planted immediately on
actively growing woody plants after sufficient
medium and fine textured soils where the organic
rainfall has carried the herbicide into the root zone.
layer has not been removed, following an
Defoliation and subsequent refoliation may occur
application of 2.88 kg/ha. Delay planting until the
until root reserves are exhausted at which time
season following treatment if the rate to be used is
susceptible plants die. The degree of control and
greater than 2.88 kg/ha, or if the organic layer has
duration of effect will vary with amount of
been removed or severely disturbed, or if Pinus
chemical applied, soil texture and organic matter,
banksiana or P. contorta are to be planted.
rainfall, temperature, weed or brush species, soil
moisture and other conditions.
Movement in soil: Adsorption by organic matter in
for Velpar DF (750 g/kg).
the soil.
Uses Velpar DF
Precautions: Corrosive to eyes; skin irritant. Low
Post-plant1 0.672-2.656 kg in 100-300 L of mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral = 1,690;
water/ha; do not apply more than dermal >5,278).
2.016 kg/ha on white spruce.
1Select a rate based on the weeds to be controlled and the
soil texture. Use the lower rate on lighter soils low in
environments: 50 m
organic matter, and the higher rate on heavier soils that Storage: Store product in original container only,
are high in organic matter. Do not apply to transplants in away from other pesticides, fertilizers, food or feed.
the same season as transplanting. Diluted solutions can crystallize at temperatures
below 7°C.
Nozzle type: With conventional boom and nozzle
systems, the nozzles should point straight back to
minimize the production of small droplets.
Incorporation: Not required. Rainfall or irrigation
is required to carry the product to the root zone.
Moisture is required to activate Velpar in the soil.

oxyfluorfen (GOAL) is registered for triclopyr (GARLON) is a selective, systemic
preemergence and early postemergence (2-4 leaf herbicide that is registered to control undesirable
stage) control of select broadleaf weeds. It is woody plants and broadleaved weeds in Christmas
registered for use on field- and container-grown tree plantations.
seedlings, but application is not permitted in
Registrant: Dow AgroSciences Canada Inc.,
greenhouses or other covered structures.
Calgary, AB Tel: 1-800-667-3852
When used: Apply to Christmas trees that are at
Calgary, AB Tel: 1-800-667-3852
least 1.2 meters tall, and after the buds have
When used: Apply before bud break or after new hardened off and no lammas growth is present. The
foliage has hardened off. Apply to healthy trees weeds should be actively growing at the time of
that are not under stress. Goal is most effective application. Apply after full leafout but before
when applied early, either preemergent or early autumn colouration. Spray to thoroughly wet the
postemergent (2-4 leaf stage). foliage of the weeds; do not apply to the point of
runoff. When treating undesirable woody plants
Pressure: 275 kPa
that exceed 2.5 m in height, cut and spray regrowth.
Nozzle type: Flat fan nozzles are preferred. Do not use more than once per year.
How it works: Goal is a selective contact herbicide, Pressure: Do not exceed 275 kPa at the spray
which also has pre-emergence activity. It is more nozzle.
readily absorbed by foliage and shoots than by the
How it works: Garlon is a systemic herbicide that is
roots. There is very little translocation of the
rapidly absorbed by the foliage and roots, and is
product in the plant.
translocated throughout the plant. It induces a
Effect of rainfall: Herbicide incorporation will be hormone-like response that leads to plant death.
improved by rain or 20-40 mL of overhead
Expected results: Best results can be expected when
irrigation after application. Heavy rainfall or
undesirable vegetation is growing actively.
irrigation immediately following application may
reduce effectiveness. Movement in soil: Triclopyr binds to soil particles
following rainfall and tends to stay in the top 30 cm
Movement in soil: Oxyfluorfen is strongly
of the soil. It is degraded rapidly by soil microbes.
adsorbed on soil and shows negligible leaching.
Precautions: A skin and eye irritant with low
Precautions: May cause skin and eye irritation.
Low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral = 3,129;
dermal >5,000). It is highly toxic to fish and aquatic
dermal >5,000).
invertebrates.
environments: refer to the label.
environments: refer to the label.
Storage: Keep from freezing. Store above 0oC.
Storage: Store above -2oC or agitate container
before use.
for Goal 2XL (240 g/L).
Uses Goal 2XL for Garlon XRT (755 g/L).
Field-grown seedling, 0.5 or 1 L in 200-500 L of
Uses Garlon XRT
established and water/ha
transplanted conifers Christmas tree 635 mL/ha in 250-300 L; apply
plantations as a directed spray below the
Container-grown conifers 0.5 or 1 L in 200-500 L of
branches; do not spray
(>500 mL containers) water/ha
Christmas tree branches as
Plug-grown conifer Treat seedlings after shoot injury will occur
seedlings (<500 mL apex has elongated above
containers) cotyledons. Use ≤2 L/ha as a
dormant treatment.

Selective, Preemergence Herbicides
chlorthal (DACTHAL) is a selective, non- Table 7.11. Ornamental uses and application rates
systemic, preemergence herbicide that kills for Dacthal W-75 (75%).
germinating weed seeds. It controls annual
Uses Dacthal W-751
bluegrass, barnyard grass, crabgrass, green and
yellow foxtail, witchgrass, chickweed, lamb’s- Flower gardens and 17 kg in 340 L of water/ha
quarters, redroot pigweed and purslane on mineral established nursery (or 150 g in 5-10 L of water
soils in ornamentals, nursery stock and turf. Refer to stock or ornamental per 100 m2)
the label for a list of crops that should not be treated plantings
1A minimum of 1 cm of water, either as rain or irrigation,
with Dacthal.
is necessary to activate Dacthal. Water must be applied 3
Registrant: AMVAC Chemical Corporation, to 5 days after Dacthal application.
Newport Beach, CA Tel: 323-264-3910
When used: Application should be made to soil
recently cultivated to a uniform texture. With
established plantings, application should be made dichlobenil (CASORON) is a selective,
following proper cultivation to remove existing preemergence herbicide used to control grasses and
weeds. Where possible, this should be done early in broadleaf weeds in established plantings of woody
the spring. Late summer applications should be ornamentals, including field and some container
beneficial for control of fall germinating weeds, if nursery stock, fruit trees, hedgerows and
made following cultivation. Weed control up to four shelterbelts. It suppresses horsetail, Canada thistle
months or more may be expected following proper and some other perennial weeds.
application.
Registrant: Chemtura Canada Co., Elmira, ON
Incorporation: Do not incorporate deeper than 5 cm. Tel: 1-800-350-1745
Shallow soil incorporation, when recommended, 24-Hour emergency number: 1-866-744-3060
often gives more consistent results. Depending on
crop and time of application, several incorporation When used: Apply to prepared weed-free soil in
methods may be used. See the product label to early spring or late fall. Early spring treatment is
confirm which method to use for each crop. preferred in coastal areas. Do not apply on sandy
soils, soils with less than 2-3% organic matter, or
Pressure: 207-345 kPa. It is recommended to use a during periods of high soil temperatures. Do not
low pressure boom-type sprayer. apply when temperatures are above 15°C. Do not
Spraying tips: Apply to soil 2-3 days after use in or around greenhouses.
cultivation. Disturbing the soil surface following Incorporation: Not required.
application will reduce effectiveness. Rates of
application can be reduced by banding. A minimum Field application: The soil should be moist prior to
of 1 cm of water is necessary to activate Dacthal; if application. If application is followed by 1.3-2.5 cm
there is no rainfall within 3 to 4 days after of irrigation, the lower rates are recommended. Do
application, sprinkler irrigation should be used. If not apply until four weeks after transplanting and
rainfall does not occur and irrigation cannot be six months after rooting of cuttings in the field. Do
made, shallow incorporation, when recommended, not use on light sandy soils. Do not use when
will aid weed control. temperatures are above 15°C. Do not apply to first
year fruit stock. Do not apply to fruit rootstock
Conditions under which poor results may be seen: within three months prior to or following grafting
Prior to applying, cultivate the soil to provide a or budding, or planting of new grafts. Avoid use on
weed-free and uniform surface. Dacthal is effective plants that die down to the ground in the fall and
only when applied before weed seed germination. use with caution on shallow rooted ground covers.
Do not use on muck soil.
Precautions: Dacthal has a low mammalian acute
toxicity; (LD50: oral 1,250; dermal >2,000) and it is a
slight eye irritant.
Storage: Store in a dry, well ventilated place.

Container application: Use only on containers dimethenamid-P (FRONTIER MAX) is
growing outside; do not use in greenhouses. Wait at a preemergent herbicide for the control of specific
least four weeks after planting containers to apply annual grasses and broadleaf weeds of ornamental
Casoron. Water immediately after application. Do nursery production.
not use after September 15, or within thirty days of
Registrant: BASF Canada, Mississauga, ON
placing treated stock into a container-holding house
Tel: 1-877-371-2273
as damage to the crop may occur. Only apply to
small numbers of containers until you have When used: Apply as a directed spray to crops
experience with this treatment. prior to weed emergence. Do not make over-the-top
applications. Destroy existing weeds before
treatment. Do not apply until soil has been
thoroughly packed and settled around transplants.
for Casoron G-2 (2%) and G-4 (4%).
For container grown ornamentals, delay first
Uses Casoron G-2 Casoron G-4 application to bareroot liners or young seedlings
Field Stock1 220-350 kg/ha (or 110-175 kg/ha (or (e.g. plugs) for two weeks after transplanting. Do
22-35 g/m2) 11-17.5 g/m2) not apply during bud swell, bud break or at time of
first flush of new growth.
Container 220 kg/ha (or 22 100 kg/ha (or 10
Stock2 g/m2) g/m2) Pressure: 100-500 kPa
1 Do not use the high rate more often than every other Nozzle type: For best results, use flat fan or flood
year to control grasses and hard-to-control perennials. jet nozzles. Avoid nozzles that produce a fine mist.
2 Water immediately after application. Only for Juniperus
chinensis, J. horizontalis and Thuja occidentalis. How it works: Frontier Max is taken up by seedling
roots and shoots. It has practically no activity when
How it works: Casoron inhibits germination. It also applied to developed leaves and does not control
inhibits actively dividing meristems, acting emerged weeds.
primarily on growing points and root tips. Effect of rainfall: Rainfall is required within 7-10
Expected results: Visual symptoms may include a days of treatment to activate and move Frontier
swelling or collapse of stems, roots and petioles and Max into the soil. Erratic weed control may result if
a general browning of these plant parts. Leaves not activated by sufficient rainfall/irrigation within
may drop and veins may darken. 30 days of application. Avoid application when
heavy rain is forecast.
Movement in soil: Downward leaching is very
slow in soils high in organic matter, due to Movement in soil: It is rapidly degraded in soil.
adsorption of Casoron on soil organic matter. Precautions: Eye irritant and potential skin
Casoron will stay in the upper 10 cm of the soil and sensitizer; LD50: oral = 500-2,000; dermal >5,000.
will not harm established plants with a well-
developed root system below this herbicide barrier. Unsprayed buffer zones: 3 m to protect terrestrial
habitat and 1 m for freshwater habitat.
Precautions: Low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50:
oral >1,014; dermal >2,000). Moderately toxic to fish Storage: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place.
and practically non-toxic to bees and birds.
Storage: Store in a tightly closed container in a cool, Table 7.13. Ornamental uses and application rates
dry place. Shelf life is approximately two years for Frontier Max (720 g/L).
when stored properly.NAPROPAMIDE Uses Maximum Use Rate
Weed control in field, liner 756 to 963 mL/ha
and container nurseries of
commercial ornamental
production

isoxaben (GALLERY) is a selective Conditions under which poor results may be
preemergence herbicide for certain broadleaf weeds seen: Poor results may occur if the product is not
in conifer bareroot and container nursery stock for activated by rainfall or irrigation within 21 days of
listed trees, shrubs and groundcovers grown for application.
silviculture purposes, and containerized
Movement in soil: Relatively low mobility with
ornamentals grown in nurseries. The label permits
moderate persistence. It has a half-life in soil of
the application to non-listed plant species; limit
about 3-4 months.
initial application to a small number of seedlings of
non-listed plants to confirm tolerance prior to Precautions: Slight skin and eye irritant. Low
adoption as a large scale practice. For outdoor use mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral >10,000).
only. It does not control established weeds. Prior to
Storage: Do not store in direct sunlight or at
seeding or transplanting into soil previously treated
temperatures above 45oC.
with Gallery, it is recommended to perform a field
bioassay to test for residues. Refer to the label for
details on how to perform a bioassay.
Registrant: Dow AgroSciences Canada, Calgary, napropamide (DEVRINOL) is a
AB Tel: 1-800-667-3852 preemergence herbicide. It does not control
established weeds. Devrinol is registered for use on
When used: Apply in in early spring, late summer
specific container-grown ornamentals, field-grown
to early fall, or anytime prior to germination of
nursery stock (ornamental and forestry) and
target weeds or immediately after cultivation.
foundation ornamental plantings (2-G and 10-G
only) (registered crops are listed in Table 7.23).
Broadcast applications of the 10-G or 2-G
for Gallery 75 DF (75%).
formulations have been shown to be less effective
Uses Gallery 75 DF than the 50-DF formulation. Devrinol 50-DF can be
Conifer bareroot and container 1.0 kg in 100-400 L of tank mixed with Simazine 80-W, check both labels
nursery stock, and container water/ha for rates and tolerant species. Do not apply to soils
ornamentals grown in nurseries high in organic matter. In landscape beds, Devrinol
is less effective when applied on top of bark mulch.
Pressure: 200-275 kPa Registrant: United Phosphorus Inc., King of
Nozzle type: Flat fan preferred. Prussia, PA Tel: 1-800-438-6071
Incorporation: It is stable on the soil surface for up When used: Devrinol can be applied anytime of the
to 21 days. It must be activated to be effective. A year to weed-free soil. Only treat container-grown
single rainfall, or overhead (1 cm or more) or flood stock after the soil has settled from the first
irrigation, after Gallery application is necessary to watering. Use the granular formulations as a
activate it. Weeds that emerge prior to activation directed application to larger established field
need to be destroyed by shallow cultivation (2.5-5.0 plantings and a broadcast treatment over young
cm depth) or hand pulling. newly planted ornamentals. Use the dry flowable
formulation as a directed spray.
Spraying tips: Do not apply using hand held
sprayers. Crop injury can occur if applied to tree
seedlings earlier than 4 weeks after germinating Table 7.15. Ornamental uses and application rates
and seedling emergence. Do not apply until the soil for Devrinol 2-G (2%), 10-G (10%) and 50-DF (50%).
or potting media has settled and no cracks are Devrinol 2-G Devrinol Devrinol
present by packing and irrigation or rainfall. Do not 10-G 50-DF or
apply more than once per year. Agitation is DF-XT
necessary to prevent the product settling in the Container & 225 kg/ha 45 kg/ha 9 kg in 470 L
spray tank. Nozzle screens should be no finer than field-grown of water/ha
50 mesh and in-line screens and strainers no finer ornamentals
than 16 mesh.
Foundation 225 kg/ha 45 kg/ha -
How it works: Gallery is absorbed principally by plants
the roots, with translocation through the stems and
leaves. It disrupts root and stem development in
germinating seeds.

Incorporation: Incorporation is required since  Applications made to soils with over 10%
Devrinol is broken down by sunlight. Incorporation organic matter.
must occur within 7 days when applied in the
 Spraying on ground heavily covered with
spring and fall, or within 2 days when applied in
leaves or trash.
the summer. Rainfall or irrigation must carry the
chemical to a depth of 5-10 cm soon after  If adequate irrigation, natural moisture or
application. If rainfall or irrigation is not available, mechanical incorporation is not received within
mechanical incorporation is required to a depth of seven days for spring or fall applications, or
2.5-5 cm. two days for summer applications (June, July
and August).
Spraying tips: Do not apply to soils high in organic
matter. When mixing Devrinol 50-DF, make a Movement in soil: Persistence in soil for one
slurry and add to a nearly filled spray tank with growing season. It is broken down by soil
adequate agitation, to enhance initial mixing. Allow microorganisms and by sunlight.
the pump to run several minutes before application
Precautions: Eye irritant. Low mammalian acute
to ensure proper suspension and mixing.
toxicity (LD50: oral >500). Slightly toxic to fish and
How it works: Devrinol inhibits root growth and practically non-toxic to bees.
stops seed germination.
Storage: Do not store near food, feed, seed or
Conditions under which poor results may be fertilizer. Keep container tightly closed when not in
seen: use. Store in a cool, dry place.
oxadiazon (RONSTAR) is a selective, Incorporation: Do not incorporate.

preemergence herbicide for control of certain
How it works: It is taken up by plant shoots and
annual broadleaf and grassy weeds in woody
leaves, but not by the roots. It is not translocated
ornamental shrubs and trees grown in containers.
within the plant. Oxadiazon affects cell division
Registrant: Bayer CropScience Inc., Calgary, AB and kills young shoots before they emerge from the
Tel: 1-888-238-6747 soil. The herbicide barrier must be formed prior to
weed seed germination.
When used: Apply anytime during the year prior
to weed seed germination. Ronstar can be applied Conditions under which poor results may be
to ornamentals that are newly transplanted or seen:
established and that are actively growing or  Lack of rainfall or irrigation after application.
dormant. Do not apply to wet foliage or under  Dry soil conditions.
conditions in which granules will collect on leaves.  Weeds are emerging at time of application.
Prostrate plants may be damaged by splashing of
product onto leaves. Do not apply in greenhouses Effects of rainfall: Rainfall or irrigation after
as plant injury may occur. application will improve weed control activity.
Movement in soil: Ronstar has good soil
Table 7.16. Application rates for Ronstar 2G (2%) persistence and provides up to 120 days of weed
based on container diameter. control. It does not photodecompose, and is
virtually insoluble in water and strongly adsorbed
Container Diameter (cm) Ronstar 2G/ container1
to soil particles, which prevents it from being
25 0.5-1.2 g leached. It only moves through the soil when
31 0.7-1.6 g attached to soil particles.
46 1.6-3.7 g Precautions: Slight eye irritant; toxic to fish and
61 2.9-6.6 g bees. Low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral
1 Apply 10-22.5 g of Ronstar 2G per m2 of pot surface >5,000; dermal >2,000).
area. Irrigation or rainfall after application will improve Storage: May be stored at any temperature. Ronstar
weed control. For extended weed control, a second is stable in storage in excess of two years.
application may be needed in 60 to 120 days.

pendimethalin (PROWL H2O) is propyzamide (KERB) is a selective
registered to control annual grasses and labeled herbicide used to control certain perennial grasses,
broadleaf weeds in field, liner and container-grown most annual grasses, and chickweed. Dandelions
outdoor ornamentals and conifers for field and other members of the Compositae family are
production, including Christmas trees. not controlled. Kerb is registered for use on a
limited range of established ornamentals and
Registrant: BASF Canada, Mississauga
container-grown nursery stock (see Table 7.23).
Tel: 1-877-371-2273
When used: Apply as a preemergence treatment; it
Calgary, AB Tel: 1-800-667-3852
does not control established weeds. Do not make
over-the-top applications nor apply when buds are When used: Treat established ornamentals in the
swelling or breaking. fall and container-grown nursery stock between
November and February. Do not apply to container
stock that has been transplanted less than 6 months.
Apply under fruit tree stock (Malus and Pyrus) in
for Prowl H2O (455 g/L).
late September to early November. Best results
Uses Prowl H2O occur when soil temperature is low but above
Established and newly 3.7 L/ha freezing and soil moisture is high.
transplanted container or field Nozzle type: Use flat fan nozzles.
grown ornamentals and conifers
Spraying tips: The water-soluble pouches will
Newly planted and established 3.7 L/ha
become insoluble if there is oil residue in the spray
fruit trees
tank, and if the water contains boron or releases
free chlorine.
Pressure: 138-275 kPa
Nozzle type: 80o or 110 o fan nozzles. Table 7.18. Ornamental uses and application rates
for Kerb 50 WSP (50%) and Kerb SC (400 g/L).
Incorporation: Do not incorporate or serious crop
injury may result. Uses Kerb 50 WSP Kerb SC
Established ornamentals and 30 g/100 m2 37 mL/100 m2
Spraying tips: Nozzle screens must be no finer than
container stock (transplanted
50 mesh. Over application can result in crop stand
for at least 6 months)
loss, crop injury or herbicide residues. Do not use
on muck or peat soils. Malus and Pyrus trees 45 g/100 m2 56 mL/100 m2
established for at least 1 year
How it works: Prowl interferes with seedling
development by inhibiting the growth of root and
How it works: Propyzamide inhibits
shoot tips. Weed seedlings die before emergence.
photosynthesis and cell division. It is absorbed by
Expected results: Most susceptible weeds will die the roots and is translocated in the plant. Little
before emergence. product is absorbed by the foliage.
Conditions under which poor results may be Movement in soil: Persistence is variable (2-9
seen: Unusually cold, excessively wet, or hot and months) and will depend on soil type and climatic
dry conditions that delay or extend germination. conditions. Propyzamide decomposes slowly below
15oC. Persistence is greatest in sandy soils with low
Movement in soil: Very low leaching potential.
organic matter.
Precautions: Low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50:
Precautions: Slight eye and skin irritant. Low
oral = 3,956; dermal >2,200). Toxic to fish.
mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral >5,620;
Unsprayed buffer zone around aquatic dermal >3,160).
environments: refer to the label
Storage: Do not store below 4oC. Extended storage
at temperatures below 4oC can result in the
formation of crystals in the bottom of the container.
If crystallization does occur, store the container on
its side at room temperature and rock occasionally
until crystals re-dissolve.

simazine (PRINCEP NINE-T, Incorporation: Not required. Rainfall or irrigation
SIMADEX SIMAZINE F and SIMAZINE) is required to move simazine into the root zone.
are preemergence herbicides useful for spring
Spraying tips: Use the low rate on sandy soils or
applications to control annual grass and broadleaf
soils low in organic matter. Use high rates for clay
seedlings. Do not treat coarse, sandy or gravelly
soils or soils high in organic matter.
soil. Crop plants should be established at least one
year and dormant when the chemical is applied. Do How it works: Simazine controls germinating weed
not replant treated soil for one year. Do not use seeds by inhibiting photosynthesis. It is absorbed
treated areas for nursery seed beds or cutting beds by the roots; little or no product is absorbed by the
for at least twelve months after treatment. Uniform leaves.
application is essential. Princep Nine-T can be used
Expected results: Weed seedlings wilt, followed by
on containerized juniper, cedar and yew. High rates
yellowing and browning. Symptoms begin at the
may be phytotoxic.
growing tips and move down to the base of the
Trade Names and Registrants: seedling.
Princep Nine-T – Syngenta Canada, Inc., Guelph, Conditions under which poor results may be
ON Tel: 1-877-964-3682 seen:
 If weeds have emerged.
Simadex Simazine Flowable – Bayer CropScience,
 Insufficient irrigation or rainfall to move
Calgary, AB Toll Free: 1-888-283-6847
chemical into the root zone.
Simazine 480 – Loveland Products Canada,  Improper rate of application for soil type
Dorchester, ON Tel: 1-800-328-4678 present.
When used: Use on nursery stock and shelterbelts Movement in soil: Simazine has low water
established for at least one year. Use only on new or solubility. It is adsorbed more readily on clay and
established Christmas trees of 2+0 stock or older. muck soils than on sandy soils. Control in muck soil
Apply in the fall or in the spring before bud break. may be minimal due to chemical adsorption.
If weeds have emerged prior to treatment, hoe or Simazine is a residual herbicide and will remain in
cultivate before application. the top 5 cm of soil under most conditions. There is
almost no lateral movement of simazine in soil,
Application rate: Use the low rate for coarse, sandy
however it can move if heavy rainfall results in soil
soil and the high rate for clay soil and soil high in
erosion. The chemical is decomposed by soil
organic matter. Rainfall is required to move the
microbes. It remains active for one year.
chemical into the root zone of weeds. For container
stock, apply one month after planting and only Precautions: Low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50:
once per season. Repeated use of simazine may oral >5,000; dermal >3,100). Moderately toxic to
lead to soil residues that can restrict future crop bees; apply only during the late evening, night or
growth. early morning on blooming crops or weeds. Not
toxic to fish and birds.
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place. Do not allow
Nozzle type: 80° flat fan nozzle. Use nozzle
flowable formulation to freeze.
screens of mesh size 50 or larger.
Table 7.19. Ornamental uses and application rates for Princep Nine-T (90%), Simadex Simazine F (500 g/L)
and Simazine 480 (474 g/L).
Uses Princep Nine-T Simadex Simazine F Simazine 480
Christmas trees (2-year 4.8 kg in 300 L of water 9-13.5 L in 300 L of water -
stock or older; < 500 ha)
Conifer beds - preplant 3.9 kg in 300 L of water - -
(< 500 ha)1
Container stock 2.5 kg in 300 L of water -
Nursery stock and 2.5-3.75 kg in 300 L of water 4.5-6.7 L in 300 L of water 4.7-7 L in 300 L of water
woody ornamentals
1 Planting may follow within a few days of application.

Table 7.20. Band application of Princep Nine-T (90%) and Simadex Simazine F (500 g/L) for Abies balsamea
and Pinus strobus Christmas trees. Use the higher rate where there are heavy infestations of perennial grasses,
as well as on clay soils high in organic matter. Apply in 300 L of water per hectare of ground treated.
Princep Nine-T (kg/ha) Simadex Simazine F (L/ha)
Row Spacing
0.7 m Band 1.0 m Band 0.6 m Band 0.9 m Band
2.1 m 1.7-2.3 2.4-3.3 - -
1.8 m 1.9-2.7 2.8-3.9 2.9-4.3 4.3-6.5
1.5 m 2.3-3.3 3.3-4.7 3.4-5.0 5.2-8.3
1.2 m 2.9-4.1 4.2-5.8 4.3-6.5 6.5-9.7
s-metolachlor (DUAL II MAGNUM) is Expected results: Most weeds affected by Dual II

a selective, preemergence herbicide with early post- Magnum do not emerge.
emergent activity on young weeds (2-leaf stage).
Registrant: Syngenta, Guelph, ON seen:
Tel: 1-877-964-3682  Untreated soil is moved to the surface during
planting.
When used: Use to control weeds prior to
 If drought conditions persist after application,
emergence in established nursery stock.
annual grass control may not be adequate.
Movement in soil: On sandy soils, heavy rainfall
Incorporation: Is required with pre-plant following an incorporated treatment may cause
incorporation treatments. Refer to the label for leaching of the herbicide.
more details on recommended incorporation
Precautions: Mild eye and skin irritant; may cause
equipment.
skin sensitisation. Low mammalian acute toxicity
Spraying tips: Do not apply to loose and rough (LD50: oral = 2,780; dermal >10,000).
ground. Keep bypass line at the bottom of the tank
to minimize foaming. Use 16 mesh suction screens,
environments: 29 m
and 50 mesh line and tip screens.
Storage: May be stored at freezing temperature.
How it works: Germinating grass seedlings absorb
Return to original state by warming to room
the herbicide through the shoots just above the
temperature (20-22oC) and agitate thoroughly
seed. Metolachlor inhibits protein synthesis and
before use.
kills susceptible weeds before emergence.
Table 7.21. Ornamental uses and application rates for Dual II Magnum (915 g/L).
Uses Dual II Magnum
First-year (non-bearing) Malus, Prunus 1.25-1.75 L + 1.1-2.2 kg Princep Nine-T /ha1. Best results are obtained
(Apricot, Cherry, Peach, Plum), Pyrus with applications made after rain has settled the soil around trees.
Conifers: established, field-grown 1.25-1.75 L/ha. Make only one ground application per year, banded
Abies balsamea, A. fraseri, Pinus over top of the trees. Apply in a minimum of 300 L water per hectare.
strobus and Picea glauca
Second-year or older Picea glauca, P. 1.25-1.75 L/ha. Apply prior to budbreak or 4 weeks after bud burst or
abies, P. mariana, Pinus strobes, P. until needles have hardened in conifers. Apply to dormant and
banksiana and P. resinosa transplant flushing poplar stoolbeds.
or seedling stock and poplar stoolbeds
Outdoor ornamentals (Woody and 1.25-1.75 L/ha. Apply in 150-200 L of water per ha. To avoid plant
Herbaceous): container-, field- and injury, do not apply to seedbeds, cutting beds, or uprooted cuttings
liner-grown plants, and plants in before transplanting and to plants until the soil has firmly settled
landscape plantings around roots. When applied over-the-top of plants, follow with
sufficient overhead irrigation to wash residues from the foliage.
1 Use the higher rates of Dual II Magnum and Princep Nine-T for heavier weed infestations.

trifluralin (BONANZA, RIVAL and Incorporation: Trifluralin is degraded by UV light,
TREFLAN) are preemergence herbicides that can therefore incorporation is an essential part of
be applied and incorporated prior to transplanting application. Incorporation is best done at the time
woody nursery stock or perennials. They can also of application. Trifluralin should not be
be used in established woody nursery plantations. incorporated with a field cultivator when the soil is
Do not apply to soils that contain more than 15% crusty, lumpy or too wet for good mixing action. To
organic matter. Do not apply to wet soils that are incorporate, work into the soil in two different
subject to excessive flooding. Do not apply to sandy directions. Use a tandem disc or field cultivator for
soils with less than 1% organic matter. Treflan G is the first incorporation, set to work 8-10 cm deep.
registered for use on a limited number of The first incorporation should occur within 24
ornamentals grown in containers (see Table 7.23). hours of application. The second incorporation
should be done anytime prior to planting in a cross
Trade names and registrants:
direction and at the same depth. Operate disc
Bonanza 480 – Loveland Products Canada, implements at 7-10 km/hr, cultivators at 10-13
Dorchester, ON Tel: 1-800-265-4624 km/hr.
Treflan EC & G - Dow AgroSciences Canada, How it works: Trifluralin prevents cell division in
Calgary, AB Tel: 1-800-667-3852 root and shoot tips as they emerge from the seed.
Trifluralin is more effective on root tips. If a shoot
Rival EC - Nufarm Agriculture Inc., Calgary, AB
does reach the soil surface, the seedling will
Tel: 1-800-868-5444
eventually die due to the inactive roots.
When used: Apply immediately prior to or up to
three weeks before transplanting woody nursery stock
seen: Improper incorporation or a delay of
and perennials. Apply to established woody nursery
incorporation more than specified for product.
stock only as a directed soil spray, and incorporate as
close as possible to the ornamentals without injuring Effects of rainfall: Once incorporated, rainfall will
their roots. not affect the activity.
Pressure: 200-275 kPa Movement in soil: Trifluralin is not leached in the
soil.
Nozzle type: Use standard or low pressure nozzles.
Precautions: Slight eye irritant. Low mammalian
Spraying tips: Apply to weed-free soil surface. Do
acute toxicity (LD50: oral >10,000). Moderately toxic
not apply to light soils containing less than 1%
to fish, non-toxic to bees and earthworms.
organic matter. Do not apply to wet or cloddy soils,
or soils containing more than 15% organic matter. Storage: Store in heated storage. Trifluralin may
Do not apply to soils subject to prolonged periods crystallize at temperatures below 5°C. If crystals are
of flooding. present in the bottom of the container, place the
container in a warm area (at least 15°C) for several
hours and shake well before use. Do not expose
Treflan G to prolonged, direct sunlight.
Table 7.22. Ornamental uses and application rates for Bonanza 480 (480 g/L), Rival EC (500 g/L) and Treflan
EC (480 g/L) and G (5%).
Soil Texture Bonanza 4801 Rival EC1 Treflan EC1 Treflan G1
Light – sand, sandy loam 1.25 L/ha 1.2 L/ha 1.2 L/ha 900 g/100 m2
Medium – loam, silt, silt 1.7 L/ha 1.6 L/ha 1.7 L/ha 900 g/100 m2
loam, sandy loam
Heavy – silt clay loam, clay 2.3 L/ha 2.3 L/ha 2.4 L/ha 900 g/100 m2
loam, silty clay, clay
Container stock - - - 900 g/100 m2
1 Apply in a minimum of 110 L of water/ha.
2 Do not apply Treflan G to crops with wet foliage. It should only be applied to a smooth soil surface, to assure uniform
distribution of the granules. Use either a drop-type or a rotary-type granular herbicide or insecticide applicator. Apply at
least 2 cm of irrigation within 24 hours of application.

Bonanza, Rival,
Table 7.23a. Selective herbicide
Frontier Max
options for broadleaf
Magnum13
evergreens.
Simazine
Devrinol
Gallery13
Casoron
Princep,
Venture
Dacthal
Ronstar
Treflan
Lontrel
Dual II
Velpar
Prowl
Abelia F9 FL CFL
Andromeda (Bog Rosemary) F 9
Aucuba F9 FL
Azalea F9 CFL C
Buxus (Boxwood) F9 FL CFL CF F F
Callistemon (Bottlebrush) F 9 CFL
Calluna / Erica (Heather) F 9 FL C F
Camellia F 9 CFL
Cotoneaster F 9 CFL F F
C. dammeri C1F9
Escallonia F9 F
Euonymus F 9 FL FL CFL C F
E. fortunei CF 1 9 C
Ilex (Holly) F 9 FL FL CFL F D
I. cornuta (Chinese Holly) F9 CF
I. crenata (Japanese Holly) F9 S CF
Leucothoe F 9 CFL
Ligustrum (Privet) F 9 CFL F
Magnolia grandiflora F 9 CF
Myrtus (Myrtle) F9
Nandina (Heavenly Bamboo) F9 CFL
Osmanthus F 9 FL
Photinia F 9 CFL
Pieris (Andromeda) F 9 F
Pittosporum F9 FL
Pyracantha (Firethorn) F9 CFL F
Rhaphiolepis (Indian Hawthorn) F 9 CFL
Rhododendron F 9 FL CFL CFL CF C F
Viburnum F 9 FL F
V. trilobum (Cranberry) F 9
V. davidii (David Viburnum) F9

Yucca F9 F
Key:
C Container-grown stock
Ch Christmas tree plantations
D Directed spray of field stock; avoid crop contact
F Field-grown stock
L Landscape use

Bonanza, Rival, Treflan
Table 7.23b. Selective herbicide
Princep, Simazine
options for conifers.
Dual II Magnum13
Frontier Max
Garlon XRT
Devrinol
Gallery13
Casoron
Venture
Dacthal
Ronstar
Lontrel
Velpar
Goal13
Prowl
Kerb
Abies (True Fir) F9 CFL D
A. balsamea (Balsam fir) F9 F F Ch4 Ch Ch
A. fraseri (Fraser fir) F9 F CF F CF
Cedrus (True Cedar) F9
Chamaecyparis (False Cedar) F9 F
Cupressocyparis leylandii (Cypress) F 9 CF
FOR THE CONTROL OF LABELLED WEEDS IN CHRISTMAS TREE PLANTATIONS

Cupressus (Cypress) F9 CFL
REGISTERED FOR TOLERANT FIELD- AND CONTAINER-GROWN CONIFERS5

Juniperus (Juniper) F9 FL FL CFL CFL CF C2F C F
J. chinenis 'Pfitzeriana' CF 1 9 CFL C F D
J. horizontalis (Spreading Juniper) C1F9 CFL C F CF
J. sabina (Savin Juniper) C1F9 F
J. scopulorum (Rocky Mtn Juniper) C1F9 F
J. virginiana (Eastern Red Cedar) C1F9 FL
Larix kaempreni (Japanese Larch) F 9 FL
Larix laricina (Eastern Larch) F9 CF
Picea (Spruce) F9 FL D
P. abies (Norway Spruce) CF 1 9 F 3 CF CF F
P. glauca (White Spruce) C1F9 F3 CF CF F Ch
P. mariana (Black Spruce) C1F9 F3 CF CF Ch
P. omorika (Serbian Spruce) F9 F C
P. pungens glauca (Col. Blue Spruce) C1F9 C F F C Ch
P. rubens (Red Spruce) F 9 CF F
Pinus (Pine) F9 CFL F
P. banksiana (Jack Pine) F9 F3 CF CF
P. contorta (Lodgepole Pine) F 9 CF F
P. mugo (Mugo Pine) C1F9 F C
P. nigra (Austrian Pine) CF 1 9
P. resinosa (Red Pine) F9 F3 CF CF Ch

P. strobus (White Pine) F9 F3 CF CF Ch
P. sylvestris (Scotch Pine) F 9 F C Ch
P. taeda (Loblolly Pine) F9 CF
Podocarpus F9 CFL
P. macrophyllus (Bigleaf Podocarp) F9 F

Table 7.23b. Selective herbicide
Princep, Simazine
options for conifers. (Cont’d)
Dual II Magnum13
Frontier Max
Garlon XRT
Devrinol
Gallery13
Casoron
Venture
Dacthal
Ronstar
Lontrel
Velpar
Goal13
Prowl
Kerb
Pseudotsuga menziesii (Douglas Fir) F9 CFL CF C CF D
CHRISTMAS TREE PLANTATIONS5

Taxus (Yew) F9 FL FL FL CF C C2F D
T. cuspidata C1F9 F CF
T. media C1F9 F
CONIFERS5
Thuja (Arborvitae) F9 FL C CFL C2F F
T. occidentalis (White Cedar) CF 1 9 CFL CF C F CF
T. plicata F9 CF
Tsuga (Hemlock) F9 FL F D
T. canadensis (Canadian Hemlock) F 9 CF
T. heterophylla (Western Hemlock) F9 F
1 5
Treflan G only; application to crops not on the label may The label does not list tolerant conifers.
result in plant injury. 9 General registration for perennials and
2 Princep Nine-T only. established woody nursery stock.
3 Treat only 2nd year or older transplant or seedling stock. 13 May be applied to non-listed species; test for
4 Do not use on seedbeds or transplants, or as an over-the- plant tolerance before large scale use.
top application.

Dual II Magnum13
Princep, Simazine
Table 7.23c. Selective herbicide
Bonanza, Rival,
options for deciduous shrubs.
Frontier Max
Devrinol
Gallery13
Casoron
Venture
Dacthal
Ronstar
Treflan
Lontrel
Velpar
Prowl
Kerb
Abelia F9 FL CFL
Amelanchier (Serviceberry) F9
Azalea F9 CFL CF C
Berberis (Barberry) F 9 FL FL F F
Caragana (Pea Shrub) F9 FL F
Chaenomeles (Flowering Quince) F 9 F
Cornus (Dogwood) F 9 CFL C F C D
C. alba (Tartarian Dogwood) C1F9 C
C. sericea F9 C
C. stolonifera F9 C
Cotoneaster C1F9 CFL F F
Deutzia F 9 FL
Euonymus C1F9 FL FL CFL CFL C F
Forsythia F9 FL FL CFL CF F
Hibiscus F 9 CFL
Hydrangea F9 CF F
Hypericum (St. John's-wort) F 9 FL
Jasminum nudiflorum (Jasmine) F 9 F
Lagerstroemia (Crape Myrtle) F9 CFL CF CF
Philadelphus (Mock Orange) F9 FL D
P. coronarius CF 1 9
Potentilla (Cinquefoil) F9 C C F
Ribes (Currant, Gooseberry) F 9 C F
Rosa F 9 FL CFL CF C F F
R. multiflora (Japanese Rose) F9 F
Rubus (Caneberries) F9 F
Sambucus (Elder) F 9 C F
Spiraea F9 FL FL C F
S. arguta, S. bumalda CF 1 9
S. vanhouttei F9 CF
Symphoricarpos rivularis (Snowberry) F9 F
Syringa (Lilac) F 9 FL C F
Vaccinium corymbosum (Blueberry) F 9 F F
Viburnum F9 FL F
Weigela F 9 FL F
Key:
C Container-grown stock F Field-grown stock
Ch Christmas tree plantations L Landscape use
D Directed spray of field stock; avoid crop contact

Bonanza, Rival,
Table 7.23d. Selective
Frontier Max
herbicide options for
Magnum13
deciduous trees.
Simazine
Devrinol
Gallery13
Casoron
Princep,
Venture
Dacthal
Ronstar
Treflan
Lontrel
Dual II
Velpar
Prowl
Kerb
Acer (Maple) F9 FL FL FL C F
A. circinatum (Vine Maple) F 9 C
A. pseudoplatanus F9
A. rubrum F9 CF
Betula (Birch) F 9 FL
B. pendula 'Gracilis' (Cutleaf
F9 FL
European Birch)
B. nigra (River Birch) F9 CF
Carpinus (Hornbeam) F9 F
Carya (Hickory) F 9
Cornus (Dogwood) F9 CFL C F C D

Corylus (Hazelnut) F 9 FL F
Cotinus coggygria (Smoke Tree) F 9 F
Crataegus (Hawthorn) F9 FL
Fraxinus (Ash) F9 FL FL F
F. americana (White Ash) F 9 F
F. pennsylvanica (Green Ash) F9 CF CF
Gleditsia (Honeylocust) F 9 FL FL F
Juglans nigra (E. Black Walnut) F 9 FL FL F
Laburnum (Golden-chain Tree) F9 FL
Liriodendron (Tulip Tree) F9 FL
Malus (Apple, Crabapple) F 9 FL FL F10 F11 F8 F F F
Platanus (Sycamore) F9 FL F
Populus (Poplar) F 9 FL F 6
Prunus (Cherry, Peach, Plum) F 9 FL 12 FL F10 C F F7 F

P. tomentosa (Nanking Cherry) F9 C C
Pyrus (Pear) F9 FL12 FL F10 F11 F F
Quercus (Oak) F 9 FL
Q. nigra (Water Oaks) F9 CF
Q. palustris (Pin Oak) F 9 FL
Salix (Willow) F 9 FL FL F
Tilia (Linden) F9 FL F
Ulmus (Elm) F 9 FL F
6 Treat only 2nd year or older stoolbeds. 10 First-year (non-bearing) fruit trees, including apple, apricot,
7 Newly planted and established apricot, cherries, peach, pear and plum.
cherry, nectarine and peach trees. 11 Use under trees established for at least 1 year.
8 Avoid spray contact with tree limbs. For 12 G-2 formulation only.
bearing and non-bearing trees. 13 May be applied to non-listed species; test for plant tolerance
9 General registration for perennials and before large scale use.

established woody nursery stock.

Table 7.23e. Selective herbicide options for annuals, perennials, bulbs, ground covers and vines.
Common Name Use Site Registered Uses and Crop Tolerance
(Trade Name)
chlorthal Field & Crops: Alyssum, Gladiolus, Gypsophila, Hedera, Iberis, Paeonia, Petunia, Salvia and
(Dacthal G5 & W75) Landscape Tagetes.
dichlobenil Field Crops: Euonymus and Lonicera. Do not treat Gladiolus, herbaceous perennials, or
(Casoron G-2 & G-4) Ajuga, and use with caution on shallow-rooted ground covers.
fluazifop-p-butyl Field Crops for Over-the-Top Application: Ajuga, Alyssum, Anthemis, Arabis, Arenaria
(Venture L) verna, Artemisia, Bergenia, Centaurea, Cerastium, Chrysanthemum, Coreopsis tinctoria,
Coronilla varia, Delphinium, Dianthus, Doronicum, Draba, Echinacea purpurea,
Epimedium, Erigeron, Euphorbia, Fragaria chiloensis, Gaillardia, Gazania, Geum,
Gypsophila, Hedera helix, Impatiens, Iris, Lathyrus, Lilium, Limonium, Linaria, Liriope,
Lonicera, Lupinus, Lysimachia, L. nummularia, Myosotis, Nepeta cataria, Oenothera,
Papaver, Parthenocissus quinquefolia, Petunia, Polygonum, P. aubertti, Potentilla,
Rudbechia, Salvia, Scabiosa, Sempervivum, Tagetes, Verbena, Vinca minor, Zinnia
Crops for Directed Spray: Campanula, Sedum
The user should test unlisted species to determine safety to over-the-top spraying.
Otherwise, a directed spray is advised to avoid contact with foliage.
isoxaben Outdoor, Crops: Clematis (C. chiisanensis, C. jackmanii, C. tangutica), Hemerocallis, Heuchera,
(Gallery 75 DF) Container and Hosta. Gallery 75 DF Herbicide may be applied to non-listed plant species;
first use on non-listed plant species should be limited to a small number of
seedlings to confirm plant tolerance prior to adoption as a large scale practice.
metolachlor Container, Tolerant Crops: Hemerocallis and Hosta. May be applied to non-listed species; test
(Dual II Magnum) Field, for plant tolerance before large scale use.
Landscape
napropamide Container Crops: Agapanthus, Ageratum, Geranium, Hedera, Liriope, Pachysandra, Sedum and
(Devrinol 2G, 10G & Vinca.
50 DF)
Field & Crops: Ajuga, Aster, Dahlia, Gazania, Geranium, Hedera, Hosta, Hypericum, Lantana,
Landscape Liriope, Lonicera, Narcissus, Pachysandra, Petunia, Sedum, Vinca and Vitis.
pendimethalin Container Crops: Achillea millefolium, Aquilegia sp. ‘McKana’, Chrysanthemum maximum,
(Prowl H2O) & Field Coreopsis lanceolata, Digitalis purpurea, Echinacea purpurea, Gaillardia aristata and G.
pulchella, Geum quellyon and G. chiloense, Gypsophila paniculata, Hemerocallis spp.,
Limonium latifolium, Paeonia spp.,Sedium spurium and Stokesia laevis.
propyzamide Field Crops: established ground covers (except Vinca minor), Iris and Paeonia.
(Kerb 50 WSP & SC)
simazine Field Crops: Paeonia. Only treat stock that is established one year or more.
(Princep Nine-T,
Simazine 480,
Simadex Simazine F)
trifluralin Field Crops: woody nursery stock and perennials; do not treat Ajuga, Myrtle and
(Treflan EC, Rival Pachysandra. The labels do not specify tolerant crops. Cornell Cooperative
EC, Bonanza 400) Extension recommends the use of trifluralin in their 1999 Pest Management
Recommendations for Commercial Production and Maintenance of Trees and Shrubs for
the following plants: Cerastium, Dianthus, Euphorbia, Hedera, Hypericum, Liriope,
Lonicera, Sedum and Vinca minor.
Spray the soil and incorporate as closely as possible to plants without causing
damage to roots.

Preemergence Postemergence
EcoClear & Mungwer HVP

Table 7.24a. Annual

broadleaf weeds
Princep, Simazine
controlled by
Dual II Magnum
preemergence and
Frontier Max
postemergence
Garlon XRT
Gramoxone
Roundup
herbicides.
Devrinol
TopGun
Casoron
Venture
Amitrol
Dacthal
Ronstar
Gallery
Lontrel
Velpar
Prowl
Kerb
Goal
Buckwheat, wild   
Chickweed, common        
Cudweed, low   
KILLS MOST ANNUAL WEEDS AND TOP GROWTH OF PERENNIAL WEEDS

Groundsel     
KILLS OR CONTROLS MOST ANNUAL AND PERENNIAL WEEDS

Knotweed   
CONTROLS MANY ANNUAL WEEDS

Kochia 
Lady's-thumb  
Lamb's-quarters            
Lettuce, prickly  
RAPID BURNDOWN OF ANNUAL WEEDS

Mallows  
Mustards  
Nightshade   
Pearlwort         
Pigweed, redroot     S   S   
Pineappleweed   
Purslane         
Sheep Sorrel  S
Shepherd's-purse     
Smartweed   
Snapweed/bittercress   
Sow-thistle, annual   
Stinkweed 
Stork's bill 
Thistle, Russian 
Vetch   
Willow herb    
Wood sorrel    
Note:
1.  indicates the herbicide controls the specific weed if the label rate and conditions are followed
2. S indicates top growth control or suppression only
3. Blank spaces indicate no or unknown control for that herbicide

Preemergence Postemergence
EcoClear & Munger HVP

Table 7.24b. Annual
grasses and perennial
Princep, Simazine
Dual II Magnum
weeds controlled by
preemergence and
Frontier Max
Garlon XRT
Gramoxone
postemergence
Roundup
De-Moss
Devrinol
TopGun
Casoron
Venture
Amitrol
herbicides.
Dacthal
Ronstar
Gallery
Lontrel
Velpar
Prowl
Kerb
Goal
ANNUAL GRASSES
Annual bluegrass      
RAPID BURNDOWN OF ANNUAL WEEDS

CONTROLS MANY ANNUAL GRASSES
           
CONTROLS MANY ANNUAL WEEDS

Barnyard grass
Bromegrass     
Cheatgrass   
        
KILLS MOST EMERGED ANNUAL WEEDS; TOP GROWTH CONTROL OF PERENNIAL WEEDS
Crabgrass, large
Crabgrass, smooth         
Darnel, Persian   
Foxtail, green            
Foxtail, yellow         
KILLS OR CONTROLS MOST ANNUAL AND PERENNIAL WEEDS

Millet, wild proso  
Oats, wild S    
Ryegrass, annual  
Witch grass      
PERENNIAL WEEDS   
Alder  
Bindweed  
Bracken fern       
Brambles   
Chicory     
TOP KILL OF SOME PERENNIAL WEEDS

Clover     S 
Cottonwood     
Dandelion      S 
Dock, curly  S  
Goldenrod  
Horsetail, field   
Moss 
Nutsedge   
Plantain   S
Quackgrass     S  
Sow-thistle    S
Spurge  
St. John's-wort  
Thistle, Canada   S S
Vetch, tufted     S  
Willow       

Note:
1.  indicates the herbicide controls the specific weed if the label rate and conditions are followed
2. S indicates top growth control or suppression only
3. Blank spaces indicate no or unknown control for that herbicide

Integrated Pest Management 8
(updated December 2013)
Integrated pest management (IPM) is a decision-

making process that uses all available techniques to
Sanitation
suppress pests effectively, economically and in an Nursery and landscape sanitation includes the
environmentally sound manner. IPM is a process removal or exclusion of factors that allow pests to
for managing pest populations that includes the gain access to crops, to spread between plants, or to
following elements: survive between crops. Good crop hygiene focuses
a. to plan and manage ecosystems to prevent on starting clean and preventing the introduction of
organisms from becoming pests, pests. Prevention is often easier and less expensive
than to manage an established pest population.
b. to identify pest problems and potential pest
organisms,
c. to monitor populations of pests and beneficial Start with Healthy, Pest-Free
organisms, and damage caused by pests and Plants
environmental conditions,
Closely inspect all plant material introduced to a
d. to use injury thresholds in making treatment
nursery or landscape for pests. Plants with pest
decisions,
problems should be ‘quarantined’ while the
e. to suppress pest populations to acceptable problem is rectified.
levels using a combination of biological,
physical, cultural, mechanical, behavioural and Strict sanitation also applies to propagation stock.
chemical controls, and The moist, warm conditions that favour
propagation also favour disease development (e.g.
f. to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments. botrytis and downy mildew). Cuttings and scion
In practical terms this means having a plan that material should only be collected from healthy and
lists all possible plant host/pest problems and pest-free stock plants. Washing in a detergent will
appropriate control methods to selectively reduce a help to remove soil, weed seeds, pathogens, or
pest population, while not harming beneficial insect eggs or other life stages from the surface of
organisms. cuttings.
An IPM program takes into account factors that Cutting and pruning tools should be frequently
influence plant health and vigour as well as those sanitized on all crops to prevent the spread of
diseases. Table 8.1 lists products and treatment
that affect the health and reproductive capacity of
times to disinfect cutting knives.
pests. The program will attempt to optimize
growing conditions for the crop while making the
conditions less favourable for pest development.
Key aspects of a nursery IPM program are:
Sanitation of Production Areas
Between crops all production beds, greenhouses,
 sanitation,
benches, walkways and containers should be
 optimizing crop growth, cleaned. It is very important to remove organic
 monitoring crops for pests, debris before treatment with an oxidizing
 knowledge of pest life cycles, and disinfectant (e.g. bleach, hydrogen peroxide), since
the debris will significantly reduce the efficacy of
 timely use of control tools, such as biological, the disinfectant. Refer to Table 8.2 for information
chemical, cultural and mechanical controls. on disinfectants registered for use in nurseries.
Each of these topics is covered below. The It is also important to follow a sanitation program
Integrated Pest Management Manual for Landscape during crop production. Sanitize cutting tools
Pests in British Columbia is another resource on
periodically when pruning crops.
landscape IPM. The manual covers the principles of
IPM as they apply in landscapes and gives
examples of IPM programs for common pests.
Nursery Production Guide Integrated Pest Management • 1

Table 8.1. Disinfectant treatments for cutting knives used by the greenhouse floriculture industry. Do not dip
cuttings in the disinfectants. No evaluation was made of the phytoxicity of disinfectant-treated knives on the
cutting. Use these treatments with CAUTION.
Disease Best Disinfectant Treatment Time
Bacterial blight of geranium 5% Virkon Quick Dip
10% Bleach1 Quick Dip
DCD Floralife (16 mL/L) Quick Dip
70% Ethanol2 20 seconds
Penicillium 10% Bleach1 10 seconds
70% Ethanol2 10 seconds
Fusarium wilt of cyclamen 5% Virkon Quick Dip
10% Bleach1 Quick Dip
70% Ethanol2 Quick Dip
DCD Floralife (16 mL/L) 20 seconds
1 Household strength bleach containing 5.25% sodium hypochlorite. Bleach is very corrosive and may damage cutting
tools over time.
2 Keep ethanol containers away from flames.
Table 8.2. Disinfectants registered for farm use.

Registered Disinfectants
didecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride
BioSentry Footbaths: 8 mL/L; change solution daily or when visibly soiled.
KleenGrow Greenhouse floors, walkways, benches, horticultural equipment: 4-8 mL/L

Footbaths: 15 mL/L; allow a 30 second contact time.
Do not rinse treated surfaces, except for greenhouse benches and horticultural
equipment. Repeat application every 15-20 days or as necessary to maintain control.
Corrosive: causes eye damage and skin irritation. Do not re-enter until residues have
dried and the area has been ventilated.
formaldehyde
Formalin General disinfection: 100 mL/10 L of water; apply to clean surfaces with a broom or
Fungicide spray pump.
hydrogen peroxide + peracetic acid
Hyperox Routine disinfection of hard, non-porous surfaces: 3.9 mL/L
Disinfection of equipment: 7.8 ml/L; remove heavy soil from equipment to be treated;
allow disinfectant solution to remain in contact with the equipment for at least 10
minutes.
Footbaths and wheel dips: 7.8 ml/L; allow at least 60 second contact time; change
solution when soiled or daily.
SaniDate 5.0 Farms, farm equipment and harvesting equipment: 2.5-4.0 mL/L; apply by wiping,
mopping or as a coarse spray to pre-cleaned, hard and non-porous surfaces and
equipment; allow a contact time of one minute and do not rinse.
potassium monopersulfate
Virkon Cleaning and disinfection of surfaces and equipment in agricultural buildings:
saturate all surfaces with a 1% (w/v) solution (10 g/L); the solution should remain in
contact with the surface for at least 10 minutes. Do not exceed 30 minutes for metal
objects.
sodium hypochlorite
Advance 12 General use: for general sanitizing and disinfection, apply a solution that contains 60
mL of Advance 12 per 10 L of water; allow a contact time of 10 minutes.
2 • Integrated Pest Management Nursery Production Guide

The management of weeds must also be a priority. Plant residues and sick plants harbour pests and
Weeds in production areas can spread to crops and should be quickly removed from production areas.
are a feeding and breeding site for many pests. For For instance, rose blackspot and apple scab will
example, common groundsel (Senecio vulgaris) is overwinter on fallen leaves. Therefore, it is
known to harbour whiteflies, leafminers, aphids recommended that fallen leaves be collected and
and western flower thrips. removed from the area to reduce inoculum levels.
Another route for pests to enter production areas is Plant debris should be buried, pasteurized or
on dirty footwear and clothing. To put this in burned. An open refuse pile near a production area
perspective, a pinch of soil can contain over 10,000 is a recipe for disaster, since it will be a source of
Fusarium spores, and only one spore is needed for reinfestation for a variety of pests. If you must have
infection (Jarvis, 1997). One option to reduce the a cull pile, locate it far away and downwind from
spread of pests on footwear is to install footbaths at the production area and the source of irrigation
the entrance of sensitive greenhouses, such as water. The pile should be covered with a plastic
propagation houses. A container with a foam mat is sheet or a soil layer after each deposit to prevent
effective. Use a disinfectant such as BioSentry, the release of spores and the buildup of insects on
KleenGrow or Hyperox. Change the solution every plant debris. The best solution is to remove all cull
day or when it becomes soiled, and ensure staff and material from the site. Recycling is fine, but do not
visitors use the footbath. Post signage about your recycle your pests.
policy regarding the use of footbaths.
Screening
Pests that fly such as thrips, aphids and moths can
be excluded from a greenhouse by covering vents
with screens. Several materials of various mesh
sizes are available. Screens reduce airflow into
greenhouses, which is usually compensated for by
increasing the surface area of the vent opening or
by installing pleated screens into the vent opening.
The surface area of the screened vent should be 2-5
times larger than the unscreened vent area.
Algae Control
The buildup of algae on surfaces, floors and in
pipes should be minimized because it encourages
and harbours shore flies and, can pose a safety
Figure 8.1. Footbath signage and mat used at the hazard due to its slippery nature. Avoid over-
entrance to a nursery. watering and provide good drainage. Disinfectants
can also be used to manage algae.
Avoid wearing bright-colored clothing (e.g. blue
and yellow) since it is attractive to insects.
Optimizing Crop Growth
Handling Media and Plant Plants that are vigorous and are not under stress
Residues are better able to resist pests. To maximize crop
growth, the level of all factors that control plant
The movement of soil and inadequately composted growth must be optimal. If too much or too little of
organic mulches on machinery or in bulk can any factor is supplied, the crop will have reduced
introduce pests to an area. New media should be growth and will be more susceptible to diseases.
visually inspected for pests prior to use. The rate of crop growth will be determined by the
Germination tests should also be performed to level of the growth factor that is in most limited
detect weed germinants. supply. This concept is commonly referred to as the
principle of limiting factors.
Nursery Production Guide Integrated Pest Manageme nt • 3

Some factors that influence crop growth are light, It is usually best to have one person assigned to
temperature, water, air and soil tilth (fertility, maintain a scouting and monitoring program.
drainage and aeration). For many of these the However, every staff person should be trained to
quantity and quality of the factor must be taken look for and report signs and symptoms of pests.
into account. Steps to optimize crop growth
Insect traps and sticky cards can be used to detect
include:
flying pests (e.g. fungus gnats, moths, thrips and
 Improve soil drainage through the installation whiteflies), but they have to be monitored on a
of drain tiles to reduce the risk of root rot on regular basis. In the greenhouse, it is recommended
susceptible hosts. Waterlogged soil results in to use sticky traps at the rate of 1 per 100 m2. The
the depletion of oxygen. Oxygen content below cards should be located above the crop canopy and
10% will injure roots, and levels below 3% will be checked twice a week. More traps should be
result in the cessation of root growth in many placed close to doorways and vents. In general, 6-8
plants. Roots injured by a lack of oxygen will cards will be required per monitoring area.
leak nutrients, which attract various root rot Evaluate the stickiness of traps after 3-4 weeks and
organisms. replace if necessary. Keep an on-going record of
 Increase plant spacing, or change pruning trap-catch numbers. When a pest is detected, have
practices to produce a less dense plant canopy, it accurately identified and begin control measures
to improve air movement and reduce problems as soon as possible.
with foliar diseases.
A.
 Moderate greenhouse temperatures, since large
swings in temperature can produce an
environment that is ideal for pest development.
Remember that strong and healthy plants have the
best chance to fight pests and resist infections.
Monitoring Crops for

Insect Pests B.
Monitoring is the regular inspection of plants to

detect the presence of pests or adverse
environmental conditions. Crop monitoring is
essential for pest management, since it enables
pests to be detected when at low levels and at a
susceptible stage of development. Monitoring will
also provide information on the presence and
activity of beneficial organisms, and the
effectiveness of previous treatments. Figure 8.2. The use of a yellow sticky card (A) and
tape (B) to trap flying insects.
Monitoring provides the information to make
sound pest management decisions. It is Another detection method commonly used is to tap
accomplished by inspecting plants and by the use the foliage to dislodge pests onto a catch tray, such
of a variety of trapping devices. In addition, as an ice cream pail lid or a piece of white paper.
environmental data may be recorded, such as This technique is useful for counting elm leaf
temperature, rainfall and humidity. (See Tables 8.3, beetles, some caterpillars, leafhoppers, mites, thrips
8.4, 8.5 and 8.6 for monitoring and scouting and weevils.
methods for use in greenhouses and the field.)

Table 8.3. Monitoring methods for insects in polyhouses and greenhouses.
Fungus Gnats
Leafhoppers
Leafminers
Shore Flies
Plant Bugs
Whiteflies
Aphids
Thrips
Moths
Mites
Monitoring Method
Yellow sticky cards at top of plant canopy        

Blue sticky cards at top of plant canopy 
Trap crops/catch plants   
Potato sections on soil surface 
Light traps 
Visual Inspection          
Table 8.4. Monitoring methods for insects in the field.
Moths and Borers

Leafhoppers
Caterpillars
Wireworms
Aphids &
Adelgids
Weevils
Thrips
Mites
Monitoring Method
Board traps 
Sticky traps and bands    
Tap foliage over a white surface      
Blacklight traps 
Visual inspections       
Trap crops 
Flour baits 
Pheromone traps   

Table 8.5. Scouting methods for insects in polyhouses.
Fungus Gnat
Spider Mite
Leafhopper
Gall Midge
Slug, Snail
Caterpillar
Leafminer
Mealybug
Plant Bug
Whitefly
Shorefly
Lacebug
Weevil
Thrips
Aphid
Scouting Methods
Scale
(Visual Inspection)
Flower/Shoot Tip Damage     

Leaf/Stem Damage
Galls 
Holes   
Lineal mines 
Notches on margins 
Skeletonization  
Speckling    
Signs of a Pest
Dark fecal spots on leaf     

Honeydew/sooty mould    
Insects clustered on
stems   
Insects fall out of
flowers when tapped  
Insects seen to move in
flowers when blown on 
Insects or eggs on
underside of leaf     
Insect skins on leaf  
Pests hide under objects  
Slime trails 
Small black flies  
Webbing 

Table 8.6. Scouting methods for insects in the field.
Tent Caterpillar, Webworm, Tortrix Larva
Cutworm, Looper, Sawfly, Winter Moth
Cypress Tip Moth, Pine Shoot Moth

Bud Moth, Spruce Budworm
Boring Beetle or Caterpillar
Pear/Rose “Slug” (Sawfly)

Scale (Oyster/cottony)
Gall Wasp, Midge

Rose Curculio
Spider Mite
Leafhopper
Slug, Snail
Leafminer
Mealybug
Plant Bug
Whitefly
Adelgid
Weevil
Thrips
Aphid
Scouting Method
(Visual Inspection)
Flower/Shoot Tip Damage       

Leaf/Stem Damage
Galls  
Holes, defoliation   
Lineal mines  
Notches on margins 
Pitch or gum, sap flow  
Shoot dieback    
Skeletonization  
Speckling   
Yellow, curled leaf    
Signs of a Pest
Dark fecal spots on leaf    

Honeydew/sooty mould    
Insect clusters on stem   
Insects fall out of
flowers when tapped  
Insects move in flowers
when blown on 
Insects or eggs on
underside of leaf    
Insect skins on leaf  
Slime trails 
Webbing  
White wax deposits    
Plant Phenology Scheduling Crop Monitoring
When monitoring, the stage of development of Work done in a similar climatic zone to the Lower
landscape plants in the area should be recorded. Mainland has concluded that an effective landscape
Since plant and insect development are both IPM program requires a minimum of 10 monitoring
dependent on temperature, it is possible to visits each season. There should be at least two
correlate the development of certain plants with the visits each month from May through August, plus
appearance of the vulnerable stage of specific pests. one in late winter or early spring, and one in the
For example, egg hatch of eastern tent caterpillars fall. This schedule is best suited to a landscape in
coincides with the period of bloom for saucer which deciduous plants prevail.
magnolia.
On sites where conifers are most abundant, a few
extra early season and late season monitoring visits
This information can be used to determine the time
are advised, as these plants are attacked by several
of year to monitor for a pest and is more precise
species of cold-tolerant pests. The fall visit should
than relying on calendar dates. The use of plant
include observations for pest overwintering stages.
phenology for pest management is not exact and
The late winter visit is needed to look for scale
needs to be constantly verified under local
insects on deciduous branches before foliage
conditions. The pest manager should be aware that
obscures them. Dormant oil sprays can be applied
the environment can differ inside polyhouses and
at this time.
around buildings, and should take this into account
when selecting appropriate indicator plants. For most BC nursery sites, which contain some
coniferous stock, a minimum of 18 plant-
A list of indicator plants for insects commonly
monitoring visits each season are required. At least
found on ornamentals in BC is provided in Table
two monitoring visits should be done in February
8.7. When an indicator plant reaches a particular
stage of development, it is time to monitor for to March, three each in April and May, two each in
certain insects. The information is adapted from the June through August and two in November to
publication Coincide: The Orton System of Pest December. Tables 8.8 and 8.9 list common pests to
Management, and is based on twenty years of data look for at different times of the year.
from Illinois. Since the development for plants and The number of random plant samples per area
insects is based on temperature, the same rates of (observations) and the location of these plants
development probably occur in BC, but at different within the area should be decided in advance. This
calendar dates. should avoid the temptation to always sample the
end of the row closest to the road.
The insect threshold number that will render a
plant unsalable will have to be assessed. Several
years of meticulous record keeping will be
necessary to predict with confidence when or when
not to control. There is no published information
that lists threshold levels for insect pests in nursery
crops.

Table 8.7. Using plant phenology as an indicator of insect development (Adapted from the publication
Coincide: The Orton System of Pest Management).
Insect Pest Vulnerable Insect Stage to Indicator Plant Stage of Development that
Monitor Coincides with Insect Stage
Adelgid, Cooley spruce gall Overwintering insect Magnolia X soulangiana - pink bud
Adelgid, Cooley spruce gall Overwintering nymph Acer saccharum - leaves in full colour
Aphid, honeysuckle First aphid Aesculus hippocastanum – blooming
Aphid, pine bark Overwintering female Syringa vulgaris - green bud
Aphid, willow Newly-hatched nymph Magnolia X soulangiana – dropping petals
Aphid, woolly apple When aphids are present Catalpa speciosa – blooming
Bagworm Newly-hatched larva Catalpa speciosa – blooming
Beetle, elm leaf Young larva Aesculus hippocastanum – late bloom
Borer, bronze birch Newly-hatched larva Aesculus hippocastanum – late bloom
Borer, peach tree Start of egg hatch Philadelphus coronaries – blooming
Borer, peach tree End of egg hatch Solidago canadensis – blooming
Budworm, spruce Young larva Magnolia X soulangiana – dropping petals
Caterpillar, Eastern tent Young larva Magnolia X soulangiana – early bloom
Eriophyid mite, spruce Newly-hatched immature Magnolia X soulangiana - pink bud
Gall midge, honeylocust pod Newly-hatched larva Gleditsia triacanthos – bud break
Leafminer, birch Young larva Syringa vulgaris - late bloom
Mite, spruce spider Newly-hatched nymph (1st flush) Magnolia X soulangiana - pink bud
Mite, spruce spider Newly-hatched nymph (2nd flush) Solidago canadensis – blooming
Mite, two-spotted spider Immature stage and adult Yucca filamentosa - early bloom
Moth, European pine shoot Overwintering larva Magnolia X soulangiana - pink bud
Moth, European pine shoot Newly-hatched larva Catalpa speciosa – blooming
Moth, tussock Young immature larva Crataegus crus-galli – blooming
Needle miner, spruce Young feeding larva Magnolia X soulangiana - pink bud
Root weevil, Black vine Overwintering adult Aesculus hippocastanum – late bloom
Root weevil, Black vine New adult Catalpa speciosa – blooming
Sawfly, European pine Newly-hatched larva Magnolia X soulangiana – dropping petals
Scale, cottony maple Newly-hatched crawler Yucca filamentosa – blooming
Scale, European elm Overwintering nymph Prunus X cistena – blooming
Scale, European elm Newly-hatched nymph Yucca filamentosa – blooming
Scale, Fletcher Overwintering female Magnolia X soulangiana – blooming
Scale, Fletcher Newly-hatched crawler Yucca filamentosa – blooming
Scale, lecanium Newly-hatched crawler Yucca filamentosa – blooming
Scale, oystershell Newly-hatched crawler Syringa vulgaris - late bloom
Scale, pine needle First instar nymph Aesculus hippocastanum – blooming
Scale, San Jose Newly-hatched crawler Catalpa speciosa – blooming
Scale, spruce bud Newly-hatched crawler Sorbus aucuparia - fruit turning orange
Webworm, fall Young larva Sorbus aucuparia - fruit is orange

Table 8.8. The life cycles of some important nursery and landscape pests in the coastal region of BC. Shaded
areas designate when to monitor for a pest and, if required, when to implement a control program.
Developmental Stage Symbols:
A = adult
September-
November-
December
E = egg
February-
October
August
L = larva
March
April
June
May
N = nymph
July
P = pupa
Adelgids ENA ENA ENA ENA ENA ENA ENA ENA
Aphids E NA NA ENA ENA ENA E E
Bark beetle, Douglas fir, fir engraver & L L LA ELA ELA ELA L L
Mt. pine
Bark beetle, European elm L L LP EA EA L L L
Bark tortrix, cherry LP LP A LA LA L L L
Borer, bronze birch L L L LA LA LA L L
Borer, poplar & willow LA LA LA LA LA LA LA LA
Budmoth, eyespotted L L P EA EA L L L
Budworm, holly E L L L P A A E
Budworm, western spruce L L LP P EA L L L
Bug, boxelder A EA ENA ENA ENA ENA ENA A
Cutworm, climbing LP LP LPA LPA LPA LPA LP LP
Flea beetle, alder A ELPA ELP ELP A A A A
Lacebug E E N ENA ENA ENA E E
Leafhopper E E N ENA ENA ENA E E
Leafminer, arbutus & serpentine L LP A ELA L L L L
Leafminer, birch P P LA LA LA LA P P
Leafminer, boxwood L LP EA ELA L L L L
Leafminer, cypress L LA EA EA L L L L
Leafminer, holly L L A EA L L L L
Leafminer, lilac P LA LA LA LA L L L
Mite, European red E E NA NA NA NA E E
Mite, two-spotted spider A NA NA NA NA NA A A
Moth, apple & cherry ermine L L LP A A E L L
Moth, cypress tip LP PA EA EA L L L L
Moth, Douglas-fir & tussock E E L L LP A A E
Moth, European pine shoot L L P A EA L L L
Moth, winter E L L P P P P A
Needle miner, spruce L P LA LA L L L L
Plant bugs (lygus) A A NA NA NA NA A A
Psyllid, boxwood A ENA ENA ENA ENA ENA A A
Sawfly, curled rose P LP LA LA LA LP P P
Scale, brown soft & cotton camellia N EA EA EA N N N N
Scale, cottony maple N N EA N N N N N
Scale, lecanium N N EA ENA N N N N
Scale, oystershell E E N N A A EA E
Scale, pine needle EA EA N N N A EA EA
Scale, San Jose N N EA ENA ENA ENA N N

Table 8.8. The life cycles of some important nursery and landscape pests in the coastal region of BC.
(Cont’d)
DevelopmentalStage
Developmental StageSymbols:
Symbols:A A = adult
= adult
September-
November-
September-
November-
December
EE== egg
December
February-
egg
February-
October
October
August
LL== larva
August
larva
March
March
April
April
June
May
June
May
NN== nymph
July
nymph
July
PP== pupa
pupa
Skeletonizer, apple & thorn A EA ELA ELA ELA ELA A A
Spanworm, Bruce E L L P P P P A
Tent caterpillar, western E L L L A A E E
Thrips N N NA NA NA NA N N
Webworm, cotoneaster L L P LA LA LA L L
Webworm, fall P P P A L L L P
Webworm, juniper L L P LA LA L L L
Weevil, black vine LA LA PA LA LA LA LA LA
Weevil, sitka spruce A A L L L LP P A
Whiteflies N NA NA NA NA NA N N

Table 8.9. Monitoring schedule for insect pests of ornamental trees and shrubs (by month of occurrence) in
the South Interior. The data is from 10 years of field reports collected in the North, Central and South
Okanagan by CropHealth Advising & Research.
MARCH Stage to Monitor Host Plants to Monitor
Sucking Insects
Aphids Nymph Viburnum
Mite, rust Nymph Pyrus
Scale, cottony maple Immature female Acer
Scale, European elm Immature female Ulmus
Psyllid, pear Egg Pyrus
Chewing Insects
Bug, boxelder Adult Acer
Gall Formers
Adelgids Immature female Picea
Mite, blister Nymph Acer, Juglans
APRIL
Sucking Insects
Aphids Egg, nymph Acer, Betula, Cornus, Cotoneaster, Crataegus, Malus, Prunus
(flowering plum), Ribes, Rosa, Tilia, Ulmus, Viburnum
Aphid, Bark Nymph Pinus
Aphid, green ash leafcurling Nymph Fraxinus (green ash)
Mite, European red Egg Malus, Sorbus
Mite, spruce spider Egg Abies, Juniperus, Picea, Pseudotsuga menziesii, Taxus, Thuja
Psyllids Egg, nymph Crataegus
Psyllid, boxwood Egg, nymph Buxus
Psyllid, pear Egg, nymph Pyrus
Scale, European elm Nymph Ulmus
Scale, juniper Mature female Juniperus
Scale, lecanium Immature female Carpinus, Fraxinus (green ash), Malus, Prunus (flowering plum),
Quercus, Tilia
Scale, oystershell Immature female Crataegus, Fraxinus (green ash), Prunus (flowering plum), Quercus, Tilia
Scale, pine needle Immature female Pinus
Chewing Insects
Budworm, spruce Larva Abies, Picea, Pseudotsuga menziesii
Caterpillars Egg Malus, Prunus (flowering plum), Rosa, Tilia
Curculio, rose Adult Rosa
Leafminer, birch Adult Betula
Leafminer, lilac Adult Syringa
Root weevils Adult azalea, Rhododendron, Taxus, Thuja
Gall Formers
Adelgids Adult Abies, Picea, Pinus, Pseudotsuga menziesii
Gall midge, honeylocust pod Adult, egg Gleditsia
Mite, blister Nymph Sorbus
Borers
Weevil, white pine Adult Picea

Table 8.9. Monitoring table for insect pests of ornamental trees and shrubs (by month of occurrence) in the
South Interior. (Cont’d)
MAY
Sucking Insects
Aphids Nymph Acer, Betula, Caragana, Cornus, Cotoneaster, Crataegus,
Fagus, Juglans, Lonicera, Malus, Picea, Potentilla, Prunus
(flowering plum), Quercus, Ribes, Rosa, Salix, Spiraea, Tilia,
Ulmus
Aphid, bark Egg, nymph Pinus
Leafhoppers Adult Rosa
Mites, spruce spider Adult, nymph Abies, Juniperus, Picea, Pseudotsuga menziesii, Taxus, Thuja
Phylloxera, oak leaf Adult, egg, nymph Quercus
Psyllids Nymph Crataegus
Psyllid, boxwood Nymph Buxus
Psyllid, pear Nymph Pyrus
Spittlebugs Nymph Forsythia, Potentilla, Rosa, Spiraea, Junipers, Pinus
Chewing Insects
Budworm, spruce Larva Abies, Picea, Pinus, Pseudotsuga menziesii
Caterpillars Larva Malus, Prunus (flowering plum), Rosa, Sambucus, Spiraea,
Syringa, Tilia
Caterpillar, tent Larva Acer, Malus
Curculio, rose Adult Rosa
Lacebug Nymph azalea, Rhododendron
Leafminer, birch Larva Betula
Leafminer, lilac Larva Syringa
Leafminer, poplar Larva Populus
Looper, barberry Larva Mahonia
Moth, tussock Larva Abies, Pseudotsuga menziesii
Root weevils Adult azalea, Rhododendron, Taxus, Thuja
Sawflies Larva Ribes, Rosa
Thrips Adult Prunus (flowering plum), Rosa
Gall Formers
Adelgids Egg, nymph Abies, Picea, Pinus, Pseudotsuga menziesii
Borers
Bark beetle, pine Adult Pinus
Borer, shothole Adult Sorbus
Weevil, white pine Adult, larva Picea

JUNE
Sucking Insects
Aphids Nymph Acer, Betula, Caragana, Cornus, Cotoneaster, Crataegus, Fagus,
flowering plum, Juglans, Lonicera, Malus, Picea, Potentilla,
Quercus, Ribes, Rosa, Salix, Spiraea, Tilia, Ulmus
Aphid, petiole gall Nymph Populus
Leafhoppers Adult Malus, Parthenocissus, Rosa
Mite, rust Adult, nymph Pyrus
Mites, spruce spider Nymph, adult Abies, Juniperus, Picea, Pseudotsuga menziesii, Taxus, Thuja
Mites, two-spotted spider Adult, nymph Caragana, Robinia, Rosa, Salix, Spiraea
Psyllid, pear Adult, nymph Pyrus
Scale, juniper Adult, nymph Juniperus
Scale, pine needle Adult, nymph Pinus
Scale, Fletcher Adult, nymph Taxus, Thuja
Scale, European elm Adult, nymph Ulmus
Spittlebugs Nymph Forsythia, Potentilla, Rosa, Spiraea, Junipers, Pinus
Chewing Insects
Beetle, cottonwood leaf Larva Populus, Salix
Beetle, elm leaf Larva Ulmus
Caterpillars Larva flowering plum, Malus, Rosa, Sambucus, Spiraea, Syringa, Tilia
Caterpillar, tent Larva Acer, Malus
Lacebug Adult, nymph azalea, Rhododendron
Leafminer, poplar Larva Populus
Looper, barberry Larva Mahonia
Moth, codling Larva Malus
Moth, tussock Adult, larva Abies, Pseudotsuga menziesii
Needle miners, spruce Larva Picea
Root weevils Adult, larva azalea, Rhododendron, Taxus, Thuja
Sawflies Larva Picea, Populus, Ribes, Rosa
Skeletonizer, apple & thorn Larva Malus
“Slugs” (sawfly larva) Larva Cotoneaster, Crataegus, Pyrus, Rosa
Thrips Adult Prunus (flowering plum), Rosa
Gall Formers
Mite, blister Nymph Juglans
Borers
Bark beetle, pine Adult, nymph Pinus
Borer, bronze birch Adult, nymph Betula
Borer, maple twig Adult, nymph Acer
Borer, shothole Adult, nymph Sorbus
Moth, pine shoot Adult, nymph Pinus
Pitch moth, sequoia Adult, nymph Pinus
Weevil, white pine Larva Picea

JULY
Sucking Insects
Aphids Nymph Acer, Betula, Cotoneaster, Crataegus, Fagus, Juglans, Lonicera,
Populus, Potentilla, Prunus (flowering plum), Quercus,
Robinia, Rosa, Salix, Spiraea, Tilia, Ulmus
Aphid, petiole gall Nymph Populus
Leafhoppers Adult Rosa
Lacebug Adult, nymph azalea, Rhododendron
Scale, juniper Adult, nymph Juniperus
Scale, Fletcher Adult, nymph Taxus, Thuja
Scale, spruce bud Adult, nymph Picea
Scale, European elm Adult, nymph Ulmus
Scale, cottony maple Adult, nymph Acer
Scale, lecanium Adult, nymph Carpinus, Fraxinus (green ash), Quercus, Tilia
Scale, oystershell Adult, nymph Crataegus, Fraxinus (green ash), Quercus, Tilia
Mite, rust Adult, nymph Pyrus
Mite, spruce spider Adult, nymph Abies, Juniperus, Picea, Pseudotsuga menziesii, Taxus, Thuja
Mite, two-spotted spider Adult, nymph Caragana, Malus, Populus, Potentilla, Prunus (flowering
plum), Robinia, Rosa, Salix, Spiraea, Viburnum
Chewing Insects
Beetle, cottonwood leaf Larva Populus, Salix
Beetle, elm leaf Larva Ulmus
Caterpillars Larva Rosa, Sambucus
Fly, walnut husk Adult, larva Juglans
Moth, codling Adult, larva Malus
Root weevils Adult azalea, Rhododendron
Sawflies Larva Picea, Populus, Ribes
“Slugs” (sawfly larva) Larva Cotoneaster, Crataegus, Prunus (flowering plum), Pyrus
Webworm, fall Larva Acer, Betula, Crataegus, Fraxinus (green ash), Juglans,
Malus, Populus, Prunus (flowering plum), Quercus, Sorbus,
Syringa, Tilia, Ulmus
Gall Formers
Borers
Bark beetle, pine Adult Pinus
Borer, bronze birch Adult Betula
Borer, maple twig Adult, larva Acer
Borer, peach tree Adult, larva Prunus (flowering plum)
Borer, poplar Adult, larva Populus
Borer, shothole Adult Sorbus
Moth, pine shoot Adult, larva Pinus
Pitch moth, sequoia Adult, larva Pinus

AUGUST
Sucking Insects
Aphids Nymph Acer, Potentilla, Prunus (flowering plum), Quercus, Robinia,
Rosa, Salix, Spiraea, Tilia
Lacebug Adult, nymph Salix
Leafhoppers Adult, nymph Salix
Mite, rust Adult, nymph Malus, Picea, Prunus (flowering plum), Pyrus
Mites, two-spotted spider Adult, nymph Caragana, Carpinus, Cotoneaster, Gleditsia, Malus, Populus,
Potentilla, Prunus (flowering plum), Robinia, Rosa, Salix,
Sorbus, Spiraea, Viburnum
Phylloxera, oak leaf Adult, nymph Quercus
Scale, cottony maple Nymph Acer
Chewing Insects
Beetle, cottonwood leaf Adult, nymph Populus, Salix
Beetle, elm leaf Adult, nymph Ulmus
Bug, boxelder Adult, nymph Acer
Fly, walnut husk Adult, nymph Juglans
Moth, codling Adult, larva Malus
Skeletonizers, apple & thorn Larva Malus
“Slugs” (sawfly larva) Nymph Prunus (flowering plum), Pyrus
Webworm, fall Larva Acer, Betula, Crataegus, Fraxinus (green ash), Juglans,
Malus, Populus, Prunus (flowering plum), Quercus, Sorbus,
Syringa, Tilia, Ulmus
Borers
Bark beetle, pine Adult, larva Pinus
Borer, peach tree Adult, larva Prunus (flowering plum)
Borer, poplar Adult, larva Populus
SEPTEMBER – OCTOBER
Sucking Insects
Adelgids Adult, nymph Picea, Pseudotsuga menziesii
Aphids Adult, nymph Acer, Cornus, Fraxinus (green ash), Picea, Spiraea,
Viburnum
Mite, rust Adult, nymph Picea
Mites, spider Adult, nymph Malus, Sorbus, Spiraea
Mites, spruce spider Adult, nymph Abies, Juniperus, Picea, Pseudotsuga menziesii, Taxus, Thuja
Chewing Insects
Fly, walnut husk Adult, nymph Juglans
Webworm, fall Larva Populus, Prunus (flowering plum), Sorbus, Syringa

Diagnosing Crop Disorders uniform in distribution, occurs on more than
one type of plant and occurs at one point in
Monitoring is a very useful technique to identify time. Abiotic disorders are caused by
crop disorders. However, it takes an experienced environmental stress (e.g. temperature, light,
pest manager to be able to know what type of moisture and aeration), mechanical damage
and chemical factors (e.g. pesticides or
information to collect to accurately identify the
nutritional imbalances). Abiotic disorders
cause of a disorder. Correct identification of the
cannot be corrected by the application of
cause(s) of a disorder is essential to develop a
pesticides.
control strategy. For instance, caterpillars (larvae of
butterflies and moths; order Lepidoptera) and 3. Collect information on any excavation work,
sawfly larvae (order Hymenoptera) are very similar herbicide applications, etc. that may have
in appearance. However, pesticides containing recently occurred in the area. Look for patterns
Bacillus thuringiensis (e.g. Dipel, Foray) are only of damage associated with changes in soil
effective on Lepidopteran caterpillars. The pest texture or grade.
manager needs to be able to differentiate these two 4. Note signs and symptoms of damage on the
pests to select an effective insecticide. Sawfly larvae host plants and use this information to
have 6 or more pairs of prolegs without crochets determine the cause. Ensure that you observe
and Lepidopteran larvae have 5 or fewer pairs of the plant’s root system, too. Root injury often
prolegs with crochets (Figure 8.3). leads to foliar damage.
Insects can be divided into two groups based
on the type of plant damage caused by their
feeding activities. These groups are the piercing
and sucking insects, and the chewing insects.
Chewing damage is caused by a broad group of
insects, and the symptoms can vary from small,
irregular notches, to large chewed areas or leaf
skeletonization. It is very difficult to identify
the cause of leaf chewing from the symptoms
alone, with perhaps the exception of leaf
notching by root weevils. Signs of the causal
agent are required. Chewing-like damage can
also be caused by abiotic factors (e.g. freezing
damage during the bud stage). A diagnostic
symptom of insect chewing is the presence of
necrotic tissue on the perimeter of the damaged
Figure 8.3. The larvae of the Pine sawfly have 8 area, which is a result of the cells being
prolegs. ruptured by chewing.
Diagnosing crop disorders requires a logical Piercing and sucking mouthparts can produce
a range of damage symptoms, including:
thought process that includes several distinct steps.
 leaf and growing tip distortion (e.g.
1. Identify the host plant. Many insects and
curling, crinkling, stunted internodes) is
diseases are host-specific; therefore knowing
common after feeding from true bugs,
the host plant will allow you to quickly limit
aphids and thrips;
the number of suspected causes.
 toxic reaction of leaf leading to yellowing
2. Identify the location and extent of the damage
and premature leaf fall; and
on individual plants and in the plant
population. This information can be used to  the formation of galls and bladders – galls
differentiate between damage caused by living can be produced in response to disease and
(biotic) and non-living (abiotic) factors. insect pests. Galls are often solid if caused
Damage caused by pests usually has a random, by a pathogen and are compartmentalized
non-uniform distribution on a plant and within if they are associated with insect activity.
a plant population, and often occurs on one
Remember that insect damage can remain long
crop. Damage caused by abiotic factors is often
after the causal pest is gone.

5. Sometimes specialized lab skills are required to
identify the causal agent and the services of a
Biological Control in Nursery
plant diagnostic lab may have to be used. and Landscape Settings
The term “biological control” refers to the use of
Knowledge of Insect Pest Life natural enemies to suppress pests. Biological
control tactics include both recognizing and
Cycles conserving naturally occurring beneficial
organisms and introducing commercially produced
Knowledge of pest life cycles is critical for making
beneficials. Pest control based on the release of
pest management recommendations. Insecticide
biological control agents has been pioneered by the
and miticide applications must be timed to occur
greenhouse industries, and has proven to be
when the majority of the pest population is
effective at controlling pest outbreaks to below
vulnerable to chemical control. Often the egg and
economic thresholds. The release of beneficials is
pupal stages are resistant to pesticides.
best suited to enclosed structures.
Precise timing is even more important when
The successful use of introduced biological control
releasing biological control agents or using specific,
agents in ornamental crops is dependent on a
non-residual pesticides, such as soap or
number of factors. The pest level that can be
horticultural oils. Published information can help
tolerated in a crop is important because a biological
pinpoint each pest’s susceptible stage to a part of a
control program seldom eliminates every pest. The
month, but to narrow the ideal application time to a
range of insects, mites and diseases that a crop is
few days, crop monitoring must be done.
susceptible to must be considered, as compatible
After a pest control treatment is applied, always control methods must be available for all potential
monitor its effect afterwards. Keep dated records of problems. The use of biological control is best
pest problems and the stages of crops attacked, suited to long-term crops because the predator and
since this information can be used to predict future the parasitoids must go through at least one
pest problems. generation to buildup to effective levels and
establish a dynamic equilibrium between pests and
beneficials over time.
Timely Use of Control Biological control is not a “silver bullet” that will
Tools solve all pest management problems. The method
may need to be restricted to certain stages (e.g.
Chemical control should be used only if the other propagation) or areas of production. Some
methods are shown to be inadequate. This is advantages of applying a biological control
particularly true in a landscape situation where the program are the corresponding reduction or
public may be directly impacted by the application elimination of pesticide use, improved worker
of pesticides, and where guidelines for pesticide safety, the lack of re-entry intervals with
application in public areas requires that people be beneficials, and the potential to use the program as
informed about pesticide use. In general, if a a public relations tool.
pesticide needs to be used, select one that has low
toxicity to humans and non-target organisms, and Some reasons why the use of beneficial organisms
that has low residual carry over and minimal may result in inadequate pest control are:
adverse effects to the environment. Pesticide  the pest was incorrectly identified, which
recommendations for ornamental crops are resulted in the use of the incorrect biological
provided elsewhere in this guide and will not be agent,
discussed in any detail in this section.  the environmental conditions were not suitable
Biocontrol agents can be a viable alternative to for the biological agent,
pesticide use for some pests. There is increasing  host plant interference (the biological did not
interest in their use in landscapes and nurseries. like the taste of the crop),
 pesticide residues on plants negatively affected
the beneficial organisms,
 the beneficial organisms were released too late
or in too low numbers,

 biologicals were sick or dead upon arrival, problem and a pesticide application is planned, the
 unexpected pests interfered with control, and manager can treat one area first and wait 1-2 weeks
to treat the second area to preserve the resident
 the goals and expectations of the program were
beneficial insect population.
not realistic.
It is important to be patient and allow nature to do
Beneficial insects are a valuable addition to many
its work. The goal of sound pest management is to
pest control programs. The following information is
keep the situation under control and prevent plant
a review of practices to increase the positive impact
damage, not to wipe out all insects.
of beneficials in nurseries and landscape settings,
and a description of the most common beneficials Table 8.10. Flowers and shrubs that attract
found in British Columbia. beneficial insects.
Alyssum Lobelia
Building a Resident Population of Achillea Lobularia maritima
Beneficial Insects Anthemis tinctoria Monardia
A favourable environment will attract beneficial Aster Phacelia
insects to a nursery or a landscape setting. For most Aurinia saxatilis Potentilla
predators the immature stages feed only on pests. Calendula Reseda odorate
The adults often feed on flower pollen. For Ceanothus Rudbeckia
example, the female syrphid fly requires flower Chrysanthemum maximum Schizanthus
nectar to produce eggs. Thus, the fly will be
Chrysanthemum parthenium Sedum
attracted to a site with flowers and will feed before
Coreopsis Tagetes
searching for an aphid colony to lay eggs.
Cosmos Thymus
Techniques that can be used to build a resident Heliotropium arborescens Verbena
population of beneficial insects include diversifying Iberis Veronica
the garden landscape, planting appropriate
Source: Integrated Pest Management Manual for Landscape
flowers, retaining banker plants and releasing Pests in British Columbia
commercially reared beneficial organisms.
Diversifying the garden landscape: Crops or Releasing commercially-raised beneficial insects:
landscapes that have little plant diversity are less Purchasing beneficial insects is a good method to
desirable to beneficial insects. A diverse landscape augment the resident population of predators and
with a variety of flowers, shrubs and trees, and parasites. This practice is commonly used for
small sources of water will provide shelter, greenhouse crops and in specific landscape
alternative food sources, overwintering sites and situations. However, not all situations are
water for predator insects. A succession of flowers favourable to this practice. For instance, many
over the season will provide a continuous supply of species of lady beetles sold by insectaries, such as
pollen and nectar for feeding adults. the convergent lady beetle (Hippodamia convergens),
will instinctively fly away upon release and will
Planting appropriate flowers: Many researchers provide little benefit to a small outdoor landscape.
have examined the value of different flowers to The aphid midge is another predator of aphids. It
attract predator insects. For example, clover, requires open soil that is not disturbed at the base
buckwheat and yarrow are excellent flowers to of the plant to complete its life cycle. Use of aphid
attract minute pirate bugs, an important predator midges is most appropriate in greenhouses or rose
of nursery and flower production. Dill, fennel and gardens, rather than in field production or street
yarrow attract lady beetles, syrphid flies and plantings, although it is effective outdoors during
parasitic wasps. Table 8.10 provides a list of flowers the warmer summer months.
that attract beneficial organisms.
Retaining banker plants in the nursery: Plants
already colonized by aphids, thrips or spider mites
Using Pesticides Selectively
will attract beneficial insects. Keeping a few Pesticides are important in pest management
infested plants will allow the predator population programs, but they can be harmful to naturally
to increase and disperse over the rest of the site. If occurring predators and parasites. In many
two adjacent areas are infested with the same pest situations, an outbreak of aphids or spider mites

can be traced back to a pesticide application that application may not be necessary during this
destroyed the population of beneficials. period.
At times a pesticide application will be required to
Using pesticides with low residual periods:
control a pest. The pest manager should use
Careful selection of pesticides is required to
strategies that minimize the impact of pesticides on
minimize their impact on beneficials. Select a
beneficial organisms. This includes treating
pesticide that is systemic or has a short residual
problems early in the season and using pesticides
period. Dormant oil and insecticidal soap are
with short residual activity or low toxicity to
relatively compatible with an integrated pest
beneficials.
management program. These two pesticides have
Treating problems early in the season: Some pests short residual activity, allowing the population of
become active many weeks before their predators. beneficials to re-establish soon after the treatment.
To prevent pests from causing injury to crops, it Applying a pesticide as a spot treatment is another
can be important to treat them early in the season. approach to reduce the quantity of pesticide used
For example, aphids emerge from overwintering on a crop. This can also be achieved by applying a
eggs at bud break on Cornus and Viburnum. Aphid systemic pesticide as a trunk band or as a soil
feeding early in the spring will cause deformed drench treatment.
leaves that will be present for the rest of the year.
For these crops, therefore, it is necessary to apply a Using pesticides of low toxicity to beneficials:
knockdown product at bud break to control the Pesticides vary in their toxicity to predators and
early flush of aphids. Later in the season, native parasites. Generally, broad-spectrum products,
aphid predators and parasites can be effective, which control a large variety of pest problems, will
season-long controls, provided they are not kill predators and parasites whereas narrow-
disrupted by a mid-summer pesticide application. spectrum products are less harmful.
Aphids appear during summer months on plants
such as Potentilla and Spiraea, which is a time when
large numbers of predators are present. A pesticide
Native Beneficial Organisms

(Adapted From: Lanthier and Jensen, 2001, Nursery IPM Project, #300050)
Pest managers should strive to preserve and larvae are legless and very small, less than 3 mm in
enhance populations of beneficial organisms when length. The tiny eggs are orange and oval.
designing pest management programs. In order to Aphidoletes eggs and larvae are always found amid
accomplish this goal, the pest manager must be an aphid colony, whereas a similar insect, the apple
able to recognize different stages in the life cycle of leaf midge, is usually found inside rolled leaf edges
beneficials. and is a pest of Malus trees.
There are numerous native beneficial organisms
that help to reduce pest outbreaks on nursery
crops. Information on a few of the more common
and effective native beneficial insects is presented
below. There are also many books and pamphlets
available that show the life stages of beneficial
insects (see Appendix 17).
Aphid Midges (Aphidoletes spp.)

Identification: The adult is a small (2-3 mm), night-
flying fly that resembles a mosquito. It has long,
slender legs and beaded antennae, which are often
Figure 8.4. Aphid midge larvae (left, orange insect)
curled back over their heads. The bright-orange
feeding on an aphid.
Preferred Food: The larvae are predaceous and This procedure can be repeated daily as more
feed on over sixty species of aphids. Aphidoletes adults emerge. It may take 7-10 days for all of the
aphidimyza is particularly effective on the green adults to emerge from the pupae. The impact of
peach aphid, whereas A. colemani provides better Aphidoletes can take up to one year to manifest but
control of the melon aphid. The larvae puncture the is sustained for many years once they are
leg joint of aphids and inject a paralyzing poison established in a landscape.
before sucking the body fluids, leaving only a
shriveled, black corpse. They are voracious, eating Carabid Ground Beetles
up to fifty aphids per day and often killing more
aphids than they eat. The adults do not prey on (Pterostichus spp., Carabus spp., etc.)
insects but feed on honeydew and nectar. The Identification: There are about 20 different species
adults require nectar or honeydew to lay eggs. of carabid ground beetles. They range in length
Life Cycle: Aphidoletes overwinter as pupae in soil from 2-30 mm. Their larvae are hairless and have
or debris, emerging in early June when daylight is pincer-like jaws.
longer. The adult is very efficient at locating aphid-
infested plants. Aphidoletes prefers large aphid
colonies for egg-laying, and the number of eggs
deposited will be directly related to the size of the
aphid colony. It will lay between 150-200 eggs
within aphid colonies over a 10 day lifespan. The
eggs take 2-5 days to incubate and the larvae will
feed for 7-14 days before dropping to the ground to
pupate. High mortality of the larvae will occur if
they land on a dry, clean surface (e.g. plastic or
concrete). Pupation requires 7-21 days. The
duration from egg to adult is rapid; approximately Figure 8.5. An adult carabid ground beetle. (Photo:
20 days. There are 3-5 generations per year. D. Raworth, AAFC)
Status in Ornamental Plants: Aphidoletes are very
effective predators that can bring an aphid problem Preferred Food: The diet of some species consists of
under control within a few days. When present on 90% animal matter and they consume 3 to 4 times
a plant, they should be allowed to do their work their body weight each day. Both the adults and
without interference from toxic pesticides. larvae attack a wide range of pests, such as aphids,
caterpillars, mites, slugs and weevils. Since they
For nursery and landscape managers, it is emerge in summer, they cannot be relied on to
challenging to see them. The adults fly mainly at control weevils early in the season.
night, and the young larvae are so tiny they are
often hidden beneath aphids. Life Cycle: Many are nocturnal and often live in
the soil. They breed in the spring or fall. Adults
Aphidoletes are available from commercial insectaries. emerge in July and August, and live 2-4 years.
They are sold in the pupal stage in a carrier. Since Leaving some weeds between rows (e.g. white
they require open soil at the base of the plant for clover and pigweed) will help to attract and
pupation, they are well-suited for use in greenhouses conserve ground beetles in the field.
and landscape beds. When used in a greenhouse,
sprinkle the carrier on the soil in a shaded, moist area.
Green and Brown Lacewings
It is recommended to release adult flies in the
landscape, which can be done as follows: (Chrysoperla carnea, Chrysopa
 Store the container in a cool location to allow oculata, Hemerobius pacificus)
adult flies to emerge from the pupae. Identification: There are three common species of
 In early morning or late afternoon, release the lacewings in British Columbia, two green and one
flies by placing the opened container in a brown.
shaded location at a plant infested with aphids.
The adult green lacewing is bright green with a
 Once the release is complete, store the closed long, thin body that is 10-20 mm in length. The eyes
container in a cool location. are golden or red incandescent, the antennae are

long and delicate, and the wings are large, green threads on the underside of leaves. This predator is
and lacy. The adult brown lacewing has a brown usually found in low numbers and cannot provide
body with pale brown wings. It is typically smaller a stand-alone control of aphids or mites.
and less common than the green lacewing.
Lacewings are available from insectaries for
The eggs of all species are white and laid singly or commercial releases. Cannibalism is a problem, as
in groups. Those of the green lacewing are typically the larvae are generalist feeders and the first to
attached by a stem that is 8 mm long to the emerge will happily consume the other larvae in
underside of a leaf, whereas the eggs of the brown the shipment. Many field experiments indicate that
lacewing are not. releasing adults is not a practical option as they
immediately fly away before depositing eggs.
The larvae have an alligator-shape with distinctive
legs and mandibles, and a long, pointed head.
When mature, the larvae are 6-10 mm in length, Jumping Spiders (Salticidae)
and are pinkish brown to cream in colour with Identification: There are several types of jumping
darker markings. spiders. They range in size from 3-15 mm, and are
hairy and often brightly coloured. They are
A. B. C.
excellent jumpers that will retreat when disturbed.
Jumping spiders are active during the day,
especially when warm and sunny. They produce
silk shelters under objects or in crevices, but do not
produce webs.
Preferred Food: Jumping spiders stalk and attack
prey. They feed on a range of insects, including
beetles and treehoppers.
Figure 8.6. Lacewing eggs (A), larva (B), and adult
(C). (Photo (right): D. Gillespie AAFC) Lady Beetles
Preferred Food: Although aphids and mealybugs Lady beetles are also called “lady bugs” and
are their preferred source of nourishment, both “ladybird beetles”. There are many species of
green and brown lacewings will also feed on mites, predaceous lady beetles. This section will deal with
scale, thrips, leafhoppers, psylla and small three lady beetles, including the common lady
caterpillars. When prey is scarce, the adult Chrysopa beetle, the twice-stabbed lady beetle and the
species can feed on honeydew, nectar and pollen. Stethorus lady beetle.
Lacewing larvae puncture their prey and suck out
the internal fluids. Green lacewing larvae are Common Lady Beetle
capable of consuming 20-100 aphids per day. Identification: The adults are oval, rounded
Life Cycle: Lacewings overwinter as pupae or beetles, with more than 500 species known to occur
adults. They are usually seen during the summer in the United States and Canada. They vary in
months, more often at night, as they are attracted to length from 4-10 mm and display a variety of
light. The females can lay 100-200 eggs, with colours, including black, red, orange-red and
development time from egg to adult being yellow. Many species have a characteristic wing
approximately one month. Some lacewing adults colour and number of black spots on their wings,
can live for many months. but other species show a large variation in the
colour and number of spots.
The larvae are sometimes seen as early as April,
being one of the first active predators in the spring. The larvae have an alligator-like shape. At first they
However, this insect is more common in August are black, have short hairs and spines on their
and September. backs, and have well-developed legs. The later
instars are grey to blue-black with orange
Status in Ornamental Plants: The adult green markings. The pupae are often found hanging from
lacewing is among the prettiest insects of nature. leaves and bark and are orange-red with black
The delicate, transparent green wings stand up markings.
high above the insect body. Many field workers
will recognize the cluster of eggs hanging on

Twice-stabbed Lady Beetle (Chilocorus
A. B. C.
stigma)
Identification: The twice-stabbed lady beetle
exhibits the standard lady beetle body shape and is
5 mm in size, but has a characteristic shiny black
body with two red spots on the wings. The larvae
are alligator-shaped with prominent spines and
often go unnoticed as they hide under the body of
their prey.
Figure 8.7. Lady beetle eggs (A), larva (B), and Preferred Food: Chilocorus spp. commonly feed on
adult (C). (Photos: D. Raworth, AAFC) scale insects. They will also prey on aphids,
adelgids and other soft-bodied insects.
Preferred Food: Both adults and larvae feed on
aphids, spider mites, scales and mealybugs. Adults Life Cycle: The twice-stabbed lady beetle overwinters
chew the body parts and can eat up to 3,000 aphids as an adult and appears very early in the spring, often
in early April. It is commonly seen on plants with a
in their lifespan. Full-grown larvae can suck the
body fluids of approximately fifty aphids per day. high population of overwintering scale.
When prey is in short supply, the adults can Status in Ornamental Plants: This pretty lady
survive for a short period on pollen and nectar. beetle is a joy for landscape managers. It is a
Life cycle: Lady beetles overwinter as adults and common sight in juniper plantings affected by
become active early in the spring. An adult female juniper scale. Feeding by adults and larvae can
will lay 10-50 yellow to orange elongated eggs in a provide reasonable control of scale crawlers.
cluster, often on the underside of a leaf. The time
span from egg to adult is usually 20-35 days. The Stethorus Lady Beetle (Stethorus picipes,
adults can live one to two months and under ideal S. punctum, S. punctillum)
outdoor conditions, there may be up to six
Identification: The Stethorus lady beetle, also called
generations per year.
“the spider mite destroyer”, is up to 1.5 mm long. It
Status in Ornamental Plants: The lady beetle adult exhibits the standard lady beetle body shape but
is the first predator of the season and can be seen in has a shiny black body with pale, tiny hairs.
early April. They can multiply to large numbers in
The larvae are dark grey to brown and covered
a short time and continue to forage for aphids all
with a plentitude of fine hairs. The pupae are dark
through the summer. The public easily recognizes
orange to black and are covered with fine hairs.
this predator.
Nursery and landscape managers should learn to
A. B.
recognize the larval stage of lady beetles. The
alligator-shape, blue to black with orange
markings, is typical of this predator. There are
many situations where toxic pesticides are applied
to control “bugs” that turn out to be lady beetle
larvae.
Different species are available from insectaries for
commercial release. The species collected in the
mountains of California often fly away from the
point of release before searching for food, making Figure 8.8. Stethorus larva (A) and adult (B).
them less useful in open areas. Recently, the Asian (Photos: D. Raworth, AAFC)
lady beetle (Harmonia axyridis) became available
Preferred Food: Stethorus lady beetle adults and
through some suppliers and is said to remain at the
larvae prey almost exclusively on spider mites. An
site of release.
adult may consume 20-60 spider mites and lay up
to ten eggs per day over a three-month period. The
older larvae can eat up to 250 mites per day.

Life Cycle: Stethorus lady beetles overwinter as Deraeocoris and Anthocoris Species
adults in leaf litter. The females will lay their eggs
in the midst of a spider mite colony. Development Identification: The adult has an oval-shaped, flat
from egg to adult is 2-4 weeks, depending on body that is 4-6 mm in length. They have a black
temperature, resulting in a number of generations head and body and a tan wing pattern. The adult
per year. Deraeocoris is twice as large as and stouter than the
adult Anthocoris. Nymphs are pinkish-grey when
Status in Ornamental Plants: This lady beetle they first emerge and turn to a light grey with
species is very common on plants with a high darker marking as they grow. They resemble pirate
population of spider mites. It provides relatively bug larvae but are larger, roughly 4 mm in length.
good control on mature plants in landscape areas,
but it usually does not appear in adequate numbers A. B.
early enough in the season to prevent damage on
young nursery plants.
Pirate Bugs (Orius tristicolor, O.

insidiosus, O. minutus)
Identification: The Orius adult is oval, flat and has
a narrow, pointed head. The wings are held flat on
the body at rest and they are black with white
diamond marks vaguely resembling a typical pirate
Figure 8.9. Three Anthocoris nymphal instars (A)
flag. Adults are small and range in size from 2-3
and adult Deraeocoris brevis (B). (Photo: ICMI)
mm. They tend to move rapidly.
The nymphs are pear-shape and orange or yellow Preferred Food: They can consume aphids and
in colour. With a size range of 1.8-3.7 mm, they are other soft-bodied insects, but their preferred diet
tiny insects but are visible to the naked eye. includes mites (30 or more a day) and pear psylla
(especially the eggs).
Preferred Food: Both the adults and nymphs are
predaceous insects. The nymphs can feed on thrips, Life Cycle: Species of Deraeocoris and Anthocoris
whiteflies, small caterpillars, insect eggs, aphids overwinter as adults and become active when daily
and adelgids. They can consume up to 30 spider temperatures exceed 10oC. Egg incubation usually
mites per day. When prey is abundant, the nymphs takes three days, and development from egg to
will kill more thrips than it needs to consume. adult requires approximately 20 days. Nymphs can
be present in late spring and late summer as two
Life Cycle: The adults overwinter under bark or in
overlapping generations can occur during the year.
ground litter. Emerging in late spring, the female
adult can live for 3-4 weeks and lays her eggs into Status in Ornamental Plants: They are occasionally
plant tissue. Development time from egg to adult is seen in landscapes and nurseries. However, they
3-6 weeks, resulting in 3-4 generations per year. are far more common in tree fruit orchards and are
an important predator of pear pests.
Status in Ornamental Plants: Orius are the unsung
heroes of nursery production, both in the field and
in containers. Both the adults and nymphs can be Parasitic Wasps (Braconids,
very abundant on plants that have thrips, spider Chalcids, Ichneumonids)
mites or aphids. It can survive on flower pollen
when there is no prey. Identification: There are thousands of parasitic
wasp species, which differ in biology, host and
Pirate bugs are available from insectaries for appearance. Some are endoparasitic, developing
commercial release. They have proven to be within their host, while others are exoparasitic,
effective for greenhouse release to control thrips. developing on the outside of the host.
They should not be used deliberately in conjunction
with predatory mites, on which they can feed. Adult wasps range in size from 1-35 mm long. The
small species are difficult to see with the naked eye.
The damage done by the larvae or emerging wasp
is usually more obvious than the adult.

Status in Ornamental Plants: Parasites are efficient
A. B. warriors that can devastate an aphid colony within
days. The presence of a few mummified aphids is a
sign of doom and gloom for the colony. Unfortunately,
the parasitic wasps tend to arrive after the aphid
population has built to large numbers. Landscape and
nursery managers must show patience to allow the
parasites to establish. Most pesticides kill parasitic
wasps. Using a toxic product to control an aphid
outbreak will destroy the resident parasite population
and may trigger future flare-ups of aphids.
Figure 8.10. Aphid mummies parasitized by a Predatory Mites

Trichogramma wasp (A) and a parasitic wasp laying (Amblyseius/Neoseiulus spp.,
its eggs in an aphid (B).
Hypoaspis spp., Phytoseiulus
Preferred Food: Parasitic wasps are grouped in persimilis, Typhlodromus spp.,
three insect families.
Zetzerllia mali and others)
The Ichneumonid wasps are parasitic to the egg
Identification: Most predaceous mites have a pear-
and larvae of caterpillars and beetles. The female
shaped body and a reddish or translucent colour,
adult has a long, needle-like egg-laying structure at
although they can also be opaque white when they
the back of the abdomen (ovipositor).
are not feeding. They are larger than their prey, the
The Braconid wasps inject their eggs into a broad adult being 0.25-0.4 mm in length, and are typically
host range, including caterpillars, flies, beetles and more active and shinier than the pest mites.
aphids. In some cases, they emerge early to pupate Predatory mite eggs are shiny, oval and colourless
in cocoons adjacent to the host carcass. Infected or to opaque white.
parasitized aphids (“mummies”) appear swollen,
tan or black in colour and shell-like. An exit hole
will be present if the adult wasp has already
emerged or the larva has left to make a cocoon. The
presence of mummies amidst an aphid colony is an
indicator that other “healthy” aphids may also be
parasitized and will soon die.
The Chalcid wasps are very small and parasitize a
wide range of caterpillars, flies and some beetles. A
well-known member of this family is the
Trichogramma wasp, which lays its eggs inside the
eggs of many moths and butterflies. Figure 8.11. A predatory mite. (Photo: D. Raworth,
AAFC)
Life Cycle: The life cycle and number of
generations per season varies depending on the
Preferred Food: Predatory mites feed on all stages
parasite species.
of plant-feeding mites, including rust mites, two-
In general, the female deposits one or more eggs spotted spider mites, McDaniel mites and
into the body of a host insect, be it an aphid or a European red mites. Some species feed on fungus
caterpillar. Upon hatching, the larva feeds on the gnats and thrips.
internal organs of the host in such a way that the
Life Cycle: Predatory mites overwinter as adults
host remains alive during parasite development. In
under the bark and other refuges. They emerge
some cases, the dead host serves as a house for
early in the spring and feed on early-season rust
pupation. The adult parasite emerges later, leaving
mites and two-spotted spider mites. The
behind a mummified host carcass or a cocoon.
development time from egg to adult is 7-21 days
depending on temperature, allowing for 6-10
generations over the course of the year.

Status in Ornamental Plants: Predatory mites are
very common in all nursery and landscape settings A. B.
and provide more benefits than most managers
realize. Many outbreaks of spider mites can be
traced back to an application of a pesticide that
eliminated the predatory mites, allowing pest mites
to cause damage in the absence of natural control.
The population of predatory mites can build to Figure 8.12. Syrphid fly larva (A) and adult (B).
large numbers when there is an abundant supply of (Photo (right): AAFC)
prey. A ratio of 1 predator mite to 30 or 40 spider
mites is often sufficient to obtain effective control Preferred Food: Syrphid adults feed strictly on
within a few days. flower pollen and nectar but the larvae are
voracious aphid feeders. Despite being legless, the
Various species of predatory mites are available
larva is very efficient at finding its prey and can
from insectaries for commercial release. Each
consume 200-800 aphids in a 10-day period. When
species has a preferred range of relative humidity,
aphids are in short supply, some species can
temperature, and prey. The supplier can suggest
survive on flower pollen.
the predatory mite that would be the most effective
for each situation. The syrphid larvae can also feed on caterpillars,
thrips and sawfly larvae.
Neoseiulus fallacis has been shown to be an effective
biological control agent of multiple spider mite Life Cycle: Syrphid flies overwinter as mature
species on shrubs and perennials in a study larvae, pupae or adults. The adults can be seen as
conducted in Oregon (J. Econ. Entomology, 2002, early as April and both adults and larvae are found
95:1135-1141). It was less effective on conifers and in large numbers in May.
shade trees, especially on tall plants with a sparse
The females require pollen to produce eggs, laying
canopy. Control by N. fallacis is also known to be
400-1,000 single eggs amid aphid colonies over a
reduced on widely spaced plants, and on
lifespan. The eggs require only a few days to hatch
rhododendron cultivars that have sticky new
and the larval stage last 7-10 days. Pupation occurs
growth. A threshold of 1 mite per 5 leaves is
in a dark place such as a rolled leaf or in the soil
sufficient to feed the predator and to not cause
litter and takes about one week.
significant plant damage (Rosetta, 2004 CanWest
Horticulture Show). The total duration from egg to adult is 2-4 weeks
with approximately 4 generations per year.
Syrphid Flies (Syphidae spp.) Status in Ornamental Plants: Syrphid flies are one
of the most effective aphid predators of ornamental
Identification: Adult syrphid flies resemble bees or
plants, both in nurseries and in landscape settings.
wasps in their colour pattern but are usually
They can be found in large numbers throughout the
smaller and have only one set of wings. They are
province at all times between April and October.
also referred to as “hover flies”, because of their
When they are present on a plant, they can provide
ability to hover in flight. Their body length ranges
control of an aphid problem within a few days.
from 8-15 mm. Hundreds of species have been
identified in North America. Larvae can be mistaken for caterpillars, but they are
legless, usually in the middle of an aphid colony,
The white, elongated eggs are normally laid singly
and have a characteristic tapered body shape.
among aphid colonies. The larvae are legless, have
a tapered and flattened body that is 10-15 mm in Having plants in bloom is a good method to
length at full size, and exhibit varying colours of increase the resident population of this predator, as
white, yellow, green and brown. These maggots the adult females feed on the flower pollen before
sway their pointed heads from side to side to laying eggs. Plants such as yarrow, flowering
search for prey or when disturbed. buckwheat, and members of the carrot and dill
family have shallow nectarines that provide
The pupal stage is smooth, cigar-shaped and light
accessible food sources for the adults.
to dark brown in colour.

Building a Nursery IPM much time is necessary to conduct adequate
monitoring. Some nurseries require one day every
Program second week, while others need two days per week.
The length of time required to monitor a site will
(Adapted From: Lanthier and Jensen, 2001, Nursery depend on the number of potential pest problems,
IPM Project, #300050) which will be related to the number of crops grown
and the season of the year. Typically, a nursery
Every nursery should have an integrated pest
growing many different crops will have more pest
management (IPM) program. When introducing a
problems than a nursery growing just a few crops.
program into their operation, the nursery should
Also, since there are more pests in the spring than
keep it simple, only focusing on a few plants and
in the summer, monitoring during spring can take
their associated problems. This will allow the
twice as long as during the summer.
nursery management to become familiar with the
process without introducing too many changes Learn to recognize “normal” from “not normal”
simultaneously. A nursery IPM program can be plant growth: The scout must be able to recognize
implemented in the following stages: have a crop plant problems at their early stages of
monitoring and recording program; correctly development, which requires the ability to
identify the problems; make use of biological differentiate “normal” from “not normal” growth.
control; and, if needed, select the least-toxic Many problems first appear on the newest foliage.
pesticide to treat the problem. Damage symptoms to look for are pierced,
deformed or discoloured leaves. The pest
This section is designed to be a step-by-step process
symptoms and signs listed in Tables 8.5 and 8.6 can
to start and develop a program that is successful
assist in diagnosing crop disorders.
and adaptable to the special needs of each nursery.
Use a variety of monitoring methods: There are
Crop Monitoring many different ways to monitor plants and
different problems require different monitoring
Monitoring is the regular inspection of plants to
methods. Some of the most common monitoring
detect problems caused by pests or environmental
methods are to:
disorders, and without it an IPM program does not
exist. For general information about monitoring,  visually inspect plants for damaged leaves or
see Monitoring Crops for Pests in this chapter. other plant parts, and the presence of insects or
disease,
The aim of monitoring is to detect plant problems
 tap branches to dislodge insects above a white
early and to gather information to assist the site
sheet of paper attached to a clipboard,
manager to make sound pest management
decisions. If successful, the plant problems will be  use sticky or pheromone traps to capture the
found at the nursery, not by the customer receiving adult stage of many insects,
a shipment. The following steps are useful when  use indicator plants to monitor specific insect
developing a monitoring procedure. pests at the most appropriate times, and
Dedicate one person to monitor the nursery: The  watch for weather conditions that favour the
most effective way to build a successful integrated development of certain diseases.
pest management program is for nursery More monitoring methods for use in the field and
management to assign one person the task of crop greenhouse are presented in Tables 8.3 and 8.4.
inspection. This person, often called a “scout”,
must be given enough time to tour the facility and Seek the observations of field supervisors: Most
look for plant problems. This time must be nurseries have field personnel and supervisors
dedicated exclusively to monitoring. The scout dedicated to specific production areas. They look at
should not be expected to perform other duties the plants on a daily basis and will notice when a
such as shipping, pruning or weeding during the pest infestation is starting or when a plant is
inspection. becoming “not normal”. The scout should regularly
discuss crop conditions with field staff, as their
Allocate the required amount of time for observations are a time-saving method to identify
monitoring: Each nursery must determine how
potential pest problems.
Examine plants with many predator insects: In efficient at finding small infestations of aphids,
their adult stage, many predator insects are very spider mites and thrips. An abundance of predators

in a bed of plants is a warning signal that a pest Make counts of plants with pest problems: Counts
problem may be developing. are a written record of the type and number of
pests found and the number of plants affected.
Use appropriate field equipment: The following
They also make a useful permanent record to verify
tools are useful for field monitoring:
whether a problem is increasing or disappearing, or
 A hand lens (16x) to examine insects and whether a pesticide application has been effective.
disease structures in the field,
The monitoring scout should check enough
 Sharp and clean hand pruners to collect plant
samples to have data that is reasonably accurate in
samples,
order to justify any treatments. The number of
 Containers and bags to store samples, samples will vary with each problem and the
 A trowel and a shovel to examine the soil at the expertise of a scout. Twenty samples may be
base of the plants, and sufficient in some situations, whereas five hundred
 A notebook and a pen to record observations samples may be required in others.
and counts. Use appropriate laboratory equipment: Have a
work area that includes a table, shelves and a
Identification of Plant refrigerator. This space is used to examine plant
parts more closely and to store samples. Have a
Problems dissecting microscope to assist with pest
examination and identification. Build a library of
Different problems require different solutions. The
books and articles that have colour pictures,
proper identification of the problem is the first step
technical descriptions or control recommendations.
before selecting a treatment that will be effective.
Many good publications are available for nurseries
For example, spraying for insects will not solve a
(see Appendix S).
plant problem caused by a disease.
Seek professional help with difficult problems: A
Proper identification serves many purposes. If the
person observing a plant problem for the first time
problem is caused by an insect, the site manager
may find it strange and mysterious, but a more
can examine the life cycle of the pest and apply a
experienced individual will provide a rapid
treatment at the most vulnerable growth stage of
diagnosis and suggest effective control options.
the pest. If the problem is caused by a disease, the
Seeking this expertise can be a time-saving process.
site manager can modify growing practices to
The scout should develop a list of contacts in the
reduce the conditions that favour disease
area that can help with specific problems. The
development.
Ministry’s Plant Diagnostic Lab, based in
The following are useful approaches for identifying Abbotsford, provides a fee-for-service to industry
plant disorders (for additional information, see professionals for diagnosis of plant problems.
Diagnosing Crop Disorders in this chapter).
Look at the whole plant, not just the top growth: Treatment of Plant Problems
A thorough examination of the plant is often the
only way to obtain an accurate diagnosis of the When pest levels justify it, a treatment may be
underlying problem. Many plant problems are necessary to aid in fixing a plant problem. There
caused by environmental factors that cannot be are many situations where non-chemical
fixed by spraying pesticides. For example, a plant approaches can be effective and adequate. For
that is wilting may suffer from the lack of water in example, pruning out infected plant parts can
the soil, or may have root rot from excess water, or successfully control some diseases. With insect
may have root damage caused by rodent feeding. pests such as aphids and spider mites, naturally-
occurring predators can provide acceptable control
There are many other reasons to examine a plant when the pests are in low numbers.
thoroughly. Insects such as leafhoppers and
sawflies hide on the underside of the leaves during Pesticides should be used as a last resort when
their young stages and are normally not detected other methods are not practical in an IPM program.
until they have caused serious damage. Pesticide treatment is more common in commercial
nurseries than in landscapes, as the cost of
application is spread over hundreds of plants.

Below are a few useful steps when using pesticides A pesticide application that was not successful can
to treat pest problems. often be traced back to a faulty application.
Common errors include driving the tractor too
Use pesticides only when justified: There are
rapidly, not getting thorough coverage of the plants
three common situations that justify the use of
or plugged nozzles.
pesticides in a nursery.
Build a calendar of pest problems: Each nursery
1. Apply a pesticide to control a pest problem that
has its particular set of pest problems and pest
can seriously damage a plant. Insects such as
problems change with the seasons. Some pest
bark borers, sawflies and root weevils can kill
problems return every year during the same
an affected plant. In most cases, the only
period. By keeping a record of the date of treatment
effective control is to apply pesticides at the
applications, a monitoring scout can inspect the
proper time in their life cycle.
plants only when seasonal pest problems are
2. Apply a pesticide when the pest problem is present and have a program in place before the
present on plants ready for sale. Some insect pests arrive.
problems that may be minor in nursery
In this publication, you will find examples of
production can trigger complaints by
seasonal pest problems for plants in the Lower
customers. Aphids and thrips are examples of
Mainland (Table 8.8) and the Southern Interior
minor pests that should be controlled before
(Table 8.9) of British Columbia.
the plants are shipped.
Ask the question: Can the problem be controlled
3. It may be necessary to apply a pesticide to
in the future without pesticides? In some cases,
manage a pest problem that bothers nursery
pest problems come back every year and the only
workers. Aphids on the new growth of field-
option is to apply a pesticide at the proper time. In
grown trees will cause little damage to the
other cases, the production practices can be
plants but will annoy the workers who walk
modified, for example, by dropping a plant variety
through the plants for routine activities such as
that is very susceptible to aphids, or by changing
pruning or tying.
the irrigation scheduling to prevent leaf spot
Use pesticides in the safest possible way: infections.
Pesticides are chemical products that may be toxic
to people and the environment. It is important to
use pesticides in a safe way. Follow label
instructions for application rates and safety
precautions. When a pesticide is applied, ensure
the area is clear of people, and follow provincial
regulations for restricted re-entry intervals.
Generally, the re-entry interval is 24 hours for most
herbicides and fungicides, and 24-48 hours for
many insecticides (WorkSafeBC Regulations). Note
that the re-entry interval may be different on the
pesticide label. Use the re-entry interval on the
label if it is longer than the WorkSafeBC interval.
Whenever possible, select a pesticide of low toxicity
to preserve naturally-occurring predators and
parasites. These insects help control many common
pests such as aphids, spider mites and thrips, and
are easily killed by pesticide products of moderate
or high toxicity.
Verify the treatment was successful: An IPM
program will be adopted by nursery management
if pest problems are properly controlled. It is
important to examine the plants following a
pesticide application to verify the effectiveness of
the treatment.

General Disease Management 9
(updated March 2014)
This chapter contains a description of and management recommendations for common diseases of
ornamental plants. Plant pathogens that affect a few, specific crops are covered in Chapter 14, Pests of Specific
Crops. A listing of the pesticides registered to control bacterial and fungal diseases is located at the end of the
chapter.
BACTERIAL DISEASES
Bacterial Blight/Canker
Hosts: This bacterial disease is caused by can often be controlled on mature trees and shrubs
Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae under cool and with timely pruning and by maintaining good
wet conditions. It attacks at least 40 species of plant health. Leaf spotting and even some shoot
woody deciduous nursery plants. It is a major dieback in the spring do not usually cause long-
problem on ornamental maples, lilacs, flowering term damage to mature plants and rarely requires
cherries and oriental pears in the Lower Mainland, chemical control. Mature trees may require
but rarely occurs in the Interior. treatment if shoot damage has been severe the
previous year, to prevent recurring blossom blast, if
Symptoms: Blackening (or browning) of new
larger branches are dying back, and if the trees are
shoots and tip dieback are the most common
growing under other stressful conditions that
symptoms on Acer, Cotoneaster, Euonymus, Forsythia,
increase their susceptibility.
Magnolia, Populus, Prunus, Pyrus, Rosa, Rubus,
Syringa and Vaccinium. Other symptoms include 1. Freezing: Protect frost-sensitive plants from
blossom blast on pear and leaf spots and vein cold temperatures and ice formation in early
blackening on Acer, Cornus, Magnolia, Tilia, and spring and fall.
Populus. Malus is less susceptible. Blossom blight, 2. Weeds: Control weeds around susceptible
blackening of buds, leaf shot-hole and stem or nursery stock. Weedy areas become frost
trunk cankers with gum exudation are common on pockets. Pseudomonas syringae has also been
Prunus. shown to survive on many weeds.
3. Pruning: Minimize pruning wounds because
Disease Cycle: In Coastal British Columbia,
they provide an entry point for bacteria.
symptoms appear on new growth from March to
Pruning tools can spread bacteria. Make sharp
June under cool, wet conditions. The pathogen
cuts and disinfect pruning tools between cuts,
spreads in water and enters young buds, wounds
especially when working with symptomatic
and leaf openings. Once the weather turns hot and
trees. Use a 10% solution of household bleach
dry, the pathogen ceases to cause new infections,
(corrosive to metal objects), or Lysol, or other
although the disease remains “latent” in previously
disinfectant. Prune back to green tissue below
infected plant tissues. Leaf abscission scars can be
the cankered or dead area of the limb.
infected in the fall on some hosts, such as Acer
4. Timing of Pruning: Prune trees in January or
palmatum, although symptoms may not be apparent
February, or in mid-summer when weather is
until spring.
dry. Peach trees pruned in fall/early winter
The pathogen passes the summer and winter on have been shown to have more damage from
and inside twigs and buds. Ice-nucleating strains of bacterial blight than trees pruned in January or
the bacterium have been shown to increase February (Hortscience, 1976, 11:103-104). The
susceptibility of plants to frost injury. On the other number of Pseudomonas bacteria on plants is
hand, damage from bacterial blight is often worse highest in the spring, so pruning in
following a late spring frost or cold period. March/April has the greatest risk of spreading
infection.
Disease Management: Chemical control is more
often needed on young trees and shrubs rather than
on older, established plants. Pseudomonas blight
Nursery Production Guide Diseases • 1

5. Nutrition and Management: Provide optimum 6. Cauterization: On orchard-grown stone fruit
nutrition, good drainage and growing trees in New Zealand, burning Pseudomonas
conditions and add lime to increase soil pH if cankers with a hand-held propane burner has
necessary. Weak, poorly growing trees sustain been shown to limit spread of cankers and
more bacterial blight damage. Do not fertilize prevent girdling and death of cankered
after July, as this will result in overly succulent branches. The tissue around the burned area
growth in the fall, which is more susceptible to callused quickly and, 2 years later, showed no
blight and cold damage. Space plants for good signs of infection (Plant Disease Reporter, 1976,
air circulation. Remove and destroy dead twigs 60:60-61). This might be a useful treatment
and fallen leaves. option for larger landscape trees.
Rootstocks and varieties of some flowering cherry
and oriental pear species have shown resistance to
Pseudomonas syringae. ‘Kwanzan’ cherry is
susceptible when young but often develops
resistance as the tree matures.
Crown Gall
Hosts: Crown gall disease is caused by a soil-borne Diagnosing crown gall is difficult because some
bacterium called Agrobacterium tumefaciens. Over plants that are susceptible to infection can also
600 plant species in more than 90 families can be produce gall-like plant growths due to other
infected. Common hosts include Aster, blueberry, factors. If in doubt as to the cause of galling, it is
Chrysanthemum, Cydonia, daisy, Euonymus, Juglans, best to obtain a laboratory analysis to confirm
Juniperus, Malus, marigold, Prunus, Pyrus, crown gall. It may not be possible to recover
raspberry, Rosa, Salix and Vitis. Agrobacterium tumefaciens in laboratory culture from
Symptoms: Galls may develop on the crown, roots, older galls. There are also saprophytic strains of
or in some cases on the aerial shoots and branches this bacterium in soil that do not cause disease.
of infected plants. Galls are usually soft, spongy The Ministry’s Plant Health Lab can confirm the
and white at first, but later turn hard and brown. presence of A. tumefaciens using a PCR–based
They range in size from a few millimeters to several molecular diagnosis.
centimeters in diameter. Infected plants often first
show symptoms of nutrient deficiency, such as If a definite diagnosis is not possible, the grower
yellowing or discolouration of leaves, followed by a must decide whether or not to remove the plants,
general decline and stunting. A large gall at the keeping in mind:
crown may be more damaging than several smaller a. the potential market or outcome for the plants -
galls on roots or stems, since it interferes with the in a landscape situation, it may depend on the
main vascular system of the plant. severity of symptoms expressed by the plants,
Disease Cycle: The bacterium can survive for at b. whether there was a previous crown gall
least 2 years in soil. They spread on diseased problem in that soil,
nursery stock, in irrigation or ground water and on
cultivation and pruning equipment. The bacterium c. the fact that large galls not due to Agrobacterium
infects roots and crowns, often entering through can also be damaging to plants, but won’t
wounds caused by pruning tools, insects, freezing spread to other plants,
or pathogenic nematodes. d. the risk of disease spread to other nearby
Rain splash can move bacteria from soil to stems susceptible plants through ground water, soil
and leaves where they can infect plants through particles or plant maintenance activities, and
wounds or stomata. Upon infection, the bacterium e. as a general rule, if the galls appear only on the
inserts specific bacterial genes into the genome of branches, main trunk, or only at the graft
plant cells, which stimulate the cells to divide unions, and not on roots or crown, the cause is
rapidly, producing a tumour-like mass of tissue most likely not crown gall.
containing more bacteria. As old galls break down
in the soil, the bacteria are released again into soil
and water.
2 • Diseases Nursery Production Guide

Disease Management: Soil solarization has been successful in some areas
1. Purchase new stock only from a reputable on light, sandy soils, but it is doubtful whether the
supplier. Plants grown in soil infested with temperature would reach a high enough level in
crown gall may appear clean but can carry most British Columbia soils to kill the bacterium.
latent infections that will produce galling in
subsequent years. Galls Caused by Other Factors
2. Inspect new stock for crown gall before Galls caused by factors other than crown gall
planting and do not plant any with gall can cause decline and weakening of plants and
symptoms. may cause the plant to break off easily at the
3. Avoid injury to roots and bark in the crown gall site. Roses can produce a gall-like growth
area when planting or cultivating, as this at the graft that is a physiological reaction to an
creates potential entry-sites for the bacterium. incomplete graft. Rhododendrons produce
4. If only a few plants are affected, remove and “tissue proliferation” galls on branches, roots,
destroy these to prevent spread of infection. or at the base of the plant, which are believed to
Remove all roots and soil from around infected be caused by a genetic disorder and perhaps
plants and take to a landfill. Do not compost other environmental factors. Apples also
infected plant debris or soil. produce various galls and burr-knots that are
5. If only a few branches are affected prune off the physiological or environmental in origin.
the infected branches. Sterilize pruners in 10%
Forsythia commonly has small galls along stems
bleach (corrosive to metals), Lysol, 70% alcohol
and twigs caused by a fungus, Phomopsis. Leaf
(2 minute exposure) or other disinfectant
and bud galls on azalea, Cotoneaster and Prunus
between cuts.
spp. may be caused by fungi such as
6. Do not take cuttings or propagate from Exobasidium and Taphrina. Trees and shrubs of
diseased plants. the Legume family have nitrogen-fixing galls
7. Do not re-plant susceptible species into (nodules) on roots caused by a beneficial
previously infected soil for at least 2 years. bacterium, Rhizobium. Root knot nematodes
8. Rotate with grasses or small grains. Grasses do also produce small white galls on roots. Insects,
not develop crown gall disease, although they such as midges, wasps and gall mites are a
may harbour the bacterium. common cause of galls on stems and leaves.
Fire Blight
Hosts: Fire blight is caused by the bacterium Entire trees can sometimes be killed and rootstocks
Erwinia amylovora. It occurs only on members of the can also be infected. In rootstocks, Erwinia
Rosaceae family. Common hosts in British amylovora causes a crown necrosis that resembles
Columbia include Amelanchier, Cotoneaster, Cydonia, Phytophthora crown rot.
Crataegus, Malus, Photinia, Potentilla, Pyracantha,
Disease Cycle: Erwinia prefers warm, wet weather.
Prunus, Pyrus, Rosa, Sorbus and Spiraea.
New infections occur in late spring during periods
Fire blight rarely occurs in the cool and wet Lower of rain or high humidity when temperatures are
Mainland region of British Columbia, but is greater than 18°C. The bacterium overwinters in
common in the Interior. infected wood. New infections occur through
blossoms, shoot tips, young leaves and wounds.
Symptoms: The bacterium causes foliar and
The bacterium can be spread to healthy blossoms
blossom blight, twig dieback and branch cankers.
by insects, such as aphids, flies, leafhoppers and
The succulent tips of blighted shoots often droop,
bees, as well as splashing rain.
forming a “shepherd’s crook”, and turn brown to
black. Leaves remain attached to dead twigs. A
cream or tan coloured ooze may be present at the
edge of cankers and on young infected shoots.

Figure 9.1. Erwinia amylovora disease cycle.
Disease Management: The Agriculture and Agri- 3. Plant Management: Space nursery stock to
Food Canada (AAFC) publication Integrated provide good air circulation. Provide good
Management of Fire Blight on Apple and Pear in drainage. Avoid overhead irrigation as much as
Canada, 2006 (AAFC No.: 10124E), provides current possible or water early in the morning so
information on the management of fire blight. foliage can dry off quickly. Use moderate
1. Blight Removal: Cut out and burn or bury amounts of nitrogen and do not fertilize after
infected foliage and branches as soon as mid-summer to prevent excessive succulent
symptoms are noticed in late spring and shoot growth.
throughout the summer. Do not combine with 4. Insect Management: Control aphid, leafhopper
pruning. Make sharp cuts 15-30 cm or more and other insect infestations if this can be done
below discoloured wood. Disinfect pruning without harming bees. (See General Insect and
tools between cuts with 10% household bleach Mite Management, Chapter 11).
(corrosive to metals), lysol, or other
Resistance: Resistant varieties and cultivars are
disinfectant. Disinfectant should also be
available (see Appendix D). The publication
applied to large cuts. Once weather turns cool
in fall, inspect and cut out any infections Integrated Management of Fire Blight on Apple and
missed earlier. Pear in Canada (2006) ranks apple and pear cultivars
2. Sanitation: Eliminate old infected trees from and rootstocks for their susceptibility to fire blight.
the vicinity of new plantings and nursery stock.

FUNGAL DISEASES
Botrytis Blight (Grey Mould) and Storage Moulds
Botrytis cinerea is a fungus that occurs wherever Disease Management:
there is high humidity and soft plant material. The 1. Quickly remove infected plants or plant parts
disease first becomes established on dying or dead from production areas to reduce the spread of
tissue and then spreads to healthy leaves, petioles, Botrytis spores. All dead leaves should also be
stems, blossoms, buds, twig tips, fruit or seedlings. removed.
Infection first appears as water-soaked areas on soft 2. Improve air movement around plants with
or senescent foliage, flower parts or young stems. good weed control and plant spacing/pruning.
These areas turn tan to brown or greyish-white as
3. Lower the humidity in greenhouses by
they dry out. Fuzzy grey spore masses develop on
increasing ventilation and air movement.
infected tissues under cool, moist conditions.
Botrytis is favored by humidity levels of ≥ 95%
Spores are air-borne and can infect healthy plant
for at least 3 hours; germination of conidia can
tissues.
be prevented by maintaining a humidity level
This disease is often a problem in overwintering of ≤ 80% (FlowerTech, 2003, Vol: 6: 15-17).
polyhouses where stagnant moist air and 4. If practical, water only in the morning so plants
day/night temperature fluctuations result in dry off quickly.
condensation on the plant. Botrytis can carry over 5. The use of plastic mulch on containers has been
on old plant debris and as sclerotia in the soil. shown to reduce the relative humidity around
Sclerotia can survive in soil for several years. plants and to significantly reduce infection by
The disease is primarily a problem in container Botrytis (FlowerTech, 2003, Vol: 6: 15-17).
stock. However, dense seedling beds and closely 6. Alternate fungicides with different chemistry
planted landscape plants may also be affected. and limit the application of any one product to
Because conifer seedling stock may be stored for a two or three per growing season to prevent the
considerable period, Botrytis and other storage development of resistant Botrytis.
moulds are of major importance. 7. Do not re-use soil or planting mix from plants
that were infected with Botrytis.
Symptoms initially develop on lower needles of
8. Remove, burn or bury cull piles upon which
bundled conifer seedlings, especially around the tie
strings. Damage can quite often develop without the fungus can sporulate.
conspicuous surface mould. The disease progresses For conifer seedlings, a protective spray may be
to the shoots and stems, and the needles become applied early in the season for bareroot stock.
watery and decayed. Affected needles normally fall Daconil (chlorothalonil) or Rovral (iprodione)
off. Branches may have water soaked lesions from sprays may be necessary throughout the growing
season for container stock. To help reduce the
which the bark easily strips exposing the dead,
incidence of mould during cold storage, the crop
butterscotch-coloured cambium. When cartons are
should be treated before the lift with a spray of
opened there tends to be a musty odour.
Rovral (iprodione). Do not harvest until seven days
Commonly affected woody plants include: Alnus, after fungicide application. It is especially
azalea, Camellia, Cedrus, Cornus, Crataegus, cypress, important to treat any stock that has been infected
Hibiscus, Hydrangea, Ilex, Juniperus, Prunus, with Botrytis during the growing season and stock
Pseudotsuga, Pyrus, Rhododendron, Rosa, Syringa and that will not be frozen during storage.
Viburnum. Other recommended pre-storage treatments include:
Commonly affected flowering perennials include: 1. Store stock for the shortest possible time.
Aster, Chrysanthemum, Convallaria majalis, Dahlia, 2. Monitor stock regularly on a seedlot basis,
Dianthus, Paeonia, statice, Tulipa and many herbs. particularly stock with frost or other damage.
The disease is called “fire” on Tulipa and Narcissus. 3. Immediately ship and out-plant stock showing
damage.
4. Coastal stock should be stored at 1°C while
stock of Interior provenances can be stored at
−2°C. This prevents mould growth.

Figure 9.2. Botrytis life cycle.
Damping-Off of Seedlings
The pre-emergence form of this disease causes Disease Management: For conifer seedlings,
rotting of ungerminated seeds or germinants 1. Sow stratified seed.
before they emerge, while the post-emergence 2. Sow at optimum temperature and apply a
form causes rotting of seedlings slightly above and sterile sand cover.
below the soil surface causing them to topple over. 3. Irrigate in the morning.
Many fungi are involved, including species of 4. In severe cases, a captan treatment may be
Cylindrocarpon, Fusarium, Rhizoctonia, Pythium, necessary.
Phytophthora and other fungi.
Downy Mildew
Downy mildew diseases are caused by species Hosts: Most downy mildews are specific to one
within the Family Peronsporaceae. These are host plant, but some can infect plants in several
“oomycetes” or “protists”, and are closely related genera. Commonly affected ornamental plants
to Pythium and Phytophthora. They are obligate include Buddleia, foxglove, Hebe, Hellebore, Phlox,
pathogens and, as such, can only exist in an active Rosa, Rubus, snapdragon and many others. The
form on a live host. They have no saprophytic disease has recently been found to infect basil and
ability; they cannot survive on dead plant tissue or Impatiens walleriana, but not Impatiens x hawkeri
other organic matter. (New Guinea impatiens), and is causing serious
damage to both crops in regions of North America.
In BC, the first detection of downy mildew
occurred in 2012 on basil and in 2013 on impatiens.

Symptoms: Symptoms are variable and can progressing down into the stems, crowns and even
include a downy, felt-like or powdery, white to the roots. Infected mother plants that do not show
gray growth on the underside of leaves; leaf and serious symptoms can thus transmit the infection
growing tip distortion; stunting and yellowing of to cuttings, which die off after transplanting or
plants; yellowing of leaves and early leaf drop; continue to grow poorly. The disease is not known
and/or purple spotting of leaves along the veins to be seed-borne. Optimum conditions for
or mid-vein blotches. The symptoms can resemble sporangial infection are cool temperatures (about
nutrient deficiencies or soil/root problems caused 16oC) and several hours of leaf wetness.
by other factors. The pathogen may not sporulate
Many downy mildews also produce hardy
on Rosa in the laboratory, so diagnosis can be
oospores that can carry over in soil and plant
uncertain. Cuttings from infected roses typically
debris for several years and provide a long-term
root poorly and die-off. Infected plants may not
source of inoculum.
show symptoms when first planted, but do not
thrive and gradually die out or continue to grow Disease Management:
poorly after the first or second year. 1. Avoid overhead watering in the evening when
temperatures are cool. Use drip irrigation or
water only in the morning so that leaves will
dry off quickly when air temperatures are
warmer.
2. Propagate only from seed or disease-free
mother plants.
3. Remove perennial ornamental plants from the
nursery that may harbour and spread the
pathogen, or strictly isolate new production
plants from the suspected plants.
4. Remove plant debris, including fallen leaves,
in the fall that can harbour the pathogen, and
put down new ground covers under
containers. Relocate new plantings away from
areas that have had downy mildew infected
plants in the past.
5. Practice good plant sanitation practices in the
Figure 9.3. Impatiens infected with downy mildew nursery and polyhouse. Bury, burn or remove
may appear off-color with a white mildew coating infected plants to a landfill. Do not allow cull
on the underside of the leaves (arrow); the leaves piles or clippings to remain around the
may turn yellow and then abscise. nursery. Practice good weed control and space
Disease Cycle: Peronospora infect plants via air- plants to provide good air circulation.
borne sporangia that germinate and enter through 6. There is little or no information on resistant
leaves and stem buds, but then grow systemically, varieties.
Keithia Blight
Keithia Blight, which is caused by the fungus Disease Management: For conifer seedlings, cedar
Didymascella thujina, is a foliar disease of western carried over from one year to the next is a prime
red cedar. Individual leaflets dieback and toxins source of the disease. Production of one-year-old
produced by the fungus may kill heavily infected rather than two-year-old stock may reduce disease
trees. incidence. Conditions of low density, low
The fungus forms slightly swollen, circular, red- succulence, high light intensity and low humidity
brown to olive-green or black spore-producing discourage infection and spread.
fruiting bodies on infected leaf scales. The fruiting
bodies later drop out leaving shot-holes on the
dead, white scales. The disease is most commonly
found on two-year-old seedlings and usually starts
on the lower foliage.

Nematodes
Nematodes are microscopic, worm-like organisms Foliar Nematodes: There are several species of
that are invisible to the naked eye. Nematodes are nematodes (Aphelenchoides spp.) that infect foliar
commonly thought of as solely a soil-borne pest. and stem tissue of ornamental plants. Foliar
However, there are several foliar nematodes that nematodes enter plants through stomata and other
damage ornamental plants, especially herbaceous openings. Once inside the plant, they pierce plant
perennials. Both types of nematodes have a wide cells and feed on the contents. When there is a
host range. high population of nematodes in the tissue, they
will migrate out of the leaf to search for another
Soil-borne Nematodes: They interfere with plant
host.
growth by feeding on plant juices from roots,
migrating through root tissue, creating infection The common symptoms of foliar nematode
sites for root rots or wilt diseases, and transmitting feeding are numerous, yellow to black, water-
viruses. Reduced plant vigour associated with soaked lesions on a leaf. The lesions often have
high nematode levels is frequently blamed on sharp borders that are restricted by main leaf
other causes such as poor soil fertility, lack of veins. The patchwork appearance to the damage
moisture, insects, diseases or even soil exhaustion. occurs because nematodes cannot get through
The foliage of an infected plant may be chlorotic large leaf veins, and are, therefore, confined to the
(yellow) and the plant may be stunted. space between veins.
When soil-borne pathogens such as Cylindrocarpon,
Fusarium, Phytophthora, Pythium, Rhizoctonia and
Verticillium are present along with nematodes, the
impact on the plant may be much greater.
Corky root disease is caused by a soil-borne
nematode, Xiphinema bakeri. The nematode is
confined to coastal bareroot seedling nurseries and
the problem often occurs in nurseries established
on recently-cleared forest lands. Nematode
populations rarely reach damaging levels on the
first crop, however subsequent production may be
severely damaged if the land is continuously
cropped. Symptoms become apparent on Douglas
Figure 9.4. The patchwork appearance of
fir midway through the first growing season,
symptoms of foliar nematodes in a leaf of Anemone
when secondary needles of random seedlings
species.
become chlorotic and shoots are stunted. Taproots
have few if any laterals and are dark, swollen and
Nematode Management: Soil-borne nematodes
often club-tipped, but not rotted.
are not highly mobile pests. In general, they will
If soil-borne nematodes are suspected of causing a only move about 15 cm per year on their own in
problem, a soil and root nematode count should be the soil. Their primary mode of movement and
done. Since nematodes tend to be spotty in their spread is by physical movement of infested soil.
distribution, careful soil and root sampling is Irrigation runoff and flood waters can spread
necessary in order to collect a representative nematodes. To reduce their spread, remove soil
sample. In general, nematodes tend to be located from equipment before moving it between fields.
where the majority of roots are in the soil. It must Research in Ontario has shown that a cover crop of
also be kept in mind when collecting a sample that ‘Crackerjack’ or ‘Creole’ marigolds or Canadian
more pathogenic nematodes may be inside root Forage Pearly Millet ‘101’ can significantly reduce
tissues than in surrounding soil in mid-summer. the population of root lesion nematodes in soil
Nematodes move into roots in summer to (Horticulture Review, March 2001). The efficacy of
reproduce and to escape dry soil conditions. The the treatment does depend on soil and weather
Ministry’s Plant Health Lab can process root and conditions during cover crop establishment.
soil samples for nematode count and
identification.

Foliar nematodes can only move between plants 4. Sanitation is critical since nematodes can
when there is free moisture or high humidity, and survive in a dehydrated state in dead plant
when there is physical contact between the plants, tissue for two years. Remove and destroy
which includes workers handling them. plant debris and have workers wash their
1. Take steps to reduce greenhouse humidity. hands before handling a clean crop.
2. Space plants to prevent contact between For conifer seedlings, follow a three-year crop
neighboring plants. rotation with two years crop and one fallow to
3. If the infestation is recognized early, removal of manage Corky Root. Thoroughly cultivate infested
damaged leaves and stems may be sufficient, fallow areas during the hot dry period of August
otherwise infested plants should be discarded. and September. Sample the fallow fields in early
summer for nematodes. Preplant nematicide or
soil fumigant may be applied. Do not transfer
diseased stock among nurseries.
Powdery Mildew
Hosts: Almost every plant species, except conifers, The spores spread mainly by wind and carry over
is susceptible to a powdery mildew. With few on leaf debris and perennial foliage from year to
exceptions, most powdery mildew fungi are very year. When a powdery mildew spore lands on a
host specific. For example, the powdery mildew susceptible leaf, it enters the leaf cells via a germ
that infects rhododendrons will not infect roses. tube and then grows inside the leaf. About 5 to 10
Under favourable environmental conditions, days later, the fungus produces numerous
powdery mildew can cause significant plant propagules (spores) on the surface of the leaf,
damage. They are obligate pathogens and, as such, which is the chalky coating that is visible to the eye.
can only exist in an active form on a live host. They
Spores can infect susceptible leaves whenever they
have no saprophytic ability; they cannot survive on
land on them, so protectant fungicide sprays are
dead plant tissue or other organic matter.
often necessary to protect new spring growth
Commonly affected ornamental plants include before infection occurs.
Acer, azalea, Betula, Ceanothus, Clematis, Cornus,
Some powdery mildew fungi produce overwintering
Corylus, Gaultheria, Hydrangea, Kalmia, Lonicera,
bodies that can survive on dead leaves.
Malus, Nandina, Quercus, Rhododendron, Rosa,
Syringa, Vaccinium and Viburnum. Disease Management:
Symptoms: A powdery, chalky, white or light- 1. Plant disease-resistant hybrids or cultivars.
coloured growth appears on the leaves that can Appendix J contains a list of resistant roses and
resemble spray residue. The spores are usually seen Appendix C provides susceptibility ratings for
on either the lower or upper leaf surface, but in different Cornus species and cultivars.
some cases can appear on both leaf surfaces. 2. Prune out and burn or bury infected plant
Symptoms may appear first as only mild, diffuse parts, if practical.
yellow spotting on the upper side of the leaves. The 3. Rake up and burn or bury fallen leaves. In most
underside of these spots will show the typical cases, composting will destroy powdery
white, powdery sporulation. In more severe cases, mildew spores.
dwarfing, leaf and growing tip distortion, overall 4. Reduce humidity by spacing plants for good air
yellowing and severe browning of the foliage may circulation and by adjusting irrigation practices.
occur. The fungus does not usually infect stems or
5. Avoid planting host plants in shaded areas.
cause twig or stem dieback.
6. For roses, disease severity can be reduced by
Disease Cycle: High humidity, rather than free using a high-pressure hose to thoroughly wet
water, favours spore production and low humidity all leaves and canes on a sunny afternoon, to
favours spore maturation and release. Warm days permit quick drying of the leaves afterwards.
and cool nights are ideal for disease development. 7. On severely affected plants, preventive
In Coastal British Columbia, the disease can occur fungicide sprays may be necessary. On
as early as January on some plants, such as landscape plants, 4% liquid sulphur
rhododendron. (DOMESTIC) is effective.

Figure 9.5. Powdery mildew life cycle.
Root Rot Caused by Armillaria

Rhizomorphs look more like plant roots when
Hosts: Armillaria root rot occurs on over 700
found in the soil. In the fall, a cluster of honey-
species of conifers and cedars, hardwood trees,
coloured mushrooms may appear at the base of
shrubs and berries. Armillaria is a native fungus in
infected trees.
British Columbia soils and most often infects plants
on newly cleared land. Armillaria ostoyae is the The pattern of disease can vary. Sometimes only
common species found in infected conifers in one or two mature trees will die in a hedgerow, or a
British Columbia, but other species may also attack larger planting may be affected in a field.
berries, hardwood and fruit trees. (In older
Disease Cycle: The fungus spreads from plant to
literature, the name Armillaria mellea was often used
plant by means of the rhizomorph strands, which
to refer to all species.) In landscape plants, the
can grow for several meters through the soil. In the
disease is most commonly found on conifers,
fall, the fungus may produce clumps of honey-
Malus, Quercus, Rubus (blackberry, raspberry) and
coloured mushrooms at the base of the tree. The
Thuja. For a complete list of hosts, see Appendix M.
mushrooms produce air-borne spores that also
Symptoms: The first symptoms are leaf yellowing spread the disease.
and wilting, and plant decline and dieback. Only
Armillaria can survive for many years on dead roots
one side of the plant may be affected. Cutting away
and old cane stubs. It is usually a disease of mature
the bark at or just below ground level reveals a
trees that are suffering environmental stress.
white mat of fungal mycelium. Dark brown to
Healthy, vigorous trees can often out-grow the
black, shoestring-like strands of fungal mycelium
infection until other factors, such as flooding, soil
called “rhizomorphs” may be visible in the mat or
compaction, etc., inhibit root growth.
scattered around the base of the plant.

Other wood-rotting fungi can produce a white Disease Management:
fungal growth at the base of dead or declining fruit 1. Water deeply when needed. Avoid surface
trees, cane berries, roses and cedars. When watering around the crown and main trunk.
rhizomorphs are not seen, these fungi are often 2. Remove infected trees, including roots, and soil
mistaken for Armillaria. A laboratory analysis may in the root zone and re-plant with resistant
be needed to identify Armillaria. species (see list in Appendix M).
3. For oak and mature shade trees with early
decline symptoms, it may help to remove any
grass or ground cover and expose the soil in a
1-meter radius around the base of the tree. This
will help keep the soil warm and dry and
provide a less favourable environment for
fungal growth.
4. When new sites are being cleared, avoid
Armillaria root rot by:
 Girdling large trees before removal so roots
will decay.
 Removing all roots greater than 2.5 cm (1
inch) in diameter.
 Leaving the prepared site fallow for at least
one year.
Figure 9.6. White mat of Armillaria mycelium
underneath the bark of a blueberry plant.
Root, Stem and Crown Rot Caused by Fusarium and Rhizoctonia

Fusarium species are a cosmopolitan group of fungi Liriodendron, Malus, Populus, Prunus, Quercus,
that can cause a wide range of disease symptoms. Robinia pseudoacacia, Salix and Sorbus americana.
They cause root and crown rots, and stem cankers
Rhizoctonia is a soil-borne, cosmopolitan fungus
in ornamentals (see Damping-Off). Stem cankers
that is primarily known as a root pathogen but that
caused by F. lateritium often produce a
can also cause damping-off, foliar lesions, and stem
characteristic orange-colored mass of spores, but
cankers. It produces small (1 mm), black sclerotia
this is uncommon for F. solani. Some species of
that can survive adverse conditions. Infected roots
Fusarium are primary invaders of healthy plants,
typically have a reddish-brown “dry” rot. Cool,
whereas other species are weak pathogens or
moderately wet conditions encourage Rhizoctonia.
saprophytes, invading plants that are weakened by
Infected plants may be stunted and chlorotic, and
other causes.
the stem may become constricted at the crown,
As facultative parasites, they are very persistent. which is referred to as wire stem. Azaleas are very
They can survive adverse conditions by entering susceptible to Rhizoctonia.
dormancy as chlamydospores or in a saprophytic
Disease Management: For conifer seedlings, a seed
state on dead root fragments. In many conifer
source can be screened for potential levels of
species, Fusarium can be seed-borne causing both
Fusarium by measuring the level of inoculum on the
pre- and post-emergence damping-off. As the
exterior seed coat. If greater than 5% of the seed in
disease proceeds, the xylem tissues in the plant are
a source test positive for Fusarium, then a number
compromised resulting in their inability to move
of actions are recommended: imbibe the seed in
water and nutrients.
running water, sanitize all seeding equipment and
Some of the common hosts of Fusarium include: growing containers, reduce early heat and water
Acer, Carpinus caroliniana, Cotoneaster, Euonymus stress, and encourage rapid germination.
alatus, Ficus, Fraxinus pennsylvanica, Hibiscus
syriacus, Juglans nigra, Laburnum anagyroides,

Root Rots Caused by Phytophthora and Pythium and Foliar Blight
by Phytophthora
Phytophthora and Pythium are members of the Thick-walled oospores of Phytophthora and Pythium
“oomycete” group of protists, commonly called can survive in soil for many years. Infection is
water moulds. There are many species of favoured by wet conditions in poorly drained soils
Phytophthora and Pythium that attack a wide range and either in or under container-grown plants. In
of plants. the landscape, root rot is also common on slopes
subject to drought in summer and excessive
Hosts: Woody plants are more commonly attacked
moisture in winter. Drought-stressed plants seem
by Phytophthora species and herbaceous plants by
to be more susceptible to root rot infection later
Pythium, but there are many exceptions. Pythium
when moisture is restored.
species can be present in dead roots and crowns of
woody plants as secondary invaders, following Phytophthora ramorum: This quarantine pathogen
Phytophthora root rot, other diseases or deserves special attention because of the negative
environmental damage. impact it has had on West Coast nurseries. P.
ramorum, the causal agent of Ramorum Blight and
Commonly affected plants include: azalea, Calluna,
Dieback, causes foliar blights, stem lesions, trunk
Cedrus, Chamaecyparis, Cornus, Cotoneaster, Erica,
cankers, or shoot dieback on more than 70 plant
Ilex, Gaultheria, Juniperus, Larix, Malus, Pieris, Pinus
genera. The California Oak Mortality Task Force
mugo mughus, Pseudotsuga, Rhododendron, Taxus and
web site is a good source of information on the
Thuja occidentalis (‘Smaragd’).
disease, which includes images of typical P.
In warm soils (>15°C), Phytophthora cinnamomi is a ramorum symptoms.
common cause of root, crown and foliar blight on a P. ramorum is established in only a few counties in
wide range of woody plants. At cooler soil California and in Curry County, Oregon, but it is
temperatures, species such as P. cactorum, P. annually detected at nurseries in British Columbia,
megasperma, P. syringae and P. cryptogea also have a and California, Oregon, Washington and a few
wide host range. Other species have very specific other US states. If the pathogen is detected at a
hosts, such as P. ilicis on Ilex and P. lateralis on nursery, retail or landscape site, federal regulatory
Chamaecyparis lawsoniana. officers implement harsh steps to eradicate the
Symptoms: Root, crown and even foliar and branch pathogen, which will include implementing site
or stem infections can be caused by these quarantine actions, including plant destruction.
organisms. Plants with root rot typically exhibit The economic impacts of these actions are
drought or nutrient deficiency symptoms including significant to the impacted site. To protect the
yellowing, leaf drop, wilting and general decline. sector from the pathogen, the industry developed a
Infected leaves and shoots are often black and soft. nursery certification program for P. ramorum in
Infection often spreads from roots up into the 2004. The program included nursery sampling,
crown or base of the stem or trunk. Cutting into testing, record keeping, best management practices,
this area reveals a dark brown to black rot with a and third-party auditing. The program no longer
distinct margin between rotted and healthy tissue. operates as a stand-alone program and has been
integrated as a module of the Clean Plants
Ilex, Pieris and Rhododendron often develop foliar Program, which is a broader nursery certification
and stem blight. On Cotoneaster and Ilex, program. Information on the program is available
Phytophthora also causes a black fruit rot. on the Canadian Nursery Certification Institute
Disease Cycle: Phytophthora and Pythium spread website.
via infected planting stock or through movement of Nurseries are encouraged to be certified for P.
zoospores or sporangia in contaminated soil, water ramorum, and purchasers of nursery stock are
and in wind-blown rain. Sporangia produce encouraged to buy from certified nurseries. See
zoospores that infect roots and other plant tissues. Chapter 2, Federal Plant Quarantine Regulations:
Comment 24 for information on Canadian import
restrictions on nursery stock to prevent the entry of
P. ramorum.

Figure 9.7. Pythium root rot life cycle.
Disease Management:  Remove all contaminated soil and roots
Nursery: beyond the root zone of the dead plant.
1. Participate in the Clean Plants Program.  Replace with clean soil.
Information on the program is available on the  Replant with healthy stock or resistant
Canadian Nursery Certification Institute varieties/species (see Appendix H). Late
website. spring or early fall are the best times to
2. Disease-free stock plants should be used for plant to avoid both heavy rains and
propagation at all times. summer drought.
3. Use strict hygiene in propagation, media  Do not apply excessive fertilizer, which can
preparation and potting. burn new roots.
4. Good drainage within and underneath the
3. Water or irrigate to prevent both long periods
container is essential.
of soil wetness and drought stress. Watering in
5. If plants become infected, do not move plants the morning is better than evening, as it allows
that are susceptible to Phytophthora into that excess water to evaporate more quickly. Giving
bed until the drainage has been improved and plants a thorough soaking every few days is
fresh ground cloth has been put down. better than watering every day. Drip irrigation,
6. Do not plant susceptible genera in soil if run for several hours at a time, is very
contaminated with Phytophthora (see Appendix conducive to root and crown rot.
H for a listing of resistant azaleas and
rhododendrons). Landscape: Foliar Blights
1. Prune and space plants for good air circulation.
Landscape: Crown and Root Rot
2. Control weeds and grasses around plants to
1. If crowns are not damaged, improving reduce humidity.
drainage at the site can sometimes allow plants
3. Remove and destroy fallen leaves and dead
with root rot to recover.
twigs during summer.
2. Replacing plants:

Rusts
Rusts are a highly specialized group of fungi. They Both rusts have yellow-orange spore-producing
have complex life cycles with several spore stages. pustules on the needles in late spring to August.
Some can continually infect one host plant species
These rusts require the alternate host Populus and
from year to year, while others must complete their
occur predominantly in bareroot nurseries located
life cycle on different host plant species each year,
in forested areas. See Appendix O for a listing of
in order to cause infection.
rust diseases of conifers.
Rust fungi appear as white, yellow, orange, red or
brown raised pustules on leaves, buds, fruits and Western gall rust is caused by the fungus
stems. The pustules often have a powdery Endocronartium harknessii. It affects two or three-
appearance and are easily visible to the naked eye. needle pines, primarily in bareroot nurseries. On
Identification of rust fungi to species usually seedlings, the rust causes globose galls or swellings
requires a laboratory examination. Even then, a on the stem or branches. Because there is an
definite identification to species may not be interval between infection and development of
possible if only one spore stage is present. conspicuous galls, the disease is rarely noticed until
late in the second growing season or until the
There are two foliage rusts (Melampsora medusae seedlings are lifted, graded or outplanted. Stock
and M. occidentalis) that commonly occur in forest leaving the nursery should be disease-free to
nurseries. They attack Douglas fir, western larch, prevent spread to disease-free forests.
tamarack, ponderosa pine and lodgepole pine.
Table 9.1. Common rusts of ornamental plants.

Rust Host(s)
Alder rust (Melampsoridium betulinum) Alnus, Betula, Larix
Black stem rust (Puccinia graminis) wheat, Berberis
Cedar-apple rust (not known to be present in BC)

Malus, Juniperus
(Gymnosporangium juniperi-virginianae)
Clavariform rust (Gymnosporangium spp.) Amelanchier, Crataegus, Rosaceae species, Juniperus
Daylily Rust (Puccinia hemerocallidis) Hemerocallis
Douglas fir needle rust (Melampsora spp.) Pseudotsuga, Populus, Larix, Picea, Pinus, Tsuga
Heuchera rust (Puccinia heucherae) Heuchera, other Saxifragaceae species
Hollyhock rust (Puccinia malvarearum) Althea, other Malvaceae species
Hypericum rust (Uromyces triquetrus) Hypericum
Juniper rusts (Gymnosporangium spp.) Amelanchier, Chaenomeles, Juniperus, Crateagus, Sorbus
Mahonia rust (Cumminsiella mirabilissima, Puccinia graminis and

Mahonia
P. brachypodii)
Pear trellis rust (Gymnosporangium fuscum) Pyrus, Juniperus
Rose rust (Phragmidium spp.) Rosa
Rhododendron rust (Chrysomyxa sp.) Rhododendron, Picea
Western gall rust (Endocronartium harknessii) hard pine
White pine blister rust (Cronartium ribicola) 5-needle pine, Ribes

Disease Management: monticola) and other 5-needle pines. Wind-
1. Plant disease-resistant hybrids or cultivars. blown spores can spread for several kilometers.
Appendix E provides susceptibility ratings to Ribes spp. should never be grown within 1,000
daylily rust (Puccinia hemerocallidis) for 70 metres of white pines, or in white pine forest
daylily cultivars. areas such as northern Vancouver Island and
2. For rusts that continually re-infect the same Interior valleys.
host plant species, a dormant season cleanup of 5. Use a surfactant to improve fungicide
all diseased leaves is very important. penetration into the rust pustules, unless the
3. For rusts with two hosts, control usually pesticide label states to not add a surfactant.
involves removing the less important host from For conifer seedlings, eliminate the alternate hosts
the vicinity of the more economically important in the immediate vicinity of the forest nursery. If
one (the one which is being grown as a crop). practical, rake and burn the fallen leaves of Populus
Junipers and ornamental pears should not be trees.
planted within 300 meters of each other in For Western gall rust, remove all infected pines for
Coastal British Columbia. 300 metres around the nursery. Cull and destroy all
4. White pine blister rust kills eastern white pine gall-bearing seedlings. Fungicide treatments are
(Pinus strobus) and western white pine (Pinus usually not practical.
Sirococcus Blight
This disease is caused by Sirococcus conigenus. It In bareroot and Interior container nurseries, the
affects Sitka, white and Englemann spruce; symptoms usually appear in late summer through
lodgepole and yellow pine; and rarely western fall in one-year-old stock or in rising two-year-old
hemlock. It is often seed-borne in spruce. It has also stock. Fall symptoms may be confused with early
been associated with tip dieback of Cedrus spp. in frost damage, but the pattern of development on
landscape plants in Coastal British Columbia. the shoot is the same as in container seedlings.
The symptoms and time of appearance differ for Disease Management: For landscape and nursery
container and bareroot seedlings. In containers, it is plants, prune out infected branch tips and apply a
randomly distributed affecting young seedlings protectant fungicide in early spring, where
and killing the primary needles from the base practical. For conifer seedlings, check that the seed
upwards. Depending on the state of progress, the from a given seedlot has been assayed for
upper needles may be green. Affected tissues are Sirococcus. Keep a close watch on emerged
light to reddish brown and seedlings remain seedlings and when the disease appears, remove
upright. and burn diseased plants and inform the seed
source of the disease outbreak in the seedlot.
Reduce humidity and if practical increase
illumination.
Verticillium Wilt
Hosts: Two species of Verticillium fungus (V. dahliae Other hosts of the Verticillium fungi include
and V. albo-atrum) cause wilting on woody plants. potatoes, peppers, tomatoes, raspberries and
Of these, V. dahliae is the most common. This strawberries. Nursery or landscape trees planted on
species produces microsclerotia that can carry over land previously cropped with these plants have a
in soil for up to 10 years. V. albo-atrum persists in high risk of developing the disease.
the soil for 1-2 years, and is most commonly found
Verticillium wilt is not a problem in container
on alfalfa. These fungi attack many deciduous
production unless infested soil, compost or wood
trees, herbaceous perennials, berries, weeds and
chips have been used for potting or mulching.
vegetables, but do not infect conifers, cedars or
grasses.

Commonly affected woody plants in British is usually infested for only one or 2 years with this
Columbia include Acer, Aesculus, azalea species. Both fungi also produce spores (conidia) in
(rhododendrons are generally resistant), Catalpa, and on infected plant tissue. These tiny spores
Ceanothus, Cercis, Liriodendron tulipifera, Magnolia, spread through air and in ground and drainage
Paeonia, Photinia, Prunus, Rosa, sea buckthorn, water and cause new infections through roots.
Syringa, Tilia (it has been found infected in British Infection can also be spread through grafting.
Columbia, although some lists identify it as Spores, mycelium and microsclerotia can survive in
resistant), Viburnum and Weigela. debris from infected plants, such as chipped
branches used for mulching or incorporated in
For a more complete list see Appendix N. Within a
planting media.
single plant genus, resistance or susceptibility can
vary between species, varieties and cultivars. Mature landscape trees with Verticillium wilt will
sometimes “wall-off” the infected branches and
Symptoms: The fungus enters the roots and moves
survive for many years. Other trees may totally
upward in the plant, plugging up the plant’s
succumb within a year or two of the first twig
vascular system. Often the first symptoms seen are
dieback.
nutrient deficiencies, yellowing, wilting and
dieback of young twigs and branches, often on one Disease Management:
side of the plant or tree. These symptoms are easily It can be impossible to eliminate all Verticillium
mistaken for root rot, frost damage, soil fertility, microsclerotia from infested soil.
drought stress or other problems. Diseases such as 1. Remove the infested roots and soil and replant
bacterial blight and cankers caused by fungi often with a tolerant or resistant species. See list in
attack weakened twigs, so Verticillium can be easily Appendix N.
overlooked as a primary cause. However, with 2. Avoid drought stress or flooding on mature
Verticillium wilt, the dieback becomes landscape trees, as stress will accelerate
progressively more severe from year to year. Verticillium damage.
Cutting into woody stems with a knife reveals
3. Mature trees where dieback is just starting can
black or brown streaks in the wood or vascular
be pruned to remove dead wood and may
cambium, often in nodes where branches or stems
show only intermittent symptoms for many
diverge, but these are not always visible.
years. Pruners should be disinfected with 10%
Disease Cycle: V. dahliae produces black bleach before being used on other trees.
“microsclerotia” that survive for up to 10 years in 4. Purchase propagating stock only from reliable
soil. V. albo-atrum does not produce sclerotia so soil sources.
Figure 9.8. Verticillium dahliae disease cycle.

Pesticides Registered to Manage Bacterial and Fungal
Diseases of Nursery Crops
The registered pesticides are listed in alphabetical order by active ingredient. When a pesticide is required to
control a pathogen, the grower should select a product based on efficacy, chemical group for resistance
management and safety for the applicator and the environment.
Each pesticide formulation has a unique label, listing crops and diseases that are controlled by the product. It
is not the purpose of this guide to list all formulations. The applicator must select the formulation that is most
appropriate for the disease and crop to ensure successful management. Note that all formulations listed will
not be necessarily available.
 is used to indicate products that are classed danger poison.
The tables presented in this section list the pesticides registered to control a given pathogen. All efforts were
made to ensure the pesticide tables are correct, however always refer to the label since it is the primary source
for information on safety, rates and application methods.
The diseases covered include:
Bacterial Diseases: Fungal Diseases:
 Bacterial Blight/Canker  Botrytis Blight and Storage Moulds
 Crown Gall  Damping-Off and Stem Rot of Cuttings
 Fire Blight  Downy Mildew
 Keithia Blight
 Nematodes
 Powdery Mildew
 Ramorum Blight (and other Foliar Blights caused by
Phytophthora species)
 Root Rot Caused by Armillaria
 Root, Stem and Crown Rot Caused by Fusarium and
Rhizoctonia
 Root Rots Caused by Phytophthora and Pythium
 Rusts
 Sirococcus Blight
 Verticillium Wilt
Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial Blight/Canker
Bacillus subtilis
Rhapsody ASO Rate: 1 L/100 L applied to run-off to suppress leaf spot caused by Pseudomonas delphinii.
Maintain agitation during mixing and application to assure uniform product suspension.
Crop: Delphinium grown indoors, outdoors, in greenhouses and nurseries
copper oxychloride (fixed copper)
Copper Spray 50 Fall: 6 g/L; apply in October before fall rains and again in January.
Copper can damage Spring: 2 g/L; apply in April and May during cool and wet weather.
young shoots; avoid It is important to apply before bud break, since open buds are a major entry point for new
applying on a cool day bacterial infections. Spreader/stickers can be added to extend the persistence of the product on
when the spray will the plant.
dry slowly. Crops: Corylus (3-9 g/L), Forsythia, Prunus (flowering), Rosa, Syringa

Crown Gall
Agrobacterium radiobacter
Dygall A preventive dip treatment for seeds, rooted cuttings or seedlings. Plants with galls cannot be
safely planted even if treated. May not give complete protection if re-planting into infested soil.
Crops: See the label. Dygall has not proven to be effective against apple crown gall and is not
registered on apples.
Fire Blight
Aureobasidium pullulans DSM 14940 and DSM 14941
Blossom Protect Rate: based on crown height; 500 L/ha if 1 m and 1,000 L/ha if 2 m crown height.
Crops: woody Rosaceae ornamentals and pome fruit (bearing and non-bearing)
copper oxychloride (fixed copper)
Copper Spray 50 Rate: 125 g/100 L; apply during blossom and repeat during summer when warm and rainy.
Crops: Cotoneaster, crabapple, Crataegus, Cydonia, Sorbus
CAUTION: Rate: 220 g/100 L; apply during bloom to prevent blossom infections.
Application during Crop: Pyrus (do not apply to ‘Anjou’)
bloom may cause
Rate: 3.2 kg/ha; apply at bud burst and after harvest with 50% leaf drop.
russeting of fruit.
Crop: apple
kasugamycin
Kasumin 2L Rate: 5 L/ha; spray volume must be sufficient to provide good foliar coverage.
Crops: pome fruit (bearing and non-bearing)
Pantoea agglomerans
BlightBan C9-1; Rate: 370-500 g in 1,000-2,000 L of water/ha. Apply at 15-20% bloom, full bloom and
Bloomtime immediately post bloom. Use the high rate under high disease pressure. Suppression only.
Biological FD Crops: pome fruit (apple, pear) nursery stock
Pseudomonas fluorescens
BlightBan A506 Rate: 370-530 g in 1,000-2,000 L of water/ha. Apply at 15-20% bloom, at petal fall to full bloom, and
immediately post bloom. Use the high rate under high disease pressure. Suppression only.
Crops: apple, pear
streptomycin sulphate
Streptomycin 17 Rate: 100 ppm (60 g/100 L water). Apply when trees are at 20-30% bloom and repeat during
blossom time. Disease resistance is widespread. Do not apply less than the label rate.
Crops: apple, pear
Fungal Diseases
Botrytis Blight and Storage Moulds
captan - high rates applied to young foliage during warm, cloudy, humid weather can cause leaf spotting
Captan 50-WP Rate: 200 g/100 L Apply when disease first appears. Repeat at 7-10 day intervals,
Captan 80-WP or Rate: 125 g/100 L especially following rain.
Maestro 80 DF
Captan 80 WDG Rate: 120-140 g/100 L
Crops: Aster, Camellia, Chrysanthemum, Dahlia, Rosa, Syringa, Tulipa
chlorothalonil
Daconil 2787F Rate: 2.4-4.8 L/ha Apply in 100-1,000 L of water. Apply when conditions are cool and
Bravo Ultrex 90 SDG Rate: 1.3-2.7 kg/ha moist. Re-apply every 7-14 days as long as conditions favour the
Daconil Ultrex Rate: 1.45-2.9 kg/ha disease.
Crops: conifers
Daconil 2787F Rate: 250 mL/100 L of water; use 180 mL/100 L for Rosa.
Daconil Ultrex Rate: 150 g/100 L of water; use 110 g/100 L for Rosa.
Crops: Chrysanthemum, Dianthus, Geranium, Gladiolus, Iris, Lilium, Petunia, Rosa

Botrytis Blight and Storage Moulds (Cont’d)
copper, elemental (5.5%)
Phyton 27 Rate: Refer to label (rate varies by crop). Apply when disease first appears or weather
conditions are favourable for disease development.
Crops: Fuchsia, Hibiscus, Primula, Rosa
dicloran
Botran 75W Rate: 175 g/100 L; apply prior to lifting field stock for shipment or storage.
Crops: Hydrangea, Rosa
Rate: 92.5 g/100 L. For stock cuttings or greenhouse plants. Apply at 7-14 day intervals, or
every 5-7 days during prolonged damp and cool weather.
Crops: Chrysanthemum, Geranium, Rosa
fenhexamid
Decree 50 WDG Rate: 1.12 kg/ha. Apply at 7-14 day intervals; do not make more than 2 consecutive
applications to avoid development of resistance.
Crops: outdoor and greenhouse ornamentals
iprodione
Rovral WDG & WP Rate: 100 g/100 L; apply at 21-day intervals or as necessary.
Crops: ornamentals
Rate: 1.5-2.0 kg in 1,100 L water/ha (15-20 g/11 L of water/100 m2). Apply at 21-day intervals
and before lifting trees to protect against storage moulds. Do not apply 2 days prior to harvest.
Crops: container and bareroot conifer (spruce, fir, hemlock, cedar) seedlings grown in
greenhouses and nurseries
thiophanate-methyl
Senator 70WP Rate: 65-85 g/100 L; apply every 7 days as required.
Crops: greenhouse potted ornamentals
trifloxystrobin
Compass 50WG Rate: 7.5-30 g/100 L; reapply at 14-day intervals.
Crops: greenhouse and outdoor ornamental bedding plants, including hosta
Damping-off and Stem Rot of Cuttings
captan
Captan 50-WP Rate: 5-8 g/L
Captan 80-WP, Rate: 3-6 g/L Dip cuttings for 20-30 minutes and drain before planting to control stem
Maestro 80DF rot of cuttings.
Captan 80 WDG Rate: 0.5-0.94 g/L
Crops: azalea, Chrysanthemum, Dianthus
captan
Captan 50-WP Rate: 250 g/100 L
Apply 50-85 L /100 m2 as a soil or greenhouse bench treatment. Work
Captan 80-WP Rate: 150 g/100 L
into the upper 7.5-10 cm of soil before planting.
Maestro 80DF Rate: 125 g/100 L
Crops: seedlings or transplants of roses, shrubs, trees, flowers and lawn seedbeds
etridiazole
Truban 30WP Drench: 600-900 g/1,200 L of water/100 m2
Dry Soil Mix: 55-110 g/m3
Crops: container and bed-grown Arctostaphylos, Ceanothus, Chrysanthemum, Easter lily,
Rhamnus, Rhododendron
Truban 25% EC Drench Rate: 115-240 mL/380 L of water/40 m2. Retreat at 4-12 week intervals if necessary.
Crops: container and bed-grown Chrysanthemum, geranium, Rhododendron and some bedding
plants

Damping-off and Stem Rot of Cuttings (Cont’d)
folpet
Folpan 50 WP Rate: 150-300 g/100 L. Soak cuttings for 15-30 minutes before sticking.
Folpan 80 WDG Rate: 100-190 g/100 L. Soak cuttings for 15-30 minutes before sticking.
Crop: azalea
iprodione
Rovral WDG & WP Drench: 2 g/5 L applied per m2 as a drench to control damping-off caused by Rhizoctonia.
Crops: Celosia, Salvia. Tolerance of other species should be checked on a few plants before
making a large scale application.
metalaxyl
Subdue MAXX Soil Mix at Seeding and Transplanting: 5 mL/m3 of soil mixture
Drench at Seeding and Transplanting: 2.4 mL/100 L of water. Apply 5 L of solution/m2.
Crops: Artemisia, aster, Begonia, Chrysanthemum, daisy (Shasta), Dianthus, Digitalis, Gaillardia,
geranium, Hedera, Phlox, Primula, Salvia and some bedding plants
Rate: 1.2 L in at least 200 L of water per ha. For small areas, mix 12 mL/100 L of water and
apply 100 L of solution per 100 m2.
Crops: conifers grown in seedbeds and plug-plantings; 2-0 bareroot transplants
Streptomyces griseoviridis
Mycostop Rate: 2-10 g/100 m2 applied as a spray, drench or through drip irrigation to emerged
seedlings.
Drench: 20-50 mL/plant of a 0.01% suspension
Crops: greenhouse ornamentals
trifloxystrobin
Compass 50WG Rate: 3.8 g/100 L; apply as a drench to wet the upper ½ of the growing medium at the time of
seeding. Only controls damping-off caused by Rhizoctonia solani.
Crops: seedlings of Alyssum, azalea, bamboo, Begonia, Brachycome, Celosia, Chrysanthemum,
Cosmos, daisy, Delphinium, Dianthus, dusty miller, Hedera, Hemerocallis, Hosta, Ligustrum, Liriope,
Nandina, peach, Phlox, Pittosporum, Rhaphiolepis indica, Rosa, Sempervivum, Syringa grown in
interiorscapes, field nurseries, greenhouses and other enclosed structures, landscapes
Downy Mildew
cyazofamid
Ranman 400SC Rate: 0.2-0.22 L/ha; do not make consecutive applications of Ranman 400SC.
Crops: basil (field and greenhouse)
dimethomorph
Acrobat 50 WP Rate: 48 g/100 L; re-apply in 7-14 days. Do not apply more than 2 consecutive sprays.
Crops: greenhouse ornamentals (including azalea, begonia, Chrysanthemum, Dianthus, Iberis,
periwinkle, Phlox, Rosa, stocks) and outdoor-grown ornamentals, herbaceous perennials and
annual plants
fluopicolide
Presidio Rate: 60-119 mL/380 L; apply as foliar spray or drench at 14-28 intervals.
Crops: outdoor ornamentals (field and container grown)
mandipropamid
Revus Rate: 583 mL/ha; apply 95-280 L of spray/ha.
Crops: field and greenhouse basil
phosphorous acid
Confine Extra Rate: 3-5 L/ha in at least 100 L of water.
Crops: basil
Rate: 1.3 L/100 L
Crops: outdoor ornamentals

Keithia Blight
mancozeb
Dithane DG, M-45 Rate: 2.75-3.5 kg in 1,000 L water; spray at 10-14 day intervals to protect new growth.
& WSP 80WP; Crops: arborvitae
Penncozeb 80WP
propiconazole
Topas 250E Rate: 500 mL in 1,000 L of water/ha (5 mL in 10 L/100 m2). Spray every 4 weeks with a
maximum of 6 applications per year.
Crop: Thuja plicata
Nematodes
Registered Pesticides - The chemicals used for controlling nematodes are called nematicides. Since many nematicides are
soil-applied fumigants, they are also known as soil fumigants. The preplant soil fumigants
used for nursery stock are Basamid (dazomet) and Vapam (metam). All fumigant-type
nematicides must be applied well in advance of planting time. For more information on the
use of soil fumigants, see Soil Fumigation in Chapter 5.
oxamyl
Vydate Rate: 125 mL/100 L water. Drench 3.5-10 L of solution in a circle around the base of each tree
in spring just as active root and leaf growth begins and when temperatures are above 7°C. Do
not apply to trees under water stress or when actively growing. Do not dip nursery stock.
Crops: non-bearing apple trees
Powdery Mildew
Bacillus subtilis
Rhapsody ASO Rate: 1 to 2 L/100 L. Maintain agitation during mixing and application to assure uniform
product suspension.
Crop: Monarda, Phlox, Rosa grown indoors, outdoors, in greenhouses and nurseries
boscalid + pyraclostrobin
Pristine WG Rate: 73.5-120 g/100 L
Crop: greenhouse-grown bedding plants
chlorothalonil
Daconil 2787F Rate: 250 mL/100 L
Daconil Ultrex Rate: 150 kg/100 L
Crop: Viburnum
copper, elemental (5.5%)
Phyton 27 Rate: Refer to label (rate varies by crop). Apply when disease first appears or weather
conditions are favourable for disease development. Reapply at 7-14 day intervals.
Crops: Begonia, Cornus, Hydrangea, Monarda, Phlox, Rosa
copper, tribasic copper sulphate (53%)
Copper 53W Rate: 5.6 kg in 1,000 L per ha; repeat applications at 7-10 day intervals.
Crops: roses
cyprodinil + fludioxonil
Switch 62.5 Rate: 100 g/100 L; apply when disease first appears and re-apply in 7-10 days. Suppression only.
Palladium Crops: outdoor ornamentals (except Rosa)
dodemorph
Meltatox Rate: 250 mL/100 L. Apply at 10-14 day intervals. Do not apply more than once per crop cycle.
Crops: field and greenhouse-grown roses

Powdery Mildew (Cont’d)
folpet
Folpan 50WP Rate: 200 g/100 L. Apply when disease first appears and repeat every 7-10 days. Consult label
for method of application.
Crops: asters, Chrysanthemum, Phlox, Rosa
myclobutanil
Nova 40W Rate: 34 g/100 L. Use 11.3 g/100 L for Amelanchier. Repeat at 10-14-day intervals.
Crops: Althea, Aster, azalea, Chrysanthemum, Cornus, crabapple, Euonymus, Ligustrum, Lonicera,
Malus, Phlox, Prunus (nectarines, peaches, sour cherries), Pyrus, Rhododendron, Rosa, Syringa
Eagle WSP T&O Rate: 30 g/100 L; apply on a 10-14 day schedule.
Crop: Rosa
potassium bicarbonate
MilStop Rate: 280-560 g/100 L. Apply at first sign of disease and reapply in 7-14 days.
Crops: Cornus, Hydrangea, Monarda, Phlox, Rosa
propiconazole
Banner MAXX Rate: 35 mL/100 L; apply every 14 days.
Crops: azalea, Rhododendron, Rosa
Reynoutria sachalinensis extract
Regalia Maxx Rate: 1.25-2.5 mL/L; re-apply at 7-10 day interval. Suppression only.
Crops: container, bench, flat, plug, bed, or field-grown ornamentals in greenhouses, shade-
houses, outdoor nurseries, retail nurseries, and other landscape areas
sulphide sulphur
Lime Sulphur 23% Rate: 1.25 L/100 L. Do not apply when the foliage is wet or when it is hot (>27oC).
Crops: Malus, peaches, Pyrus
sulphur – finely ground sulphur is an effective fungicide for powdery mildew, but may damage some plants in hot
weather. Both DOMESTIC and COMMERCIAL/AGRICULTURAL products are registered for general use on
ornamentals.
Kumulus DF Rate: Varies by crop and stage of development. Refer to the label for rates.
Crops: Malus, Prunus (peaches, sour cherries), Pyrus, Vitis
thiophanate-methyl
Senator 70WP Rate: 50-75 g/100 L. Apply every 10-14 days.
Crops: roses and ornamentals
Rate: 65-85 g/100 L. Apply every 7 days as required.
trifloxystrobin
Compass 50WG Rate: 14-21 g/100 L; reapply at 7-14 day intervals.
Crops: non-bearing apple, cherry, crabapple, nectarine, plum, and Begonia, geranium, Photinia,
Salvia, Rosa grown in outdoor field nurseries and landscapes
Rate: 30 g/100 L; reapply at 14 day intervals.
Crops: greenhouse and outdoor-grown shrubs
triforine
Funginex DC Rate: 100 mL/100 L. Apply when disease first appears and repeat at 10-14 day intervals.
Crops: outdoor roses and ornamentals; do not use in greenhouses.
Rate: 2.5 L/ha by air-blast sprayer at tight cluster, pink and petal fall.
Crops: apple nursery stock and non-bearing apple trees

Ramorum Blight (and other Foliar Blights caused by Phytophthora species)
chlorothalonil
Daconil 2787F Rate: 250 mL/100 L Apply when new leaves emerge and repeat every 7-14 days
Daconil Ultrex Rate: 150 kg/100 L during wet weather.
Crops: azalea and Pieris
dimethomorph
Acrobat 50 WP Rate: 48 g/100 L; re-apply in 10-14 days. Do not apply more than 2 consecutive sprays.
Crops: container and field-grown ornamentals that are hosts of Phytophthora ramorum and are
grown in a nursery or landscape planting
fosetyl-al
Aliette Ornamental Rate: 5 kg in up to 1,000 L/ha. Spray to wet, not to run-off.
Crops: greenhouse, container and field-grown ornamentals that are hosts of Phytophthora
ramorum and are grown in a nursery or landscape planting
mancozeb
Dithane DG, M-45 Rate: 180-250 g/100 L. Apply in fall before first rains.
or WSP 80 WP; Crop: twig blight (Phytophthora ilicis) on Ilex
Manzate DF &
PRO-STICK;
Penncozeb 80WP
metalaxyl
Subdue MAXX Rate: Mix 7.8-15.6 mL/100 L of water.
Crops: woody ornamentals grown in field nurseries and landscapes that are susceptible to
May cause Ramorum Blight (Sudden Oak Death)
phytotoxicity. Do not Drench: At seeding, mix 2.4 mL with 100 L of water and apply 5 L of solution per m².
make more than 3 Drench: At transplanting, mix 4 mL with 100 L of water and apply 5 L of solution per m2.
applications per
Crops: indoor and container-grown woody ornamentals that are susceptible to Ramorum
season.
Blight (Sudden Oak Death)
phosphorous acid
Confine Extra Rate: 1.3 L/100 L applied as a foliar spray or drench (5-10 L of solution/m2) for Phytophthora
spp., except P. ramorum, P. cryptogea
Root Rot Caused by Armillaria
There is no effective chemical control. Soil fumigation may suppress the disease temporarily, but will not eradicate it.
Root, Stem and Crown Rot Caused by Fusarium and Rhizoctonia

Bacillus subtilis
Rhapsody ASO Rate: 1 to 2 L/100 L applied as a drench to control Rhizoctonia solani; repeat every 21-28 days
throughout the growing season.
Crop: greenhouse and outdoor ornamentals
thiophanate-methyl
Senator 70WP Rate: 65-85 g/100 L of water as a drench or directed spray by ground application to
thoroughly soak the growing media. Repeat after 15 days if required.

Root, Stem and Crown Rot Caused by Fusarium and Rhizoctonia (Cont’d)
Trichoderma harzianum Rifai strain KRL-AG2 (biological control agent)
Rootshield G Rate: 600-750 g/m3 of loose planting media or soil
Rootshield WP Rate: 55-110 g/m3 of loose planting media, soil, or planting beds; apply in sufficient water (30-
45 g/100 L of water) to achieve uniform application. Agitate to maintain suspension.
Crops: greenhouse and outdoor ornamentals (suppression only)
Rootshield WP Rate: 60 g/L applied as a bulb dip
Crops: ornamental bulbs
trifloxystrobin
Compass 50WG Rate: 3.8 g/100 L; apply as a drench to wet the upper ½ of the growing media at the time of
seeding. Only controls root rot caused by Rhizoctonia solani.
Crops: Same crops as for Damping-Off and Stem Rot of Cuttings
Root Rot Caused by Phytophthora and Pythium
Bacillus subtilis
Rhapsody ASO Rate: 1 to 2 L/100 L applied as a drench to control Pythium ultimum and Phytophthora; repeat
every 21-28 days throughout the growing season.
Crop: greenhouse and outdoor ornamentals
etridiazole
Truban 25% EC & Same rates and crops as per Damping-off and Stem Rot of Cuttings.
30WP
fluopicolide
Presidio Rate: 60-119 mL/380 L; apply as foliar spray or drench at 14-28 intervals.
Crops: outdoor ornamentals (field and container grown)
fosetyl-al
Aliette Ornamental Foliar Rate: 2.8 kg/ha. Apply at 14-30 day intervals. Maximum 3 applications per year.
Crops: greenhouse ornamentals (Aglaonema, azalea, Pothos, Shefflera, Spathiphilium) and
bedding plants (Begonia, Celosia, geranium, Impatiens, Petunia, Salvia, Vinca)
Drench: 360 g/380 L water per 36 m2 of surface area. Apply every 30 days.
Crops: bedding plants (Begonia, Celosia, geranium, Impatiens, Petunia, Salvia, Vinca)
Aliette WDG Foliar Rate: 3-5 kg/ha depending on tree density.
Drench: 5-10 g/tree depending on tree density. Apply as a high volume coarse spray (5 L of
water per tree), using a handgun to drench the trunk and soil surrounding the tree.
Crop: Malus (non-bearing trees)
metalaxyl
Subdue MAXX Soil Mix at Seeding and Transplanting: Thoroughly mix 5 mL/m3 of soil mixture.
Drench at Transplanting: 2.4 mL/100 L of water; apply 5 L of solution/m2.
Crops: greenhouse and outdoor grown Artemisia, aster, Begonia, Chrysanthemum, daisy (Shasta),
Dianthus, Digitalis, Gaillardia, geranium, Hedera, Phlox, Primula, Salvia and some bedding plants.
Rate: 1.2 L in at least 200 L of water per ha. For small areas, mix 12 mL/100 L of water and
apply 100 L of solution per 100 m2.
Crops: conifers grown in seedbeds and plug-plantings; 2-0 bareroot transplants.
phosphate
Phostrol Foliar Rate: 290-580 mL/100 L
Drench: 120-560 mL/100 L; apply 10 L of solution per m2.
Crops: greenhouse-grown and outdoor bedding plants and potted plants to suppress root rots
caused by Phytophthora

Root Rot Caused by Phytophthora and Pythium (Cont’d)
phosphorous acid
Confine Extra Rate: 1.3 L/100 L applied as a foliar spray or drench (5-10 L of solution/m2)
propamocarb hydrochloride
Previcur N Drench: 1.5 mL/L; apply 100 mL of solution per 10 cm pot or 4.9 L of solution per m 2. Avoid
wetting the foliage.
Crops: outdoor and greenhouse grown ornamentals
Trichoderma harzianum Rifai strain KRL-AG2
Rootshield G Rate: 600-750 g/m3 of loose planting media or soil
Rootshield WP Rate: 55-110 g/m3 of loose planting media, soil, or planting beds; apply in sufficient water (30-
45 g/100 L of water) to achieve uniform application. Agitate to maintain suspension.
Crops: greenhouse and outdoor ornamentals to suppress Pythium
Rootshield WP Rate: 60 g/L applied as a bulb dip to suppress Pythium.
Crops: ornamental bulbs
Rusts - Fungicides can be used to protect the economically important host provided they are applied just before the
infectious spores arrive.
azoxystrobin
Heritage Rate: 0.282 kg/ha (0.3 g/L); reapply in 14-28 days.
Crop: Hemerocallis
boscalid + pyraclostrobin
Pristine WG Rate: 1.0-1.6 kg/ha
Crop: ornamental pear and serviceberry
chlorothalonil
Daconil 2787F Rate: 250 mL/100 L
Repeat every 7-14 days.
Daconil Ultrex Rate: 150 kg/100 L
Crops: Althea, crabapple, Crataegus, Geranium, Hydrangea, Mahonia
mancozeb
Dithane DG, M-45 Rate: 1.5-2.0 kg/ha to control cedar apple rust and quince rust
or WSP 80WP; Crop: Malus
Penncozeb 75DF
(Malus only) or Rate: 2.8-3.5 kg/1,000 L water/ha
80WP
Crop: juniper (for pear trellis rust)
myclobutanil
Nova 40W Rate: 25-34 g/100 L
Crops: Althea, Amelanchier, Chrysanthemum, Fraxinus, Iris, Phlox
Rate: 34 g/100 L
Crops: aster, crabapple, Crataegus, Juniperus, Malus, Pyrus, Rosa
Rate: 54 g/100 L
Crops: Dianthus
Eagle WSP T&O Rate: 30 g/100 L. Apply in August and September at 14-day intervals. For improved control,
tank mix with Dithane DG at the rate of 150 g/100 L.
Crop: Juniperus

Rusts (Cont’d)
propiconazole
Topas 250E Rate: 500 mL in at least 200 L of water/ha.
Crops: Amelanchier
trifloxystrobin
Compass 50WG Rate: 15-30 g/100 L; reapply at 7-14 day intervals.
Crops: outdoor ornamental shrubs in the Malvaceae family (e.g. hollyhock)
Flint 50WG Rate: 140-210 g/ha; reapply at 10-14 day intervals to manage cedar apple rust.
Crops: pome fruits
Sirococcus Blight
chlorothalonil
Daconil Ultrex Rate: 2.9-3.6 kg/ha
Bravo Ultrex 90 SDG Rate: 2.0-3.3 kg/ha Apply in 100-1,000 L of water. Make additional applications at 3 to 4
Daconil 2787F Rate: 3.6-6.0 L/ha week intervals. Use the high rate for stock in nursery beds.
Crops: conifers
Verticillium Wilt
No chemical controls are available. Soil fumigation will suppress Verticillium dahliae temporarily, but will not eliminate it
from the soil.

Bactericide and Fungicide Properties 10
This chapter is intended for reference and background information only; it is by no means intended to replace
labels. Always consult the label, as it is the primary source for information on safety, rates and application
methods. Material in this chapter was compiled from a variety of sources, such as: Farm Chemicals Handbook
2001, Meister Publishing Co.; pesticide labels; The Pesticide Manual, Twelfth Edition, Editor C. D. S. Tomlin,
British Crop Protection Council, 2000; and the Handbook for Pesticide Applicators and Dispensers by British
Columbia Ministry of Environment.
Information on pesticide relative acute toxicity (expressed as LD50) is provided. The LD50 value represents the
amount of active ingredient of the chemical in milligrams used per kilogram of test animal weight that kills
50% of the population. It is expressed as oral (i.e. the amount ingested through the mouth or nose) and dermal
(i.e. the amount that penetrates through the skin). The higher the LD50 figure, the less toxic the product is to
humans. However, the figures do not indicate the long-term or chronic health effects of pesticides. Always
keep pesticide exposure to a minimum by wearing protective clothing; even when working with products that
have high LD50 values.
See Table 15.2 for a listing of the relative toxicity, chemical class and common names of fungicides registered
for ornamentals.
Agrobacterium radiobacter (Dygall) is a azoxystrobin (Heritage, Quadris) is a broad

preventive biological control agent for crown spectrum, systemic strobilurin fungicide with
gall of woody plants. Apply to susceptible protectant and curative activity. It disrupts
plants before exposure to the disease for final mitochondrial respiration and blocks the
field placement. It can be used to treat seeds, formation of energy storage molecules within
rootstock cuttings, seedlings and rooted the target fungi. It is also an inhibitor of fungal
cuttings. Unopened packs of Dygall must be spore germination and mycelial growth. Do not
held under cool storage. The bacteria in Dygall store below 0°C. It has a low mammalian acute
are killed by sunlight; therefore steps must be toxicity (LD50: oral >5,000; dermal >2,000), but
taken to exclude light from the culture, the dip causes slight eye and skin irritation. This
and inoculated plant material prior to planting. product is toxic to fish and aquatic organisms.
Keep it out of aquatic habitats and
Aureobasidium pullulans (Blossom estuarine/marine habitats. Do not apply
Protect) is a yeast that is used as a biological directly to water or contaminate water by
bactericide. It protects apple blossoms by cleaning of equipment, or disposal of wastes.
natural competition of the pathogen that causes
fire blight. The yeast is sensitive to fungicides Bacillus subtilis (Rhapsody ASO) is a
and it is recommended to not tank mix with naturally occurring soil bacterium that can
other fungicides. It has a low mammalian acute colonize plant surfaces and outcompete
toxicity (LD50: oral >2,000; dermal >2,000). disease-causing organisms. It is a broad
Blossom Protect can be stored for up to 10 spectrum, preventive biofungicide for the
months at room temperature (20oC) and up to control or suppression of many diseases of
24 months in cool storage (8oC). ornamental plants. The label recommends to
not tank mix with other pesticides, surfactants
or fertilizers. It has a low mammalian acute
toxicity (LD50: oral >5,000; dermal >5,000), but
may be irritating to skin and eyes.
Nursery Production Guide Bactericide and Fungicide Properties • 1

Preparation of Home-made Bordeaux Mixture
(From: Forest Pest Leaflet, #29-6163-1992E, Forestry Canada.)
Small quantities of Bordeaux mixture for treatment of a few small ornamental trees can be prepared as
follows:
1. Dissolve overnight 50 grams of copper sulphate (CuSO4•5H2O) in 1 litre of water.
2. Stir 80 grams of hydrated lime [Ca(OH)2] into 4 litres of water, and sieve the solution through a fine
screen.
3. Stir the copper sulphate solution into the hydrated lime solution. The Bordeaux mixture is now ready
for use.
The relative amounts of these ingredients vary with different preparations. Consult your local pesticide
official, licenced supplier, or licenced pest control operator for more details about Bordeaux mixture and
the ratios of the ingredients.
Prepare and use this mixture at your own risk; use it sparingly and carefully.
Bordeaux mixture (copper sulphate + lime) chlorothalonil (Bravo, Daconil) is a broad-

has been used by farmers and home-owners for spectrum, non-systemic chlorinated
over 100 years to control leaf spot diseases, hydrocarbon with foliar protectant activity.
blights and anthracnose. It is a foliar fungicide Daconil is used as a foliar spray for the control
that has protective action. Bordeaux mixture of Botrytis, leaf spots and rusts of certain
may cause burning of leaves and may injure the greenhouse and field-grown crops. Exotherm
fruit of some plants (e.g. ‘Seibel’ grapes, plum Termil is used as a smoke fumigator for the
and peach). This limits the use of Bordeaux control of Botrytis in greenhouse crops. It has a
mixture to stages of plant growth when the risk very low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral
of phytotoxicity is low. Use your spray solution >10,000; dermal >10,000), but it causes severe
promptly as Bordeaux mixture does not keep eye damage. May cause allergic side effects in
well. It has a low mammalian acute toxicity some people. Toxic to fish.
(LD50: oral >4,000). It is toxic to fish, but non-
toxic to bees. copper complex (Phyton 27) is a systemic
with fungicide and bactericide properties,
boscalid + pyraclostrobin (Pristine) broad-spectrum action and low phytotoxicity. It
contains two active ingredients that provide a is used as a foliar spray or cutting dip to control
broad spectrum of disease control and certain diseases. The optimal pH for the ready-
resistance management. The active ingredients to-use Phyton 27 solution is 5.5 to 6.5. If the pH
inhibit sporulation, spore germination and of the diluted solution is outside this range,
mycelial growth on and in plant tissues. Pristine adjust the pH to improve efficacy and to ensure
is locally systemic and it has a low mammalian plant safety. The label recommends to not tank-
acute toxicity (LD50: oral >1,490; dermal >2,000). mix any copper containing compounds with B-
Nine and to not apply B-Nine within 7 days,
captan (Captan, Maestro) is a broad- either before or after, a copper application.
spectrum, protective and curative Burning of the leaves may result. It has a low
dicarboximide that controls a wide range of leaf mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral = 4,500),
spots, as well as seed and soil-borne diseases. It but is corrosive to both the eyes and skin. Direct
is also used as a bulb dust and as a soil drench contact causes irreversible eye damage and
to control damping-off. The label recommends severe skin burns. Toxic to fish.
to not combine with oil or strongly alkaline
materials such as hydrated lime, and to not use
in combination with, immediately before or
closely following an oil spray. It has a low
mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral = 9,000),
but it may cause skin and eye irritation. Toxic to
fish, slightly toxic to birds, and non-toxic to
bees.
2 • Bactericide and Fungicide Properties Nursery Production Guide

copper hydroxide (Copper 53 W, Bordo) is didecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride
the most commonly used fixed copper (KleenGrow) is a mild quaternary
compound. It controls a broad-spectrum of ammonium chloride compound with wide
fungal and bacterial diseases due to the release spectrum fungicidal and bactericidal properties
of copper ions. Copper ions can also be toxic to for use as a disinfectant in the greenhouse. Aids
plant tissue. To reduce their phytotoxicity, fixed in controlling Fusarium, Botrytis, Penicillium and
copper pesticides contain relatively insoluble Didymella. Kills bacteria and fungi but does not
copper compounds. Fixed copper coats the eliminate viruses. It must contact surfaces for at
foliage and provides long-term disease control. least 30 seconds to be effective. It is corrosive
It has a moderate mammalian acute toxicity and can cause eye damage and skin irritation,
(LD50: oral 489; dermal >3,160), and is severely and is harmful if swallowed. Contains a source
irritating and corrosive to eyes, and mildly of chlorine and can form dangerous gas if
irritating to skin. It is non-toxic to honeybees. mixed with incompatible materials.
copper oxychloride (fixed copper, Copper dimethomorph (Acrobat) is a systemic,
50W) is a foliar fungicide with protective protectant fungicide that controls oomycetes
action. It is practically insoluble in water. It has (e.g. Phytophthora, Peronospora). It is an anti-
a low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral = sporulant that inhibits the formation of cell
700-800; dermal >2,000) and is non-toxic to walls in oomycetes. It has a low mammalian
bees. acute toxicity (LD50: oral 2,939; dermal > 2,000),
but is toxic to aquatic organisms.
cyazofamid (Ranman) is a contact, protectant
fungicide that inhibits development of all stages dodemorph-acetate (Meltatox) is a
of oomycetes (e.g. Phytophthora, Pythium, systemic, organic compound with protectant
Plasmopara), which includes inhibition of and eradicant activity against powdery mildew.
zoospore release and motility, mycelial growth, It has a low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50:
and the formation of oospores and sporangia. oral >3,944), but it can cause skin irritation and
Ranman has limited systemic activity and has a serious, permanent eye damage. It is toxic to
low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral fish and slightly toxic to bees.
>5,000; dermal >2,000).
dodine (Equal) is a protectant and curative
cyprodinil + fludioxonil (Switch) are the fungicide with some local systemic activity. It is
two active ingredients in Switch. The two not compatible with anionic surfactants and
unique active ingredients give Switch a broad hard water. It has a low mammalian acute
spectrum of fungal control and provides for toxicity (LD50: oral ~ 1,000; dermal > 1,500).
resistance management. Cyprodinil is a
systemic, foliar fungicide that controls a wide etridiazole (Truban) is a selective thiazole
range of pathogens. It inhibits methionine soil fungicide to control damping-off caused by
production and the secretion of fungal Pythium and Phytophthora in greenhouse and
hydrolytic enzymes. Fludioxonil is a non- field-grown crops. It is a contact fungicide with
systemic foliar fungicide that inhibits mycelial protective and curative action. It has a low
growth of several fungi, including Botrytis, mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral = 1,077;
Fusarium and Rhizoctonia. Switch has a low dermal = 1,366), and is toxic to fish and slightly
mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral >5,000; toxic to birds.
dermal >2,000), but is toxic to aquatic fenhexamid (Decree) is a non-systemic,
organisms. protectant hydroxyanilide compound for the
dicloran (Botran) is a chlorinated nitroaniline control of Botrytis in ornamental crops. It acts
compound used as a foliar spray to control by preventing the penetration of fungi into the
Botrytis in certain greenhouse and field grown plant by inhibiting germ tub elongation,
crops. It is phytotoxic when tank-mixed with mycelial growth and spore germination. It
certain other compounds, especially should be applied in advance of infection; the
organophosphates. It has a low mammalian frequency of applications varies with
acute toxicity (LD50: oral =4,640; dermal =6,320). environmental conditions.
It is highly toxic to fish and non-toxic to bees.

Thorough coverage is essential. Spray solution Apply as a foliar spray or a drench. Ensure that
should be constantly agitated during your water has a pH of 2-9. Do not use a
application. For resistance management spreader/sticker. When Aliette is diluted in
purposes, it should not be applied in successive water, the pH of the resulting solution can drop
applications. It has a low mammalian acute 3-4 pH units. This can cause phytotoxicity
toxicity (LD50: oral >5,000; dermal >5,000). It is because of the increased availability of copper if
practically non-toxic to birds, slightly toxic to the fungicide solution is mixed with copper
freshwater invertebrates, and moderately toxic compounds or foliar fertilizers. If applying
to freshwater fish. It is not harmful to Aliette before or shortly after a copper
honeybees and lady beetles. fungicide, the pH of the solution should be
raised to six or above. Use care when tank
ferbam (Ferbam) is a carbamate compound that mixing with nitrogen based foliar fertilizers,
controls a broad spectrum of foliar diseases. It especially those containing ammonium
has protective action and is not phytotoxic. It nitrogen.
leaves an undesirable black residue and has an
unpleasant odour. It has a low mammalian It has a low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50:
acute toxicity (LD50: oral >17,000), and causes oral = 5,000; dermal >2,000). It is toxic to
irritation to the nose and throat. It is moderately aquatic and estuarine invertebrates. It is safe on
toxic to fish, but not toxic to bees. Amblyseius californicus eggs and adults,
Cryptolaemus adults, Diglyphus adults, Encarsia
fluopicolide (Presidio) is a preventive adults, nematodes, Orius nymphs and
fungicide with some curative activity. It Phytoseiulus persimilis eggs and adults. It is not
prevents sporulation and infection, and inhibits persistent.
mycelial growth. It is effective on oomycetes,
including Phytophthora spp. and downy iprodione (Rovral) is a broad-spectrum,
mildews. Presidio is a systemic fungicide that systemic, contact carboximide with protectant
moves in the xylem and it has translaminar and eradicant properties. It is used to control
activity. It has a low mammalian acute toxicity Botrytis and damping-off caused by Rhizoctonia.
(LD50: oral >2,000; dermal >4,000). It has a low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50:
oral >4,400; dermal >2,000). It is mildly
folpet (Folpan) is closely related to captan. It is a irritating to the eyes. It is moderately toxic to
respiratory inhibitor, broad-spectrum foliar fish and practically non-toxic to bees.
fungicide with protective action. Do not allow
the spray solution to stand without agitation. It kasugamycin (Kasumin) is an
has a low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral aminoglycosidic antibiotic that provides
>10,000), and may irritate skin and eyes. May suppression of fire blight (caused by Erwinia
sensitize skin. It is toxic to fish, but non-toxic to amylovora) and other bacterial diseases. It has a
bees and worms. low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral
>5,000; dermal >2,000), but may cause
fosetyl-aluminum (Aliette Ornamental) is sensitization.
systemic through the plant leaves or roots, with
both upward and downward movement in the mancozeb (Dithane, Manzate) is a broad-
plant. It is most effective when applied as a spectrum, protective carbamate used to control
preventive treatment before disease onset. It leaf spots and blights. It is similar to maneb, but
stops plant infection by inhibiting spore with the addition of zinc. It has a low
germination and pathogen penetration into the mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral = 11,200;
plant. In infected plants, Aliette blocks mycelial dermal >15,000), it may irritate eyes, nose,
development and sporulation, and may also throat and skin. Moderately toxic to fish and
reinforce the defensive mechanisms of the plant bees, and non-toxic to birds.
to seal off the invading organism. It needs mandipropamid (Revus) is effective against
healthy green tissue to get inside the plant. It is foliar oomycete pathogens, such as downy
labeled to control Pythium and Phytophthora of mildew. It binds quickly to the plant’s cuticle
greenhouse ornamentals and bedding plants. and provides long-lasting disease control. It has
a low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral
>5,000; dermal >5,000).

metalaxyl (Subdue MAXX) is a systemic Pantoea agglomerans (BlightBan,
fungicide with protective and curative action. It Bloomtime Biological) is used to suppress
is absorbed through the leaves, stems and roots. fire blight of apples and pears. Avoid contact
It controls oomycetes, including Pythium and with skin and eyes or clothing; may cause
Phytophthora, on a variety of ornamental crops. sensitization. Store the product in a freezer until
It has a low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: ready to apply.
oral >2,000) and is not a skin irritant or
sensitizer. Not toxic to fish or bees. Repeated phosphite (Phostrol) provides control of
use may result in disease resistance. oomycetes. It moves in the xylem and phloem,
and has both a direct impact on the pathogen
metiram (Polyram) is a dithiocarbamate. It is a and stimulates the plant’s natural defense
respiratory inhibitor and is used as a protective, response to pathogen attack. It has a low
non-systemic, broad-spectrum foliar fungicide. mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral >5,000;
It must be stored cool and dry to avoid the dermal >5,000).
release of flammable vapours. It has a low
mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral >6,810; phosphorous acid (Confine Extra) provides
dermal >2,000), and is a mild skin and eye suppression of Phytophthora species and downy
irritant. It is toxic to fish, slightly toxic to birds, mildews. The label cautions that applications of
and practically non-toxic to bees. phosphorous acid may lead to the uptake of
damaging levels of certain metals, thus care
myclobutanil (Eagle, Nova) is a sterol- must be taken when tank mixing with
inhibiting product that is locally systemic and pesticides that contain a metal base (such as
has both eradicant and protectant properties. It copper based fungicides) or non-compatible
is labeled for the control of black spot, powdery micronutrients. It has a low mammalian acute
mildew and rust. It is important to not exceed toxicity (LD50: oral >5,000; dermal >5,000).
the maximum number of applications per
growing season or to use higher than label potassium bicarbonate (MilStop) is a
rates. Optimum disease control is achieved contact fungicide that controls/suppresses
when the fungicide is applied in a regularly powdery mildew. The addition of a surfactant
scheduled preventive spray program. It should or wetting agent is not required. Do not adjust
be rotated with a fungicide with a different the spray solution pH after mixing; acidification
mode of action. It should not be applied within of the solution will cause reduced performance.
15 metres of aquatic habitats. Note the It has a low mammalian toxicity (LD50: oral =
phytotoxicity disclaimer on the label. 2,700; dermal >5,000), but is a skin and eye
Myclobutanil labels in the US carry the warning irritant.
that over-dosage can result in observable foliar
greening and shortened internodes. Use extra
potassium monopersulfate (Virkon) is a
non-corrosive germicide for cleaning and
caution during cool, dark periods when plants
disinfection of greenhouses and agricultural
are not growing rapidly. It has a slight
buildings that is effective at eliminating viruses.
Virkon can be degrading to some metal surfaces
dermal >5,000). It is hazardous to fish. Cross-
if in contact for longer than the recommended
resistance may occur to propiconazole (Alamo,
30 seconds. It is irritating to eyes, skin and
Banner, Topas).
mucous membranes and may be harmful if
oxamyl (Vydate) is a carbamate, which is a swallowed or inhaled but has a low mammalian
cholinesterase inhibitor that controls insects, acute toxicity (LD50: oral = 2,000; dermal >
mites and nematodes. It provides contact and 11,000).
systemic activity. It has a high mammalian
toxicity (LD50: oral = 9.1; dermal >5,000) and is
also toxic to bees, birds and aquatic organisms.
May be irritating to eyes.

potassium peroxymonosulfate chlorine Streptomyces griseoviridis strain K61
(Virucidal Extra) is a broad spectrum (Mycostop) is a biofungicide for the control
virucide, fungicide and bactericide. Contains a or suppression of damping-off, root and stem
source of chlorine and can form dangerous gas rot and wilt caused by Fusarium of greenhouse
if mixed with incompatible materials. It is ornamentals. It is labeled for use as a seed
irritating to eyes, skin and mucous membranes treatment or as a drench. It is a preventive
and may be harmful if swallowed or inhaled. It treatment, and must be applied to the growing
has a low mammalian toxicity (LD50: oral = media immediately after transplanting or
2,000; dermal > 11,000). potting. It may delay germination or growth of
some cultivars, so do a small-scale trial when
propamocarb hydrochloride (Previcur) is a using it on a cultivar for the first time.
carbamate fungicide that provides control of Mycostop contains naturally occurring soil
root rot caused by species of Pythium and bacteria and cannot be treated the same as
Phytophthora. It is a protectant with limited conventional fungicides. Do not tank mix with
systemic activity. It reduces mycelium growth chemical pesticides. Unopened packages must
and spore development. It has a low be stored in a cool (below 8oC), dry place. Once
mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral >2,900; packages are opened the product must be used
dermal >3,000), but is corrosive to eyes. the same day. It will not work properly unless
propiconazole (Banner MAXX, Topas) is a basic disease strategies such as sanitation and
broad-spectrum, systemic, sterol inhibitor proper growing conditions are followed. Use
fungicide with protective and curative action. It well-drained media, do not subject crops to
is registered for the control of anthracnose, scab water stress, keep greenhouse humidity below
and powdery mildew on certain outdoor 85% and ensure that pH and nutrients are
nursery crops and for rust on saskatoon within the proper range for each crop.
(Amelanchier) orchards. It provides the best It suppresses disease by depriving pathogen
results in a preventive disease control program fungi of living space and nourishment by
in rotation with other fungicides. Cross- earlier colonization of plant roots, and by
resistance may occur to myclobutanil (Nova). secreting enzymes and metabolites that inhibit
Do not add surfactants or wetting agents as this pathogen growth. It has been shown to even
may result in phytotoxicity. It has low promote the growth and yield of healthy crops.
mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral = 1,517; It has a low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50:
dermal >4,000), and causes skin and eye oral >9,000), but may cause an allergic skin
irritation. Skin sensitization may occur in some reaction. It is toxic to fish. It is believed to be
individuals. Toxic to fish. compatible with most beneficials.
Reynoutria sachalinensis extract (Regalia streptomycin (Streptomycin 17) is a
Maxx) is a biofungicide that improves plant systemic antibiotic used to control fire blight in
health by triggering a plant’s natural defense commercial apple and pear orchards. It is
system. This plant extract has a complex mode produced by the fermentation of Streptomyces
of action that controls a broad range of fungal griseus. It has a low mammalian acute toxicity
and bacterial diseases. It has a low mammalian (LD50: oral >10,000; dermal = 400 for mice), but
acute toxicity (LD50: oral >5,000; dermal >5,000), can cause an allergic skin reaction.
but causes moderate eye irritation.
sulphur (Kumulus, Microfine sulphur,
Garden Sulphur; Sulphur 0.4-0.9 %
liquid) is a naturally occurring element used
to control certain diseases, especially powdery
mildew. It may injure plants during hot, dry
weather. The label recommends to not tank-mix
or use in combination with, immediately before
or immediately after an oil spray. Do not use
when temperatures are above 30oC. Relatively
non-toxic, but it may be irritating to the eyes
and skin.

thiabendazole (Arbotect) is a systemic trifloxystrobin (Compass) is a broad
fungicide that has protective and curative spectrum fungicide with primarily preventive
action. It is very acidic and can be irritating to activity. It is rain-fast because it tightly binds to
eyes, skin and the respiratory tract. It has a low waxy layers of plant surfaces. It penetrates the
mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral = 3,100). It plant to control powdery mildew and
has a low toxicity to fish and is not toxic to bees. rhizoctonia root rot on ornamental crops. It is
not systemic; it does not move within the
thiophanate-methyl (Senator) is a plant’s vascular system. It may cause injury to
benzimidazole compound similar to benomyl. It petunias, violets, and New Guinea impatiens. It
is systemic with protectant and eradicant has a low mammalian acute toxicity but is
properties and long residual activity. It is irritating to eyes and may cause skin
effective as a spray against powdery mildew sensitization (LD50: oral > 5,050; dermal >2,000).
and other diseases, or as a systemic soil It is toxic to fish and other aquatic organisms
treatment against Botrytis, powdery mildew and practically non-toxic to bees. Harmful to
and other diseases. It has a low mammalian beneficial predatory or parasitic arthropods.
acute toxicity (LD50: oral > 5,000; dermal >5,050)
and is highly toxic to fish and slightly toxic to triforine (Funginex) is a locally systemic
birds. piperazine with protective and curative action
used for the control of powdery mildew. It has
Trichoderma harzianum (RootShield) is a a low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral
mitosporic fungi used to control a range of soil >2,000; dermal >2,000). It has a low toxicity to
and foliar pathogens. It inhibits the growth of fish and is moderately toxic to bees.
pathenogenic fungi by invading and
parasitizing the fungal hyphae and it is ziram (Ziram) is a carbamate compound
effective in protecting roots from diseases containing zinc. It is a general protective,
caused by Pythium, Rhizoctonia and Fusarium. It contact foliar fungicide. It has a low
also improves growth of the plant root system mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral = 1,400;
as it allows greater soil exploration and dermal >6,000), and is highly irritating to the
enhanced nutrient uptake. The active ingredient eyes and is a skin sensitizer. It is moderately
is practically non-toxic, non-allergenic and non- toxic to fish and non-toxic to bees.
pathogenic to mammals. It is not a skin irritant
but may cause skin sensitization. Avoid contact
with eyes and clothing and avoid inhalation. It
is not toxic to bees.

General Insect and Mite Management 11
(updated July 2013)
This section contains a description of and management recommendations for common insects and mites that
damage a wide range of ornamentals. Plant pests that affect a few, specific crops are covered in Chapter 14,
Pests of Specific Crops.
Aphids and Adelgids

Aphids and adelgids both feed by piercing and The giant conifer and spruce aphids feed on
sucking mouthparts. Their feeding can stunt plant conifers. Giant conifer aphids attack all species of
growth, or induce the formation of galls and conifer seedlings grown in nurseries. Great
witches broom. They have complex life cycles that numbers of these large, dark-coloured, long-legged,
often involve alternate hosts. One way of aphids feed gregariously on twigs or branches and
differentiating them is to look for the pair of may cause foliage chlorosis. The small, dull-green
cornicles (=tail pipes) on the posterior end of the spruce aphid is usually found on older needles, and
insect. Aphids have tail pipes, although they may causes mottling followed by chlorosis and needle
be quite short at times and only visible as dark drop.
spots. Adelgids do not have tail pipes. A conifer root aphid, Pachypappa tremulae, has
infested stock at several nurseries in British
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied, bulb- Columbia. To date most infestations have occurred
shaped, sap-sucking insects that vary in colour on container spruce but related root aphid species
from pinkish white to green and black. They may also infest pine, larch and Douglas fir. These aphids
be winged or wingless and vary in length from 1.8- are often discovered during the lift by their
3 mm. They reproduce continuously during the secretions of white waxy filaments and are often
growing season and most species overwinter on mistaken for ectomycorrhizae. Infestations are
plants as eggs. Nearly all plants, including conifers usually on the surface of the plug between the roots
are attacked by aphids. Different stages of many and the container wall, closer to the top of the plug
species alternate between woody plants in the fall than the bottom.
and winter, and herbaceous plants in the spring
and summer.
The Green Peach Aphid (Myzus persicae)
overwinters as eggs on some deciduous trees and
as adults on the underside of rosette leaves of a
number of winter annuals, including common
mallow, flixweed, tumble mustard, stork’s-bill and
shepherd’s-purse (Potato Progress, 2002, Vol 2(3):1).
The adults will reproduce asexually (only females
are present) if the temperature is mild. Winged
aphids (sexual cycle) are generally produced if the
colonies are stressed (ie. temperature or crowding).
Aphids suck plant sap from the underside of leaves
and needles, and prefer to feed on new growth.
Symptoms of feeding include mottling and
distortion of foliage. Black sooty mold can grow in
the sugary honeydew excreted. Ornamentals
frequently attacked are Picea (spruce aphid);
Euonymus, Hedera, Prunus, Rosa (green peach
aphid); Prunus (black cherry aphid); and Rosa (rose
aphid, potato aphid).
Figure 11.1 Aphid life cycle (6-14 days).
Nursery Production Guide General Insect and Mite Management • 1

Most nurseries that have sustained infestations of Balsam Woolly Adelgid is a regulated pest within
conifer root aphid have not reported any damage. BC. A permit is required to grow Abies, and
Outplanting studies have shown that they have no growers in the quarantine zone (Coastal BC) cannot
measurable effect on seedling performance and as ship outside the area within BC. The restrictions are
such no control strategies are recommended. in place to protect native Abies species in the
Aphid Management: Aphid infestations are often interior of BC (for more information, see BC Plant
detected by the presence of wasps or ants. Both will Protection Regulations, Chapter 2).
feed on the honeydew as well as re-distribute
Cooley Spruce Gall Adelgid is present in both
aphids throughout the nursery crop. Aphid
coastal and interior nursery areas. Sitka, white and
populations can increase rapidly under favourable
Englemann spruce, and Douglas fir are the hosts. In
conditions and control may be necessary to protect
the nursery, damage is most severe on Douglas fir
plants.
where the adelgids feed on new needles. In older
A strong spray of water will dislodge aphids, spruce trees, the adelgids cause large cone-shaped
thereby damaging their mouthparts, and often galls. This damage is rarely visible in the nursery
control light infestations. Many natural enemies although older adjacent trees may be affected.
such as lady beetles, lacewings, syrphid larvae and Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA) was first
Hymenoptera wasp parasites help reduce aphid reported in BC in 1922. It is known to also inhabit
populations. However, populations of natural many areas of the US Pacific Northwest. In BC,
enemies often become abundant only when the HWA usually causes minor damage to the native
aphid population is high and may not reduce the hemlocks (e.g. Western and Mountain hemlocks).
aphid population below damaging numbers early In the Eastern US, however, large areas of native
in the growing season. hemlocks have been killed or severely damaged by
Monitor plants regularly, starting in early spring. If this pest, resulting in serious environmental
aphid levels become damaging before natural consequences.
enemies appear, apply a registered pesticide. If
possible, delay spraying until June when natural
enemies will have an effect. Good coverage of the
foliage is essential if spraying is considered
necessary.
Preventive dormant oil sprays applied just prior to
bud break will help control overwintering aphid
eggs.
Woolly Adelgids: Woolly adelgids attack both

evergreen and deciduous trees. Genera known to
be susceptible include Abies, Chaenomeles,
Cotoneaster, Crataegus, Fagus, Larix, Lonicera, Malus,
Picea, Pinus, Pseudotsuga, Pyrus, Sorbus and Tsuga.
Woolly adelgids appear as tiny, white, woolly spots
on trunks, limbs or leaves. They are difficult to
control because sprays will not penetrate their
wool-like wax covering. Systemic insecticides give
good control on deciduous trees. Control is also
provided by applications of dormant oil between
October and April, and of insecticidal soap. A
spreader-sticker should be added to sprays when
treating conifers. The species of primary concern Figure 11.2. Woolly ovisacs and black nymphs
are the Cooley Spruce Gall Adelgid, Balsam Woolly (circled) of hemlock woolly adelgid.
Adelgid, and the Hemlock Woolly Adeglid.
2 • General Insect and Mite Management Nursery Production Guide

HWA is a federally regulated pest and BC is the Woolly Adelgid Management: For Douglas fir
only regulated region in the country. The seedlings, nurseries are encouraged to remove
restrictions were imposed to reduce the spread of mature spruce trees in and around the nursery site
HWA into Eastern North America Nurseries in BC that serve as the alternate host for the gall forming
must be registered with the CFIA’s HWA Nursery stage of Cooley spruce gall adelgid.
Program to ship these crops to another province.
For more information on the regulation, see
comment 26 in Chapter 2, Federal Plant Quarantine
Regulations.
Bark Beetles and Wood Borers

A diverse group of insects are classed as wood Management of bark beetles and wood borers: To
borers. They affect most shade trees, conifers and reduce the risk of wood borers, burn all plant
some fruit trees. They are difficult to control debris and prunings, keep trees growing
chemically because they reside within a host tree vigorously and avoid transplant shock. Remove
for a large part of their life cycle. and burn damaged limbs and plants. Borers
For the Elm Bark Beetle, see British Columbia Plant generally attack only weakened trees. Healed-in,
Protection Regulations in Chapter 2 and Ulmus in balled and burlapped trees are under stress and can
Pests of Specific Crops in Chapter 15. be attacked.
Clearwing borers: There are a few species of Management of clearwing borers includes
concern in this group of stem boring caterpillars. mechanically digging out larvae from pitch pockets
Clearwing borers are all moths (Sesiidae) that look in bigger trees with wire or another implement,
similar to wasps. They have one generation per and pruning out and destroying infested stems if
year. Moths fly in spring or summer and lay eggs in possible. A mating disruption product is available
host plants. Larvae hatch and bore into stems and for Greater Peach Tree Borer and Apple Clearwing
branches, causing pitch flow and/or branch death. Moth. Utility in nursery will be limited due to the
Major species include: Sequoia Pitch Moth, normally small size of the planting. Pheromone
Douglas Fir Pitch Moth, Apple Clearwing Moth, lures are available for some species and can be
Greater Peach Tree Borer, and a new pest to BC, the useful in determining species present. Mass
Lilac Borer. Hosts include Fraxinus, Malus, Picea, trapping may have some impact. Trunk and stem
Pinus, Prunus, and Pseudotsuga. sprays may be useful on trees/saplings during
moth flight.
Caterpillars and Moths

Caterpillars are the immature stages of moths or butterflies. Some form tents; some do not. All are defoliators
of deciduous or coniferous trees and shrubs, and some feed in colonies.
Bruce Spanworm and Winter Moth: These From early spring to late May or early June, the
drab, grey or grey-brown moths are almost caterpillars feed on buds, foliage, flowers and fruit.
identical in appearance and habits. The Bruce Defoliation occurs when infestations are severe.
spanworm is native to North America. The winter Full-grown larvae are about 2 cm long. They are
moth is a European species that was introduced to bright green with three narrow whitish stripes on
Vancouver Island and now occurs throughout the each side of the body.
Fraser Valley. The moths occur from late October to the end of
These insects attack a wide variety of deciduous December. The male moths fly in the evening. The
ornamentals. Young larvae drift on silken threads, flightless females climb up the tree trunks to lay
so nursery trees can become infested from eggs.
neglected backyard trees in the area.

Genera known to be susceptible to Bruce Cutworms: Adult cutworm moths are thick-
Spanworm include Acer, Fagus, Quercus and bodied, dull-coloured, mostly nocturnal moths,
Populus. Genera known to be susceptible to Winter which are about 18-25 mm long and fold their
Moth are Acer, Betula, Malus, Populus, Quercus and wings tent-fashion when at rest. The larvae are
Vaccinium. large, soft, fat, worm-like, dull-coloured caterpillars
Management of Bruce spanworm and winter up to 4 cm long with hairless bodies and shiny
moth: The application of sticky bands to the trunk heads.
and larger limbs of a tree is an excellent physical Larvae of several cutworm species have been pests
barrier to winter moths. Apply two 15 cm wide in forest nurseries. All species of seedlings and
sticky bands at 30 and 60 cm above ground in late stock types can be attacked.
October. The bands will trap female moths as they
There are probably populations at all nurseries in
crawl up the tree to deposit eggs. The lower band
every growing season, but the severity of
should be replaced when it becomes dry, filled with
infestations varies greatly. Damage is usually
moths or debris, or when wingless female moths
confined to very young succulent seedlings.
begin to be trapped on the upper band. All bands
Foliage, roots or stems may also be affected.
can be removed and burned in February and
Feeding usually takes place at night.
March. To avoid possible damage, the material can
be put on plastic strips wrapped around the tree. Management of cutworms: Crop and non-crop
For trees with rough bark, cotton batting can be areas should be kept weed-free. The use of light
used beneath the plastic to fill in gaps in the bark traps in greenhouses can reduce adult populations,
and reduce the chance of a moth crawling however these catch many non-target and
underneath the sticky band. beneficial insects as well. Moths can be excluded
from greenhouses and shelterhouses by keeping
Cranberry Girdler / Sod Webworm: This the doors closed and placing screens over the fan
moth has been found at nurseries throughout the intakes and vents. For small outbreaks, remove and
province. Adult girdlers are small, delicate moths destroy cutworms from the growing media.
about 1.2 cm long with protruding snouts. The
forewings are a pale straw colour with touches of
brown, silver and black. The hindwings are silvery- European Pine Shoot Moth: The larvae can
grey. The larvae girdle seedlings in the root collar damage most species of pines by boring into the
area. Damage has a ragged appearance and occurs buds and shoots, and injuring or killing them. They
from August to November depending on the overwinter in the bud and emerge the following
nursery location and season. In bareroot, 2+0 true June.
firs and Douglas fir are the preferred host. In Adults fly from June to July. They have a wingspan
containers, spruce and Douglas fir have been of about 2 cm, orange forewings marked with
attacked and larger stock types are preferred. irregular silvery lines and grey hindwings. This
Seedlings may become chlorotic, but most damage pest is largely controlled by natural enemies.
is detected during the lift. This pest will also Management of European pine shoot moth: For
colonize turf and cranberry, as the common names conifer seedlings, pheromone traps can be used to
suggest. indicate if moths are present. Traps are available
Management of the cranberry girdler/sod from Pherotech or the nursery pest management
webworm: As this pest readily feeds on grass, specialist, Ministry of Forests. When moths are
remove or reduce grassy areas in and around the found, pesticide treatment is recommended.
nursery site that could harbour populations. Inspect pine stock at the end of September. An
Frequent mowing can help to reduce endemic excess of resin around the buds will indicate the
populations. Pheromone traps available from presence of larvae. Cull out and burn infested
Pherotech can be used to monitor moth seedlings.
populations during the summer. An average of
three moths per trap indicates that damage from
larvae in the fall will be significant. If moth flight is
high enough, an insecticide should be applied
during moth flight to reduce oviposition by the
adults.

Tent Caterpillars and Skeletonizers: Forest Spruce Budworm: The spruce budworm can be
and Western Tent caterpillars overwinter as a serious problem in nurseries located in areas
hardened egg masses, 1.2 to 2.5 cm wide, which where forest infestations occur. Between May and
encircle a twig. The eggs hatch in spring (May). The July, nursery stock can become infested by larvae
caterpillars feed in colonies and consume flowers, that have overwintered in mature trees in and
buds and foliage over the next six weeks. around the nursery site. Larvae are voracious
The Forest Tent caterpillars are bluish-grey and feeders, and can cause significant damage to small
have a prominent row of whitish, diamond-shaped seedlings.
dots along the back. They spin silken mats for They prefer true firs and Douglas fir. Spruces can
travelling. The adult moths are reddish to pale also be damaged if grown in an area where
fawn, with two narrow, pale, oblique, transverse infestations are heavy in surrounding trees. Adult
lines separating off a dark wide band of the moths lay their eggs on nursery stock during their
forewings. Genera known to be susceptible are flight in mid-July. The resulting larvae overwinter
Acer, Betula, Crataegus, Fraxinus, Populus, Prunus, in small, silken cocoons. They are difficult to find
Quercus, Rosa, Salix, Tilia and Ulmus. and control; and may accompany nursery stock to
The Western Tent caterpillar is hairy, yellowish- the reforestation sites.
brown, with a row of blue spots flanked by orange Management of spruce budworm: For conifer
spots along the back and can be up to 5 cm in seedling nurseries, nursery personnel should
length. The larvae stay in colonies and form tent- carefully monitor in the spring and control larvae
like webs for protection. The moths emerge in June that blow onto the seedlings. Pheromones and light
and July and are light to dark brown. Genera traps can be used to monitor adult populations.
known to be susceptible are Arbutus, Betula, Significant infestations of larvae warrant a pesticide
Ceanothus, Corylus, Crataegus, Ilex, Malus, Populus, application. For Dipel, treat when there are five or
Prunus, Quercus and Salix. more larvae per branch. Treatment should occur at
Apple and Thorn Skeletonizers overwinter as pupa, the beginning of moth emergence and be repeated
emerging in the spring to lay small green eggs at 2 week intervals as long as adults are present.
under leaves. The caterpillars are yellowish to
greenish with many black dots. Tussock Moth: Larvae of tussock moths can be
Feeding takes place inside a rolled-up leaf. There chronic pests in nurseries. The adult male is a rusty
can be up to four generations per year. Genera brown with a white dot and light brown band on
known to be susceptible are Betula, Malus, Prunus, each forewing. The adult females are flightless,
Pyrus and Sorbus. sedentary, with light tan hairs covering the body.
The females cement their white egg masses to the
Management of forest tent and western tent styrofoam containers in reforestation nurseries.
caterpillars, and apple and thorn skeletonizers:
When the blocks are re-used in the spring, the
During the dormant season peel or prune off the
larvae emerge to infest container stock. Larvae are
egg masses from the twigs. In the spring, if tents
brightly coloured with yellow and black tufts of
are not numerous, they should be pruned off with
hair, and will attack all species of conifer seedlings.
the young caterpillars and destroyed.
Management of tussock moth: For conifer
seedlings nurseries, larvae are often easily detected
by nursery staff and can be removed manually. In
some people, the hundreds of hairs on the
caterpillars can cause a rash. When infestations
become too large for manual control, insecticide
sprays can be used.

Fungus Gnats
Fungus gnats are primarily pests of container stock. Adult shore flies have shorter antennae, stouter
Adults are delicate, dark grey or black flies about 3 bodies, and are stronger fliers than fungus gnats,
mm long. They are often seen running or flying and their larvae lack the distinctive black head of
near the soil surface, especially in wet areas. The fungus gnat larvae.
slender white larvae have shiny black heads and Management of fungus gnats: The best form of
are sometimes found in the plugs. Most species control is sanitation. The flies are attracted to areas
feed on decaying organic matter and algae. They of moss and algae, which is where they lay their
are commonly found in compost. Some species may eggs. Good drainage is important, including
damage seedling roots although they are not removal of puddles of water from the greenhouse
normally attracted to healthy plants. floors. Good cultural practices that produce
Fungus gnats are often confused with shore flies. vigorous, healthy stock and proper irrigation to
Although similar in appearance to fungus gnats, avoid overwatering will make plants less attractive.
shore flies are not thought of as a plant pest. There are two types of biological control agents that
Therefore, it is important to be able to differentiate are currently used for fungus gnat control. They are
these two flies (refer to Figure 11.3). a soil-inhabiting mite, Hypoaspis miles, and
entomopathogenic nematodes.
Figure 11.3. Distinguishing characteristics of fungus gnats and shore flies.
Lace Bugs
Lace bugs are serious pests of both deciduous and
broad-leaved evergreen ornamentals. Most lace
bugs have very specific plant preferences. Genera
known to be susceptible to lace bugs include Acer,
azalea, Betula, Cotoneaster, Crataegus, Fagus
grandiflora, Leucothoe, Pieris, Pyracantha, Quince,
Rhododendron, Salix and Sorbus.
Lace bugs have sucking mouthparts and feed on
the underside of foliage. Feeding results in the
production of chlorotic flecks on the foliage, which
are most visible from above.
These symptoms are very similar to those produced
by leafhopper and mite feeding. A distinguishing
sign of lace bugs is dark, varnish-like spots of
excrement on the underside of damaged leaves. Figure 11.4. A lace bug on the underside of a
rhododendron leaf.

Lace bugs have 2-3 generations per year. Lace bugs
that feed on broadleaf ornamentals overwinter as
eggs, which are either inserted into or cemented
onto leaves. Lace bugs that feed on deciduous
ornamentals overwinter on the plant or in the leaf
litter as adults. In the spring, the overwintering
adults lay their eggs on the foliage of a host plant.
Figure 11.5. Leaf stippling (top) and dark

excrement on the underside of a pieris leaf (bottom)
caused by the andromeda lace bug.
Leafhoppers
There are hundreds of different leafhoppers that The skin at times remains attached to the leaf
feed on woody ornamentals. All leafhoppers have because the mouthparts are partially embedded in
sucking mouthparts and feed on shoots and the the leaf.
underside of leaves. A characteristic symptom of There is considerable diversity in the lifecycle of
feeding is the presence of white flecks or stipple different species of leafhoppers. They can have one
spots on the foliage. Under low magnification the to several generations per year, and overwinter as
stipples can appear to have a snowflake either eggs or adults. The eggs are inserted into
appearance. Individual stipples coalesce together. leaves, shoots or bark. Adults overwinter in leaf
Other symptoms include overall stunting, reduced litter or in bark crevices. Nymphs almost always
vigour, tissue swelling, leaf curling and distortion, remain on the plant where the eggs were laid. In
premature leaf fall, the development of multiple contrast, adult leafhoppers are very capable fliers.
leaders and increased winterkill of damaged Leafhoppers can be spread considerable distances
shoots. In addition, leafhopper saliva is toxic to in air currents.
some plants and can produce a condition called
Leafhoppers can transmit diseases, such as Elm
“hopperburn”, which is characterized by browning
Yellows Disease and Pierce’s Disease of grapes.
of leaf margins.
Genera of plants that are known to be susceptible
A distinguishing sign of leafhopper damage is the
to leafhoppers include Acer, Alnus, azalea, Betula,
presence of cast “skins” on the underside of leaves.
Cornus, Crataegus, Gleditsia, Malus, Populus, Prunus,
When the nymphs molt, they shed their skin.
Quercus, Rhododendron, Rosa and Ulmus.
Leafminers and Needle Miners

The larvae of some wasps, flies, moths and beetles Pests that mine the foliage of conifers are referred
live and feed within plant foliage. They feed on the to as needle miners, and those that mine broadleaf
soft internal tissue of foliage, but not on the upper ornamentals are called leafminers. All of the
or lower epidermal layers. The symptoms of their economically important needle miners are
feeding are white blotches or lineal mines in the Lepidopterans. Most miners have quite specific
foliage. The larvae and/or their excrement can host preferences. Genera known to be susceptible
often be seen inside the mined areas. Mined foliage include Abies, Alnus, Arbutus, Betula, Crataegus,
often turns yellow or brown, and may droop and Cupressus, Ilex, Juniperus, Picea, Pinus, Platanus,
drop prematurely. privet, Pseudotsuga menziesii, Thuja, Tsuga and
Ulmus.

Miners that can be pests of ornamentals in British Most needle and leafminers overwinter as larvae.
Columbia include the aspen blotchminer, the In general, larvae overwinter in the foliage of
spruce needle miner, and the aspen, birch, evergreens, and in the leaf litter of deciduous
boxwood, cypress (tip moth), holly, lilac and the plants. The larvae pupate in the early spring and
Madrone serpentine leafminers. More information the adult insect begins to lay eggs on the underside
on these pests is provided in Chapter 15, Pests of of newly developing foliage of a preferred host.
Specific Crops. The larva mine into the foliage upon hatching.
Most have only one generation per year, although
some can have up to 4 generations.
Leatherjackets
Leatherjackets, the larvae of crane flies, have been When infesting container plugs, the leatherjackets
seen as pests only in coastal nurseries. Adults fly often remain with the seedling during the harvest.
from summer through fall resemble large greyish- Although they do limited damage to the seedlings
brown mosquitoes with bodies about 2.5 cm long, while growing in the nursery or during cold
two wings and long spindly legs. Adults lay eggs in storage, they may girdle the seedling when
late summer and fall that hatch quickly. The outplanted in the spring.
overwintering larvae girdle seedlings from March Management of leatherjackets: The best approach
to May. The greyish coloured, legless larvae have is to monitor for adults. A large number of adults
tough leather-like skin, no distinctive head, and can flying around indicate a potential leatherjacket
reach 4 cm in length. Any stock present in the problem in current stock. The best control is
nursery in the spring can be attacked, although achieved by drenching to kill the young larvae
most damage has occurred on early sown 1+0, 2+0 during the second week in October after all eggs
transplants and bareroot stock. have hatched. Remove or reduce grassy areas in
They will feed on almost any species of nursery and around the nursery site that could harbour
stock. The damage consists of girdling just below populations.
the soil surface. Damaged stock appears off-
coloured and dried out.
Lygus Bug
Lygus bug adults, usually 7 mm long and half as
wide, are broad, flattened, and oval-shaped with a
small projecting head. They range in colour from
yellowish-green to reddish-brown and are covered
with small, irregular, yellow, reddish-brown and
black splotches. Lygus populations overwinter as
adults, becoming active with warm spring weather.
They can start feeding on seedlings when the true
or secondary needles develop after seedling
emergence. Feeding by the adults and nymphs
initially causes distortion of seedling terminal
shoots, which later become multiple-leaders.
Damage has been found on 1-year-old seedlings of
all species, but pine, larch and spruce are preferred,
Figure 11.6. Nymph and adult tarnished plant bug.
while older stock is only attacked during the period
of leader elongation. Lygus bugs are also referred
to as tarnished plant bugs.

Management of Lygus bugs: Nurseries can to predict the arrival of lygus bugs within the crop.
incorporate a preliminary monitoring plan using Fringe monitoring should start when mean daily
yellow sticky cards to better time insecticide temperatures stay above 50C and continue until
applications. Monitor the surrounding vegetation peak of flight of the first generation.
Mites
Mites are spider-like arthropods that are almost
invisible without magnification. They vary in
colour from pale yellow or green, to red and
reddish-brown. Many species of mites can be
present in nursery stock. These mites may be
harmful, harmless, or beneficial. Mites feed on
evergreens and deciduous plants. Speckling,
bleaching, or bronzing of the foliage typifies
damage. Some species such as McDaniel and two-
spotted spider mites produce webbing on needles
or leaves. Mite populations increase rapidly during
hot, dry weather. Heavily infested foliage may
drop prematurely.
Blister and rust mites are yellowish-white in colour,

extremely small (0.3 mm long), and slow moving.
Blister mites, as the name suggests, cause
discoloured blisters on leaves, and russeting and
deformity of fruit. Rust mites cause bronzing,
Figure 11.7. Eriophyid, European red and
browning or silvering of the leaf surface. These
McDaniel mites.
types of mites (eriophyids) can also infest conifers,
causing needles to turn yellow and become stunted
or twisted. Galls can form at the terminals of
Juniperus and Cedrus. Infested needles may drop
prematurely.
The spruce spider mite has been the most

damaging species to date of conifer seedlings. The
mites feed on needles causing them to become dry,
mottled and bleached. Severely affected foliage
turns yellow to dull, rusty-brown and the needles
drop off. Fine silk webbing will be found among
the needles of infested twigs. Spruce mites survive
as red eggs during the hottest periods of
midsummer and the winter.
Figure 11.8. Two-spotted spider mite life cycle.

Table 11.1. Plant genera that are susceptible to different mites.
Mites Susceptible Genera
Eriophyid (Bladder Gall, Acer, Carya, Cedrus, Chamaecyparis, Cotoneaster, Fagus, Juglans, Juniperus, Malus, Picea, Pinus,
Blister, Rust mites) Populus, Pseudolarix, Pseudotsuga, Pyrus, Quercus, Rhus, Sorbus, Taxus, Tilia, Tsuga, Ulmus
European Red Chamaecyparis, Crataegus, Juglans, Malus, Prunus, Robinia, Rosa, Sorbus and Ulmus
Spruce Spider Abies, Juniperus, Larix, Picea, Pinus, Pseudotsuga, Thuja and Tsuga
Two-spotted Chamaecyparis, Crataegus, Hedera, Hydrangea, Juniperus, Pieris, Rhododendron, Rosa, Thuja, Tsuga
Management mites: Monitor twigs and needles in

early spring for reddish-orange overwintering
spider mite eggs to determine if sprays are needed.
Native predatory mites usually keep pest mites
under control. Before spraying, examine plants for
beneficial mites. If beneficial mites are present,
delay or avoid spraying. Dormant sprays destroy
overwintering eggs, nymphs and adult mites.
Predaceous mites are available from several
suppliers. Two-spotted mites thrive under hot, dry
conditions, so regular foliage wetting will help
suppress this pest.
Root Weevils
Several different root weevils are found in the Adult weevils vary in colour from grey to black and
Pacific Northwest, including the clay-colored, black range in length from 9-13 mm. Their mouthparts
vine, obscure, strawberry, rough strawberry, and extend from the head to a long, thin point. They
the woods weevil. Adult weevils feed on leaf cannot fly and only a couple of species have male
margins and cause a characteristic notching pattern. weevils. A female weevil can lay between 200-400
Adults are elusive, feeding at night and hiding eggs per year, and some species can even lay eggs
during the day. As a result, populations often go at refrigeration temperatures. The eggs are layed in
undetected until damage occurs. the soil near plants. There is one generation per
Larvae can be even more damaging than adult year. The larvae are soil-dwelling, white, C-shaped,
weevils, since they are present in the soil for 9-10 legless grubs with brown head capsules. Both
months of the year, where they feed on plant roots. adults and larvae overwinter. Between 10-15% of
The larvae can completely girdle the stems of some weevil species (i.e., black vine weevil) will
rhododendrons and camellias at the soil line. Black overwinter. Overwintering adults become active in
vine weevil larvae can girdle the lower stem to 2 the spring. They have mature ovaries and can
cm above the soil line. Weevil larvae girdle immediately begin to lay eggs. The reproductive
container-grown stock often just below the point at capacity of overwintering weevils is often double
which foliage begins. They feed throughout the fall that of first year weevils. Adult emergence time
and during warm periods in winter. The woods varies between different weevil species. For
weevil will feed all winter. instance, adult clay coloured weevils appear in late
March and feed on new buds and girdle stems.
Adult black vine weevils begin to emerge in late
May or early June, after pupating for
approximately 4 weeks in earthen cells. Newly
emerged adults must feed for about 4 weeks before
they can lay eggs. It is best to control adult weevils
before they begin to lay eggs.

Genera known to be susceptible include Camellia, It is recommended to spray three weeks after the
Juniperus, Kalmia, Picea, Rhododendron, Pinus, Rubus, first adults emerge, which should be at peak adult
Rosa, Thuja, Taxus, Vaccinium, Tsuga, Yucca and emergence. You can test whether an adult is
Viburnum. reproductively mature by squeezing them between
your thumb and forefinger, with their head
pointing down. If they are mature, you will be able
to squeeze eggs out of their ovipositor.
One cultural method to lessen damage caused by
root weevils is to remove all thatch/grass from
around the root collar of the plant.
For bareroot conifer seedlings, ensure that fallow
panels are kept clear of weeds and cull material. Set
out traps and monitor frequently for adults in the
summer. Traps consist of 30 cm lengths of 2" X 4"
lumber placed flat on the soil, which weevils hide
under during daylight hours. Trapping as a tool is
highly variable, and should only be used as an
indicator of weevil presence. Trapping should not
be relied on for the time of first emergence or any
indication of quantity of weevils in an area. Adult
emergence usually occurs in the first half of June.
Spray infested areas two weeks after emergence.
Apply a second spray three weeks after the first.
Figure 11.9. Root weevil life cycle. Continue trapping and repeat treatment as
Management of root weevils: Control is most often necessary. Roadways and waste areas adjoining
directed at the adults. Spraying at dusk or after infested production areas should also be treated.
dark will increase the efficiency of the application, For container-grown conifer seedlings, ensure that
because adults leave the soil at night to feed on the areas adjoining greenhouses and compounds are
foliage. Because they are wingless, a band of sticky kept clear of weeds and cull material. Spray
material can trap them as they climb plants. infested greenhouses to control adult weevils as per
However, they can walk over traps that are not bareroot. To kill larvae in plugs, apply a drench of
adequately sticky. Spray plants either in early entomopathogenic nematodes around the
morning or late evening when fresh notching of beginning of September while larvae are young.
leaves or girdling of twigs is noticed (late June to
early July). Since newly emerged adults are not
reproductively mature for about 4 weeks, it is best
to delay spraying to allow more adults to emerge.
Sawflies
Pear and rose “slugs” are not slugs; they are the Genera that are known to be susceptible to either
larval stage of a group of sawflies. The larvae the pear or rose slugs include Cotoneaster, Crataegus,
appear slimy and non-segmented, and therefore Malus, Prunus, Pyrus, Rosa and Sorbus.
resemble slugs. The pear slug has two generations
per year, whereas the rose slug has only one. Both Conifer sawflies can cause serious defoliation of
overwinter in the soil as mature larva and pupate pines and a few other conifers. There are 6 different
in the early spring. The adults lay their eggs on the conifer sawflies (Neodiprion species) in BC. Four of
underside of host leaves. The larva skeletonize the the sawflies feed exclusively on pines, including
upper side of the leaf, at times leaving only the Pinus banksiana, P. contorta, P. mugo,
lower epidermal layer intact. Damaged areas turn
brown and the leaves may drop prematurely. A
fully-grown larva is about 13 mm long.

P. nigra, P. ponderosa, and P. sylvestris. The other
two sawflies include the Balsam fir sawfly, which
feeds on Abies amabilis, A. lasiocarpa, Picea
engelmannii, P. glauca, P. sitchensis, and Pseudotsuga
menziesii, and the Hemlock sawfly, which feeds
primarily on Tsuga heterophylla but will also feed on
T. mertensiana and A. amabilis.
All of the conifer sawflies overwinter as eggs that
are inserted into niches cut into current season
needles. The larvae reach a maximum length of 18
to 25 mm, depending on species. They are present
for about 2 months beginning in either May or
June. Larvae feed gregariously on 1- to 2-year-old
needles, and migrate from a branch only after
devouring all of the needles, with the exception of Figure 11.10. Pine sawfly larvae are gregarious
the current season’s growth. Damaged branches pests that can cause significant damage in the
have a bottle-brush appearance. spring to the previous year’s needles.
Depending on the species, the larvae will spin a
cocoon in the foliage or in the duff, and the adults
will emerge in August or September.
Scales
Scales are sap-sucking insects that attack many
shrubs and trees, including evergreens and fruit
trees. They produce a protective, waxy shell. Oyster
shell and San Jose scales are armoured scales. They
have a hard shell and do not produce honeydew.
The soft body of armoured scales can be separated
from the scale. Lecanium and soft brown scales are
soft scales and they do produce large quantities of
honeydew. The body of the soft scale insect is
firmly attached to the scale. Because even dead
scales can affect the appearance of a plant, it is
often best to discard heavily infested plants.
Figure 11.12. Soft scale life cycle.
The Euonymus scale is orange at the crawler stage.

Adults are either white (male) or brown (female)
and about 2 mm long. They are found on the
protected parts of the plant, close to the ground.
There are 2-3 generations per year.
Genera known to be susceptible include Buxus,

Figure 11.11. Ovisacs (eggmasses) of a soft scale,
Camellia, Daphne, Euonymus, Hedera, Hibiscus, Ilex,
the cottony camellia scale, on the underside of a
Ligustrum, Lonicera, Pachysandra, Paxistima and
viburnum leaf.
Prunus.

The Lecanium scale is a family of a dozen species Figure 11.13. Oyster shell scales.
of scales. They vary in colour from reddish black to
black and range in length from 3-12 mm. The Young San Jose scales are black and overwinter.
females lay eggs in late June that hatch within a few The female scale matures in May and early June,
weeks. Crawlers migrate to the underside of the changing in colour to grey. Crawlers emerge from
foliage to feed for the summer. They crawl back to the females in June and move to feeding sites on
the twig and small branches in late summer to branches and fruit. A second generation is
overwinter. The overwintering nymphs are produced during August to early October.
exposed, relative to armoured scales, and are
Management of scales: Timing of application of
susceptible to dormant season treatments.
chemical controls is critical for success. During
Genera known to be susceptible include Acer, most of their life cycle, scales are protected from
Betula, Carya, Celtis, Cercis, Crataegus, Fagus, pesticides by their shell. The only time they are not
Gleditsia, Juglans, Malus, Morus, Platanus, Populus, protected is at the crawler stage, which is when the
Prunus, Pyrus, Quercus, Salix and Tilia. first instar nymphs emerge from eggs. Monitor
The Oyster shell scale resembles a seashell in crawlers with double-sided sticky tape traps that
shape and is about 3 mm in length. In large are wrapped around branches near female scales.
numbers, they can reduce vigour to the point of Record the number of orange-coloured crawlers
killing the tree. About 40-150 eggs overwinter caught and replace the traps weekly. Treat the
underneath each female scale. The eggs hatch in plants when either a sharp increase in crawlers is
mid-May and the crawlers move out to the twigs to observed or when the peak density of crawlers is
feed. A scale forms to cover them in about six caught. More than one application may be needed
weeks. to cover the entire crawler emergence period. The
Genera known to be susceptible include Acer, timing of the crawler stage varies between different
Cornus, Fraxinus, Malus, Populus, Rosa, Salix and scale species and occurs either in early spring or in
Syringa. June/July.
Sowbugs
Sowbugs, also called woodlice or pillbugs, have Two methods of prevention are soil pasteurization,
dark, segmented, flattened, oval-shaped bodies and the removal of old boards and other rotted
with 7 pairs of legs. They feed mostly at night, organic material from the area. The application of
hiding in dark, damp places during the day. pesticides is rarely necessary.
Sowbugs feed mostly on decaying plant material.
They will, however, occasionally feed on roots and
stems or eat holes in leaves. They may cause severe
damage to seedlings.

Spittlebugs
There are several different species of spittlebugs. honeydew that can promote the development of
Most overwinter as eggs, which are laid on or in sooty mold. The adults are 6-12 mm long and are
the bark of vegetation. When the eggs hatch in the very similar to leafhoppers, to which they are
spring, the nymphs insert their sucking mouthparts closely related.
into their coniferous or broad-leaved host and Feeding by spittlebugs can spread viruses, and can
immediately begin to produce a protective coating result in reduced stem elongation and leaf
of froth or spittle. deformation. However, most spittlebugs cause no
Spittlebugs have 1 or 2 generations per year damage to their host. Since their spittle is unsightly
depending on the species. When there are two per on ornamental crops, control of spittlebugs may be
year, nymphs can be seen into the fall. The adults necessary or desired.
are highly mobile, and can walk, hop or fly. Adults Management of spittlebugs: Wash infested plants
do not produce spittle, but they do produce with a strong spray of water to remove the spittle
and to expose the nymphs.
Thrips
Thrips are long (0.5-1.0 mm), slender insects that
feed on tender growth of some shrubs and trees.
Their damage can be distinguished from mite
damage by using a magnifying lens. They are
rasping rather than sap sucking insects and injure
both leaf and flower buds, causing distorted
growth when the buds expand and early flower
senescence. Thrips also can transmit several plant
viruses.
Thrips live for 30-45 days. Female thrips are self-
fertile and lay between 150-300 eggs. The eggs are
inserted into plant tissue, which can result in the
formation of oedema-like swellings. The nymphs of
Western flower thrips drop to the soil to pupate,
whereas Greenhouse thrips pupate on the plant.
Thrips are weak flyers, but can be dispersed great
distances by air currents. They have been trapped
Figure 11.14. Thrips life cycle.
at 3,000-5,400 metres above the earth in the jet
stream. Such air currents can draw thrips into the Use high pressure and high volume sprays when
Pacific Northwest from California. damage is noticed on young growth. Thrips hide
Management of thrips: Thrips are more easily deep in the crevices of expanding leaves and
controlled in the early stages of infestation. Yellow flowers. The frequency of pesticide treatments
or blue sticky traps are effective for early detection depends on temperature. During periods of high
of thrips. The cards should be placed in the crop temperature, sprays will have to be applied 4-5
when the temperature is <18oC. Additional cards days apart to control newly emerged adults. Thrips
should be placed above the crop when the will be controlled by a regular aphid control
temperature is >18oC, since the thrips are more program.
active and will be flying above the crop. In the greenhouse, liming the soil below benches
can control soil-borne pupae. Treat the soil with a
solution of hydrated lime (180 g/L of water).
Talk to your suppliers for information on biological
control agents available for thrips control.

Whiteflies
The two main whitefly species are the greenhouse
whitefly (Trialeurodes vaporariorum) and the sweet
potato whitefly (SPW) (Bemesia tabaci), which is also
called Tobacco whitefly, or Silverleaf whitefly.
Greenhouse whiteflies have wings that lay
relatively flat across their backs, while the SPW’s
wings lie upraised at a tent-like angle. The SPW’s
body is smaller and is more yellow in colour.
Infested plants may lack vigour, wilt, and turn
yellow. Whiteflies excrete large amounts of
honeydew onto the leaves and flowers of infested
plants. The honeydew may become colonized with
a black sooty fungus giving the plant a dirty
appearance and hindering photosynthesis. The
SPW will not overwinter outdoors in BC.
Greenhouse whitefly will overwinter in protected Figure 11.15. Greenhouse Whitefly Life Cycle (18 –
areas under leaves outdoors in BC. Some hardy 57 days).
whiteflies such as the rhododendron whitefly are Monitor with yellow sticky traps dispersed evenly
occasional problems on cut woody greens. among plants, about 1 trap/100 m2. Traps may be
Adult whiteflies are about 1 mm long and resemble used to control very low adult populations. They
tiny white moths. Adults congregate on the can be used alone or in combination with parasites.
undersides of leaves. Whiteflies are very prolific Adults will be caught on sticky traps long before
and have many overlapping life cycles. Females lay they are detected in the crop. This early detection is
a number of small, whitish, oval eggs on the essential for early control. Thorough spray
underside of leaves. Eggs are too small to see with coverage of the undersides of leaves is essential for
the unaided eye. A female can lay up to 400 eggs. control.
After 5 to 10 days the eggs hatch into flat, scale-like Whiteflies can be managed effectively with
nymphs or crawlers that move about the leaf before biological controls. Biocontrol for the greenhouse
becoming immobile. After 3 nymphal stages and 1 whitefly includes the use of the parasitic wasps
pupal stage, the adults emerge. The pupae of Encarsia formosa and Eretmocerus eremicus. For SPW,
whiteflies are scale-like and white in colour. They the biocontrol program includes these wasps in
are often mistaken for the eggs. A complete life addition to Eretmocerus mundus, particularly for
cycle requires about 3 - 4 weeks. early season introductions. A predatory mite,
Amblyseius swirskii, feeds on whitefly eggs and
Management of whiteflies: Remove weeds from
larvae. It also feeds on thrips and pollen so can be
inside greenhouses and from a three metre wide
applied before whiteflies are seen as well as once
band around the outside perimeter of greenhouses,
whiteflies are present.
as these can harbour whiteflies.
Carefully inspect all incoming plants for nymphs,
scales, honeydew, sooty mould, or adults on leaves.
White Grubs
White grubs are the larval stage of scarab beetles, The life cycle of most white grubs is completed in
such as European chafer, and June and Japanese 12 months. The adult beetle will lay its eggs in the
beetles. The grubs are white and often have three soil in the summer. As soon as the grubs hatch,
pairs of legs near their heads, and will lie on their they begin to feed on plant roots. The grubs move
sides in a C-shaped position when exposed. White deep in the soil during winter to overwinter. When
grubs feed on plant roots and can cause the soil warms in the spring, they move up to
considerable damage to landscape and nursery resume feeding. The grubs pupate in late spring
plants. and the adults emerge in early summer.

There is particular concern about the movement of There are phytosanitary requirements in Canada
Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) in North America and the US to prevent the spread of Japanese
because it is known to feed on more than 300 plant beetle. The movement of rooted plants with soil or
species, causing significant plant and growing media is prohibited from infested to non-
environmental damage. The white grub feeds on infested areas. For more information about
roots while the adult feeds on plant foliage. movement requirements and the Japanese Beetle
Japanese beetle is native to Japan and was first Nursery Management Program, contact the
detected in the US in 1916 and in Canada in 1939. It Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
is present in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario,
Prince Edward Island, Quebec, and 36 US states.

Pesticides Registered to Control Insects and Mites on
Nursery Crops
The application rates presented in the table below are for foliar sprays unless stated otherwise.
Each pesticide formulation has a unique label, listing crops and pests that are controlled by the product. It is
not the purpose of this guide to list all formulations. The applicator must select the formulation (or
combination of cultural and chemical controls) that is most appropriate for the pest and crop to ensure
successful management.
The range of crops grown in the nursery industry makes it impossible to test crop tolerance on all species and
varieties. For this reason, some labels permit product use only on the crops listed on the label. There are more
permissive labels that permit product use on a very broad category of ornamentals. These labels do not
always provide a listing of tolerant crops. In the tables below, if a list of Tolerant Crops is presented for a
pesticide, this means the product can be used on other ornamentals as long as the user performs a small trial
to test phytotoxicity before treating an entire crop. Be aware that newer pesticide labels often state that the
buyer and user assume all liability associated with poor efficacy and/or phytotoxicity.
The table lists the pesticides registered to control a given pest. They are listed in alphabetical order by active
ingredient. When pesticide application is required, the grower should select a product based on efficacy, and
safety for the applicator and the environment.  is used to indicate products that are classed danger poison.
Please note that all efforts were made to ensure the pesticide tables are correct; however always refer to the
product label for full use instructions. Note that not all formulations listed will necessarily be available.
The pests covered include:
 Adelgids, Woolly  Leafhoppers
 Aphids  Leafminers and Needleminers
 Bark Beetles and Wood Borers  Lygus Bugs
 Caterpillars and Moths  Mealybugs
o Bruce Spanworm and Winter Moth  Mites
o Cutworms  Root Weevils
o European Pine Shoot Moth  Sawflies
o Tent Caterpillars and Skeletonizers  Scales
o Spruce Budworm  Spittlebugs
o Tussock Moth  Thrips
 Fungus Gnats  Whiteflies
 Lacebugs  White Grubs
Adelgids, Woolly
acephate
ACECAP 97 Rate: # of implants to use = trunk diameter (DBH) x 3.14/10.16. Applications should be
timed to coincide with maximum sap flow in the tree. Do not implant trees that have a trunk
diameter <7.5 cm, or that will produce fruit, nuts or syrup for human consumption.
Crops: Picea, Pinus, Quercus, Ulmus
Aphids
acephate
Orthene 75% SP Rate: Mist blower = 1,312 g/1,000 L; Hydraulic sprayer = 637 g/1,000 L
Crops: greenhouse and outdoor ornamentals including Abies, Acer, arborvitae, aspen, Aster,
azalea, Berberis, Betula, Buxus, Calendula, Cotoneaster, Crataegus, Deutzia, dusty miller,
Euonymus, flowering almond, flowering plum, flowering quince, Fraxinus, Gazania, Hibiscus,
Hydrangea, ivy, Ligustrum, Mahonia, Nandina, Philadelphus, Photinia, Pittosporum, Platanus,
Populus, Primula, Pyracantha, Quercus, Rosa, Rose of Sharon, Salix, Salvia, snapdragon, Spirea,
Syringa, Tilia, Tulipa, Viburnum, Wisteria

Aphids (Cont’d)
acephate
ACECAP 97 Rate: Same as rate for Woolly Adelgids (above)
Crops: Betula, Picea, Pinus, Quercus, Ulmus
acetamiprid
TriStar 70 WSP Rate: 3 packets/1,000 L
Crops: Christmas trees, and ornamental and flowering plants grown outdoors and in
greenhouses, shadehouses, and lathhouses
Beauveria bassiana strain GHA
Botanigard ES Rate: 0.5-1 L/400 L; apply at 5-10 day intervals
Botanigard 22 WP Rate: 250-500 g/400 L
carbaryl
Sevin T&O Rate: 230-350/100 L to control rose, elm leaf, Cooley spruce gall, and Eastern spruce gall
aphids
Tolerant Crops: trees, ornamentals, woody plants and shrubs, including Acer, arborvitae,
azalea, Betula, Buxus, Chrysanthemum, Cornus, Dianthus, Gladiolus, Hydrangea, Ilex, Juniperus,
Pinus, Quercus, Rosa, Syringa, Ulmus, Zinnia; do not use on Adiantum, Boston ivy and Virginia
creeper
chlorpyrifos
Dursban WSP Rate: 1 packet per 333 L
Pro Dursban Turf Rate: 37.5 mL/100 L
Crops: Acer, Betula, cherry (flowering), Fagus, Liriodendron, Picea, Pinus, plum (flowering),
Quercus, Salix, Spirea, Tilia, Ulmus, Viburnum grown in greenhouses and nurseries
dimethoate
Cygon 480-ORN, Rate: 501, 1002, or 2003 mL/100 L
Lagon 480 E Crops: arborvitae3, Betula1, Camellia2, Dianthus2, Euonymus3, Hemerocallis3, Gladiolus2, Iris3,
Juniperus3, Pinus mugo3, P. resinosa3, P. sylvestris3, Rosa2
Soil Drench:
Camellia: 60 mL in 10 L of water per plant up to 2 metres tall. Increase the rate
proportionately for larger plants.
Betula: 11 mL of undiluted product/cm of stem basal diameter (cumulative total of all stems)
evenly into small shallow holes made with a sharp instrument at the drip-line of the tree or
clump. Close the holes with soil and water immediately to saturate the root system.
Lagon 480 E Rate: 150 mL/100 L
Crops: Christmas trees (Abies balsamea, Picea, Pinus (mugho, red, Scots), Tsuga)
Paint-on Treatment for Rosa: Mix 1 part Lagon 480 E with 1 part water. Paint a 2.5 cm band
of the mixture around the base of the stem. Paint old wood as new growth may be injured.
endosulfan
Thionex 50 W Rate: 100 g/100 L
Thionex EC Rate: 125-175 mL/100 L
Crops: greenhouse and outdoor ornamentals; do not use on Betula, mum cuttings within one
month of planting, or Bonnafon mums and geraniums in the greenhouse
flonicamid
Beleaf 50SG Rate: 0.12-0.16 kg/ha; allow a minimum of 7 days between applications
Crops: apple, cherry, crabapple, nectarine, peach, pear, plum

Aphids (Cont’d)
imidacloprid
Intercept 60 WP, Drench: The rate is based on plant type, number of plants per pot and pot size. Refer to the
Merit 60 WP label for information on rates and application methods. Onset of protection can take 2 or
more weeks; therefore application should be made well in advance of insect activity.
Crops: greenhouse-grown ornamentals
kinoprene
Enstar EW Preventive Program: 80-128 mL/100 L. Apply to run-off every 2 weeks.
Heavy Infestation: 240 mL/100 L. Make two applications 7 days apart. After two weeks,
begin the preventive program.
Tolerant Crops: greenhouse-grown ornamentals
malathion
Malathion 85E Rate: 88 mL/100 L
Crops: outdoor ornamentals; may injure Adiantum, Ilex, Juniperus sabina, petunia, Pteris and
young plants
Rate: 7.5 mL with sufficient water to cover 100 m2
Crops: greenhouse-grown Chrysanthemum, Dianthus, Geranium, Rosa, snapdragon
Malathion 25W Rate: 250-500 g/100 L (30 g/100 m2 in greenhouse)
Crops: ornamental trees and shrubs, flowers (outdoor and greenhouse-grown)
permethrin
Pounce 384 EC Rate: 9 mL/100 L
Ambush 500 EC Rate: 7 mL/100 L
Crops: deciduous trees and shrubs
pymetrozine
Endeavor 50WG Rate: 10-20 g/100 L; add a non-ionic or organosilicone-based surfactant to the spray mixture
for hard-to-wet plants (e.g. Chrysanthemum, Rosa).
Crops: greenhouse and outdoor ornamentals
Rate: 193 g in 275 L of water per ha to control Balsam twig aphid. The use of a non-ionic
surfactant is recommended to improve performance under drought stress conditions.
Crops: Christmas trees
pyrethrin
Doktor Doom EC Rate: 60-480 mL/0.4 ha
(for Ornamentals) Crops: ornamentals
Pyganic Crop Rate: 2.32-4.65 L/ha
Protection EC Crops: Rosa
salts of fatty acids
PRO Insecticidal Soap Rate: 5 L/100 L
(25%) Repeat as necessary. Do not spray open blooms. Do not apply to plants
in direct sunlight.
Safer’s (50.5%) & Opal Rate: 2 L/100 L
(47%) Insecticidal Soaps Crops: outdoor and greenhouse-grown ornamentals
salts of fatty acids + pyrethrins
Trounce Rate: 5 L/100 L; repeat applications weekly for 2-3 weeks.
Crops: greenhouse and interior plantings, shrubs and trees
thiamethoxam
Actara 25 WG Rate: 160 g/ha to control rosy apple aphid
Crops: Apples, crabapples

Bark Beetles and Wood Borers
chlorpyrifos
Pro Dursban Turf Rate: 50 mL/100 L
Crops: Betula, locust, Salix, Sorbus, Syringa grown in greenhouses and nurseries
dimethoate
Crops: Iris
endosulfan
Thionex 50 W Rate: 150 g/100 L to control peach tree borer
Crops: Prunus (apricot, cherry, peach, plum)
Steinernema carpocapsae
Millenium Rate: mix one tray in 9.4 L of water and apply as a coarse spray on the trunk
Crops: fruit, nut, ornamental, landscape, nursery
Caterpillars and Moths
Bruce Spanworm and Winter Moth
deltamethrin
Decis 5 EC Rate: 5 mL/100 L. Avoid spraying during flowering. Control will be reduced above 25 oC.
Crop: apples
pyrethrin
Cutworms
permethrin
Pounce 384 EC Rate: 180 mL/ha (1.8 mL/100 m2) Apply under warm, moist conditions in the evening
Ambush 500 EC Rate: 140 mL/ha (1.4 mL/100 m2) when cutworm activity is highest and when larvae are
small (up to 2.5 cm).
Crops: seedling tree nurseries
tebufenozide (also registered for armyworms, grapevine moth, cabbage loopers and leafrollers)
Confirm 240F Rate: 0.5 L/ha. Apply to run-off to early larval stages every 10-14 days.
Crops: greenhouse-grown ornamentals; it is recommended that the user test for phytotoxic
effects on a portion of the crop prior to use
trichlorfon
Dylox 80% SP Rate: 1.5-2.25 kg in up to 1,000 L of water /ha
Dylox 420 L Rate: 2.75-4.0 L in up to 1,000 L of water /ha
Crops: flowers, shrubs, and trees; may injure some maples (e.g. Crimson King, Norway)
European Pine Shoot Moth
dimethoate
Cygon 480-ORN, Foliar Spray: 200 mL/100 L
Lagon 480 E Crops: Pinus mugo, P. resinosa, P. sylvestris
Crops: Christmas trees (Abies balsamea, Picea), Tsuga
malathion
young plants

Tent Caterpillars and Skeletonizers
acephate
Crops: registered for a range of ornamentals; refer to the label for a listing of the crops
registered for the different caterpillar pests
Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. Kurstaki
BioProtec CAF Rate: 1-1.6 L/ha; do not use a spreader sticker.
Crops: Tree nurseries and plantations; urban, industrial and residential areas; woodlots;
municipal and Provincial Parks; rights of way; ornamental plantations; and seed orchards.
Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. Kurstaki
Dipel 2X DF Rate: 65-125 g per 400 L of water Good coverage is essential; a spread sticker should be
Dipel WP Rate: 125-250 g per 400 L of water used to improve spray coverage.
Crops: ornamental and shade trees
carbaryl
Sevin T&O, XLR Rate: 230-350 mL/100 L
Plus Tolerant Crops: trees, ornamentals, woody plants and shrubs, including Acer, arborvitae, azalea,
Betula, Buxus, Chrysanthemum, Cornus, Dianthus, Gladiolus, Hydrangea, Ilex, Juniperus, Pinus,
Quercus, Rosa, Syringa, Ulmus, Zinnia; do not use on Adiantum, Boston ivy and Virginia creeper
chlorpyrifos
Crops: Betula, Fraxinus grown in greenhouses and nurseries
malathion
Crops: outdoor ornamentals; may injure Adiantum, Ilex, Juniperus sabina, Pteris and young plants
permethrin
Pounce 384 EC Rate: 9 mL/100 L
Ambush 500 EC Rate: 7 mL/100 L
Crops: deciduous trees, shrubs
phosmet
Imidan 50-WP Rate: 125 g/100 L
Crops: ornamental trees (Acer, Betula, Cornus, Crataegus, Fagus, Fraxinus, Quercus, Salix, Ulmus)
spinosad
Entrust 80 W Rate: 1.5 g/100 L Apply when webs are first observed.
Conserve or Success Rate: 2.5 mL/100 L
480 SC
Spruce Budworm
acephate
ACECAP 97 Rate: Same rate as for Aphids. Apply immediately prior to or at bud swell.
Crops: Fir, Picea
Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki
BioProtec CAP Rate: 2.4-3.2 L
Crops: Tree nurseries and plantations; urban, industrial and residential areas; woodlots;
municipal and Provincial Parks; rights of way; ornamental plantations; and seed orchards.
Dipel 2X DF Rate: 125-250 g per 400 L of water
Dipel WP Rate: 250-500 g per 400 L of water
Crops: ornamental and shade trees

Spruce Budworm (Cont’d)
dimethoate
Lagon 480 E Rate: 1001 or 1502 mL/100 L
Crops: Christmas trees2 (Abies balsamea, Picea, Pinus mugo, P. resinosa, P. sylvestris), Tsuga1
malathion
permethrin
Pounce 384 EC Rate: 45-90 mL/ha
Ambush 500 EC Rate: 35-70 mL/ha
Tolerant Crops: Abies balsamea, Larix, Picea, Pinus Pseudotsuga menziesii
trichlorfon
Dylox 80% SP Rate: 1.5-2.25 kg in up to 1,250 L of water per hectare
Dylox 420 L Rate: 2.75-4 L in up to 1,250 L of water per hectare
Crops: balsam fir and spruce trees in Christmas tree plantations
Tussock Moth
acephate
Crops: Acer, Betula, cherry, fir, Fraxinus, Ilex, Picea, Pinus, Platanus, Populus, Quercus, Rosa,
Salix, Tilia, Ulmus
Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki
BioProtec CAF, Rate: 4 L/ha; apply when larvae are in peak second instar and reapply 2-5 days later.
Foray 48BA Crops: ornamental urban trees
permethrin
Pounce 384 EC, Rate: 45-90 mL/ha
Tolerant Crops: Abies balsamea, Larix, Picea, Pinus Pseudotsuga menziesii and other conifers as
long as the species is tested for phytotoxic effect prior to use
Fungus Gnats
cyromazine
Citation 75WP Rate: 1 solupak/570 L of water per 0.57 ha. Spray surfaces where gnats and shoreflies may
breed. Apply 90 mL of the solution/10 cm and 180 mL/15 cm containers as a drench.
Tolerant Crops: greenhouse-grown ornamentals, including Chrysanthemum, Dahlia,
Gypsophila, Easter lilies, marigold, Petunia, Salvia, Verbena, Zinnia
diflubenzuron
Dimilin 25% WP Coarse Spray Rate: 15 g/100 L and apply 0.5-1.5 L of solution/m2. For containers with a soil
depth of less than 10 cm, do not apply more than 0.5 L/m2.
Drench Rate: 1.8 g/100 L; apply 55 mL/#SP4 (10 cm) container and 170 mL/#1 (15 cm) pot.
Refer to the label for rates for other container sizes.
Crops: greenhouse ornamentals grown in ground beds, trays or containers; do not apply to
Hibiscus or Reiger begonia.
Hypoaspis miles These predatory mites feed on fungus gnat eggs and young larvae in the soil. They are
general feeders and also feed on thrips nymphs that have dropped to the soil to pupate.
Steinernema feltiae
Nemasys, or Rate: 1 pack/100 m2; apply to the soil to control fungus gnat larvae. Do not apply to run-off
Beneficial Nematode or the nematodes may be flushed out of the container.
(50 million infective Crops: nursery and landscape
juveniles per pack)

Lace Bugs
acephate
Crops: Azalea, Cotoneaster, Fraxinus, Platanus, Pyracantha, Quercus, Rhododendron, Zinnia
carbaryl
Plus Tolerant Crops: trees, ornamentals, woody plants and shrubs, including Acer, arborvitae,
Pinus, Quercus, Rosa, Syringa, Ulmus; do not use on Adiantum, Boston ivy and Virginia creeper
dimethoate
Cygon 480-ORN, Rate: 100 mL/100 L
Lagon 480 E Crop: azalea
malathion
Malathion 85E Rate: 61-88 mL/100 L
Leafhoppers
acephate
Crops: Acer, Boston ivy, Calendula, Dahlia
acetamiprid
TriStar70 WSP Rate: 5 packs/1,000 L
Crops: ornamental and flowering plants grown outdoors and in greenhouses, shadehouses,
and lathhouses
carbaryl
Pinus, Quercus, Rosa, Syringa, Ulmus; do not use on Adiantum, Boston ivy and Virginia creeper
chlorpyrifos
Crops: ornamentals grown in greenhouses and nurseries
cypermethrin
Cymbush 250EC Rate: 400 mL/ha Apply when white apple leafhoppers or damage first appear. Do not
Ripcord 400 EC Rate: 7.5 mL/100 L apply more than 3 times per season.
Crops: Apples.
dimethoate
Cygon 480-ORN, Rate: 100 mL/100 L
Lagon 480 E Crops: Rosa
Lagon 480 E Paint-on Treatment for Rosa: Mix 1 part Lagon 480 E with 1 part water. Paint a 2.5 cm band
kaolin
Surround WP Rate: 25-50 kg/ha in sufficient water (1,000 to 2,000 L) to achieve near drip coverage. For
optimal performance, applications must coat all portions of the plant to be protected. It
leaves a hazy white residue after drying that will gradually wear off.
Crops: pome fruits (apple, crabapple, pear, quince)

Leafhoppers (Cont’d)
malathion
young plants
pyrethrin
Leafminers and Needle Miners
abamectin
Avid 1.9% EC Rate: 60 mL/100 L; apply as necessary to maintain control but not less than 7-day intervals
acephate
Crops: Alnus, Aster, Betula, Deutzia, Ilex, locust, marigold, Picea, Quercus, Syringa, Zinnia
ACECAP 97 Same rate as for Aphids
Crops: Betula, Pinus
acetamiprid
TriStar 70 WSP Rate: 5 packs/1,000 L to control tentiform leafminers
and lathhouses
carbaryl
Sevin T&O Rate: 230-350 mL/100 L
Crops: Betula, Buxus
cypermethrin
Cymbush 250EC Rate: 400 mL/ha Apply at peak emergence of the first and later generations of adult
Ripcord 400 EC Rate: 7.5 mL/100 L spotted tentiform leafminers. Do not apply more than 3 times per
season.
Crops: Apples.
cyromazine
Citation 75WP Rate: 1 solupak/400 L per 0.4 ha
Tolerant Crops: greenhouse-grown ornamentals, including Chrysanthemum, Dahlia,
Gypsophila, Easter lilies, marigold, petunia, Salvia, verbena, Zinnia
dimethoate
Cygon 480-ORN, Rate: 501, 1002, or 1253 mL/100 L
Lagon 480 E Crops: azalea2, Betula1, Buxus2, Ilex2, Syringa3, Tsuga2
Soil Drench Rate for Betula: 11 mL of undiluted dimethoate/cm of stem basal diameter.
Lagon 480 E Rate: 150 mL/100 L to control spruce needle miner
Paint-on Treatment for Betula and Syringa: Mix 1 part Lagon 480 E with 1 part water. Paint
the mixture in a band around the trunk. Refer to the label for additional application details.
malathion
young plants
phosmet
Imidan 50-WP Rate: 125 g/100 L
Crop: Betula

Leafminers and Needle Miners (Cont’d)
thiamethoxam
Actara 25 WG Rate: 315 g/ha to control spotted tentiform leafminer.
Crops: apples, crabapples
trichlorfon
Crops: ornamental flowers, shrubs, and trees; do not use on Crimson King or Norway
maples since injury may occur. Injury has occurred on certain varieties of Begonia, Salvia, and
Zinnia.
Lygus Bugs
cypermethrin
Ripcord 400 EC Rate: 172 mL/ha. Apply in sufficient water for good coverage. Apply when seedlings are
susceptible and after seedling thinning to reduce worker exposure. A 2nd application in 4 weeks
may be necessary if the crop is still actively growing and attractive to Lygus bugs.
Crops: conifer seedlings (nursery); not for greenhouse use
trichlorfon
Crops: ornamental flowers, shrubs, and trees; do not use on Schwedler, Crimson King, or
Norway maples since injury may occur. Injury has occurred on certain varieties of Begonia,
Salvia, and Zinnia.
Mealybugs
acephate
Crops: azalea, Camellia, Hedera, Taxus, Wisteria
carbaryl
creeper
chlorpyrifos
dimethoate
Cygon 480-ORN, Rate: 100 mL/100 L for Buxus and 200 mL/100 L for Taxus
Lagon 480 E
kinoprene
begin the preventive program. Suppression only.

Mealybugs (Cont’d)
malathion
mineral oil
Landscape Oil, Rate: 2 L/100 L; apply as a summer spray
Purespray Green Crops: ornamental shade trees, evergreens, and hardy shrubs
PRO Insecticidal Rate: 5 L/100 L
Soap (25%) Repeat as necessary. Do not spray open blooms. Do not apply to plants
in direct sunlight.
Safer’s (50.5%) Rate: 2 L/100 L
Insecticidal Soap Crops: outdoor and greenhouse-grown ornamentals
Opal (47%) Rate: 2 L/100 L
Insecticidal Soap Crops: outdoor ornamental and shade trees
Trounce Rate: 5 L/100 L; reapply at 10-14 day intervals
Mites
abamectin
Avid 1.9% EC Rate: 30 mL/100 L to control spider mites
AGRI-MEK 1.9% Rate: 20-40 mL + minimum 0.25% paraffinic spray oil, such as Superior 70 Oil per 100 L.
EC Refer to use restrictions on the label.
Crops: apples (use 20 mL rate only) and pears; may injure fruit of certain apple varieties.
acephate
Orthene 75% SP Rate: Mist blower = 1,312 g/1,000 L; Hydraulic sprayer = 637 g/1,000 L to control spider mites
Crops: Abies, arborvitae, azalea, Callistemon, Camellia, cypress, Dahlia, Gleditsia, Hemerocallis,
Hydrangea, Ilex, Juniperus, marigold, Pachysandra, Phlox, Picea, Pinus, Primula, Quercus, Rosa,
Tsuga, Viburnum
acequinocyl
Kanemite 15 SC Rate: 42-92 mL/100 L to control two-spotted and spruce spider mites.se the low rate for
field-grown roses.
Crops: field-grown floral, foliage and nursery crops
Shuttle 15 SC Rate: 42-92 mL/100 L tose the low rate for roses; use the high rate for heavy mite
infestations.
Crops: ornamental and nursery plants in greenhouse and shadehouses
bifenazate
Floramite SC Rate: 31.25 ml/100 L to control 2-spotted spider mites and Lewis mites.
Crops: indoor ornamentals grown in greenhouses, shadehouses and interiorscapes
Rate: 33.3 ml/100 L to control 2-spotted spider mites. Do not apply more than twice per year.
Crops: outdoor-grown ornamentals
Rate: 62.5 mL/100 L to control spruce spider mites. Do not apply more than twice per year.
Crops: outdoor-grown conifers including Christmas trees

Mites (Cont’d)
carbaryl
Sevin T&O, XLR Rate: 230-350 mL/100 L to control eriophyid mites
creeper
chlorpyrifos
Pro Dursban Turf Rate: 37.5–50 mL/100 L
Crops: arborvitae, Juniperus grown in greenhouses and nurseries
clofentezine
Apollo SC Rate: 80 mL in 1,000 L of water/ha. Do not make more than 1 application per season. Apply
when mite populations are predominantly in the egg stage; it is not effective against adults.
Crops: outdoor deciduous nursery stock, including Caragana, Clematis, Crataegus, Euonymus,
Hedera, Malus, Potentilla, Prunus, Pyrus, Ribes, Rosa, Salix, Ulmus, and herbaceous perennials
diazinon
Diazinon 50 WSP Rate: 100 g/100 L
Crops: Malus, Prunus (apricots, cherries, peaches, plums, prunes) Pyrus
Diazinon 50 WSP Rate: 50 g (or 50 mL 50 EC) + 2 L dormant oil/100 L. Apply as a dormant spray to control
& 50 EC eggs of European red and brown mites.
Crop: Malus
dimethoate
Cygon 480-ORN, Rate: 1001, 2002 mL/100 L
Lagon 480 E Crops: azalea1, arborvitae2, Buxus1, Camellia1, cedar2, Dianthus1, Ilex1, Juniperus2, Rosa1, Taxus2,
Tsuga1
Soil Drench for Camellia: 60 mL in 10 L of water per plant up to 2 metres tall. Increase the
rate proportionately for larger plants.
 endosulfan
Crops: to control cyclamen mites on outdoor and greenhouse ornamentals
fenbutatin-oxide
Vendex 50W Rate: 50-100 g/100 L; use the high rate for heavy mite populations. Effective on two-spotted
and spruce spider mites.
Crops: greenhouse and outdoor-grown ornamental plants and nursery stock
malathion
young plants

Mites (Cont’d)
mineral oil
Landscape Oil Rates:
Dormant Spray = 2-3 L/100 L for deciduous plants and 1-1.5 L/100 L for all other plants
Summer Spray = 2 L/100 L
Crops: ornamental plants, shade trees and shrubs; see label for specific crops and use
precautions
Purespray Green Summer Rate: 2 L/100 L to control red spider mites
Crops: ornamental shade trees, evergreens, and hardy shrubs; see label for specific crops and
use precautions
Dormant Rates (to control European red mites and spruce spider mites):
2 L/100 L for Berberis, Crataegus, Malus, Picea, Pinus, Prunus, Sorbus, Ulmus
1-3 L/100 L for Betula, Cornus, Crataegus, Ilex, Ligustrum, Platanus
Superior 70 Oil Rate: 2 L/100 L. Apply as a dormant spray in early spring when most danger of freezing
nights is over, but before leafbuds swell or break. Spray on a mild morning so that the trees
will dry quickly after spraying.
Crops: Crabapple, Berberis, Crataegus, Malus, Picea, Pinus, Prunus (flowering cherry, peach
and plum), Sorbus, Ulmus; do not treat Acer palmatum, A. saccharum, Adiantum, arborvitae,
beech, Douglas fir, Ilex, Juglans, Juniperus, Picea pungens ‘Glauca’, Pinus strobus and Taxus
pyridaben
DYNO-Mite or Rate: 14.2-28.4 g/100 L; use the high rate on outdoor-grown plants
Sanmite Tolerant Crops: greenhouse and outdoor-grown ornamental trees, shrubs, plants, flowers;
see the label for a list of tolerant crops
in direct sunlight.
Trounce Rate: 5 L/100 L; repeat applications weekly for 2-3 weeks.
spiromesifen
Forbid 240 SC Rate: 30 mL/100 L; do not apply more than twice per crop cycle
Crops: outdoor and greenhouse ornamentals. Not recommended for use on ferns, Hedera,
Hydrangea, Matthiola, Pelargonium, Primula, and some roses (see label). Do not apply more than
once per crop cycle to daises, marigolds, Phlox, Shasta daisy, snapdragon, Rosa, Verbena.
spirodiclofen
Envidor 240SC Rate: 0.75 L/ha
Crops: Registered to control several different mites on pome and stone fruit crops. Do not
apply in greenhouses.

Root Weevils
carbaryl
Sevin T&O Rate: 230-350 mL/100 L
Tolerant Crops: trees, ornamentals, woody plants and shrubs, including Acer, arborvitae,
creeper
endosulfan
Thionex 50 W Rate: 100 g/100 L; use 150 g/100 L on Japanese yew
Spray lower branches and soil in early July to control black vine weevil.
Crops: outdoor and greenhouse ornamentals; do not use on birch trees, mum cuttings within
one month of planting, or Bonnafon mums and geraniums in the greenhouse
Heterorhabditis bacteriophora
Beneficial Rate: 50 million (one gel pack) per 100 m2
Nematode Crops: nursery and landscape
lambda-cyhalothrin
Lambda- Rate: 36 mL/100 L
cyhalothrin CS Crops: outdoor ornamentals
Metarhizium anisopliae strain F52
Met52 Rate: uniformly incorporate 0.5-1.5 kg/m3 of moist soil medium to control black vine and
strawberry root weevils
Crops: container-grown ornamentals, including flowering and foliage plants, shrubs and
shade and forest tree seedlings
permethrin
Pounce 384EC Rate: 65 mL/100 L Apply to run-off to control strawberry root weevils. If monitoring
Ambush 500EC Rate: 50 mL/100 L shows continued presence of adults, a second application may be
required after 21 days.
Crops: conifer seedlings in forest nursery greenhouses (cedar, Juniperus, Picea, Pinus, Taxus)
Steinernema carpocapsae
Millenium Rate: one tray per 3,500 ft2 to control strawberry root weevil
Crops: fruit, nut, vine crops, ornamental, turf, landscape, nursery, greenhouse
thiamethoxam
Actara 25 WG Rate: 10.5-14 g/100 L; apply as a foliar spray to control Black vine weevil.
Crops: Outdoor ornamentals
Sawflies
acephate
Pear Slugs: shade trees, ornamentals, shelterbelts
Sawflies (open feeders): Betula, Fraxinus, Larix, Picea, Pinus, Salix
acetamiprid
TriStar 70 WSP Rate: 1 pack/1,000 L to control European Pine Sawfly
and lathhouses
carbaryl
Sevin T&O, XLR Rate: 230-350 mL/100 L to control pine and rose sawflies
Plus Crops: Pinus, Rosa

Sawflies (Cont’d)
chlorpyrifos
Crops: conifers, Sorbus to control European and Red-headed pine sawflies
dimethoate
Cygon 480-ORN, Rate: 100 mL/100 L to control Red and Black-headed pine sawfly larvae.
Lagon 480 E
Crops: Pinus mugo, P. resinosa, P. sylvestris
malathion
Malation 85E Rate: 88 mL/100 L
young plants
nucleopolyhedrovirus
ABIETIV Rate: 0.25-0.75 mL/ha to reduce populations of balsam fir sawfly larvae
Crops: field-grown conifers including Christmas trees
permethrin
Pounce 384 EC Rate: 45-90 mL/ha
Tolerant Crops: Abies balsamea, Larix, Picea, Pinus Pseudotsuga menziesii and other conifers as
long as the species is tested for phytotoxic effect prior to use
in direct sunlight.
(47%) Insecticidal Soaps Crops: outdoor and greenhouse-grown roses to control rose slugs
Trounce Rate: 5 L/100 L for rose and pear slugs; reapply at 10-14 day intervals
Crops: shrubs and trees
spinosad
Entrust 80 W Rate: 1.5 g/100 L to control conifer sawfly larvae
Conserve or Success Rate: 2.5 mL/100 L
480 SC Crops: outdoor ornamentals
Scales
acephate
Orthene 75% SP Rate: Mist blower = 1,312 g/1,000 L; Hydraulic sprayer = 637 g/1,000 L. Apply to control
crawlers of Cottony Maple, Hemlock, Oyster Shell, Cottony Cushion, and Lecanium Scales.
Crops: Abelia, Abies, Acer, azalea, Buxus, Camellia, Cotoneaster, cypress, Euonymus, Forsythia,
geranium, Hibiscus, Ilex, laurel, Magnolia, Nandina, Pinus, Pyracantha, Quercus, Rosa, Rose of
Sharon, Salix, Syringa, Tsuga, Ulmus, Wisteria, Yucca
carbaryl
creeper

Scales (Cont’d)
chlorpyrifos
Dursban WSP Rate: 1 packet per 62.5 L
diazinon
Diazinon 50 WSP Dormant Season Treatments:
& 50 EC Apples: 50 g (or 50 mL) + 2 L dormant oil/100 L
Apricots, Peaches, Pears: 100 g (or 100 mL) + 2 L dormant oil /100 L
Plums, Prunes: 100 g (or 100 mL) + 2.5 L dormant oil/100 L
Cherries: 125 g (or 125 mL) + 3 L dormant oil/100 L
In-Season Foliar Spray for Crawlers:
Malus, Prunus (apricots, cherries, peaches), Pyrus: 100 g (or 100 mL)/ 100 L
dimethoate
Cygon 480-ORN, Rate: 1001 or 2002 mL/100 L. Do not apply when temperatures are excessively high.
Lagon 480 E Crops: registered for a range of scale pests on Camellia1, Euonymus2, Gardenia1, Ilex1, Quercus2,
Taxus2, Tsuga1
Drench for Camellia: 60 mL/10 L per plant up to 2 metres tall. Increase the rate
proportionately for larger plants.
malathion
Malathion 85E Rate: 61 mL/100 L Apply when Oyster Shell Scale crawlers have settled on foliage.
mineral oil
Landscape Oil Dormant Season Rate: 2-3 L/100 L for deciduous plants and 1-1.5 L/100 L for all other plants
Summer Rate: 2 L/100 L
Crops: Ornamental plants, shade trees and shrubs; see label for specific crops and use
precautions.
Superior 70 Oil Rate: 2 L/100 L. Apply as a dormant spray in early spring when most danger of freezing
nights is over, but before leafbuds swell or break. Spray on a mild morning so that the trees
will dry quickly after spraying.
Crops: Acer, crabapple, Berberis, Crataegus, Fraxinus, Gleditsia, Liriodendron, Malus,
Pachysandra, Picea, Pinus, Prunus (flowering cherry, peach and plum), Quercus, Salix, Sorbus,
Syringa, Ulmus; do not treat Acer palmatum, A. saccharum, Adiantum, arborvitae, beech,
Douglas fir, Ilex, Juglans, Juniperus, Picea pungens ‘Glauca’, Pinus strobus and Taxus. Refer to
the label for information on the specific scales controlled on each crop.
PRO Insecticidal Rate: 5 L/100 L
Soap (25%) Repeat as necessary. Do not spray open blooms. Do not apply to plants
in direct sunlight.
Safer’s (50.5%) Rate: 2 L/100 L
Insecticidal Soap Crops: outdoor and greenhouse-grown ornamentals to control soft brown scales
Opal (47%) Rate: 2 L/100 L
Insecticidal Soap Crops: outdoor and greenhouse-grown flowering plants
Trounce Rate: 5 L/100 L for control of soft scale crawlers; spray as required at 10-14 day intervals

Spittlebugs
acephate
Crops: Juniperus, Rosa
chlorpyrifos
Pro Dursban Turf Rate: 8.8-15 mL/100 L
Thrips
acephate
Crops: Alyssum, Aster, Calendula, daisy, Gladiolus, Hemerocallis, marigold, petunia, Rosa,
Salvia, snapdragon, Yucca, Zinnia
Botanigard ES Rate: 2 L/400 L; apply at 5-10 day intervals
Botanigard 22 WP Rate: 0.5-1.0 kg/400 L
carbaryl
creeper
chlorpyrifos
deltamethrin
Decis 5 EC Rate: 35-50 mL/100 L to control western flower thrips. Apply at 5-7 day intervals. Control will
be reduced if applied at temperatures above 25oC.
Crops: greenhouse-grown Chrysanthemum, geraniums
dimethoate
Cygon 480-ORN, Foliar Spray Rate: 1001 or 2002 mL/100 L
Lagon 480 E Crops: Dianthus1, Gladiolus1, Hemerocallis2, Iris2, Rosa1
Lagon 480 E Paint-on Treatment for Rosa: Mix 1 part Lagon 480 E with 1 part water. Paint a 2.5 cm band
malathion
young plants
Metarhizium anisopliae strain F52
Met52 Rate: uniformly incorporate 1.5 kg/m3 of moist soil medium
Crops: container-grown ornamentals, including flowering and foliage plants, shrubs and
shade and forest tree seedlings

Thrips (Cont’d)
Paecilomyces fumosoroseus strain FE 9901
NOFLY WP Rate: 2-3 g/L
Crops: greenhouse ornamental crops
pyrethrin
spinosad
Entrust 80 W Rate: 3 g/100 L Apply at flowering and repeat at 7-14 day intervals as
Conserve or Success Rate: 5 mL/100 L required to control western flower thrips.
480 SC Crops: outdoor ornamentals
Steinernema feltiae
Nemasys, or Rate: one pack/100 m2; apply as a drench to control soil-dwelling and as a foliar spray to
Beneficial Nematode control foliar-dwelling western flower thrips.
(50 million infective
Crops: nursery and landscape
juveniles per pack)
Whiteflies
acephate
Crops: Camellia, Berberis, Lantana, Ligustrum, Mahonia, Rosa, Salvia, Viburnum, Zinnia
acetamiprid
TriStar 70 WSP Rate: 5-10 packets/1,000 L
and lathhouses
Botanigard ES Rate: 0.5-1 L/400 L; apply at 5-10 day intervals
Botanigard 22 WP Rate: 250-500 g/400 L
chlorpyrifos
dimethoate
Cygon 480-ORN Rate: 100 mL/100 L
Crop: outdoor-grown azaleas, Gardenia, Rosa
endosulfan
Crops: greenhouse and outdoor ornamentals; do not use on Betula, mum cuttings within one
month of planting, or Bonnafon mums and geraniums in the greenhouse
imidacloprid
Intercept 60 WP, Drench: The rate is based on plant type, number of plants per pot and pot size. Refer to the
Merit 60 WP label for information on rates and application methods. Onset of protection can take 2 or
more weeks; therefore application should be made well in advance of insect activity.

Whiteflies (Cont’d)
kinoprene
begin the preventive program.
malathion
Malathion 85E Rate: 7.5 mL with sufficient water to cover 100 m2
mineral oil
Landscape Oil Rate: 2 L/100 L; apply as a summer spray
Crops: Ornamental shade trees, evergreens, and hardy shrubs
Paecilomyces fumosoroseus strain FE 9901
NOFLY WP Rate: 2-3 g/L
Crops: greenhouse ornamental crops
permethrin
Ambush 50EC Rate: 20 mL/100 L
Crop: greenhouse roses
pymetrozine
Endeavor 50WG Rate: 10-20 g/100 L; add a non-ionic or organosilicone-based surfactant to the spray mixture
for hard-to-wet plants (e.g. Chrysanthemum, Rosa).
pyriproxyfen
Distance Rate: 45 mL/100 L; if necessary, re-apply in 14-28 days.
Crop: greenhouse ornamentals
pyrethrin
pyridaben
DYNO-Mite or Rate: 28.4-42.5 g/100 L
Sanmite Tolerant Crops: greenhouse-grown ornamental trees, plants, flowers; see label for list of
tolerant crops
in direct sunlight.
Trounce Rate: 5 L/100 L; reapply at 2-week intervals
Crops: greenhouse and interior plantings
spiromesifen
Forbid 240 SC Rate: 30 mL/100 L; do not apply more than twice per crop cycle
Crops: outdoor and greenhouse ornamentals. Not recommended for use on ferns, Hedera,
Hydrangea, Matthiola, Pelargonium, Primula, and some roses (see label). Do not apply more than
once per crop cycle to daises, marigolds, Phlox, Shasta daisy, snapdragon, Rosa, Verbena.

White Grubs
carbaryl
Sevin T&O, XLR Rate: 230-350 mL/100 L to control Japanese beetles
creeper
Heterorhabditis bacteriophora
Beneficial Rate: 50 million (one gel pack) per 100 m2
Nematode Crops: nursery and landscape
imidacloprid
Merit 60 WP Drench: The rate is based on container size. Refer to the label for information on rates and
application methods.
Crops: to control European chafer and Japanese beetle larvae on container-grown nursery
stock, including trees, shrubs, herbaceous perennials and ornamental grasses
Rate: 467 g/ha
Crops: to control European chafer and Japanese beetle larvae on field-grown nursery
ornamentals, including trees, shrubs, herbaceous perennials and ornamental grasses

Insecticide and Miticide Properties 12
(updated August 2013)
This chapter is intended for reference and background information only; it is by no means intended to replace
labels. Always consult the label, as it is the primary source for information on safety, rates and application
methods. Material in this chapter was compiled from a variety of sources, such as: Farm Chemicals Handbook
2001, Meister Publishing Co.; pesticide labels; The Pesticide Manual, Twelfth Edition, Editor C. D. S. Tomlin,
British Crop Protection Council, 2000; and the Handbook for Pesticide Applicators and Dispensers by the British
Columbia Ministry of Environment.
Information on pesticide relative acute toxicity (expressed as LD50) is provided. The LD50 value represents the
relative acute toxicity of a pesticide. It represents the amount of active ingredient (a.i.) of the chemical in
milligrams used per kilogram of test animal weight that kills 50% of the population. It is expressed as oral (i.e.
the amount ingested through the mouth or nose) and dermal (i.e. the amount that penetrates through the
skin). The higher the LD50 figure, the less toxic the product is to humans. However, the figures do not indicate
the long-term or chronic health effects of pesticides. Always keep pesticide exposure to a minimum by
wearing protective clothing; even when working with products that have high LD 50 values.
abamectin (Avid, AGRI-MEK) is a naturally acephate (Acecap, Orthene) is an

derived miticide/insecticide produced by the organophosphorous compound with contact
soil microorganism Streptomyces avermitilis. It and systemic activity. It has moderate
acts by stimulating the release of an inhibitory persistence with residual activity of 6 to 9 days.
neurotransmitter. Pests become immobilized It has a low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50:
shortly after ingesting or coming in contact oral >1,447; dermal >10,250). Moderately toxic
with it. It may take three to four days to achieve to birds, practically non-toxic to fish, and
maximum mortality; pests will continue highly toxic to bees.
moving, but will not feed or breed. It penetrates
the leaf tissue and remains there, killing pests acequinocyl (Kanemite, Shuttle) is a contact
feeding on the upper and lower leaf surfaces. miticide that provides quick knockdown and
Surface residues rapidly dissipate and degrade long residual control of 2-spotted and spruce
in sunlight. It is effective against all mite stages spider mites. Thorough coverage of the foliage
except eggs; it is effective against leafminer is required for optimal control. Controls all life
larvae and adults. Do not use on Adiantum spp., stages of susceptible mite species. Do not use
Leucanthemum spp. (Shasta daisy) and conifers. Shuttle in successive applications in order to
It has a moderate mammalian acute toxicity manage against pest resistance. It has a low
(LD50: oral = 300; dermal >1,800). It causes mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral >5,000;
substantial, but temporary eye injury. It is toxic dermal >2,000), and causes mild skin irritation.
to predatory mites, fish and wildlife, and highly acetamiprid (Tristar) is a locally systemic
toxic to bees. For resistance management insecticide that is effective through contact and
purposes, it is recommended not to apply in ingestion. It is registered as a foliar spray to
successive applications. Rotate sprays with at provide control of aphids, European pine
least one other product before using it again. sawfly, leaf miners, leafhoppers and whiteflies
Do not apply more than twice in sequence or on a wide range of crops, and gives relatively
more than six times per year or per crop for quick knockdown of mobile stages of insects
perennials. (not eggs). It has a low to moderate mammalian
acute toxicity and is irritating to skin, eyes, and
through inhalation (LD50: oral = 147 - 217;
dermal > 2,000). It is practically not toxic to fish.
Acetamiprid is toxic to honey bees exposed to
direct treatment.
Nursery Production Guide Insecticide and Miticide Properties • 1

Bacillus thuringiensis (BioProtec, Dipel, carbaryl (Sevin) is a broad-spectrum carbamate
Foray) is a microbial insecticide based on with stomach and contact action and slight
toxins produced by a soil bacterium. There are systemic properties. Under dry conditions it
a number of varieties of this bacterium that are has long residual action, but its effectiveness
toxic to specific groups of insects. The two main decreases markedly following rain or overhead
varieties used in commercial products are sprinkler irrigation. It is effective against many
Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner var. kurstaki, used insects, but it does not control spider mites. To
to kill leaf-eating caterpillars and Bacillus avoid possible injury to tender foliage, do not
thuringiensis var. israeliensis, used to kill fungus apply to wet foliage or when rain or high
gnat larvae. Products are formulated as humidity is expected during the next two days.
wettable powders, dusts, or spore suspensions It is unstable under highly alkaline conditions.
and crystals produced by the bacteria. It must It has a moderate mammalian acute toxicity
be eaten by the target insect to cause toxic (LD50: oral = 246-283), but it is extremely toxic
effects; there is no contact activity. Thorough to honey bees. Foraging bees may be killed up
coverage is essential, but do not wet to the to two weeks after treatment. Apply from late
point of run-off. The pest stops all further evening to early morning or when bees are not
eating and death occurs within about three foraging. Moderately toxic to fish and slightly
days. It has a short residual effect, so toxic to birds.
applications must be repeated every few days chlorpyrifos (Dursban) is a non-systemic
until control is achieved. It does not control the organophosphorous compound with contact,
adult stage, so applications must be timed to stomach, and respiratory action. It has a
occur when the target pest is in the correct moderate mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral
stage of development, i.e. young caterpillars. = 96-270; dermal = 2,000), but it causes
Avoid applying in conjunction with fertilizers substantial eye injury. It is toxic to birds and
or fungicides that contain copper or chlorine wildlife, and extremely toxic to fish and aquatic
because they may neutralize the active organisms. Do not apply directly to water. It is
ingredient. Do not apply to plants under stress, highly toxic to fish, bees and birds. Avoid
and do not irrigate excessively after application. application if bees are actively visiting the
It has a low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: treatment area.
oral = 5,000-13,000; dermal = 75,000).
clofentezine (Apollo) is an acaricide that has
Beauveria bassiana strain GHA long residual, contact activity. It acts primarily
(Botanigard) is a contact mycoinsecticide as an ovicide but also has an effect on young
that contains live spores of a naturally motile stages. It does not control adult stages.
occurring fungus. The applied spores adhere to It has a low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50:
and grow into the insect. Discoloration of the oral >5,200; dermal >2,100). It is a mild eye and
larvae or pupae will occur in 7 to 10 days, skin irritant.
which is the most common indication of insect
death. It controls whiteflies, aphids and thrips.
cypermethrin (Ripcord) is a synthetic
It can cause substantial but temporary eye pyrethroid that is a fast acting stomach and
damage. It is a potential allergen and excessive contact insecticide that causes insects to stop
skin contact may cause itching. feeding. It is non-systemic and controls a broad
range of insects. It is rapidly degraded in the
bifenazate (Floramite) is a selective miticide environment. Avoid application when the
that provides quick knockdown through temperature is above 27oC; best control is
contact activity and long residual activity (up to obtained at cooler temperatures. Do not use
21 days). It is not effective against rust mites, more than three times per season. Do not apply
broad mites and flat mites. Do not apply more within 15 m of productive fisheries water or
than twice per year or in successive waterfowl habitats. It has moderate mammalian
applications. It has a low mammalian acute
acute toxicity (LD50: oral = 250 dermal > 2,000).
toxicity (LD50: oral >5,000; dermal >5,000). It is
It causes eye and skin irritation, and is a skin
an eye irritant and is toxic to aquatic organisms.
sensitizer. Moderately toxic to fish, aquatic
Do not discharge effluent, waste and drainage
organisms and beneficial arthropods, and
water containing this product into water
bodies. highly toxic to bees.
2 • Insecticide and Miticide Properties Nursery Production Guide

cyromazine (Citation) is an insect growth Insect mortality occurs several days after
regulator for the control of leafminers and treatment. Emerging adults may lay eggs, but
fungus gnats. It interferes with insect molting any new larvae should be controlled. Exceeding
and pupation, and does not affect adult stages. label rates, volumes or number of applications
Affected insects usually die during molting. If can cause serious foliar injury to some crops.
they do reach maturity, they are often unable to Do not use on poinsettias, hibiscus, or Rieger
reproduce. It provides gradual control rather begonias. Conduct a small trial before
widespread use on a crop for the first time.
than a quick knockdown of the target pest. It
Care should be exercised when using Dimilin
exhibits translaminar effects, so its action is
with capillary mat watering systems. Repeat
somewhat systemic. It is only effective on
applications could result in build-up and
leafminer of the Liriomyza genus. Use with
phytotoxicity. It has a low mammalian acute
caution if you are using beneficial biologicals,
toxicity (LD50: oral >4,640; dermal >10,000 for
as it is slightly harmful to several beneficials rats). It is toxic to aquatic invertebrates. It is
including, but not limited to, Encarsia formosa generally safe on beneficials, but harmful to
and Hypoaspis. It has a low mammalian acute Crytolaemus adults and Orius species nymphs,
toxicity (LD50: oral = 3,387; dermal >3,100). moderately harmful to Macrolophus nymphs,
Practically non-toxic to fish. and slightly harmful to nematodes. It is
deltamethrin (Decis) is a fast-acting practically non-toxic to birds and bees.
pyrethroid that controls insects through contact dimethoate (Cygon, Lagon) is a broad
and/or ingestion. Thorough coverage is
spectrum, systemic organophosphorous
essential. Deltamethrin is temperature-sensitive
compound with stomach and contact action. It
in its effect against insects, being most toxic at
is phytotoxic to a large number of plant species,
cool temperatures and becoming less effective
including chrysanthemums. It has a moderate
as temperatures rise. A reduction in control
mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral = 235;
occurs at temperatures above 25oC. It has a
moderate mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral, dermal = 400) and is highly toxic to birds, bees
oily solvent = 128; aqueous suspension >2,000) and other wildlife.
and is a severe eye and skin irritant. It is toxic endosulfan (Thionex) is an organochlorine
to fish, aquatic organisms, bees and other compound that is non-systemic with contact
beneficial insects.
and stomach action. It is fairly persistent,
diazinon (Diazinon) is a broad-spectrum undergoes slow hydrolysis, and is stable in
organophosphorous compound that is non- sunlight. It has a high mammalian acute
systemic with contact, stomach and respiratory toxicity (LD50: oral >160; dermal = 359) and is
action. It has moderate residual activity. It is very toxic to fish and moderately toxic to bees
phytotoxic to some plants and the emulsifiable and birds.
concentrates may cause more plant damage
fenbutatin oxide (Vendex) is an organic tin
than wettable powders. It has a moderate
compound that is non-systemic with contact
and stomach action. Mite death should occur in
dermal = 2,020). It is toxic to fish, bees, birds
2-3 days. It controls two-spotted spider mites,
and wildlife.
but is relatively harmless to predaceous mites.
diflubenzuron (Dimilin) is an insect growth It has good residual control. Damage to tender
regulator for the control of fungus gnats and plants has been observed when used with
shore flies on ornamentals grown in wetting agents. Do not use on stressed plants or
greenhouses. Apply to the potting media as a if the greenhouse temperature is greater than
coarse spray or drench. For optimum control, 320C. It has a low mammalian acute toxicity
also treat breeding areas under benches and (LD50: oral = 2,631; dermal >2,000), but it is
other non-crop areas. Applications should be irritating to the skin and eyes. It is non-toxic to
made to moist potting media. It is non-systemic birds, but highly toxic to fish.
with contact and stomach action. It acts at the
time of insect molting or at egg hatch,
interfering with exoskeleton development.

flonicamid (Beleaf) is a pyridinecarboxamide Under high ambient temperatures, Surround
insecticide that causes rapid and irreversible WP can reduce heat and water stress, and
feeding cessation by contact or ingestion in suppress sunburn. Kaolin residues keep plant
piercing and sucking pests, such as aphids. It surfaces cooler, which may result in an advance
does have translaminar activity. It has a low or delay in maturity. It has a low mammalian
mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral >2,000; acute toxicity (LD50: oral >5,000) but may cause
dermal >2,000). skin and eye irritation.
Heterorhabditis megidis (Nemasys) is an kinoprene (Enstar) is an insect growth

insect pathogenic nematode used to control regulator for the control of whiteflies and
black vine weevil larvae. Nematodes actively aphids. It does not produce an immediate insect
seek target pests in the media and they kill, but results in a gradual reduction of the
penetrate either via body openings or directly insect population. At the preventive (low) rate,
through the cuticle. Research conducted in it shows morphological, ovicidal and sterilizing
Oregon determined that nematodes infected effects. At the high rate, it kills adults. To
root weevil larva within 48 hours of minimize potential phytotoxic effects, it should
application. Upon entry, symbiotic bacteria be used in the prebloom stage. Application to
(Photorhabdus luminescens) are released and certain varieties of roses has produced damage.
infect the host, resulting in rapid death. It has a low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50:
Nematodes then reproduce in the cadaver. It is oral = 3,083; dermal = 4,000).
effective up to four weeks. For optimum
lambda-cyhalothrin (Lambda-
results, the media temperature must not fall
below 12oC and must not dry out. The most cyhalothrin) is a fast-acting stomach and
important time to apply is when the larvae are contact insecticide that is effective against a
present from August to the end of September broad range of pests. It is not systemic. It has a
and April/May. It is considered non-toxic to moderate mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral
mammals. >157; dermal >2,000) and is a potential skin
sensitizer and eye irritant. It is very toxic to fish
imidacloprid (Intercept, Merit) is a and aquatic organisms.
chloronicotinyl that combines systemic activity
with long residual control of aphids and malathion (Malathion) is a non-systemic
whiteflies. It has no effect on spider mites. Do organophosphorous compound with contact,
not use it as a foliar spray; apply as a soil stomach and respiratory action. It controls a
drench to actively growing plants with a broad spectrum of insect pests in greenhouse
developed root system. It is translocated and field-grown crops. It is phytotoxic to a
upwards within the plant. Use drip irrigation, number of plants, including ferns, orchids and
overhead irrigation, or hand-held or motorized petunias. It is not persistent and has a low
calibrated irrigation equipment to apply as a mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral = 5,500;
soil drench. For best results, do not leach for 10- dermal >2,000). It is highly toxic to fish and
14 days after treatment. It is harmful to Aphidius bees, and moderately toxic to birds. Malathion
and Aphidoletes. It has a moderate mammalian has a very strong odour.
acute toxicity (LD50: oral = 450; dermal >5,000) Metarhizium anisopliae strain F52
and is highly toxic to aquatic invertebrates.
(Met52) is a naturally occurring fungus. The
kaolin (Surround) is an insoluble, clay mineral product contains fungal spores that kill host
that forms a particle-based film intended to insects by germinating on and infecting them.
protect agricultural crops against damage from The fungus can spread by contact between
a range of pests. It leaves a hazy white residue infected and non-infected hosts. It has efficacy
after drying, which will gradually wear off. against thrips, mites, whiteflies and weevil
larvae. It has a low mammalian acute toxicity
(LD50: dermal >5,000) but may cause allergic
reactions. It is toxic to fish.

mineral/petroleum oil (Dormant Oil, If the humidity is below 50%, apply the
Landscape Oil, PureSpray Green, product immediately after irrigating the crop.
The label states that it takes 7 to 10 days to see a
Superior 70 Oil) is a complex hydrocarbon
reduction in host population post-treatment,
distillation product of petroleum and coal tar
although sprayed insects will stop feeding
used as contact insecticides. They kill by
within 24 hours of application.
suffocation and may be used on the egg, larva
and sometimes the adult stage of specific insect permethrin (Ambush, Pounce) is a broad-
and mite pests. They have a very low spectrum synthetic pyrethroid. It is non-
mammalian acute toxicity and are a low hazard systemic with fast acting stomach and contact
to fish and wildlife. Oils can be phytotoxic and action, but no fumigant effects. Thorough
may cause damage if applied after the buds coverage is essential. Do not tank-mix with
have opened in spring. In general, summer or other pesticides or fertilizers. It has a low
horticulture oils are safer on foliage, but some mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral = 430-
plant species are sensitive. Oil products that 4,000; dermal >2,000). May cause skin or eye
have a low viscosity and a high level of irritation. Highly toxic to fish, aquatic
unsulfonable residues are usually less organisms and bees, and practically non-toxic
phytotoxic. Do a test spray the first time a to birds.
product is used and when treating a new crop.
Oils should not be used on herbaceous plants. phosalone (Zolone) is a non-systemic
Do not use in combination with or immediately organophosphate showing localized
penetration of the plant cuticle. It is a
before or after spraying with captan, folpet or
cholinesterase inhibitor and has contact and
any other product that contains sulfur. Do not
stomach activity. It has a moderate mammalian
use with carbaryl or dimethoate. Do not apply
acute toxicity (LD50: oral = 120; dermal = 1,500).
during periods of drought or when plants
Low mobility in soils; strongly absorbed and
exhibit moisture stress. rapidly degraded. It is moderately toxic to bees.
Whenever using dormant oil, test the product Do not contaminate water supplies (rivers,
before use. Combine 1 part of dormant oil to 10 ponds, etc.).
parts of the water that will be used in the spray
phosmet (Imidan) is a non-systemic,
tank in a glass jar. Shake vigorously for 30
organophosphorous compound that controls a
seconds and let stand for 3 minutes. If the oil
broad spectrum of pests. It is rapidly broken
and water separate so that clear oil is visible in
down in the soil and in plants. It has a low
the upper layer, do not use the product and
toxicity to predaceous mites. It has a moderate
return it to the supplier.
mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral = 147-316;
Neodiprion abietis (ABIETIV) is a naturally dermal >4,640) and is a mild skin and eye
occurring virus that was isolated from a balsam irritant. It is highly toxic to fish and bees, and
fir sawfly population. The virus must be slightly toxic to birds.
ingested to kill its host. Dead sawflies release
pymetrozine (Endeavor) is a foliar spray
virus particles onto balsam fir needles, which
insecticide that provides control of aphids and
lead to further spread of the virus. It has no
reduces whitefly populations by stopping their
impact on humans, vertebrates and plants,
feeding activity. Insects stop feeding within
although it is an eye irritant.
hours, but remain on the plant for a short time
Paecilomyces fumosoroseus strain FE 9901 (2-4 days). It should not be applied to
(NoFly) is a naturally occurring poinsettias pre-bract. On hard-to-wet plants,
entomopathogenic fungus that can infect and such as chrysanthemum and roses, add a non-
kill a range of insect pests. It is reported to ionic or organosilicone surfactant to improve
attack all insect life stages from egg to adult. coverage. It is not toxic to fish or bees and has a
The product contains live fungal spores and low mammalian toxicity (LD50: oral = 5,820;
caution must be taken when applying and dermal > 2,000). It is a potential skin sensitizer.
storing it to preserve product efficacy. The
spores are sensitive to UV light and application
is recommended in the early morning or
evening to prevent degradation.

pyrethrin (Doktor Doom, Pyganic Crop soap (Opal, PRO, or Safer’s Insecticidal
Protection) is a non-systemic insecticide that Soaps) is an organic substance consisting of
works through contact to control a large salts of oleic acid, which is a natural constituent
number of chewing and sucking insect pests. It of oils and fats. Thorough coverage of all
has a low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral surfaces of the plant is essential as it kills only
= 2,370; dermal >1,500), but it can be a skin and by contact action at the time of application and
eye irritant. It is toxic to fish and bees. has no residual effect. It may injure soft plant
tissues. Do not use on delicate ferns,
pyridaben (DYNO-Mite, Sanmite) is a nasturtiums and sweetpeas. While its
pyridazinone that acts as a mitochondrial mammalian toxicity is very low (LD50: oral
electron transport inhibitor; it blocks cell >5,000; dermal >2,000), it may cause minor lung
respiration causing the pest to lose motile co- irritation if misting occurs during application.
ordination and eventually die. It is non- Use an approved respirator. Eye exposure to
systemic with contact action, so thorough spray concentrated soap may cause irritation.
coverage is essential, especially of the lower leaf
surfaces. It has rapid knockdown of the spinosad (Conserve, Entrust, Success) is
susceptible stages and has long residual activity derived from a naturally occurring organism. It
for whiteflies. With spider mites, the most is registered for the management of sod
susceptible stages are the larval and first two webworm, eastern tent caterpillar, gypsy moth,
nymph stages. The egg stage is less susceptible tent caterpillar larvae, conifer sawflies, leaf
and the adult stage is least susceptible. If adult beetles and western flower thrips infesting
females represent more than 15% of the outdoor ornamentals and turfgrass. Uniform
coverage is critical for effective insect control.
population, then a product that provides quick
Do not spray immediately after a rainfall or if
control of adults should be used first. For
rain is expected within 48 hours of application.
whiteflies, the most susceptible stages are
Workers must not re-enter treated areas within
adults and the first two nymphal stages; the
2 days following application. It has a low
third nymph stage is less susceptible, while the
mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral >5,000). It
eggs and pupae are least susceptible. The full is highly toxic to honey bees exposed to direct
extent of its efficacy is not seen until 4-7 days spray. It does not significantly impact
after application; a point that should be predaceous arthropod complexes including
considered when evaluating treatment. It has a lady beetles, lacewings, pirate bugs and mites.
low mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral = 820- It is highly toxic to aquatic invertebrates; do not
1,350; dermal >2,000). Do not use DYNO-Mite contaminate aquatic habitats when cleaning
in successive applications to reduce the risk of and rinsing spray equipment or containers.
pest resistance. Rotate sprays with at least one
other product before using it again. Do not spiromesifen (Forbid) is a contact
insecticide/miticide with translaminar
apply more than 6 applications per year for
movement throughout the leaf surface.
perennials.
However, to assure optimum effectiveness, the
pyriproxyfen (Distance) is a juvenile hormone product should be applied to wet both the
mimic that suppresses embryogenesis and upper and lower surfaces. It is effective against
adult formation. It is registered to control whitefly nymphs and has an effect on the pupal
whiteflies on greenhouse ornamentals. It is not stage. It will not knock down adult whitefly
irritating to skin or eyes, and has a low populations. It is active on all mite
mammalian toxicity (LD50: oral > 5,000; dermal developmental stages, although juvenile stages
> 2,000). This pesticide is toxic to fish and are often more susceptible than adults. An
aquatic invertebrates. Do not apply directly to adjuvant may be used to improve coverage on
water, or to areas where surface water is hard to wet foliage. It has a low mammalian
present. It is toxic to certain beneficial insects. acute toxicity (LD50: oral >2,000; dermal >2,000)
and is an eye irritant. It is toxic to aquatic
organisms and certain beneficial organisms.

spirotetramat (Movento) is a systemic Confirm should be applied every 10-14 days as
insecticide that moves through the phloem and needed with high volume spray to run-off. Do
xylem to all plant tissues including the roots. It not use it more than four times per year. It is
inhibits lipid biosynthesis, which results in labeled for the control of armyworms,
symptoms of poisoning and subsequent insect cutworms, corn earworm, grapevine moth,
death. It is active primarily by ingestion and is cabbage loopers, tobacco budworm and
most effective on immature stages of sucking leafrollers on greenhouse ornamentals. It is
irritating to skin upon repeated and prolonged
insects. It has a low mammalian acute toxicity
contract. It has a low mammalian acute toxicity
(LD50: oral ≥5,000; dermal >4,000) but causes
(LD50: oral >5,000; dermal >5,000) and is
severe eye irritation and is a potential skin
minimally irritating to eyes. It is essentially
sensitizer.
non-toxic to adult bees. It is toxic to certain
Steinernema feltiae (Nemasys) is an aquatic invertebrates. Beneficial insects such as
entomopathogenic nematode used to control predatory mites, beetles, wasps and spiders are
the larval stage of fungus gnats in greenhouse not adversely affected, and thus its use does not
and nursery crops. The nematodes actively seek result in flare ups of aphid, mite, thrips or
target pests and penetrate via body openings. leafminer populations.
Upon entry, symbiotic bacteria are released and thiamethoxam (Actara) is a neonicotinoid
infect the host, resulting in rapid death. insecticide that controls sucking and chewing
Nematodes then reproduce in the cadaver. insects through ingestion and contact. It
Apply as a soil drench. Expect the population provides control by interfering with the insect’s
to decline 18-21 days after the first curative nervous system, which results in cessation of
treatment. Water and media temperatures must feeding. It is taken up into the leaves following
be 10-30oC. Keep the spray tank constantly a foliar application. Actara has a low
agitated to prevent the nematodes from settling mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral >5,000;
to the bottom of the tank. Apply to moist dermal >2,000) but is an eye irritant. It is highly
growing media and irrigate within one hour to toxic to bees; do not apply or allow it to drift
distribute the nematodes from the surface. Do onto blooming crops or weeds if bees are
not irrigate to the point of leaching. foraging in the area.
tebufenozide (Confirm, Mimic) mimics the trichlorfon (Dylox) is a non-systemic
action of a Lepidopteran molting hormone.
organophosphorous material with contact and
Larvae stop feeding within hours after
stomach action. It should not significantly affect
ingesting a toxic dose, although they may
beneficial insects, especially when applied at
continue moving for several days. They begin
minimum label rates. It has a moderate
to undergo an unsuccessful and lethal molt and
die within three to ten days. It is essential to mammalian acute toxicity (LD50: oral =450;
apply thorough, uniform spray coverage on dermal =2,000) and can cause irreversible eye
early larval stages. damage. Keep spray away from streams, lakes,
and ponds. It is toxic to fish, birds and other
wildlife.

Mollusk and Vertebrate Pest Management 13
Deer Field Mice (Voles)

Two species of deer are found in BC: the mule deer Field mice, also called voles (not to be confused
(including the black-tailed deer), found throughout with moles), include the Townsend’s vole on the
most of the province, and the white-tailed deer, South Coast and the meadow vole and mountain
which is abundant in the Southern Interior valleys. vole in the Southern Interior. Voles are 13-23 cm
Both kinds can cause serious damage to a variety of long, including the tail. Compared to house mice,
grasses, shrubs and trees (especially fruit trees), they have shorter ears (barely projecting above the
although some plant species are preferred over fur) and short, furry tails that are up to ½ the length
others. See Appendix Q for a listing of plant species of the body. House mice have longer, naked tails.
that are not favoured for browse by deer. In spring Field mice are mainly pests of agricultural crops,
and summer, most damage is done to new, leafy but sometimes invade gardens next to farms or
growth. In winter, buds and twigs may be eaten uncultivated fields. Their numbers fluctuate
and bark stripped off trunks and branches of trees. widely; in some years they can be abundant. They
Antler-rubbing may break branches and remove eat almost any kind of plant matter including grass,
bark. Damaged plants are set back in growth and root vegetables, plant roots, and in winter, the bark
may never develop properly. of trees and shrubs. In the winter, they will
frequently girdle the roots, crown and stems of
Management field-grown trees, especially if there is grass or
snow cover around the base of the plants. They
Fencing is the best solution for chronic deer build underground burrows, and the small burrow
damage. Woven wire fences should be at least 2.4 openings are a sure sign of field mouse activity.
m high and use a 15 cm wire mesh to keep deer out.
The mesh should be secured as close to the ground
as possible to prevent deer from crawling
Management
underneath. Solid board or panel fences need be The best control, where possible, is frequent
only about 1.5 m high, because deer are much less mowing or cultivation of vegetation within or next
likely to jump over them. Electric fences are also to crop areas. Field mice prefer the cover of tall
effective and are much less expensive. Electric grasses; they avoid areas that do not provide
fences should be 1.5-2.1 m high with 7-9 strands of adequate cover. Trapping is not often practical in
smooth, high-tensile wire at 20-30 cm spacing. A commercial crops. Ordinary mousetraps baited
high-voltage energizer must be used with this type with peanut butter, apple slices or other fruit may
of fence. For information on fencing design, consult help to reduce numbers. Cats are also effective at
the Crop Protection and Wildlife Control Fences controlling mice.
factsheet, available from Regional Offices of the
Poison baits. There are no “Domestic” labeled
Ministry of Agriculture.
rodenticides registered for field mice, and
Chemical repellents, such as putrescent whole egg rodenticides intended for house mice are ineffective
solids (e.g. Deer-Away Big Game Repellent), for field mice. Rodent Bait (zinc phosphide) is
effectively repel deer. Dormant trees and shrubs registered for the control of meadow voles in
should be dusted when moist, so that the repellent orchards and nurseries. The bait must be placed in
will adhere to the leaves and twigs. Thiram (e.g. a covered bait station to protect it from the weather
Skoot) is a rabbit repellent, but is also effective and to prevent accidental poisoning of other
against deer (see Rabbits below). Repellents may not animals. Bait stations can be easily built from metal
work if deer are numerous or very hungry. Contact or plastic pipes, tin cans, and pieces of wood, or
suppliers for additional information on the specific may be purchased commercially. They should be
products available. placed at 3-4 m intervals in areas where there are
signs of mouse activity. The disappearance of the
contents will indicate that mice are still present.
Nursery Production Guide Mollusk and Vertebrate Pest Management • 1

Take safety precautions to avoid Hantavirus. When
Mice, Rats (Coastal Area opening and cleaning buildings or storage facilities
only), and Wood Rats such as cabins, barns, garages or attics, open
windows and let the room air out for a few hours, if
Two types of rats, the roof (black) rat and the possible. If you see any signs of rodent infestation
Norway (brown) rat, infest buildings at the Coast. or dead rodents, do not sweep or vacuum, since
Both are long-tailed rodents about 40 cm long this will stir up infected dust. Instead, thoroughly
(including the tail). The roof rat is slender; it is wet the area with 10% household bleach (1 part
usually black rather than brown, and has a tail bleach to 9 parts water) or a disinfectant such as
longer than the body and big ears. The Norway rat Lysol, for at least 10 minutes. Clean up the material
has a tail shorter than the body and smaller ears. with a towel and mop or sponge with disinfectant
again. Wear rubber gloves. Clean the whole floor,
The native bushy-tailed wood rat (also called pack not just the spot where you see the droppings.
rat) is found throughout the mainland. It is similar Dispose of gloves and droppings in double plastic
in size and shape to the Norway rat, but has larger bags and bury. Wash hands thoroughly with soap
eyes and ears, softer fur, and a hairy tail. It and water.
normally lives in rockslides and other broken
terrain. The bushy-tailed wood rat often will invade Rodent-proofing buildings and eliminating sources
cabins, storage sheds and other infrequently used of food, water and shelter for rodents are the best
buildings and carry off jewelry, kitchen utensils means of controlling rats and mice. Trapping and
and other shiny objects, hence the name “pack rat.” poisoning will provide only temporary relief.
They can cause considerable damage by gnawing Eliminate water sources such as leaky taps or open
buildings or by eating stored food products. pools. Get rid of piles of lumber or discarded
material and clear vegetation and grass from
The house mouse, which is found throughout around foundations so mice will not build nests
almost all of the province, is about half the length of there. Buildings can be made rodent-proof by
a full-grown rat, and is distinguished from a young installing tight-fitting doors and windows, and wire
rat by its smaller head and feet. screen over basement windows and vents. Sheet
The deer mouse ranges in colour from grey to metal kick-plates on wooden doors will stop
reddish-brown. It has larger ears than the house rodents from gnawing through.
mouse, a white belly and white-sided tail. Although
more common in woodlands, the deer mouse can Management
also occur in urban areas. The deer mouse can
transmit Hantavirus in BC (see below). Trapping is useful when only a few rodents are
present. Traps should be baited with meat, bacon or
Rats and mice are rarely seen unless very
fish for rats, and with cheese, cake or peanut butter
numerous, but can be detected by the following
for mice. Wood rats are considered wildlife under
signs:
the Wildlife Act but property owners or occupants
 droppings (cylindrical and about 5 to 20 are allowed to trap and kill them to protect private
mm long with rounded ends in rats; about property. Wood rats are fairly easy to trap. Either a
3 mm long with pointed ends in mice), standard rat-trap (snap trap) or a live trap can be
effective. Appropriate baits include nut-meats,
 sounds (gnawing, squeaking, scampering),
bacon rind, peanut butter and oatmeal, or dried
 tracks on dusty surfaces or in snow, fruit. There are no poisons registered for wood rat
control.
 evidence of burrows or holes, or
Rodenticides are available for controlling house
 runways and greasy rub marks along walls
mice and Norway rats. Because of the wide variety
and pipes.
of trade names for rodenticides, only the common
Hantavirus gets into human lungs through names are given below. All of the poisons listed,
exposure to infected feces (droppings), urine and except for red squill, are registered for both house
saliva of the deer mouse. The deer mouse is the mouse and Norway rat control.
only known carrier in Canada, although the virus
has been found in other rodents in the United
States. Hantavirus can lead to severe respiratory
infection or death.
2 • Mollusk and Vertebrate Pest Management Nursery Production Guide

Use one of the following according to label
directions:
Management
Fencing or tree guards may be necessary for severe
Anticoagulant rodenticides (multiple doses): may
rabbit problems. A fence of 60 cm high chicken wire
require several feedings to effect a lethal dose, but
(2.5 cm mesh or smaller), fastened to the ground or
eventually cause death from internal or external
slightly buried, will keep rabbits out. Valuable trees
bleeding. The most potent anticoagulants are
may be protected by cylinders of 6 mm mesh
brodifacoum, chlorophacinone, difethialone
hardware cloth or hard plastic tree-guards, which
and diphacinone; however, less toxic
will also prevent mouse damage.
anticoagulants such as warfarin (may also include
ergocalciferol or sulfaquinoxaline) may also give Repellents that leave an unpleasant taste, such as
adequate control, and are less hazardous to Thiram-based repellents (e.g. Skoot), may be
domestic animals. Warning: Diphacinone is highly painted or sprayed on trunks and twigs of
toxic to dogs. vulnerable plants. Thiram should not be used on
edible plant parts within 14 days of harvest.
Acute rodenticides (single dose): are more toxic
and can cause death after a single feeding. Covered Trapping is permitted without a license or permit
bait stations, recommended for all rodenticides, are on rural, private land, since neither the eastern
essential with single-dose rodenticides if there is a cottontail nor the snowshoe hare is protected by
possibility of other animals being poisoned. Acute law. A permit to kill snowshoe hares is required on
rodenticides include bromethalin and zinc Crown Land. In winter, both are fairly easy to catch
phosphide. in live traps. In winter, cobs of corn or dried apples
make good bait. Trapped rabbits may either be
killed or released in a non-farming area.
Rabbits (Cottontails) and Shooting rabbits may be effective if only a few are
Hares present. Consult local authorities regarding firearm
bylaws and regulations.
Two kinds of rabbits, the eastern cottontail and the
snowshoe hare, sometimes damage nursery crops.
The eastern cottontail is found only on Vancouver Slugs and Snails
Island and in the Lower Fraser Valley. It is about
40-45 cm long and weighs 1-2 kg. It is greyish- (Mollusks)
brown with a cinnamon patch on the back of the
Slugs and snails are soft-bodied mollusks. They are
neck, and a white underside of the tail (hence
most prevalent in the spring, but can be active
“cottontail”). They eat many kinds of garden
throughout the year if the temperature and
vegetables and flowers; few garden plants are
humidity are suitable. Most will overwinter in the
immune to rabbit damage. Shrubs and trees may be
egg stage. The eggs are round, transparent or white,
damaged or even killed by rabbits chewing on bark
and are laid singly or in clutches of 3 to 50. Eggs
during the winter. Twigs clipped off neatly indicate
hatch in the spring and the hatchlings mature
rabbit damage; twigs with a ragged edge are typical
during the summer before laying eggs in the fall.
of deer damage.
Because they require moisture for survival, slugs
The snowshoe hare, found most commonly east of and snails are most active at night or during damp
the Coast Range, is a somewhat larger animal, with weather. Slugs often hide during the day in dark,
longer hind legs, and is usually white in winter. It damp, sheltered places such as under boards, pots,
sometimes damages young conifers in forest weeds and debris. In the summer, only a small
nurseries. percentage of slugs will remain above ground.
Snails can remain on plants during the day but will
withdraw into their shells on hot, dry days.
Nursery Production Guide Mollusk and Vertebrate Pest Management • 3

Slugs and snails have a diverse diet. Various Baits can be used where slugs and snails are a
species of slugs can eat algae, animal feces, serious problem. Baits containing iron phosphate
centipedes, fungi, other slugs, insects, lichens, can be used safely without the risk of poisoning
worms and plants. Slugs and snails damage many pets and wildlife. Sprinkle the bait on the surface of
plant parts, including foliage, flowers, roots and the soil around plants. It must be ingested to be
tubers. They attack woody ornamentals, especially effective; it does not kill on contact. This product is
those with foliage on the ground and herbaceous as effective as products containing metaldehyde
perennials. Damage can be most severe in and much safer to use.
greenhouses and coldframes that are continually The molluscicidal effects of metaldehyde have been
damp. They have rasping mouthparts that produce known since the 1930s. Metaldehyde disrupts the
irregular holes in leaves. Silvery, slime trails on soil, ability of slugs and snails to produce mucus, which
grass and foliage is evidence that slugs and snails reduces their mobility and ability to digest food.
are present.
Pets are attracted to metaldehyde; therefore it
should only be used in a “bait protector”. Bait
protectors can be made from a coffee can. Puncture
the lower sides of the container with a can opener.
Place the bait in the bottom of the can and replace
the lid. This method will not protect dogs, since
they can knock over the container or remove the
cover to get at the bait. If there are dogs in the area
and you wish to use metaldehyde, it is safer to use
the RTU (ready-to-use) liquid formulation.
Metaldehyde is not to be applied to plants after
edible portions have formed.
Figure 13.1. The slime trail on the daylily blooms is

a sign of slugs and snails.
Management
Slugs prefer damp, shaded areas. Removing
vegetative trash and other daytime hiding places
helps to control them.
Trapping can provide effective control in small
areas. Planks, grapefruit rinds or cabbage leaves
can be placed on the ground overnight and the next
day slugs sheltering underneath can be destroyed
(cut in half). Unlike earthworms, slugs cannot
recover from being cut in half. This method is not
practical for very small slugs. Traps baited with
fermented liquids are commercially available or
they can be made from beer or fermented yeast.
Zinc or copper strips repel slugs and can be applied
as a barrier around raised beds and greenhouses.
4 • Mollusk and Vertebrate Pest Management Nursery Production Guide

Pests of Specific Crops 14
Pesticide products are listed in alphabetical order and not by effectiveness. This is not a complete list of all product
formulations that may be registered for use on a particular crop. Product registrations and labels may change. Read the
LABEL CAREFULLY before applying any pest control product.  is used to indicate products that are classed as danger
poison.
For commercial tree fruit see also the Ministry’s Tree Fruit Production Guide. For landscape plants see also the Home &
Garden Pest Management Guide for British Columbia.
Pest Description Chemical Control Cultural

(rate per 100 L water; or per Management
unit area if indicated)
ABIES – FIR
Diseases:
Current Season Needle Necrosis: This Foliar application of calcium The cause and control of this
physiological disorder affects grand and chloride during shoot elongation in disorder is unknown. It
noble firs. Symptoms appear in late June to spring can reduce incidence, but is occurs in open fields, but not
early July on new growth and can differ often phytotoxic, so not generally in partially shaded
greatly from one tree to the other. Portions of recommended. situations.
the needles turn yellow, then tan, and finally
darken to a reddish brown. In some cases,
entire needles change colour followed by
severe needle loss.
Grovesiella Canker (Grovesiella abieticola): Flagging Trees with canker infections
and dieback of lower branches to yellowing, should be removed and
stunting and death of trees. Needles yellow burned. Do not put new
and drop. Cankers often appear at the base of plantings close to older
the trunk. The infected branch or trunk swells diseased trees.
above the canker, which appears as an
elongated depression. Shasta and white pine
are more susceptible than grand or noble fir.
Interior Needle Blight (mainly associated with Improve air circulation by
Mycosphaerella spp.): Noble and grand fir. weed control and pruning of
Random browning of older needles on lower lower branches.
branches in late summer/fall. Needles remain
attached to the branch and do not shed as
with physiological stress. Black fungal
fruiting bodies appear on underside of
needles in spring.
Needle Casts; Foliar and Twig Blights (Lirula spp., BANNER MAXX: 35 mL (for use Needle cast and blight fungi
Lophodermium spp. and Rhizosphaera spp.): on Christmas trees only) on fir are usually weak
Needles turn brown or yellow and drop, and COPPER SPRAY 50: 400 g pathogens or secondary
twigs dieback. Black fungal fruiting bodies FLINT 50WG: 210g/ha invaders following
can be found on dying needles and twigs. Apply when new growth starts in environmental damage.
Phaeocrytopus nudus is a common secondary spring and repeat during
saprophyte on dead twigs and needles. prolonged rainy periods.
Lophodermium Needlecast:
Daconil 2787F: 2.4-4.8 L/ha
Bravo Ultrex 90 SDG: 1.3-2.7 kg/ha
Daconil Ultrex: 1.45-2.9 kg/ha
Nursery Production Guide Pests of Specific Crops • 1

Phytophthora Root Rot and Shoot Blight See General Disease Management: Do not plant Abies spp. on
(Phytophthora spp.): Death of seedlings; Root Rots Caused by Phytophthora poorly drained soils.
browning and flagging of lower branches on and Pythium, Chapter 9.
older trees; stunting and sunken cankers on
stems or on trunk just above soil line. There is
swelling above the canker and wood is stained
brown under the bark, unlike Grovesiella. Trees
are usually affected within 3-4 years of
planting and often in pockets or groups.
Rusts: Remove alternate hosts
Fir-Fern Rust (Urediniopsis spp.) within 300 m of fir. Cool,
Fir-Bracken Rust (Urediniopsis spp.) moist spring weather
Fir-Fireweed Rust (Pucciniastrum spp.) promotes infections.
Fir-Blueberry Rust (Pucciniastrum spp.)
Fir-Willow Rust (Melampsora sp.)
Fir-Broom Rust (Melampsorella spp.)
White or yellow, cylindrical fungal structures
called “aecia” appear on the underside of
needles. Alternate hosts (fern, fireweed-
Epilobium spp. and willow) have yellow leaf
spots. Severe infestations can cause needle
drop, growth loss or death of trees.
Scleroderris Canker (Gremmeniella abietina): Does
not occur in BC. Causes shoot blight and
cankers on pines and balsam fir in Eastern
Canada.
Seedling Blight (Sirococcus conigenus): See under PICEA - SPRUCE and General Disease Management: Sirococcus Blight,
Chapter 9.
Insects:
Balsam Gall Midge (Paradiplosis tumifex): The adult MOVENTO 240 SC: 585 mL/ha
midge appears when fir buds are developing.
The female lays eggs in the opening buds. The
larva feeds at the base of a needle, initiating the
growth of gall tissue that will eventually enclose
the larva. Galls are formed on current season
needles. Infested needles yellow and abscise in
the fall. The larvae overwinter in the soil.
Balsam Woolly Adelgid (Adelges piceae): Branches All Abies must be grown
and tips become swollen, which results in a under permit. See British
“bird-claw” appearance. White woolly masses Columbia Plant Protection
appear on bark. Most severe damage on Fraser Regulations, Chapter 2.
and alpine fir.
ACER - MAPLE
Diseases:
Anthracnose (Kabatiella apocrypta and Discula spp. BANNER MAXX: 28 mL Remove dead and damaged
(Apiognomonia)): Brown to white irregular Apply every 14 days. Do not twigs and those with visible
blotches appear on the leaves. Twigs dieback. apply more than 4 times per year. cankers to reduce inoculum.
The causal fungus overwinters on twig cankers Minimize sprinkler irrigation
from which spores are splashed when hit by or schedule applications so
rain or irrigation water. the foliage has opportunity
to dry off quickly. Rake and
burn fallen leaves.
2 • Pests of Specific Crops Nursery Production Guide

Bacterial Blight (Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae): See General Disease Management: All maples except sugar
Infection occurs in cool, wet weather in spring Bacterial Blight, Chapter 9. maple (A. saccharum) are
and fall. Recent research in Oregon suggests susceptible. A. palmatum
that most infections on maple occur in the fall. ‘Sanga Kaku’ and ‘Oshi Beni’
are highly susceptible.
Cinnamon Canker or Coral Spot Canker (Nectria Prune out affected branches
cinnabarina): Orange-red or pink-coral coloured and twigs. Protect young
fungal “cushions” appear on dead or dying trees from winter injury.
branches. This is a weak pathogen or saprophyte
which usually affects branches killed or
damaged by other factors, such as winter injury.
Leaf Scorch (drought and Xyella fastidiosa bacterium): There is no chemical control for Avoid planting susceptible
Browning and withering of leaves affecting the the bacterial disease. varieties in areas where they
margins first and the veins last is common on will be exposed to hot, dry
red and lace leaf varieties of A. palmatum. It is winds. Plants in containers
usually caused by heat and drought. A or in well-drained soil must
bacterium called Xyella can also contribute to be kept well-watered during
leaf scorch on landscape trees. Xyella has been hot weather.
found on Vancouver Island.
Nectria Canker (Nectria galligena): Causes blistered Prune out dead and diseased
bark and sunken, girdling cankers on twigs, twigs promptly, disinfect
limbs and trunks. Leaves and branches dieback pruners between trees. Prune
above the cankered area. Edges of cankers only during dry weather. Do
become rolled and swollen in the second year not leave long stubs when
after infection. Infection is through pruning or removing the rootstock top
cutting wounds or new buds. Bright red fungal growth after the scion has
structures (perithecia) may be seen in fall at the started to grow.
edge of cankers.
Tar Spot (Rhytisma acerinum): Causes circular black BANNER MAXX: 28 mL Collect and dispose of fallen
spots on the leaves in late summer of Norway, COMPASS 50WG: 14-21 g leaves and prune trees to
red, silver and sugar maples. The pathogen improve air circulation in the
overwinters on fallen leaves. Spores spread from crown.
the soil to young leaves by wind or rain splash.
Wilt (Verticillium dahliae): See General Disease Management: Verticillium Wilt, Chapter 9. Do not plant maples in soil
where potatoes, berries or
Verticillium-infected trees
have been grown.
Insects and Mites:
Boxelder Bug (Leptocoris rubrolineatus): The adult bug SEVIN T&O: 230-350 mL
is 1.2 cm long, black with red stripes on the Spray when insects are first seen.
mid-section of the body and red veins on
wings. Nymphs are bright red. Associated with
key-bearing boxelder trees. Occasionally
hibernate in houses.
Forest Tent Caterpillar (Malacosoma disstria): See General Insect and Mite Remove overwintering egg
Caterpillars feed on leaves in summer. In the Management: Tent Caterpillars and masses encircling twigs.
Interior, they occur in the spring and do not Skeletonizers, Chapter 11. During the growing season,
make tents. prune off branches with tents.
Maple Bladder Gall Mite (Vasates quadripedes): It feeds ACECAP 97: Apply only if very These mites do not damage
on the undersides of maple leaves in the spring high populations of galls develop landscape trees but can be
causing numerous galls or a red, fuzzy growth on foliage. For rate, see label or unsightly on nursery stock.
on the leaf tissue. The `gall’ eventually surrounds General Insect and Mite
the mite. The mite exits the gall before leaf fall Management: Aphids, Chapter 11.
and overwinters at the base of the buds. There
are several generations per year.

AESCULUS - HORSE CHESTNUT
Diseases:
Leaf Blotch (Guignardia aesculi): Reddish-brown leaf Nursery or newly-transplanted Rake and destroy fallen
spots and blotches with bright yellow margins trees: leaves where the fungus
appear in summer. Very similar to scorch (see DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL overwinters. Established
below) but with small black fungal fruiting DACONIL Ultrex: 150 g landscape trees may be
bodies (pycnidia) in the centre of the spot. Apply at bud break and repeat infected every year without
Pycnidia develop early in June and release every 7-14 days as needed. serious injury or decline.
spores that initiate secondary infection cycles Fungicide applications are
throughout the summer in wet weather. not usually necessary or
practical on large, landscape
trees.
Leaf Scorch (environmental): Large, reddish-brown May appear on susceptible
blotches with bright yellow haloes appear trees every year, but is rarely
during hot weather in summer, often on damaging in the long term.
margins of leaves. No black fungal fruiting Good growing conditions
bodies are present, unlike Guignardia blotch (see and proper watering may
above). reduce the severity of
symptoms.
AMELANCHIER - SASKATOON
Diseases:
Black Leaf and Witches’ Broom (Apiosporina collinsii): Remove and destroy all
Typical “Witches’ broom” symptoms are on infected seedlings and
new growth. Suckers are infected. Infected transplants. Prune shoots 10-
leaves roll downward and become covered 20 cm below the infected
with a black mould on the upper surface and a area on mature plants,
grey felt-like mat on the lower surface. It has usually after leaf drop in the
been found occasionally on fruit in the Interior. fall. Remove and burn all
infected leaves and
prunings, and any plants
with crown infections.
Leaf and Berry Spot (Entomosporium mespili): Small, FUNGINEX DC: 300 mL. Apply Increase air circulation and
angular leaf spots on foliage and fruit. Worse once between bud break and reduce leaf wetness by
under high moisture and warm temperatures. white tip stage; 60 days to spacing nursery plants,
Petioles, stems and flower stalks may also be harvest. controlling weeds, and
infected causing leaf and fruit drop. KUMULUS DF: 7.5 kg/ha. Apply avoiding overhead
at flower bud break and 10-14 irrigation. Remove and burn,
day intervals. bury or compost fallen
leaves if severe disease; or
TOPAS 250E: 500 mL/ha; apply 3
disc under in larger
times a year at white tip, petal
orchards. Prune out lower
drop and green fruit stage.
branches in orchards.
Monilinia Brown Rot and Mummyberry (Monilinia No fungicides are specifically Remove and burn, bury or
amelacchieris): Brown spots on leaves and fruit, registered for this disease, but compost mummified berries
mummified fruit. Favoured by humid weather application of TOPAS 250E for and fallen leaves.
and insect damage. Can also cause blossom leaf and berry spot (above)
blight and twig infections. should help to control Monilina
rot also.
Powdery Mildew (Microsphaera podosphaera or Erysiphe spp.): See General Disease Management: Powdery Mildew, Chapter 9.

Rusts: Fungal fruiting bodies called “aecia” occur in See General Disease Management: Remove the juniper hosts
yellow-brown leaf spots. Leaf drop, swelling of Rusts, Chapter 9. listed below from within 2
infected petioles, and mummification of fruit are km of Amelanchier plantings.
common symptoms. The alternate host (juniper)
is required for infection to recur each year.
Common rusts (Gymnosporangium spp.) that
produce “aecia” on Amelanchier in W. Canada:
Clavariform Rust (Gymnosporangium clavariiforme): Yellow-brown leaf spot; fruit Remove Juniperus communis.
mummification. Common in Coastal BC. Aecia also occur on Crataegus (hawthorn)
and other Rosaceae. Alternate hosts are in Juniperus Sect. Oxycedrus.
Inconspicuous Juniper Rust (G. inconspicuum): Swelling of petioles; Remove J. scopulorum.
mummification of fruit. Occasional in Southern Interior only. Aecial hosts are
Amelanchier and hawthorn. Alternate hosts are Juniperus Sect. Sabina.
Juniper Broom Rust (G. nidus-avis): Common in Southern Interior. Other aecial Remove J. horizontalis and
hosts are quince and mountain ash. Alternate hosts are in Juniperus Sect. Sabina. J. scopulorum.
Nelson’s Juniper Rust (G. nelsonii): Yellow leaf spot. Common in Southern Interior. Remove J. horizontalis and
Aecia on Amelanchier only. Alternate hosts are in Juniperus Sect. Sabina. J. scopulorum.
Quince Rust (G. clavipes): Swelling of petioles; mummification of fruit. Not Remove all junipers from
common in BC. Aecia also occur on many other Rosaceae species including quince, within 2 km of Amelanchier
pear, apple, cotoneaster and hawthorn. Alternate hosts are in Juniperus. plantings.
ANDROMEDA POLIFOLIA - BOG ROSEMARY
Diseases:
Red Leaf Spot (Exobasidium vaccinii): Red circular Overwinter container stock in
spots appear on upper side of leaves followed polyhouses to help prevent
by defoliation. Symptoms usually appear in the disease spread; avoid overhead
early spring, although infection probably watering and reduce humidity
occurred during the previous fall/winter rains. in greenhouses.
ARCTOSTAPHYLOS - KINNIKINNICK
Diseases:
Root Rot (Pythium/Phytophthora spp.): Soft, brown See General Disease Management: Damping Off and Stem Rot of
roots on container plants. Basal rot of cuttings Cuttings and Root Rots Caused by Phytophthora and Pythium,
and poor rooting. Chapter 9.
AZALEA and RHODODENDRON
Diseases:
Cylindrocladium Blight and Root Rot PHYTON 27: 125-275 mL
(Cylindrocladium scoparium): The pathogen
attacks a broad range of ornamentals, causing
leaf spots, stem cankers, root rot and wilt. It is
spread in soil and water, and by wind. Disease
is favoured by high humidity and high
temperature. It overwinters as microsclerotia in
soil and infected plant tissue.
Damping Off/Basal Rot of Cuttings See General Disease Management: Damping Off and Stem Rot of
(Pythium/Phytophthora spp. and other fungi): Cuttings, Chapter 9.
See also Root Rot, Wilt and Foliar Blight, below.
Leaf Burn (Environmental): Leaves become brown Grow sun-sensitive varieties
then grey to white. Margins and interveinal in partial shade, and winter-
areas are normally affected first. Leaf burn may sensitive varieties in
be due to summer sunburn, winter desiccation sheltered locations. Avoid
or salt injury. salt injury from overfeeding.

Leaf Gall (Exobasidium vaccinii): This fungus Do not overhead irrigate
overwinters on azalea bark and bud scales, where leaf gall has been a
infecting opening buds in spring. Leaves problem. Remove and destroy
become fleshy, thickened, and covered in a leaves with galls as they
white bloom of spores. appear. Reduce greenhouse
humidity.
Leaf Spots (Phyllosticta, Colletotrichum spp. and other Commercial nurseries: Collect and compost, bury or
fungi): These fungi are usually weak pathogens Application of DACONIL 2787 burn affected leaves and
that infect winter or sun-damaged leaves. Spots for foliar Phytophthora blight (see fallen leaves. Provide good
and blotches are dark brown, zonate and may below) should provide some plant care and proper
cover half the leaf area. Black fungal fruiting control of these diseases also. nutrition. Plant sun-sensitive
bodies are often present in the spots in humid (See Root Rot, Wilt and Foliar varieties in shaded areas and
weather. Blight, below.) protect frost-sensitive
varieties from winter injury.
Lime-induced Chlorosis (Iron Deficiency): Leaves Apply an iron chelate foliar If soil is high in lime,
yellow between the veins, from margins fertilizer spray or soil incorporate organic matter or
inward. Veins remain green. application. a sulphur-containing
fertilizer. Work soil shallowly
to avoid damaging feeder
roots close to surface.
Powdery Mildew (Microsphaera spp.): Large brown See General Disease Management: Powdery Mildew, Chapter 9.
areas or faint yellow spots may appear on
leaves in early spring. White powdery fungal
growth may be on the underside of these areas.
Root Rot, Wilt and Foliar Blight (Phytophthora spp.): Foliar blight: Use disease-free stock. Place
Plants wilt and leaves curl and droop. Roots are DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL containers on coarse, well-
brown and soft, sometimes only on one side of DACONIL Ultrex: 150 g drained beds. Avoid heavy,
the plant. The rot may extend into the crown, May discolour blooms. wet soils for field growing.
where the advancing discolouration shows a Soil drench: See Appendix H for a list of
distinct line with healthy tissue. Leaf and stem TRUBAN 30WP: 0.6-0.9 kg/100 m2 Rhododendron species and
blight may occur without root rot. Symptoms TRUBAN 25EC: 115-240 mL/40 m2 varieties that are resistant to
are blackening of leaves, stems and petioles. root rot.
Rust (Chrysomyxa spp.): Rust first appears as yellow SULPHUR (DOMESTIC): 0.4 - 0.9 Plants growing in crowded,
spots on the upper leaf surface and brown to % or other formulations. See label damp or shady locations are
purple spots on the lower surface. Blisters form for rates and application. more likely to become
on the lower surface, which rupture to expose infected. Collect and destroy
orange-red pustules. Several generations can infected leaves. See General
occur in one growing season. It will overwinter Disease Management: Rusts,
on rhododendron and azalea and cause new Chapter 9.
infections each spring. Spruce may be an
alternate host for some of these rust species.
Tissue Proliferation (Genetic or Physiological Provide good growing
Disorder): A large gall occurs at the base of conditions. Rogue out
rhododendron stems that resembles crown gall affected plants if desired.
infection. Small shoots often develop from the
gall. Galls may also be present on stems.
Growth is not usually affected, but large galls
may cause gradual decline of the plant and
stems may break off at gall sites.
Insects:
Lace Bugs (Stephanitis pyrioides): Small white spots See General Insect and Mite Management: Lace Bugs, Chapter 11.
appear in a dense mass on leaves in early
spring. Damage resembles mite injury. Tiny
lace bug nymphs can be seen on the underside
of damaged leaves.

Mealybugs: These scale-like insects have a soft scale See General Insect and Mite Management: Mealybugs, Chapter 11.
that is covered in white, powdery wax. They
feed on the sap of plants and produce
honeydew. The honeydew attracts ants and
often leads to the growth of sooty mold.
Affected plants appear unthrifty and yellow.
Root Weevils: Larvae girdle roots and crown tissue, See General Insect and Mite Management: Root Weevils, Chapter 11.
and the adults notch leaf margins.
BERBERIS – BARBERRY
Diseases:
Leaf Spot/Anthracnose (Phyllosticta spp./Gloeosporium berberidis): See Mahonia.
BETULA – BIRCH
Diseases:
Leaf Blister (Taphrina spp.): This fungal disease Prune out infected leaves and
related to peach leaf curl causes red blisters and twigs if practical and rake
curling of leaves. fallen leaves.
Insects:
Apple & Thorn Skeletonizer and Other Caterpillars: See General Insect and Mite Management: Tent Caterpillars and
Caterpillars are about 12 mm long, yellowish to Skeletonizers, Chapter 11.
greenish with many black dots. They begin
feeding on underside of leaves, later moving to
upper surfaces. Silken webs are formed, curling
the leaves. The feeding “skeletonizes” leaves.
Birch Leafminer (Fenusa pusilla): The adult is a black See General Insect and Mite Management: Leafminer/Needle Miners,
sawfly (3 mm long) that lays eggs in young Chapter 11.
leaves. The white larvae mine the leaves, which
turn brown. There are 2 generations per season.
Bronze Birch Borer (Agrilus anxius): Usually attacks DURSBAN WSP: 44.8 g Drought-stressed trees are
weak or injured trees. The adult is a 13 mm PRO DURSBAN TURF: 50 mL more susceptible. Keep trees
long, olive-bronze beetle. Adults appear in If insecticide treatment is healthy to prevent borer
May-June and lay eggs in bark crevices. Larvae necessary, make three invasion (e.g. provide with
(grubs) up to 15 mm long, chew tunnels under applications at 2-3 week optimum fertilizer and water).
the bark, girdling twigs and branches and intervals during June and July Prune, burn or chip
causing the upper part of the tree or branch to to control adults before they lay wilted/dead branches to
dieback. Chlorotic leaves and sparse upper eggs. Thorough coverage is destroy larvae in the wood.
branches are the first symptoms. Lumpy bark important. Insecticides will not Appendix A ranks
and half-moon-shaped beetle exit holes can be kill grubs under the bark. susceptibility of white-barked
found. birch to birch borer.
BUXUS – BOXWOOD
Diseases:
Boxwood Blight (Cylindrocladium buxicola): It was first DACONIL 2787: 250 mL Inspect incoming plants for
detected in North America in 2011. The SWITCH 62.5: 100 g symptoms and isolate from
pathogen is spread by wind-driven rain and NOTE: These are emergency existing boxwood stock for at
splashing water. Symptoms include brown leaf registrations that expire on least 3 weeks. Sanitize pruning
spots, black streaks on stems, and rapid December 31, 2013. tools and collect leaf debris. Do
defoliation. Clusters of spores are produced by not plant new boxwoods into
the white fungal growth (mycelium) on the landscapes with mature
underside of leaves under warm and humid boxwoods.
conditions. It does not infect roots. It
overwinters in the plant and leaf debris.

Pest Description Chemical Control Cultural Management
(rate per 100 L water; or per
Volutella Leaf and Stem Blight (Pseudonectria Prune and dispose of dead
rousseliana): Causes branch dieback and leaves branches and leaves in the
on affected branches to yellow and then turn crown. Maintain good air
straw-tan in color. Diagnostic pink fungal circulation to promote rapid
spore-producing structures develop on the drying of foliage.
underside of affected leaves.
Insects:
Boxwood Leafminer (Monarthropalpus buxi): Apply an insecticide as soon as Gather and dispose of fallen
Leafminers overwinter in the larval stage in the growth starts in the spring. See leaves to reduce the number of
leaves. In April they pupate in an orange- General Insect and Mite leafminers.
coloured casing and emerge as a gnat-like fly Management: Leafminer / Needle
when Weigela begins to bloom. Eggs are laid in Miners, Chapter 11.
the current year’s foliage. Damage is from the
larvae that hatch and feed within the leaves.
Boxwood Psyllid (Psylla buxi): Eggs, orange in colour, SEVIN T&O: 230-350 mL; spray
overwinter between bud scales. Nymphs when new growth begins, or
emerge when the buds open. Terminal leaves when the insect or damage is
become cupped and protect the feeding insects. first seen.
Adults, greenish jumping “plant lice”, appear
in late spring.
CALLUNA - HEATHER
Diseases:
Root Rot (Phytophthora spp.): Infection first occurs in For bed and container-grown plants, see General Disease
fibrous roots, then spreads to the entire root Management: Root Rot Caused by Phytophthora and Pythium, Chapter
system and crown. Individual branches 9.
dieback or yellow, followed by plant death. For cutting propagation, see Damping Off and Basal Rot of Cuttings,
Chapter 9.
CAMELLIA
Diseases:
Botrytis Grey Mould (Botrytis cinerea): Flowers, buds, See General Disease Management: Botrytis Blight and Storage Moulds,
leaves and petioles brown and drop under high Chapter 9.
humidity. Dead plant parts are covered with a
grey to brown, fuzzy mould.
Bud Drop/Brown Petals (Environmental): Flower Plant in sheltered areas in well-
bud drop may occur if plants are located in drained soils that have good
sites exposed to cold, dry winds or summer organic matter content. To
heat. Bud drop can also be caused by low avoid frost damage, choose
winter temperatures, over-watering or drought sites that do not receive early
stress. Many older varieties are not winter morning sun. Select hardy
hardy in BC and regularly drop flower buds. varieties. Water during hot, dry
Bud drop will also occur if more buds develop weather.
than the plant can support. Brown petals result
from spring frost damage to flower buds.
Flower and Petal Blight (Ciborinia camellias CAPTAN 50-WP: 200 g Remove and destroy infected
(Sclerotinia camelleae)): Only flowers are CAPTAN 80-WP: 125 g flowers. Rake and burn old
infected. Small brown spots on petals later MAESTRO 80DF: 125 g leaves and infected flowers. Do
enlarge until the whole flower browns. Hard, not compost. Remove surface
brown to black fungal bodies (sclerotia) soil beneath heavily infected
develop on the base of old infected flowers. plants.
These can survive in soil for several years.

Insects:
Mealybugs: These scale-like insects are covered in See General Insect and Mite Management: Mealybugs, Chapter 11.
white, powdery wax. They feed on plant sap
and produce honeydew, which attracts ants
and leads to the growth of sooty mold.
Affected plants appear unthrifty and yellow.
Root Weevils: Both black vine and strawberry root See General Insect and Mite Management: Root Weevils, Chapter 11.
weevils attack camellia. The adults feed on
leaves; larvae on roots and the base of stems.
CANNA LILY
Diseases:
Canna Yellow Mottle Virus (Badnavirus): It was Remove and destroy infected
detected in the Province in 2007. The plants. It is important to use
symptoms include yellowing and mottling of virus free stock for production.
leaf veins. It is reported to only infect Canna
lilies. It is spread by propagating from infected
stock plants. Insects have not been shown to
transmit this virus. Canna Mosaic Virus is also
known to infect cannas in North America.
CEDRUS - ATLAS CEDAR, DEODARCEDAR, CEDAR of LEBANON
Diseases:
Tipblight (environmental Injury plus Sirococcus and COPPER SPRAY 50: 400 g Prune out infected twigs.
Sclerophoma spp. fungi): Twig tips dieback in Apply when new growth starts Protect small trees from frost
early spring, often forming a “hook”. Damage in the spring and repeat 3-4 damage, if possible. The
can be extensive in years with warm winters times at 10 day intervals. disease is much less severe in
and occasional frosts, and very wet springs. warm, dry springs.
Both fungi have been found associated with the
disease in the Pacific Northwest.
CEANOTHUS
Diseases:
Basal Rot of Stem Cuttings (Pythium/Phytophthora spp. and other fungi): See General Disease Management: Damping Off
and Stem Rot of Cuttings, Chapter 9.
CHAMAECYPARIS - FALSE CYPRESS, YELLOW CEDAR, PORT-ORFORD
CEDAR, LAWSON’S CYPRESS
Diseases:
Cypress Root Rot (Phytophthora lateralis primarily; There is no effective fungicide Use Lawson’s cypress that is
also Phytophthora cinnamomi and other spp.): treatment. grafted onto a resistant
Roots of Lawson’s cypress become infected by rootstock. Chamaecyparis
Phytophthora during periods of high soil nootkatensis, C. pisifera and C.
moisture or flooding. Infection moves into thyoides are resistant, but the
larger roots and finally into the base of the tree, graft union may not be long-
causing a dark discolouration of the sapwood. lived.
Foliage begins to lose colour, turning In the landscape, do not plant
completely brown within a few months. Large, Lawson’s cypress in areas
healthy trees often die completely in one subject to flooding. Replace
growing season once infection sets in. dead trees with resistant
species, such as Thuja plicata.

Foliar Blights (Kabatina thujae, Seiridium cardinale and COPPER SPRAY 50: 400 g Avoid crowding and overhead
Seiridium unicorne): Foliage on individual If disease occurs every year, watering. Avoid drought
branches turns yellow, then brown to grey spray once prior to fall rains stress. Prune out affected
before shattering, eventually leaving large bare and every 14 days in spring to branches below cankers.
areas. Twig canker/dieback often occurs on protect new growth. Sanitize pruning tools between
new growth. These fungi also cause foliar cuts with 10% bleach, Lysol or
blights on Thuja. other disinfectant.
Insects:
Cypress Tip Moth (Argyresthia cupressella): See If damage is slight, infected
description under JUNIPERUS - JUNIPER. foliage can be pruned out in
mid-summer. See under
JUNIPERUS – JUNIPER.
Juniper Scale (Carulaspis juniperi): This scale attacks See General Insect and Mite Management: Scales, Chapter 11.
cones, twigs and needles, causing bushes to
turn greyish or yellow. Little new growth is
produced and individual branches can die.
Little honeydew is generated. The adult scale is
grey and round. Crawlers appear in June.
CLEMATIS
Diseases:
Botrytis Blight (Botrytis cinerea): Is a common cause SENATOR 70WP: 65-85 g See General Disease
of leaf blight on cuttings and greenhouse- ROVRAL 50WP-WDG: 100 g Management: Botrytis Blight
grown plants. It causes large, necrotic leaf Crop injury may occur. Test on a and Storage Moulds, Chapter 9
lesions and dieback of petioles, often in small area first before treating and Stem Rot and Leaf Spot
conjunction with Ascochyta. A grey, fuzzy entire crop. (below).
mould appears on dead tissue in humid
conditions.
Powdery Mildew (Erysiphe polygoni): Leaf and flower See General Disease Management: Powdery Mildew, Chapter 9.
surfaces become covered with white powdery
patches. Often occurs or is more severe on
plants grown in shade.
Stem Rot and Leaf Spot (“Clematis Wilt”) (Ascochyta SENATOR 70WP: 65-85 g Use disease-free stock plants
clematidina): Attacks the roots, crown and stem and maintain strict sanitation
near the soil line. Individual shoots wilt at propagation. Remove and
suddenly when stems are infected and girdled destroy diseased plants.
at the base. Wounds and warm, wet conditions Reduce greenhouse humidity
favour infection. On leaves, small water-soaked and overhead watering as
spots with reddish margins enlarge to form much as possible. The disease
brown circular/oval lesions. Black fungal is usually not a problem in the
fruiting bodies called “pycnidia” can landscape, since the humidity
sometimes be seen on infected tissue. is often too low for infection
to occur.
In Europe, there are reports of
a similar disease (“clematis
wilt”) being caused by a
Coniothyrium fungus. This
disease is not present in North
America.

CORNUS - DOGWOOD
Diseases:
Anthracnose (Discula destructiva): Large wedge- Nursery crops: Do not grow or sell highly
shaped blotches appear on leaves in spring. BANNER MAXX: 28 g susceptible varieties. On small
Severe defoliation and twig cankers may result. Apply every 14 days; no more plants isolated from large
If repeated for several years, the trees may than 4 applications per year. infected trees, picking off the
weaken and eventually die. Cornus ‘Eddie’s NOVA 40W: 34 g first diseased leaves in spring
White Wonder’, C. florida (Eastern Dogwood) may be beneficial. Raking and
NOVA and BANNER have the
and C. kousa (Japanese Dogwood) are more burning fallen leaves may
same mode of action. To prevent
resistant than C. nuttallii (Western Dogwood). significantly reduce
disease resistance, do not
overwintering inoculum. If
alternate these products.
severe disease continues,
Landscape: remove and replace with
Dormant sprays with lime more resistant varieties.
sulphur, or application of
fungicides as recommended for
Septoria Leaf Spot (see below)
may be helpful.
Crown Canker (Phytophthora cactorum): This soil- There are no effective chemical controls.
borne organism infects the base of the trunk
(crown) at the soil line, either through the roots Management: Once this disease appears in a nursery, a
or through injury to the bark. Infected trees lack conscientious clean-up and sanitation program is required. Avoid
vigour and slowly dieback. Wood beneath the injury to the bark of established trees. Most infections of mature
bark of cankers is discoloured. The tree dies trees occur through wounds. Surgery of small cankers can
when the canker finally girdles the trunk. prolong tree life. Clean out cankers during dry weather, paint
with shellac, then with tree emulsion. Leave wounds exposed to
air during summer. Do not cover with soil.
Phyllosticta Leaf Spot (Phyllosticta): The symptoms Water early in morning to
include circular to angular leaf spots with minimize the period of leaf
purple borders that develop in late summer wetness.
and fall. Collect and dispose of leaves
in the fall.
Powdery Mildew (Microsphaera spp.): See General Disease Management: Powdery Mildew, Chapter 9. Information on the
susceptibility of Cornus species to powdery mildew is included in Appendix C.
Septoria Leaf Spot (Septoria spp.): Angular, greyish DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL Rake up and burn, bury or
spots with dark purple margins appear on DACONIL Ultrex: 150 g compost fallen leaves.
leaves. Black fungal fruiting bodies (pycnidia) Apply at early bloom. Repeat
may be seen in these spots in humid weather. every 7-14 days as needed.
NOVA 40W: 34 g
Insects:
Dogwood Sawfly (Macremphytus tarsatus): The larvae See General Insect and Mite
skeletonize the leaves of Cornus species, in Management: Sawflies, Chapter 11.
particular C. racemosa and C. sericea. Look for
the larvae on the underside of leaves. First
instars are almost translucent yellow, while
second instars appear to be covered with a
chalky powder. The last instar is 2.5 cm long
and is creamy-yellow with a black head and
black spots. The larvae overwinter in decaying
wood on the ground. Adult sawflies emerge
the following spring.

CORYLUS - HAZELNUT
Diseases:
Bacterial Blight (Xanthomonas arboricola pv. corylina): COPPER SPRAY 50: 300-900 g See the Ministry’s Hazelnut
New buds and shoots are blighted and one- depending on tree size. Apply Pest Management Guide.
and two-year-old twigs may have sunken before fall rains, at ¾ leaf fall and Protect trees from sunscald
purple-brown cankers. Trees may be girdled before spring bud break. during the first few years. The
and killed at the base of the trunk (crown) Maximum 3 applications per bacterium infects through
during the first 10 years. Tissue under the bark year. wounds, so disinfect pruners
of cankers and infected crowns is reddish- between cuts. Prune out
brown. Leaves may have small (2-3 mm), infected branches 60-90 cm
angular, water-soaked spots that turn reddish- below lesions. ‘Barcelona’ is
brown. Roots are seldom infected. highly susceptible; ‘Du Chilly’
is susceptible; ‘Daviana’ is
intermediate and ‘Hall’s
Giant’ is resistant.
Eastern Filbert Blight (Anisogramma anomala): BRAVO 500: 6.72 L/ha If you see suspicious
Infected branches show up from July to COPPER SPRAY 50: 300-900 g. symptoms, contact the
September when leaves turn brown but remain Apply from bud swell to bud Ministry’s Plant Pathologist in
on the branch. Oblong, raised bumps (fungal break at 10-14 day intervals; up Abbotsford. The CFIA has
fruiting bodies) in relatively straight rows to 3 applications per year. Use initiated the process to
begin to form under the bark of infected low rate on small trees and high deregulate the disease.
branches in June. By August the bumps are rate for large trees. ‘Daviana’, ‘Butler’ and ‘Ennis’
white, football shaped structures that have FLINT 50WG: 140-280g/ha are highly susceptible;
broken through the bark. These fungal ‘Barcelona’ is moderately
QUADRIS: 90 mL. From bud
structures turn black as they mature in the fall. susceptible; and ‘Willamette’
swell to bud break
and ‘Hall’s Giant’ are
(approximately mid-March to
resistant. Ornamental
mid-May), apply at 7-10 day
contorted hazelnuts are also
intervals prior to disease
susceptible.
development.
COTONEASTER
Diseases:
Bacterial Blight (Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae): See General Disease Management: Bacterial Blight/Canker, Chapter 9.
New growth wilts and turns black in the
spring. The disease may occur at any time in
propagation houses. It is common at the Coast.
Dark Berry (Phytophthora cactorum): Berries turn Infection can be reduced by
brown to black and eventually shrivel up. mulching to prevent soil
water splashing and by
planting in sunny locations
with good air circulation.
Fire Blight (Erwinia amylovora): Flowers and new See General Disease Management: Fire Blight, Chapter 9.
shoots wilt suddenly and turn brown. Dead
leaves hang downward on affected twigs. This
disease is rare at the Coast but common in the
Interior.
Scab (Venturia sp.): This fungus causes shedding of Copper sprays applied for fire Rake and burn, bury or compost
blossoms, and dark, blotchy spots on leaves blight may also give some fallen leaves and fruit. A similar
and fruit. Diseased leaves can be curled and control of scab. fungus causes scab on other
distorted. New infections can occur whenever Rosaceae. See under MALUS –
there is a moderate to prolonged rainy period APPLE and CRABAPPLE.

Insects:
Cotoneaster Webworm (Athrips rancidella): The moth SEVIN T&O: 230-350 mL Remove infested leaves if
is blackish-brown with a 12 mm wingspan. Apply when leaves are opening in damage is minor.
Damage is caused in late May and June by May, and in late July and August. See General Insect and Mite
chocolate-brown larvae, up to 12 mm long. The Crop injury may occur. Test on a Management: Caterpillars and
larvae skeletonize leaf surfaces, foraging from small area first, before spraying Moths, Chapter 11.
silken webs spun on foliage and twigs. Eggs the entire crop. Do not spray
are yellowish-red and laid in June and July. during bloom to avoid bee kills.
CRATAEGUS - HAWTHORN
Diseases:
Fire Blight (Erwinia amylovora): See General Disease Management: Fire Blight, Chapter 9.
Leaf Spot (Fabrea Blight) (Diplocarpon mespili DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL Rake up and burn, bury or
(Entomosporium mespili)): This is the most DACONIL Ultrex: 150 g compost fallen leaves to
serious disease of Crataegus in Coastal BC. First DITHANE DG, M-45 or WSP remove the overwintering
symptoms are small, angular, reddish spots on 80WP: 275-350 g fungus.
the upper side of leaves in spring and early PENNCOZEB 80WP: 275-350 g
summer. Defoliation occurs in mid-summer. Apply when leaves unfurl in spring
and every 7-14 days in wet weather.
Dormant:
Application of lime sulphur may
help in control.
Rust (Gymnosporangium spp.): Crataegus is a common See General Disease Management: Avoid growing hawthorns
host of saskatoon rusts (see under Rusts, Chapter 9. close to junipers.
AMELANCHIER - SASKATOON). Cedar rust
is not common on Crataegus in BC except
where a susceptible alternate host, such as
Juniperus communis hibernica (Irish Juniper) is in
close proximity. Cedar-apple rust is not known
to occur in the province.
Scab (Venturia inaequalis): Black leaf spots and scab on No fungicides are specifically Rake up and burn, bury or
fruit. registered for this disease on compost fallen leaves.
hawthorn. The fungicides See under MALUS – APPLE
applied for leaf spot (see above) and CRABAPPLE.
should give some control.
Insects:
Leaf Skeletonizer (Psorosina hammondi): A yellowish- See General Insect and Mite
green larva, up to 12 mm long, feeds on leaves, Management: Caterpillars and
leaving only the veins and a thin layer of tissue Moths, Chapter 11.
behind.
Rose Leafhopper (Edwardsiana rosae): The rose See General Insect and Mite Management: Leafhoppers, Chapter 11.
leafhopper is a slender, whitish-winged,
sucking insect, about 3 mm long. Eggs are laid
in the fall and hatch in spring. The nymphs are
pale in colour and have red eyes. They suck
juices out of the leaves creating a mottled
effect. Premature defoliation can result.
Sawfly (Pear Slug) (Caliroa cerasi): Adult is a shiny See General Insect and Mite Management: Sawflies, Chapter 11.
black fly with four wings. Black slug-like
larvae skeletonize leaves in summer. There are
two generations per season.
Tent Caterpillar (Malacosoma spp.): Damage starts See General Insect and Mite Management: Tent Caterpillars and
after buds burst. Skeletonizers, Chapter 11.

CYDONIA - QUINCE
Diseases:
Fire Blight (Erwinia amylovora): See General Disease Management: Fire Blight, Chapter 9.
Rust (Gymnosporangium clavipes): This rust fungus No fungicides are registered for Pick off infected leaves. Rake
infects quince, apple, hawthorn, cotoneaster use on quince. up and burn, bury or
and saskatoon. Yellow-orange pustules (aecia) compost. New infections
appear on lower side of leaves in summer. occur each year from infected
Juniper is the alternate host. See under junipers. Remove nearby
AMELANCHIER and MALUS. junipers.
Insects:
Cherry Ermine Moth: See MALUS: Apple Ermine Moth.
ERICA - HEATHER (see CALLUNA)

EUONYMUS
Diseases:
Anthracnose (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides): This DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL Collect and burn, bury or
warm-weather fungus (optimum 25-30o C) DACONIL Ultrex: 150 g compost crop debris.
causes small leaf lesions with white, grey or tan Apply when new growth Space plants for good air
centres and dark or reddish borders. Stem emerges and at 7-14 day circulation and time watering
cankers are small, oval and may be raised and intervals. Not a common disease so plants dry quickly. Plants
scabby. Larger cankers may girdle the stem in BC. Fungicides may be needed grown under shade have a
causing dieback. Most common on E. japonica for control in Interior nurseries lower incidence of the disease.
and E. fortunei (‘Canadale Gold’ is more or in unusually hot weather at Prune out infected branches if
susceptible than ‘Emerald ’n Gold’, which is the Coast. possible. E. japonica does not
more susceptible than ‘Emerald Gaiety’). thrive with repeated pruning.
Powdery Mildew (Oidium euonymus japonica): Green cultivar ‘Patens’ is very susceptible. Variegated cultivars are not
usually affected. Water forcibly sprayed on foliage under fast drying conditions may reduce disease. See General
Disease Management: Powdery Mildew, Chapter 9.
FORSYTHIA
Diseases:
Bacterial Blight (Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae): When buds start to open in Improve air circulation. Prune
This bacterial disease causes dark black streaks spring apply: out and destroy wilted shoots.
on young shoots, often on one side of the shoot. COPPER SPRAY 50: 200 g
Flowers wilt and turn brown. Buds are At fall leaf drop and in January See General Disease
blackened. Infection occurs in cool, rainy apply: Management: Bacterial
weather in spring and fall. COPPER SPRAY 50: 600 g Blight/Canker, Chapter 9.
Stem Gall (Phomopsis sp.): This fungus causes Cut off and destroy branches
nodular growths along stem and twigs. and canes that bare galls.
Multiple galls may cause reduction in vigour, Galls resemble those caused
or dieback of small twigs. by crown gall bacteria, but are
usually higher up in the bush.
FRAXINUS - ASH
Diseases:
Anthracnose (Discula sp. (Apiognomonia)): This DITHANE DG, M-45 or WSP Control measures are
fungus causes leaf blotches and marginal 80WP: 275-350 g warranted only when the
scorch in rainy springs. Premature leaf fall can PENNCOZEB 80WP: 275-350 g disease occurs annually. Rake
occur. ‘Modesto’ ash is very susceptible and Begin at bud break and repeat up and burn, bury or compost
should not be grown in Coastal areas of BC. every 7-14 days during wet fallen leaves.
weather.

Leaf Spot (Cercospora sp. and other fungi): Discrete DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL Rake up and burn, bury or
leaf spots, generally smaller than anthracnose DACONIL Ultrex: 150 g compost fallen leaves.
lesions and not on margins of leaves. Severe Apply at spring bud break and Fungicide treatment is rarely
infections may cause premature leaf fall. repeat every 7-14 days as necessary. necessary.
Rust (Puccinia sparganoides): This fungus forms aecia NOVA 40W: 25-34 g
on leaves of ash in Central and Eastern North Apply every 10-14 days.
America only. Not known to occur in BC.
Insects:
Ash and Lilac Borer (Podosesia syringae): It was first See General Insect and Mite Water and mulch trees to
reported in BC in 2006, but is well established Management: Bark Beetles and reduce stress. Do not wound
in the US. The adult is a clearwing moth that is Woods Borers, Chapter 11. the trunk or main branches.
similar in appearance to a paper wasp. It Pesticide sprays should be
usually has a single generation per year. The applied before eggs hatch. Use
female moth deposits her eggs in bark crevices pheromone traps (isomate-P) to
within 10 to 14 days of emergence. Upon monitor for moth emergence.
hatching, the larvae tunnel into the trunk and Spray 10 to 14 days following
feed beneath the bark. The larvae do excavate emergence.
galleries in the wood. The mature, 3 cm larvae
overwinter inside the tree. Adult moths emerge
the following spring. Infestations lead to
unsightly scars and swollen areas on the trunk
and, can weaken branches. Severe infestations
can kill a tree. Hosts include European ash,
privet, lilac and mountain ash.
Fall Webworm (Hyphantria cunea): Branches may be AMBUSH 500EC: 7 mL Remove webs as soon as seen
defoliated by hairy caterpillars with black DIPEL WP: 62.5 g in mid-summer.
heads and pale yellow bodies with dark stripes DIPEL 2X DF: 31 g See General Insect and Mite
along back. Webs are usually on tips of ORTHENE 75% SP: Mist blower Management: Caterpillars and
branches in late summer and fall. Moths are = 1,312 g/1,000 L; Hydraulic Moths, Chapter 11.
pale and 1.2 cm long. sprayer = 637 g/1,000 L
POUNCE 384 EC: 9 mL
SEVIN T&O: 230-350 mL
GLEDITSIA - HONEY LOCUST

Insects:
Honey Locust Plant Bug (Blepharidopterus chlorionis):
The pest was detected in Oregon in 2008. It has
one generation per year. Eggs hatch in early
spring and the nymphs feed on new growth,
causing stippling and leaf distortion. Adults
also feed on leaves that can lead to defoliation.
Honey Locust Pod Gall Midge (Dasineura gleditchiae): HORTICULTURAL OIL (97%): 1 L
Pupae overwinter in the soil and adults emerge Use to control the eggs. Since the
in the spring when new growth begins. The eggs hatch within a couple of
adult is a small fly (3 mm long). Eggs are laid days, application timing is
in expanding leaflets and hatch in a few days. critical. Monitor expanding
Larval feeding cause leaves to become globular leaflets for red eggs in the spring
or pod-like. The pods contain one or more (late March to early April) and
whitish larvae. After 3-4 weeks of feeding, the spray when eggs are found.
larva pupates and an adult fly emerges. Galled
leaflets may drop prematurely. Continued
galling and defoliation may cause the death of
small branches, but new growth often develops
at the base of dead twigs. There may be three
or more generations per year.

HEDERA - ENGLISH IVY
Diseases:
Bacterial Leaf Spot (Xanthomonas hortorum pv. Avoid overhead watering.
hederae): Leaf spots are usually angular with Pick off affected leaves when
reddish margins and exhibit dark first spots appear.
discolouration running into the veins. Petioles
and stems may become black and shriveled.
Grey Mould (Botrytis cinerea): See General Disease Management: Powdery Mildew, Chapter 9.
Leaf and Stem Spots/Anthracnose (Phyllosticta / DITHANE DG, M-45 or WSP Avoid overhead watering.
Colletotrichum spp.): Circular leaf spots, often 80WP: 125-250 g Remove infected plant parts if
with concentric rings and small, black fungal PENNCOZEB 80WP: 125-250 g practical. Fungicides are
fruiting bodies. Entire leaves can wilt if lesions Use low rate when treating soft, rarely necessary in the
girdle stems. new growth or when repeated landscape.
applications are planned.
HYDRANGEA
Diseases:
Grey Mould (Botrytis cinerea): This common fungus BOTRAN 75W: 175 g Remove blooms after
causes browning of petals and a grey, fuzzy ROVRAL 50WP-WDG: 100 g flowering. Infected flowers
mould on flower clusters during wet weather. falling on leaves can lead to
leaf and stem infections.
Reduce humidity and improve
air circulation.
Leaf Spots (Cercospora and Septoria spp.): Small to DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL Pick off leaves as spots
large leaf spots containing tiny, black fungal DACONIL Ultrex: 150 g appear. Collect and destroy
bodies (pycnidia). Severe infections may cause Apply before blooming, since fallen leaves. Fungicides are
leaf drop. may discolour blooms. rarely needed for control.
Powdery Mildew (Erysiphe polygoni): Lower leaf surfaces become covered with a powdery, white growth; upper surfaces
may be purple-brown. Blooms may be stunted & malformed. See General Disease Management: Powdery Mildew,
Chapter 9.
Sunscald: When bright sunny weather follows a Provide temporary shade or
prolonged dull period in late spring or early misting during sudden hot
summer, large areas of leaves and shoots may spells that usually occur in
wilt, develop a water-soaked appearance and June.
finally turn grey to brown.
ILEX - HOLLY
Diseases:
Green Algae: Green to black coloured algae coating DITHANE DG, M-45 or WSP Prune to increase air
on leaves, twigs, branches and trunk. 80WP: 180-250 g circulation.
MANZATE DF & PRO-STICK:
180-250 g
PENNCOZEB 80WP: 180-250 g
Apply at any time during the
growing season. Do not apply
close to harvest as visible residue
may make holly unmarketable.
Leaf and Twig Blight (Phytophthora ilicis): Black DITHANE DG, M-45 or WSP Prune out diseased
blotches and rot of leaves and petioles, 80WP: 180-250 g branches and remove
followed by leaf drop, starts on lower branches PENNCOZEB 80WP: 180-250 g fallen leaves and plant
in late fall and progresses upward during cold, Apply in the fall before the onset debris, where practical.
rainy weather in winter. Symptoms are usually of fall rains. Avoid application
observed in January. Twig cankers and berry close to harvest to avoid visible
rot may also occur. residue.

Web Blight (Rhizoctonia solani): A white web of DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL Disease appears only
fungal threads (mycelium) appears on leaves, DACONIL Ultrex: 150 g under very wet conditions.
blooms and stems. Affected parts may rot and Reduce humidity and
drop. prune or space containers
to improve air circulation.
Increase greenhouse
ventilation.
Insects:
Bud moth (Rhopobota naevana): This moth is long (6
mm) and grey to mottled-brown in colour. The
larvae are dark olive-green with black heads.
They produce silk that rolls the leaf for
protection. Opening buds are primary targets.
Eggs are laid on the underside of leaves.
Overwintering eggs hatch in May. There can be
two generations per year.
Holly Leafminer (Phytomyza ilicis): This greyish-black See General Insect and Mite Management: Leafminers / Needle
fly is 12 mm long. Yellow maggots tunnel in Miners, Chapter 11.
leaves of I. aquifolium, leaving blotches that
make the holly unmarketable. The eggs are laid
in late May when trees are flowering.
Holly Scale (Aspidiotus britannicus): Scales are light See General Insect and Mite Management: Scales, Chapter 11.
brown, oval, 12 mm across, with white, oblong Dormant:
egg sacks. This insect causes yellow leaf SMOTHER-OIL: 3.5 L
spotting and much honeydew. Black, sooty Apply in spring before buds open. (Check label carefully as
mould grows in abundant honeydew. some dormant oils can be phytotoxic.)
Lecanium Scale (several species): Large, wrinkled, See General Insect and Mite Management: Lecanium Scale,
semi-circular scabs attach to leaves, twigs and Chapter 11.
fruit. Crawlers are present mid-July to late
August. They produce much honeydew and,
thus, black sooty mould.
JUGLANS - WALNUT
Diseases:
Anthracnose (Gnomonia leptostyla; anamorph Rake and destroy fallen
Marssonina juglandis): This fungus causes leaf leaves and nuts. Prune off
spots and lesions on stems of new shoots. Stem infected branches, if
lesions are sunken, greyish-brown with red possible.
margins. Spots also occur on husks. Nuts drop
early or do not develop.
Bacterial Blight (Xanthomonas arboricola pv. juglandis): COPPER SPRAY 50: 400 g Cut out diseased twigs
Small, irregularly-shaped black spots appear Up to 4 applications per year. and branches, if possible.
on leaves and petioles. Later the spots enlarge. KASUMIN 2L: 5 L/ha
Black spots appear on husks and slimy decay
destroys the nuts.
JUNIPERUS - JUNIPER
Diseases:
Magnesium Deficiency: Damage is similar to that EPSOM SALTS: 1-2 kg foliar On acid soils, use dolomite
caused by Phomopsis (see Twig Blight and spray will give fast but short- lime on a regular basis.
Dieback, below). Magnesium deficiency lived results. Aim for a soil test with a
produces chlorotic or dead foliage in the centre calcium to magnesium
of the plant, but seldom kills it. ratio of 6-8:1.

Pear Trellis Rust (Gymnosporangium fuscum): On DITHANE DG, M-45 or WSP Obtain cuttings from
junipers, symptoms consist of spindle-like 80WP: 280-350 g known, certified sources.
swellings on twigs that produce orange, EAGLE WSP T&O: 30 g See British Columbia Plant
gelatinous spore masses in spring. On pears, NOVA 40W: 34 g Protection Regulations,
symptoms consist of orange to red blotches on Apply every 14 days; maximum Chapter 2, for details
the leaves. This disease is believed to be 6 applications per year. about shipping out of an
confined to the Lower Mainland and PENNCOZEB 80WP: 275-350 g infected area. Avoid
Vancouver Island south of Duncan. (See under planting ornamental pears
Unless you are in a completely
PYRUS.) For other rusts occurring on juniper, in infected areas and do
disease-free area, all nursery
see under AMELANCHIER and Appendix P. not plant junipers within
junipers should be sprayed at
30 m of pear trees.
least 3 times each fall between
late August and late October.
Root Rot (Pythium/Phytophthora spp.): Recumbent Do not plant junipers in
junipers are very susceptible to root rot. Foliage wet, heavy or poorly
develops a light-green cast and gradually turns drained soils in either the
brown. Growth is poor. Bark at and below the nursery or landscape.
soil line is dark brown and becomes punky. Avoid excessive irrigation.
Roots are usually already decomposing by the Root rot is common on
time foliar symptoms are noticed. Foliage may steep banks subject to
be affected by twig blight pathogens (see drought in summer and
below). excessive moisture in
winter. Do not allow
containerized plants to
stand in water. Junipers
differ in their
susceptibility to root rot.
See General Disease
Management: Root Rots
Caused by Phytophthora and
Pythium, Chapter 9.
Twig Blight and Dieback (Phomopsis juniperova, COPPER SPRAY 50: 400 g Select cuttings only from
Kabatina juniperi, Lophodermium spp., Cercospora DITHANE DG, M-45 or WSP disease-free mother plants.
spp., Sclerophoma spp. and Coniothyrium spp.): 80WP: 275-350 g
Prune out dead branches
Affected branch tips turn brown and PENNCOZEB 80WP: 275-350 g
or remove severely
progressively the entire branch may die. These If needed, apply from April to infected container plants
fungi are often more damaging to winter- early June to protect new growth. to reduce spread of
injured or drought-stressed plants, or plants
infection.
affected by root rot or insect/rodent feeding.
Insects:
Cypress Tip Moth (Leafminer) (Argyresthia MALATHION 500E: 250 mL
cupressella): Adults, small (6 mm), silvery-tan May injure Juniperus sabina.
moths, are active in early June. Eggs are No insecticides will kill the
inserted into the green tips of one- and two- larvae while they are inside the
year-old twigs. Larvae tunnel into the leaf scales foliage, so timing of sprays is
and remain there until the next spring. Infested important. Spray infested trees
twigs become yellow then brown in late winter. when the larvae emerge to form
A cocoon is spun around the foliage in early cocoons in late April, and when
June of the second year for the pupal stage. Two eggs hatch in mid-June and again
to three weeks later, adults emerge. in early July.
Juniper Scale (Carulaspis juniperi): Heavy infestations SEVIN T&O: 230-350 mL See General Insect and Mite
cause grey or yellowish foliage colour. Plants Apply in early June and repeat Management: Scales,
may die whole or in part. A black, sooty mould 14 days later when crawlers are Chapter 11.
may grow on the honeydew secreted by the present.
round, light-coloured scales.

Juniper Webworm (Dichomeris marginella): Twigs and SEVIN T&O: 230-350 mL
needles become webbed together, and some Spray when insects first appear.
turn brown and die. The larva is 12 mm long, Repeat in 3 weeks, if necessary.
brown with reddish stripes. The adult appears Use high pressure to ensure
in June and lays eggs that hatch about 2 weeks complete coverage.
later. Larvae feed on the foliage during the rest
of the season, overwinter and do the greatest
amount of damage the following spring.
Red Cedar Bark Beetle (Phloesinus sequoia): The small Keep trees vigorous and
adult beetle lays eggs in narrow excavations in prevent stress.
the bark. As the grubs hatch, they bore out
sideways making a characteristic pattern of
galleries. This insect is most likely to attack
newly transplanted and drought-stressed trees.
Root Weevils: See General Insect and Mite Management: Root Weevils, Chapter 11.
KALMIA - MOUNTAIN LAUREL

Diseases:
Leaf Spot (Cercospora sp. and other fungi): Leaves DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL Rake and burn, bury or
exhibit irregularly-shaped to circular, light- DACONIL Ultrex: 150 g compost fallen leaves.
grey spots with a purple-brown border. Leaves Avoid overhead irrigation.
may drop early.
Insects:
Lecanium Scale (several species): These scale insects See General Insect and Mite These scales are often
attack a very wide range of woody plants. Management: Scales, Chapter 11. parasitized by beneficial
Large, wrinkled, semi-circular scales can be organisms. If the level of
seen on leaves, stems, twigs and fruit. They parasitism is high, do not
produce much honeydew on which grows apply insecticides.
abundant black sooty mould.
Root Weevils: Larvae chew on roots causing wilt and See General Insect and Mite Management: Root Weevils, Chapter
dieback of branches and browning of foliage. 11.
Adult weevils chew on leaves leaving
unsightly notches.
LIGUSTRUM - PRIVET
Diseases:
Leaf Spot (Cercospora and Pseudocercospora spp.): DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL Rake up and burn, bury or
Yellow to brown leaf spots, depending on the DACONIL 2787WDG: 140 g compost fallen leaves and
fungal species. Spots often have a yellow halo. Apply every 7-14 days under plant debris.
Can cause early leaf drop. Mainly in Eastern prolonged wet conditions.
North America. Not known to occur in BC.
Powdery Mildew (Oidium sp.): White, powdery growth on leaves. See General Disease Management: Powdery Mildew,
Chapter 9.
LONICERA- HONEYSUCKLE
Diseases:
Honeysuckle Blight (Insolobasidium deformans DITHANE DG: 200 g Remove honeysuckle from
(Herpobasidium deformans; Glomopsis lonicerae): MANZATE DF & PRO-STICK: 200 g around nurseries. Space
Leaves develop interveinal chlorosis and Apply at green tip to ½ inch plants for good air
necrosis, and become crinkled, cupped or green leaf. No more than 3 circulation and water early
twisted. Shoot blight may also occur. White applications per year. in the day. Remove plant
fungal growth develops on the underside of debris before bud-break.
leaves. Worse in cool, wet, rainy, weather. Resistant varieties may be
available.

Powdery Mildew (Microsphaera spp.): White, powdery growth on leaves. See General Disease Management: Powdery
Mildew, Chapter 9.
MAGNOLIA
Diseases:
Bacterial Blight (Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae): Prune out and destroy
New shoots wilt and blacken. Leaves exhibit infected shoots and
dark, irregular spots, often with yellow haloes. branches in the dormant
Also causes twig and branch dieback. season and again if
infection occurs in the
spring. Space plants to
provide good air drainage.
See General Disease
Management: Bacterial
Blight and Canker, Chapter
9.
MAHONIA - OREGON GRAPE
Diseases:
Leaf Spot/Anthracnose (Phyllosticta spp./ Fungicides applied for rust (see Remove and destroy
Gloeosporium berberidis): The Phyllosticta fungus below) should also help to infected leaves. Avoid
causes small red, circular spots that later control leaf spot and overhead irrigation.
become tan coloured in the centre. Anthracnose anthracnose.
is characterized by larger lesions, often at the
margins of leaves. Both diseases may occur
together.
Rust (Cumminsiella mirabilissima): Large spots on DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL Remove and destroy
leaves become swollen and break open to DACONIL Ultrex: 150 g infected leaves if practical.
release spores. This disease is very common at SULPHUR (DOMESTIC): 0.4-0.9% Protect new leaves. Avoid
the Coast but is not serious except in unusually liquid or other formulations. See overhead irrigation in the
wet seasons. label for rates and application. latter part of the day.
MALUS - APPLE and CRABAPPLE
Diseases:
Anthracnose Canker (Cryptosporiopsis curvispora): Cankers: Remove and destroy
This destructive disease of apples in Coastal Fungicides are generally severely affected trees.
areas has also been found in the Kootenays and ineffective in preventing spread Prune out and burn all
North Okanagan. Infection of new bark occurs of cankers. No products are cankers and infected twigs
in fall and causes small, red spots that lengthen specifically registered for control. in winter or whenever
and crack open the following spring forming Bull’s eye fruit rot: they are found in the year.
“stringy” cankers. Large, girdling cankers kill CAPTAN 50-WP: 6 kg/ha Isolate susceptible stock
entire branches. The fungus also causes a CAPTAN 80-WP: 3.75 kg/ha from older infected apple
“bull’s eye” fruit rot. trees to help prevent new
Apply if rainy periods occur
infections.
before harvest. Do not apply
within 7 days of harvest. Bull’s eye rot appears in
storage although fruit is
infected before harvest.
Fungicides are not usually
needed if good pruning
and cultural practices are
followed.

Blister Spot (Pseudomonas syringae pv. papulans): ALIETTE WDG: 2.5 kg/ha The disease is worse in
Occurs on ‘Mutsu’ and ‘Fuji’. Light spotting on Start at petal fall and repeat at 7years when very wet
‘Jonagold’. Spots on fruit start as small, green, day intervals. Maximum 3 weather occurs while
water-soaked blisters, which later darken and applications per year; no more green fruit are sizing.
expand to 4-5 mm in diameter. Leaves may than 10 kg/ha before harvest. Follow good pruning and
exhibit a mid-vein necrosis and be curled and BORDEAUX MIXTURE: 100 g tree care practices;
puckered; or have white to brown spots. COPPER 53W + 600 g disinfect pruners between
Bacteria spread in water and overwinter in HYDRATED LIME cuts. Remove fallen
buds, leaf scars and fallen fruit. Fruit are Start applying 10 days after calyx (windfall) fruit and bury
susceptible to infection for about six weeks, and repeat at 10 day intervals. or compost.
starting about two weeks after petal fall. Do not apply either product
within 30 days of harvest.
Crown Gall/Hairy Root (Agrobacterium tumefaciens / No effective chemical control. See General Disease
Agrobacterium rhizogenes): Large, warty or hairy DYGALL (A. radiobacter) root dip Management: Crown Gall,
growths appear on roots, crowns and stems. is not registered for use on Chapter 9.
Galls on mature apples can be mistaken for apples because it has been shown
physiological “burrknots” or wound callus. to be generally ineffective in
The bacteria spread in soil and drainage water preventing infection of this crop.
and carry over in soil for many years. M9 and
M26 rootstocks are susceptible to crown gall.
Crown and Root Rot (Phytophthora cactorum): This Orchards - foliar or drench: Nursery stock should be
soil-borne organism invades crowns of 3- to 10- ALIETTE WDG: Rate varies with planted in disease-free soil.
year-old trees. Eventually, the trunk is girdled tree density. Read label carefully. For propagation, avoid
just below ground level and the tree dies. First Drench: soils and irrigation water
indication of infection may be off-colour foliage RIDOMIL GOLD: 1 mL/5 L of with a history of crown rot.
in late summer. The problem is most serious on water/tree M4, M9 and and M26, and
irrigated land in the Okanagan. M2 to a lesser extent, are
more resistant than other
commonly-used rootstocks.
European Canker (Nectria galligena): Causes severe In Coastal areas, BORDEAUX The disease is worse in
damage to apple and pear trees at the Coast. MIXTURE as for fire blight, very wet years. Prune out
Twigs and branches wilt and die back above applied twice at leaf fall, may infected branches below
cankers. First-year cankers have blistered, help reduce spread of cankers. cankers and burn or bury.
yellowish bark. Second-year cankers develop The fungus can continue
deeply sunken edges with concentric rings. to produce spores on dead
Red fungal bodies (perithecia) may be visible at wood.
the edge of cankers in fall. Most infections Nurseries: Destroy
occur through leaf scars during fall rains but infected trees. Old infected
infections can occur whenever wounding and apple and pear trees near
rainfall or irrigation coincide. the nursery should also be
destroyed.
Fire Blight (Erwinia amylovora): M9 or M26 rootstock See General Disease Management: Fire Blight, Chapter 9.
combined with ‘Braeburn’, ‘Fuji’ or ‘Gala’ are
particularly susceptible to crown infection,
although it can also occur with other rootstocks.
Perennial Canker (Cryptosporiopsis perennans): Fungal Bull’s eye fruit rot: Control the woolly apple
cankers consist of overlapping concentric rings CAPTAN 50-WP: 6 kg/ha aphid that can spread the
of woody tissue. Each year the canker enlarges, CAPTAN 80-WP: 3.75 kg/ha disease. Prune out cankers
gradually girdling the limb or trunk. This MAESTRO 80DF: 3.75 kg/ha whenever possible.
disease is common in the Okanagan but rare in Cankers:
Coastal areas. Causes “bull’s-eye” rot on fruit. Research suggests fungicides are
Very similar to anthracnose. generally ineffective in
preventing spread of cankers. No
fungicides are specifically
registered.

Powdery Mildew (Podosphaera leucotricha): The See General Disease Management: Powdery Mildew, Chapter 9.
fungus overwinters in terminal buds. Greyish- For a list of resistant crabapple varieties, see Appendix D.
white fungus appears in felt-like patches on
leaves, twigs, blossoms and fruit. Leaves
become curled and distorted.
Rust (Quince Rust, Gymnosporangium clavipes): Causes FERBAM 76 WDG: see label for rates. May cause fruit
yellow to brown spots on upper surface of russeting on ‘Golden Delicious’, ‘Jonathan’ and some other
leaves. Fungal fruiting bodies (aecia) form on varieties (see label).
lower surface in summer. Alternate hosts are DITHANE DG, M-45 or WSP 80WP: 150-200 g
junipers. Cedar-apple rust infects trees in INSPIRE: 292 mL/ha
eastern North America, but is not known to MANZATE DF & PRO-STICK: 5-6 kg/ha
occur in BC. PENNCOZEB 75DF & 80WP: 150-200 g
Usually a minor disease west of the Rockies, POLYRAM DF: 4.5-6 kg/ha
not requiring control. Remove junipers from Flowering crabapple:
the vicinity. DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL
DACONIL Ultrex: 150 g
NOVA 40W: 34 g
Apply every 10-14 days. No more than 6 applications per year.
Scab (Venturia inaequalis): This disease causes Protect new growth starting at Rake and burn, bury or
shedding of blossoms and scab on leaves and pink-bud stage. Apply fungicide compost fallen leaves, if
fruit. Scabs begin as water-soaked spots that at least twice, 10 days apart. Use practical. Grow scab
become velvety-green, then brown and dead. the higher rate for early sprays resistant varieties. For
Diseased leaves can be curled and distorted. and the lower rate for later cover resistant crabapples see
New infections may occur whenever there is a sprays or when disease pressure Appendix D.
moderate to prolonged rainy period. is low.
Refer to the Ministry’s Tree Fruit Production Guide for
additional chemical control options.
BANNER MAXX: 14 mL
COMPASS 50WG: 14-17.5 g
DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL
DITHANE DG, M-45 or WSP 80WP: 150-200 g
EQUAL 65 WP: 1.08-2.25 kg/ha
FLINT 50WG: 140-175g/ha
INSPIRE: 292 mL/ha
KUMULUS DF: 400-750 g
NOVA 40W: 34 g
PENNCOZEB 75DF & 80WP: 150-200 g
POLYRAM DF: 4.5-6 kg/ha
PRISTINE WG: 1.0 kg/ha
SULPHUR (DOMESTIC and COMMERCIAL): See labels. May
cause fruit russeting at high temperature.
Viruses:
Use virus-free rootstocks
Several viruses occur in apples, some causing little
and budwood.
noticeable effect unless combined during
budding or grafting. Virus-free propagating
material is more vigorous than infected stock
and gives a much better success rate.

Insects and Mites:
Apple Ermine Moth (Yponomeuta malinella): The moth has a 10-12 See General Insect and Mite
mm wing span, is white with many black spots on the wings Management: Caterpillars
and appears from June to August. Each female lays 10 or and Moths, Chapter 11.
more eggs in one batch and covers them with a substance that Malus stock must be
dries into a hard flat scale about three to four mm in diameter certified free from this pest
and the colour of the bark. When eggs hatch the young larvae to be shipped out of BC.
remain under the scale (called a hibernaculum) until the See Federal Plant
following spring. When the larvae emerge, they make a small Quarantine Regulations:
tent and feed on leaves of apple and hawthorn. Comment 7, Chapter 2.
Apple Maggot (Rhagoletis pomonella): The larval stage CYMBUSH 250EC: 400 mL/ha Apple maggot is a
damages apples and other fruit by tunnelling DIAZINON 50WSP: 100 g quarantine pest in Canada,
through them. The principal hosts are apple, DIAZINON 50EC: 100 mL and regulatory controls
crabapple and hawthorn trees, however it also IMIDAN 50-WP: 3.75 kg/ha are in place to prevent
occasionally attacks plum, cherry, peach and RIPCORD 400 EC: 7.5 mL spread from the Lower
pear trees. The maggot was found for the first SURROUND WP: 25-50 kg/ha Mainland and Vancouver
time in BC in 2006. Island. See Federal Plant
Quarantine Regulations:
Comment 6, Chapter 2.
Apple and Thorn Skeletonizer (Eutromula pariana): See General Insect and Mite Management: Caterpillars and Moths,
Monitor for caterpillars 2-3 weeks after leaves Chapter 11.
open.
Codling Moth (Cydia pomonella): The pinkish-white AMBUSH 500 EC: 400 mL/ha Apply bands of corrugated
larvae overwinter in cocoons under loose bark, DIAZINON 50EC: 100 mL cardboard to the trunk and
in the soil or in trash at the base of trees. Larvae DIAZINON 50WSP: 100 g scaffold limbs in early
pupate in spring and adults emerge in May CONFIRM 240F (crabapple): 33-60 mL August to collect mature
and June. Female moths lay eggs on fruit or on CYMBUSH 250EC: 400 mL/ha larvae exiting the fruit.
leaves near fruit. Soon after emerging, the DECIS 5EC: 6.8-8.5 mL Remove and burn the
larvae bore deep into the fruit. Up to 3 IMIDAN 50-WP: 3.75 kg/ha bands after harvest. Pick
generations in a year. MALATHION 500E: 250 mL and crush infested fruit.
POUNCE 384 EC: 17.5 mL
RIPCORD 400 EC: 7.5 mL
Forest Tent Caterpillar (Malacosoma disstria): See General Insect and Mite Management: Caterpillars and Moths, Chapter 11.
Leafrollers (several species): These insects are leaf AMBUSH 500 EC: 400 mL/ha
and fruit feeders. Deep holes that scab over are DIAZINON 50EC or 50WSP: 100 mL or 100 g
produced on the fruit. The larvae are green CYMBUSH 250EC: 400 mL/ha
with black heads. They drop on a silk thread DECIS 5 EC: 6.8 mL
when disturbed. DIPEL WP: 2.25-3.35 kg/ha
DIPEL 2X DF: 1.125-1.675 kg/ha
DOKTOR DOOM: 60-480 mL/0.4 ha
FORAY 48BA: 2.8-4.0 L/ha
IMIDAN 50-WP: 3.75 kg/ha
MALATHION 500E: 180-250 mL
POUNCE 384 EC: 17.5 mL
RIPCORD 400 EC: 7.5 mL
SURROUND WP: 25-50 kg/ha
Dormant only:
SUPERIOR 70 OIL: 2 L
Oyster Shell Scale: See General Insect and Mite Management: Scales, Chapter 11.
Pearleaf Blister Mite (Phytoptus pyri): Green blisters DIAZINON 50WSP: 150 g + 1 L See General Insect and Mite
occur on leaves, later turning brown and of Horticultural Oil Management: Mites,
drying up. Mites also attack developing fruit True dormant stage only: Chapter 11.
causing russeting and deformity. LIME SULPHUR 23%: 10 L

San Jose Scale: Only occurs in the South Okanagan but can be very damaging when present. See General Insect and
Mite Management: Scales, Chapter 11.
Woolly Apple Aphid (Eriosoma lanigerum): Aphid DIAZINON 50EC: 50-100 mL
feeding results in nodular swellings or galls. DIAZINON 50WSP: 50-100 g
The perennial canker fungus can infect injured DECIS 5 EC: 6.8 mL
tissue (see above). The aphid can be detected INSECTICIDAL SOAP 25%: 5 L
by the cottony white masses it forms around IMIDAN 50-WP: 3.75 kg/ha
pruning cuts, water sprouts and leaf axils. POUNCE 384 EC: 9 mL
Greenhouse only:
IMPOWER 60WP: see label for rate and application.
PHOTINIA
Diseases:
Leaf Spot (Fabrea Blight) (Diplocarpon mespili DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL Rake up and burn, bury or
(Entomosporium mespili)): Small, dark, reddish DACONIL Ultrex: 150 g compost fallen leaves.
spots appear and coalesce to form blotches on Application of fungicide at bud Avoid overhead watering.
the leaf surface. Defoliation can occur if break and again one week later
infection is severe. will provide some control.
PICEA - SPRUCE
Diseases:
Botrytis Blight (Botrytis cinerea): Affects spruce, fir, See General Disease Management: Botrytis Blight / Canker, Chapter 9.
hemlock and cedar. Causes seedling blight in
greenhouses and container nurseries. Under
cool, moist conditions branches die and become
covered with a web of grey fungal mycelium.
Botryosphaeria Canker and Dieback (Botryosphaeria Ensure plants are healthy
sp.): Botryosphaeria causes disease on stressed and, avoid plant stress
plants. It overwinters on plant debris and on and injury. Follow
healthy bark and leaves. It enters plants appropriate sanitation
through wounds or natural openings. Infection practices (e.g. prune out
leads to the development of cankers that result dead wood, collect and
in wilting and branch dieback. dispose of leaf debris).
Cytospora Canker (Cytospora kunzei): Rain-splashed Control weed growth and
spores infect through wounds and develop remove lower branches to
cankers at the base of the trunk or twigs. improve air circulation at
Branches near the ground may die. Cankers are the base of the tree.
often not visible on the bark; you must cut into
the bark to expose the diseased tissue. Fruiting
bodies of the fungus (small black dots) may be
seen on the canker.
Needle Cast (Rhizosphaera kalkhoffi): Small yellow to BANNER MAXX: 35 mL (for use on Christmas trees only)
greyish-green mottled spots, which later turn BRAVO Ultrex 90 SDG: 5.2 kg/ha
purplish-brown, appear on current year needles COPPER SPRAY 50: 400 g; apply under fast drying conditions
of lower branches. Infected needles turn colour to avoid needle damage.
and fall about one year after infection. Long DACONIL 2787F: 9.5 L/ha
periods of wet foliage and warm temperatures DACONIL Ultrex: 5.75 kg/ha
promote the disease. P. pungens (blue spruce) is FLINT 50WG: 210g/ha
particularly susceptible. Avoid shearing infected trees when the foliage is wet.
Rust (Chrysomyxa spp.): Rust pustules appear as See General Disease Management: Rusts are not common on
white blisters on the lower surface of needles. Rusts, Chapter 9. spruce, but can often be
Affected needles turn yellow and may drop controlled by removing
prematurely. Spruce cone rusts can also be a the alternate host from the
problem in seed orchards. area (usually a native
broad-leaved shrub).

Sydowia Blight/Tip Blight (Sclerophoma spp.): Usually COPPER SPRAY 50: 400 g Infection often follows
a secondary fungus growing on needles Apply when new growth starts winter damage to young
damaged by other factors, but can cause in spring and repeat at 10-day growing shoots.
dieback of new shoot tips on P. pungens. Black intervals. May cause needle
fungal bodies are abundant on new needles. spotting if applied under cool,
Shoot tips become distorted and brown. cloudy conditions.
Seedling Blight (Sirococcus conigenus): Death of BRAVO Ultrex 90 SDG: 2-3.3 See General Disease
young shoots (tipblight) on spruce and kg/ha Management: Sirococcus
hemlock. Shoots often curl to form a “hook”. DACONIL 2787F: 3.6-6.0 L/ha Blight, Chapter 9 for more
Causes seed decay and seedling blight on pine, DACONIL Ultrex: 2.9-3.6 kg/ha information on controlling
spruce, hemlock, fir and occasionally Douglas See application instructions seed and seedling disease.
fir. Dead seedlings remain upright and needles above for Needle Cast.
die from the bases upward. Black fungal bodies
(pycnidia) sporulate on dead tissue and cone
scales. The fungus is seed-borne.
Insects and Mites:
Cooley Spruce Gall Adelgid (Adelges cooleyi): The ACECAP 97: Apply when Monitor from late October
insect attacks both spruce and Douglas fir. The wingless, crawler forms are first to April if there has been a
adult female overwinters on bark near terminal seen in spring. For rate, see label problem with galls in
buds and lays eggs in the spring. The crawlers or General Insect and Mite previous years. Remove
that emerge from the eggs move to the base of Management: Aphids, Chapter 11. and destroy green galls as
needles on the new shoot and begin to feed. INSECTICIDAL SOAP 47% or soon as they appear.
Adelgid feeding causes shoot tips to develop 50.5%: 2 L
into cone-like galls (1.2-5.0 cm long). In the THIONEX EC : 125-175 mL
summer, the cones turn brown and open, THIONEX 50 W: 100 g
releasing adelgids.
Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (Adelges tsugae): This INSECTICIDAL SOAP 47% or Nitrogen fertilization has
sucking insect appears as white, cottony puffs 50.5%: 2 L; spray after May 1 been shown to enhance
on the bark and base of needles. Infestation LANDSCAPE OIL: 1-2 L to adelgid survival and
often leads to the production of abundant control eggs, nymphs and adults negate pest control
black, sooty mould. Premature needle drop on Picea jezoensis and P. polita measures. If this insect is a
may occur. problem, reduce nitrogen
See General Insect and Mite
See Comment 30 in Federal Plant Quarantine fertilization as much as
Management: Woolly Adelgids,
Regulations in Chapter 2. possible.
Chapter 11.
Sitka Spruce Weevil (Pissodes stobi): Adult weevils CYGON 480-ORN or LAGON Clip and destroy wilted
are reddish-brown and 5-7 mm long. Larvae 480 E: 2.5 L leaders as they appear.
are legless, creamy white with brown heads Thoroughly spray terminal to
and up to 7 mm long. In the spring, adults lay run-off at time of egg laying.
eggs in the bark of the leader. Larvae feed
under the bark causing the new terminal to
wilt, droop and die. Young trees can be killed.
Spruce Aphid (Elatobium abietinum): This small, dull DURSBAN WSP: 33.6 g If not controlled, needles
green, sucking insect causes older needles to PRO DURSBAN TURF: 37.5 mL may drop in May-June.
turn brown and drop. The tree may be killed if INSECTICIDAL SOAP 47% or Early treatment is
attacked two to three years in a row. 50.5%: 2 L essential.
PYRATE 480EC: 37.5 mL
Apply as soon as aphids appear
in February.
Greenhouse only:
IMPOWER 60WP: See label.

Spruce Budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana) and See General Insect and Mite Management: Spruce Budworm,
Other Caterpillars: This budworm affects Chapter 11.
spruce, balsam fir, Douglas fir, pine, hemlock
and larch. The caterpillar, which is dark
reddish-brown with yellow stripes, chews on
opening buds and needles.
Spruce Spider Mite (Oligonychus ununguis): Needles VENDEX 50W: 50-100 g See General Insect and Mite
become yellow and covered with a silky Apply in June or August as Management: Mites,
webbing. Mites are pale green when young and necessary. Chapter 11.
darken with age. They overwinter as eggs on Dormant spray:
twigs and needles. This mite also attacks SUPERIOR 70 OIL: 2 L
Juniperus, Thuja and Tsuga.
Greenhouse only:
AVID 1.9% EC: 30 mL
PIERIS - ANDROMEDA
Diseases:
Dieback and Root Rot (Phytophthora spp.): This Foliar dieback: Practice good sanitation in
organism infects roots and causes root decay. DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL propagation. Avoid heavy,
Plants eventually die. Leaves may also be DACONIL Ultrex: 150 g wet soils and areas where
infected. Apply at new leaf emergence. other species have died
Root rot: See General Disease out as a result of
Management: Root Rots Caused by Phytophthora infection.
Phytophthora and Pythium, Container plants should
Chapter 9. have good drainage within
and below the pot.
Phomopsis Blight (Phomopsis amygdali): Phomopsis
blight is a new disease that causes stem cankers,
shoot dieback and blight symptoms on Pieris.
Insects:
Andromeda Lace Bug (Stephanitis takeyai): See Lace Bugs, Chapter 11.
PINUS - PINE
Diseases:
Needle Cast (Lophodermium seditiosum): In BC, only At the end of July, end of Space plants for good air
the short-needled varieties of Scots pine are August and the end of circulation. Pines normally
normally damaged. Most infections occur in September apply: shed old needles and
late summer on new needles. Distinct spots BRAVO Ultrex 90 SDG: 1.3-2.7 kg/ha
needle-shed can be more
appear on needles during the winter and COPPER SPRAY 50: 400 g severe after dry summers.
following summer. Large, black, elliptical, May cause needle spotting; apply Other Lophodermium spp.
fungal bodies appear in needle spots. Infected in fast-drying conditions. (which produce similar
needles then turn yellow and brown and drop. black, elliptical fungal
DACONIL 2787F: 2.4-4.8 L/ha
Severely affected trees normally have at least bodies on needles), and
DACONIL Ultrex: 1.45-2.9 kg/ha
one season’s needles attached at any time. On other fungi often invade
DITHANE DG, M-45 or WSP
occasion, however, even these needles yellow dead and dying needles,
80WP: 250 g
and fall leaving the tree almost bare. but do not cause disease.
PENNCOZEB 80WP: 250 g
In dense plantings, and those
with a history of needle cast,
begin 2 weeks earlier and
continue applications into
October.

Needle Cast (Cyclaneusma minus): Premature cast of 2 Fungicide applications are often Reduce water and
and 3-year old needles. Brown bands on ineffective, since spores can nutritional stress, control
yellowing needles appear in late summer/fall. infect needles whenever the weeds and space trees for
White fungal fruiting bodies develop within temperature is above freezing. good air circulation.
the bands about one month later. These release
spores in winter and early spring which cause
new infections, although needles will not show
symptoms until fall.
Needle Cast (Lophodermella spp.): Needles turn Fungicides applied for Control weeds and space
reddish-brown in spring then straw-coloured. Lophodermium needle cast (above) trees for good air
Fungal fruiting bodies, usually black but should also control Lophodermella. circulation.
sometimes colourless, appear on the infected Apply fungicides at bud break
Landscape Trees:
needles. Spores cause new infections from bud and again about one month later.
Remove infected needles
break until new growth ceases, in periods of
and rake up and destroy
wet weather.
fallen ones.
Needle Cast (Elytroderma deformans): Affects only 2- Fungicides have been shown to Prune out and destroy
and 3-needled pines, mainly ornamentals. be generally ineffective for “witches’ brooms”. Rake
Needles turn reddish-brown in spring fading to control of this disease. None are up and burn, bury or
tan or grey in fall before dropping. Black, specifically registered. compost old needles.
elongated, fungal fruiting bodies develop on Replace severely infected
infected needles in summer and release spores trees with resistant
in the fall, or the next spring, causing new species.
infections. Twig infections produce a “witches’
broom”.
(Scirrhia) Needle Blight (Mycosphaerella pini BRAVO Ultrex 90 SDG: 5.2 Do not plant near diseased
(Dothistroma septospora)): Yellow spots on kg/ha trees. Remove lowest
needles enlarge to form a red band. Needles COPPER SPRAY 50: 400 g branches. Control weeds
die back from the tips above the band. Disease May cause needle spotting; apply and space trees for good
usually spreads from the base of the tree under fast drying conditions. air circulation.
upward. Black, fungal fruiting bodies appear Landscape trees: Remove
DACONIL 2787F: 9.5 L/ha
on needles, which are cast prematurely. infected needles, rake up
DACONIL Ultrex: 5.75 kg/ha
fallen needles and burn,
bury or compost.
Scleroderris Canker (Gremmeniella abietina): Does not DACONIL 2787F: 2.4-4.8 L/ha See Federal Plant
occur in BC. Causes shoot blight and cankers BRAVO Ultrex 90 SDG: 1.3-2.7 kg/ha Quarantine Regulations:
on pines and Balsam fir in Eastern N. America. DACONIL Ultrex: 1.45-2.9 kg/ha Comment 14, Chapter 2.
Seedling Blight (Sirococcus conigenus): See under PICEA and General Disease Management: Sirococcus Blight, Chapter 9.
Western Gall Rust (Endocronartium harknessii): No See General Disease Management: Western Gall Rust, Chapter 9.
alternate host is required for this rust fungus.
Rough, globular galls appear on branches or
trunk several years after the infection occurred.
Fungus is orange when fruiting. Infects hard
pines (2- and 3-needled pines) such as lodgepole,
mugho, Austrian, Scots and ponderosa.
White Pine Blister Rust (Cronartium ribicola): This Chemical control is considered to be impractical on pines.
rust attacks only 5-needled pines. Alternate
hosts are currants and gooseberries. The rust Management: Do not grow 5-needled pines in Coastal BC, the
attacks the living bark and cambium of white West Kootenays, or Northern Vancouver Island. Do not grow
pine. First year symptoms of infection are currants or gooseberries in Interior BC where Ribes are
blisters with secretions of pitch. In subsequent common. See General Disease Management: Rusts, Chapter 9.
years, bright orange fungal spores appear in
May on the rust cankers. Cankers eventually
kill the infected branches.

Insects:
European Pine Shoot Moth (Rhyacionia buoliana): See General Insect and Mite Management: European Pine Shoot
Insect presence is indicated from September to Moth, Chapter 11.
June by excess resin at buds and wilting shoots.
Pine Bark Aphid (Pineus strobi): This aphid feeds on the trunk and is recognized by a white cottony material in
patches on the trunk. Several generations are produced during summer. See General Insects and Mite
Management: Aphids and Adelgids, Chapter 11.
Pine Needle Scale (Chionaspis pinifoliae): The scale is Spray the crawler stage with one of the following
2.5 mm long, white with a yellow spot at one insecticides in late May to early June:
end. Needles may appear nearly white when MALATHION 85E: 244.5 mL
heavily infested. ORTHENE 75% SP: Mist blower = 1,312 g/1,000 L; Hydraulic
sprayer = 637 g/1,000 L
Dormant spray:
Pine Sawflies (Neodiprion spp.): There are at least 4 CYGON 480-ORN, or LAGON 480E: 100 mL
different species of sawflies that damage pines DURSBAN WSP: 44.8 g
in BC. The larvae, which range in length from PRO DURSBAN TURF: 50 mL
21-25 mm long, are voracious defoliators that SEVIN T&O: 230-350 mL
can totally consume 1-year and older foliage. TRISTAR 70 WSP: 1 pack/1,000 L
This gives the tree a bottle-brush appearance as
the new growth develops. They overwinter as See General Insects and Mite Management: Sawflies, Chapter 11.
eggs; larvae emerge in the spring. Mature larvae
drop to the ground in mid-June to pupate. The
emerging female adults lay eggs in slits along
the margins of current season needles.
Sequoia Pitch Moth (Synanthedon sequoiae) and There are no effective pesticide controls for pitch moths.
Northern Pitch Twig Moth (Petrova Management Options:
albicapitana): Pitch moths damage both
Protect trees from injury; pitch moths more frequently attack
ornamental and native pines in BC. The
pines that have pruning wounds or other injuries than
sequoia pitch moth may attack any suitable
uninjured pines.
host tree over 2 m in height, whereas the
northern pitch twig moth is primarily a pest of Remove infested branches. Prune in the fall so the wounds
saplings (= 0.3 to 3.0 m in height). The larvae of begin to close before the egg-laying adults emerge in spring.
both species burrow into the main stem or Physically remove pitch masses and kill the enclosed larva or
branches. Damage is easily located by the large pupa. There will be a single larva/pupa per mass. Physical
pitch masses produced at the entry points. removal can reduce re-infestations and local populations. The
Larval feeding can kill terminal shoots or insect will have emerged from masses that are 2 or more years
produce weakened and crooked trunks. old. Older masses are harder and darker in colour.
PLATANUS - SYCAMORE, PLANE TREE

Diseases:
Anthracnose (Apiognomonia veneta): This fungal DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL Rake fallen leaves and burn,
disease overwinters in cankers on infected DACONIL Ultrex:150 g bury or compost. Prune out
twigs and dead leaves. In early spring, young DITHANE DG, M-45 or WSP diseased branches.
leaves are killed as they emerge from buds. 80WP: 275-350 g Fungicide treatments are not
Later infection causes brown blotches on either PENNCOZEB 80WP: 275-350 g necessary or beneficial on
side of the mid-vein, and severe defoliation Apply at bud break and repeat large landscape trees: see the
may result. Twigs and branches can be girdled every 7–14 days during wet Ministry’s Home and Garden
and killed. It is most severe in warm, wet weather in the early part of the Guide. Some varieties of
springs. growing season. Platanus including the
London Plane are generally
less susceptible.

Sooty Mould: Black mould appears on leaves. It Control insects to reduce sooty mould. Successful insect
grows on honeydew produced by aphids, control will prevent sooty mould. See the Ministry’s Home and
whiteflies, scales, mealy bugs and leafhoppers. Garden Guide for landscape tree recommendations.
POPULUS - POPLAR AND ASPEN (COTTONWOOD)
Diseases:
Leaf Blister (Taphrina spp.): Bright, yellow-brown Control is not usually
blisters of various sizes occur on leaves after required.
long periods of cool, wet weather.
Leaf Spot (Marssonina populi, Septoria populicola and DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL This disease rarely
other spp.): Brown spots or blotches appear on DACONIL Ultrex: 150 g requires control on larger
leaves and small cankers form on green twigs. SENATOR 70WP: 110 g trees in the nursery or
Early defoliation and reduced growth may Early spring applications at landscape.
occur especially during wet years when budbreak may be justified if trees
symptoms are severe. are small enough to spray.
Rust (Melampsora spp.): Yellow, then brown leaf spots No fungicides are specifically registered for this disease.
occur in late summer/fall. Leaves may drop Application of fungicides for leaf spot (above) may help to
early. Spores released from yellow pustules on control this disease if applied before the disease is
leaves cause the disease to spread. Older widespread.
pustules turn brown. Alternate hosts are Abies, Management: Collect fallen leaves and compost, burn, or
Larix, Picea, Pinus, Pseudotsuga and Tsuga. bury. This disease is very common in late summer on native
Needles are infected in spring by spores from poplar and cottonwood. It usually does not damage trees,
fallen poplar leaves. although it can be unsightly on landscape and nursery trees.
More severe damage can occur on the alternate hosts if grown
nearby.
Shoot Blight (Venturia tremulae): Dark brown to black Fungicides applied for leaf spot The fungus can overwinter
lesions form on succulent leaves and new (above) should also help to on diseased shoots and
shoots. Leaves wither and dying shoots form a control shoot blight. Apply at leaves. Prune out and
“shepherd’s crook” at the tip. bud-break if needed. destroy affected shoots.
Rake up and burn, bury or
compost leaves in fall.
Insects:
Poplar and Willow Borer (Cryptorhynchus lapathi): Remove and burn badly
Larvae (grubs) attack limbs and trunks causing infested trees and limbs.
black, swollen scars. Old damage is indicated The boring grubs cannot
by death of small stems, 2-8 cm in diameter. be controlled. Insecticides
Current damage is indicated by splits and holes are directed against adults
in bark from which sap and sawdust exude. and new, pre-boring
Affected limbs may break off. The adult weevil grubs. See General Insect
is greyish-brown with a wide cream-coloured and Mite Management: Bark
band across the mid-section of the body. It is 1 Beetles and Wood Borers,
cm long and appears in mid-summer. Chapter 11.
Satin Moth (Leucoma salicis): Larvae are defoliators of AMBUSH 500EC: 7 mL
poplars and willows. Adult moths are pure BIOPROTEC CAF: 4 L/ha
satin white. Caterpillars are black with red and See General Insect and Mite Management: Caterpillars and Moths,
white markings and grow up to 5 cm long. Chapter 11.
They appear in May and late July and
skeletonize the foliage until fall.

PRUNUS - FLOWERING CHERRY, PLUMS, etc. (For Commercial Orchards -
See BCMA Tree Fruit Production Guide)
Diseases:
Bacterial Canker, Blight, Blast, Leaf Shot-Hole and COPPER SPRAY 50: 600 g Obtain stock from sources
Spot (Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae): This Apply prior to fall rains and believed to be free of
bacterial disease is very damaging at the Coast again when the majority of disease.
in cool, wet springs. It causes cankers, leaves have fallen. ‘Royal Ann’, ‘Bing’,
exudation of gum and dieback of girdled Recommended to apply ‘Lambert’ and ‘Van’
branches. Gumming occurs at margins of additional sprays immediately cherries are highly
cankers in spring, usually after a rain. Under following pruning or grafting. susceptible. Use Mazzard F-
wet conditions, numerous leaf spots are caused Copper may cause leaf spot if 12-1 rootstock for cherries.
by rain-splashed bacteria. Spots often drop out applied under cool, cloudy Disinfect pruning tools
leaving a “shot-hole”. Blossoms and new conditions. To reduce injury, use between trees. Eliminate
shoots may brown off completely giving a the high rate for fall and delayed old, infected cherry trees
“blasted” appearance. New infections cease dormant applications and the from vicinity of fields
once weather turns warm. See General Disease low rate in the growing season. where Prunus nursery stock
Management: Bacterial Blight / Canker, Chapter 9. is being grown.
Brown Rot (Monilinia spp.): This fungal disease Apply at pink-bud stage. If wet weather occurs at this time,
causes blossom blight and dieback of new repeat sprays at 50% bloom and full bloom:
shoots in late spring, followed by fruit rot in BOTRAN: 1.75 kg/ha (peach)
summer. Fruit turn brown during ripening, BRAVO 500: 5-9 L/ha
later becoming mummified. Dead blossoms CAPTAN 80-WP: 3.75-4.5 kg/ha
and fruit exhibit a brown, fuzzy mould in wet FUNGINEX DC: 75 mL
weather. The fungus overwinters on KUMULUS DF: 750 g
mummified fruit and in small cankers on ROVRAL WP & WDG: 1.5 kg/ha
infected twigs and at the base of buds. The TOPAS 250E: 500 mL/ha
disease is most severe in warm, wet conditions. Apply in all regular sprays except blossom:
In Coastal areas, symptoms tend to overlap BORDEAUX: 200 g COPPER 53W + 400 g HYDRATED LIME
with those of bacterial canker (see above), Apply copper under fast drying conditions.
although brown rot infection tends to occur at Ornamentals only: DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL or DACONIL
warmer temperatures. Ultrex: 150 g
Remove mummified fruits from tree and ground during
dormant season. Prune out cankered twigs.
Refer to the Ministry’s Tree Fruit Production Guide for
additional chemical control options.
Cherry Leaf Curl or “Witches’ Broom” (Taphrina See Peach Leaf Curl, below. Prune out “witches’
cerasi): Large, broom-like tufts develop on broom” 30 cm below point
branches at blossom time. These branches have of infection. Remove old,
few flowers and leaf out earlier than other infected trees from the
branches. The brooms do not bear fruit and nursery.
they get larger each year.
Cherry Leaf Spot (Blumeriella jaapii; anamorph COPPER SPRAY 50: 200 g + HYDRATED LIME: 400 g
Coccomyces): Brown to purple leaf spots; EQUAL 65WP: 2.25 kg/ha
smaller on sour cherry than on sweet cherry. FERBAM 76 WDG: 175-200 g
Large areas of leaves may be killed. Spots often KUMULUS DF: 750 g
drop out leaving a shot-holed appearance. TOPAS 250E: 500 mL/ha
Spots may also occur on fruit stems causing Make the first application at petal fall. In the 3 weeks prior to
drop. White spore masses of the fungus appear harvest make a 2nd and 3rd application at a 7-10 day interval.
within the spots. Common in the Interior but
rarely occurs at the Coast.

Coryneum Blight, Shot-hole (Wilsonomyces COPPER 53W: 400 g Prune out diseased twigs
carpophilus; anamorph Stigmina carpophila): This COPPER SPRAY 50: 600 g during the dormant season.
fungal disease infects apricots, cherries and Apply before fall rains and
peaches. Twigs develop small dark circular again when the majority of
spots. Some become gummy. Small reddish- leaves have fallen. Copper may
brown to purple spots appear on leaves and cause leaf spotting under cool,
then drop out, leaving a shot-holed cloudy conditions.
appearance. Spots also appear on peach and FLINT 50WG: 210-280g/ha
apricot fruit. ZIRAM 85W: 8 kg/ha
Crown Gall (Agrobacterium tumefaciens): This bacterialAvoid planting susceptible species in beds known to be
disease causes galls to form on roots and stems. infested. Remove all galls when moving stock. Disinfect all
The bacteria can remain in the soil in the tools and work areas with a strong bactericide when working
absence of a host for several years. with gall-infected material. Inspect roots and do not plant
gall-infected material. See General Disease Management: Crown
Gall, Chapter 9.
Cytospora Canker (Cytospora spp.; teleomorph Minimize wounding
Leucostoma species): This fungal disease is especially during wet
important on stone fruits, particularly on weather. Prune as late as
peaches in the South Okanagan and can also possible in the dormant
occur in Coastal BC. Slightly sunken cankers season. It is important to
are formed on the bark. Black, pimple-like remove all cankered wood
fruiting bodies, which extrude white tendrils of from the vicinity of the
spores under wet conditions, can be seen in the nursery or orchard.
cankers. The fungus also attacks apple and Whitening of the bark to
other ornamental trees and shrubs. Infection prevent sunscald is also a
results from spores splashing on wounds useful preventive measure.
caused by pruning, sunburn or breakage of Avoid excessive nitrogen or
branches. irrigation in the growing
season.
Little Cherry Disease/Little Cherry Virus: Infected Use virus-tested stock for
black cherries have small pointed, pinkish- propagation of both sweet
coloured fruits with insipid flavour. On sour and flowering cherries.
cherries, fruits are small, yellowish or pink and Refer to Little Cherry Control
the tree has loss of vigour. Flowering cherries, Regulations, Chapter 2, for
such as ‘Kwansen’ and ‘Shirofugen’, may be restrictions on movement
symptomless carriers of little cherry virus. The and production of cherries
main vector is the apple mealy bug. in the Little Cherry Control
Areas of BC.
Peach Leaf Curl (Taphrina deformans): This disease, Apply at leaf drop or in early Where practical, pick and
which infects only peaches and nectarines, is spring before bud break: destroy infected leaves
most severe in wet areas. The fungus BRAVO 500: 5-7 L/ha before sporulation occurs in
overwinters on bark and twigs. It infects buds COPPER SPRAY 50: 200 g early summer.
during late winter as they are swelling. Leaves COPPER 53W: 190 g Fall sprays will also control
are yellow to reddish initially and become Repeat before bud break in Coryneum blight.
thickened and fleshy, later developing a dusty, spring unless another dormant
white coating of spores. Infected leaves fall spray has been used.
prematurely and new, healthy leaves may Apply by the end of January:
appear later in the summer. FERBAM 76 WDG: 175-350 g
Dormant:
LIME SULPHUR: 10 L
Verticillium Wilt (Verticillium spp.): See General Disease Management: Verticillium Wilt, Chapter 9.

PRUNUS LAUROCERASUS - CHERRY LAUREL
Diseases:
Leaf Spots, Shot-hole - Bacterial (Pseudomonas Apply fungicide or bactericide Avoid overhead irrigation
syringae pv. syringae), Fungal (Cercospora spp. to protect new growth in in the afternoon or evening.
and other fungi): The bacterium, Pseudomonas spring. Destroy fallen leaves. Very
syringae, and several fungi can cause reddish- susceptible varieties such as
Fungal:
brown leaf spots that may fall out giving the ‘Zabeliana’ cannot be
DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL
leaf a shot-holed appearance. Identification of grown disease-free in
the causal agent is often difficult, but may be containers under sprinkler
necessary for selection of the proper chemical See General Disease Management: irrigation. They can be more
control. Fungal diseases are more common in Bacterial Blight / Canker, Chapter successfully grown in the
the Interior and bacterial blight at the Coast. 9. field. They must not be
subjected to daily
sprinkling in the landscape
and they should not be
planted under any type of
cherry tree.
Insects:
Cherry Bark Tortrix (Enarmonia formosana): The Because of the long flight Older infested trees should
larvae live under the bark and show a period of the moths and the be cut down to reduce
preference for scar tissue from graft unions. bark-boring habit of the larvae, breeding of this insect.
Frass (excrement) and gum-like resin can be effective chemical controls have
observed at the entrance of the tunnels. The not been developed.
larvae overwinter and pupate in the spring
inside the tunnels. Moths have dark brown
forewings with yellow-orange lines. They
emerge in May and periodically through the
summer.
Cherry Ermine Moth: See MALUS: Apple Ermine Moth.
Leafrollers: Larvae are green with black heads. They DIAZINON 50WSP or 50EC (cherries): 100 g or 100 mL
feed on leaves and fruit, and drop on silk DIPEL WP: 2.25-3.35 kg/ha
threads when disturbed. DIPEL 2X DF: 1.125-1.675 kg/ha
DOKTOR DOOM: 60-480 mL/0.4 ha
IMIDAN 50-WP: 3.75 kg/ha
ORTHENE 75% SP: Mist blower = 1,312 g/1,000 L; Hydraulic
sprayer = 637 g/1,000 L
Spray when bearing trees are in pink-bud stage.
Peach Tree Borer (Synanthedon excitiosa): It affects DECIS 5 EC: 6.8 mL Install a metal cone-shaped
apricots, cherries, chokecherries, nectarines, ISOMATE-P PHEROMONE: collar around the base of
peaches, plums and prunes. Females lay eggs 250 to 625 dispensers/ha for the tree before eggs are laid
near the soil line on tree trunks where, after peaches, nectarines and to prevent larvae from
hatching, the larvae tunnel under the bark. apricots. One dispenser per boring into the base of the
Larvae are cream colored with brown heads tree. Apply in the spring prior tree. Kill larvae in tunnels
and reach up to 30 mm long. Adults are clear- to moth emergence, one by probing with a wire or
winged moths around 25 mm long with yellow application can provide season- by opening the tunnels to
banded abdomens. Can girdle and kill young long control. find and destroy them.
trees. Older trees are weakened and become MILLENIUM: 1 tray/9.4 L
susceptible to other pests. THIONEX 50 W: 150 g
Pear Sawfly (Caliroa cerasi): Adult is a shiny black fly See General Insect and Mite Apply when damage is first
with four wings. Black slug-like larvae Management: Sawflies, Chapter noticed in spring and again
skeletonize leaves in summer. 11. in July-August.

PSEUDOTSUGA - DOUGLAS FIR
Diseases:
Diaporthe Canker (Diaporthe lokoyae; anamorph Fungicides applied to control Keep trees healthy. Prune out
Phomopsis lokoyae): This fungus infects new other diseases listed below will infected limbs well below the
shoots. The sunken cankers are elliptical and also help to prevent infection canker. Remove prunings
differ in size. Larger cankers can be up to 75 cm by this fungus. from the area and burn, bury
long. They develop during the dormant season. or chip, since spores from
Dieback occurs when a limb is girdled. Tiny, dead, cankered limbs can
black fruiting bodies (pycnidia) are found in cause new infections.
the cankered area.
Douglas Fir - Cottonwood Rust (Melampsora Both hosts are required for
occidentalis): Yellow rust pustules are present survival of the rust.
on underside of needles, which turn yellow Susceptible cottonwoods
and die prematurely. Cottonwood leaves include Populus trichocarpa,
develop angular, yellow spots on the upper leaf P. balsamifera and hybrid
surface that correspond to yellow and brown poplars. These should be
rust pustules on the lower surface. removed from the
perimeter of fields
producing Douglas fir. See
also POPULUS: Rust.
Grey Mould/Seedling Blight (Botrytis cinerea): See General Disease Management: Botrytis Blight and Storage
Individual new shoots wilt and turn brown Moulds, Chapter 9.
early in the growing season, causing
conspicuous blight in unusually wet springs.
Needle Cast (Rhabdocline pseudotsugae): Yellow spots BRAVO Ultrex 90 SDG: 1.3-2.7 kg/ha
appear on current season needles in early fall. COPPER SPRAY 50: 400 g
Spots enlarge the following spring and turn DACONIL 2787F: 2.4–4.8 L/ha
into purplish-brown bands in May or June. DACONIL Ultrex: 1.45-2.9 kg/ha
Spores shed from these bands infect newly- DITHANE DG, M-45 or WSP 80WP: 275-350 g
opening needles in spring. The old needles fall PENNCOZEB 80WP: 275-350 g
off leaving a single year’s needles on the tree. Treat when new growth is 1-5 cm in length. Repeat sprays
Cool, wet weather promotes infection. every 10-14 days in cool, wet springs.
Needle Cast (Rhizosphaera kalkhoffi): Small yellow to BANNER MAXX: 35 mL (for use
greyish-green, mottled spots appear on current on Christmas trees only)
year’s needles in late summer, particularly on Fungicides applied for
lower branches. Spots then turn purplish- Rhabdocline Needle Cast (see
brown. See PICEA: Needle Cast for a full above) will help to control this
description of this disease. disease also.
Seedling Blight (Sirococcus conigenus): See under PICEA and in General Disease Management: Sirococcus Blight, Chapter
9.
Swiss Needle Cast (Phaeocryptopus gaeumannii): Fungicides applied for
Fungal fruiting bodies appear as rows of black, Rhabdocline Needle Cast (see
pinhead-like dots on the underside of needles. above) will help to control this
There may be defoliation of one- and two-year- disease also.
old needles in early spring.
Insects:
Cooley Spruce Gall Adelgid (Adelges cooleyi): Insects See General Insect and Mite Management: Aphids and Adelgids,
attack both spruce and Douglas fir. On Douglas Chapter 9.
fir they are present as woolly aphids in spring.
See under PICEA-SPRUCE.

Douglas Fir Needle Midge (Contarinia sp.): The adult Christmas tree growers
is a small midge that emerges when buds are should use emergence
breaking. The fly lives for a few days; just cages placed on the
enough time to mate and lay eggs. They ground to determine
deposit eggs in groups on expanding buds and midge emergence.
new needles. The eggs hatch in a few days. The Treatments should be
larvae penetrate and mine needles, and drop to applied when the buds are
the ground in the fall to overwinter. Even light stretching.
infestations lower market value and
appearance of Christmas trees. Moderate or
heavy infestations cause serious defoliation.
Infested needles become yellowed and angle
sharply.
Silverspotted Tiger Moth (Douglas Fir Webworm - DIPEL WP: 62.5 g Prune out and destroy
Halisidota argentata): Newly-hatched larvae are Apply when larvae first appear tents when seen in fall or
greenish-brown, fuzzy and about 6 mm long. in March and tent is still small. spring.
Later stages are up to 37 mm long, thickly Repeat spray in two weeks if
haired and tufted with reddish-brown, yellow necessary.
and black hairs. Larvae spin a tent or web
around a branch and feed in or around the tent.
PYRACANTHA - FIRETHORN
Diseases:
Fire Blight (Erwinia amylovora): New shoots wilt See General Disease Management: Fire Blight, Chapter 9 and
suddenly in spring, turning black/brown. The COTONEASTER: Fire Blight.
dead leaves hang down on infected twigs. It is
uncommon in Coastal areas, but can occur
during summer propagation in polyhouses.
Scab (Venturia pyracanthae): Black scabs or blotches BANNER MAXX: 14 mL
appear on leaves and berries. DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL or DACONIL Ultrex: 150 g
Spray when blossoms open and at 10-day intervals at least
twice more during early part of growing season.
Destroy all fallen leaves if practical. Appendix D contains a
list of resistant varieties.
PYRUS – PEAR (For Commercial Orchards - See BCMA Tree Fruit Production Guide)
Diseases:
Anthracnose Canker (Cryptosporiopsis curvispora): See under MALUS.
European Canker (Nectria galligena): See under MALUS.
Fire Blight (Erwinia amylovora): New shoots wilt See General Disease Prune out diseased branches
suddenly in spring, turning black/brown. The Management: Fire Blight, at least 15 cm below the
dead leaves hang downward on affected twigs. Chapter 9. affected area in dormant
This bacterial disease is not considered to be a season, or at least 30 cm
problem in Coastal areas. In the Interior, it can below the affected area in the
spread quickly at temperatures above 18°C in early growing season. ‘Bosc’
wet weather, especially following hail damage. is highly susceptible and
Symptoms can be confused with Pseudomonas whole branches may need to
blossom blast, which is more common on the be removed.
Coast and occurs earlier in the spring.

Pear Trellis Rust (Gymnosporangium fuscum): Orange- NOVA 40W: 34 g Do not plant ornamental
red spots with black centres appear on leaves in Repeat at 14-day intervals. No pears as landscape trees in
June-July. By late August, the spots thicken and more than 6 applications per the Lower Mainland. Avoid
spores emerge in spiky tufts from the lower leaf year. planting pear trees within 30
surface. Fruit and twig infections may occur on m of susceptible junipers.
trees with large numbers of leaf infections. Juniper Pick off infected pear leaves
is the alternate host. Spores from juniper must re- as you see them. The leaves
infect pears each year, although in some cases and fungus will die quickly if
repeating infections can occur from twig cankers. removed in mid-summer.
The disease is common in the Lower Mainland,
but not in the Interior. A Domestic Movement
Certificate is needed to transport pear nursery
stock out of the Lower Mainland. See British
Columbia Plant Protection Regulations, Chapter 2.
Scab (Venturia pirina): See under MALUS. CAPTAN 80 WDG: 120 g; do In addition to the control
not use Captan on ‘Anjou’. measures used for apple scab,
EQUAL 65W: 3.25 kg/ha; do pear scab control also
not use in the Interior where requires measures to reduce
resistance is common. overwintering on twigs.
FERBAM 76 WDG: 200 g Prune out severely infected
INSPIRE: 292 mL/ha twigs during dormant season.
KUMULUS DF: 400-750 g Apply dormant or delayed-
LIME SULPHUR: 125 mL dormant lime sulphur.
MAESTRO 80DF: 3.75 kg/ha; European canker can infect
do not use on ‘Anjou’. through scab lesions on
SULPHUR: See labels. twigs.
Insects and Mites:
Pear Leaf Blister Mite and Pear Rust Mite (Eriophyes See General Insect and Mite Management: Mites, Chapter 11.
pyri and Epitrimerus pyri): Almost microscopic, AGRI-MEK 1.9% EC: 20-40 mL + 0.25% PARAFFINIC SPRAY OIL
white, worm-like mites produce blistering and DIAZINON 50WSP: 150 g + 1 L of HORTICULTURAL OIL
russeting on leaves and fruit. The mite is within DYNO-MITE or SANMITE: 28.4 g
the blisters and is difficult to control during the KUMULUS DF: 200 g
growing season. Best control is achieved with a True dormant stage only:
dormant spray. LANDSCAPE OIL: 3 L
LIME SULPHUR 23%: 10 L
Pear Psylla (Psylla pyricola): Adults are green to ACTARA 25 WG: 315-385 g/ha
brown and overwinter on the trees or on the AGRI-MEK 1.9% EC: 20-40 mL + 0.25% PARAFFINIC SPRAY OIL
ground and become active in March. Eggs are DECIS 5 EC: 6.8-11.8 mL
laid in spring before buds open during DIAZINON 50EC or 50WSP: 100 mL or 100 g
blossoming. Nymphs invade buds and feed on IMIDAN 50-WP: 3.75 kg/ha
developing leaves and flowers. Later they INSECTICIDAL SOAP 47% or 50.5%: 2 L
move to leaves and live in honeydew drops. MALATHION 500 E: 125-250 mL
Summer eggs are laid on leaves. Three to five POUNCE 384 EC: 17.5-35 mL. Use the low rate to control
generations occur per season. Leaves blacken overwintering adults prior to bloom.
with sooty mould and fall off. RIPCORD 400 EC: 7.5 mL
Not known to be a pest in Coastal nurseries. SEVIN T&O: 230-350 mL
More common in Interior orchards. True dormant stage only:
LANDSCAPE OIL: 2 L
Pear Sawfly (Caliroa cerasi): Adult is a shiny, black fly Treat when damage is first noticed in spring and again in July-
with four wings. Black slug-like larvae August. See General Insect and Mite Management: Sawflies,
skeletonize leaves in summer. Chapter 11.

QUERCUS - OAK
Diseases:
Anthracnose (Apiognomonia sp. (Discula quercina)): DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL On small nursery trees, a
This disease is very similar to anthracnose of DACONIL Ultrex: 150 g fungicide spray program
Platanus. It is most damaging on white oak. DITHANE DG, M-45 or WSP is recommended during
Spots on leaves run together to form blotches 80WP: 275-350 g the spring to prevent
along veins. Rain favours infection. Defoliation PENNCOZEB 80WP: 275-350 g infection. Large trees can
can occur. The disease is often worse on trees Apply when buds begin to swell. sustain severe disease in
under stress and in years with warm, wet Repeat sprays at 7-14 day some years without
springs. intervals in wet springs. permanent damage and
spraying is usually
impractical. See under
PLATANUS.
Insects:
Bruce Spanworm (Operophtera bruceata) and Winter See General Insect and Mite Management: Bruce Spanworm and
Moth (Operophtera brumata): These loopers Winter Moth, Chapter 11.
defoliate trees during May and early June.
Jumping Gall Wasp (Neuroterus saltatorius): This Nurseries: Several naturally-
wasp causes small, 1-1.5 mm, yellow galls on Apply a general systemic occurring predators and
leaves of Garry oak. Galls are visible from June insecticide in mid-May. Contact parasitic insects feed on
to September, accompanied by severe and the BCMA entomologist for the gall wasp.
chronic mid-summer leaf scorching. The wasp specific recommendations.
is known to occur only on Saltspring and Landscape:
southeast Vancouver Island. No practical chemical control.
Oak Leaf Phylloxera (Phylloxera glabra; Phylloxera sp.): For nurseries, see General
This small, yellow to orange, aphid-like insect Insect and Mite
is present throughout southern BC. It causes Management: Aphids,
mid-summer leaf spotting, scorching and Chapter 11. It is not
defoliation of Garry oak in landscape and usually practical to treat
nurseries. Trees may eventually die. Other large landscape trees.
ornamental oaks are also attacked but are not Rogue out trees showing
as severely affected. severe symptoms in new
plantations.
Oak Leaf Shredder (Croesia semipurpurana): Larval ORTHENE 75% SP: Mist blower
feeding produces numerous tiny holes in = 1,312 g/1,000 L; Hydraulic
young foliage. The larvae then tie leaves sprayer = 637 g/1,000 L
together with silk webbing. Larvae pupate in
the soil; adults emerge in summer and deposit
eggs in bark of 2- and 3-year-old twigs. Several
years of severe defoliation can kill a tree.
RHAMUS - BUCKTHORN
Diseases:
Rot of Stem Cuttings (Pythium/Phytophthora spp.): See General Disease Management: Damping Off and Stem Rot of
Basal rot of stem cuttings and poor rooting. Cuttings, Chapter 9.
RHODODENDRON and AZALEA (see AZALEA)
RHUS - SUMAC
Insects:
Pear Leaf Blister Mite (Eriophyes pyri): Almost See General Insect and Mite
microscopic white worm-like mites produce Management: Mites,
blistering and russeting on leaves. Chapter 11.

ROBINIA
Diseases:
Fusarium Canker (Fusarium spp.): Several Fusarium
species can cause cankers and wilting
symptoms on locust.
ROSA – ROSE
Diseases:
Bacterial Blight (Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae): COPPER SPRAY 50: 600 g; apply Cut out and burn or bury
Dark brown, sunken spots appear on leaf and once in October and again in infected plant parts.
flower stalks and calyx parts. Flower buds die January. See General Disease
without opening. Black streaks appear on one- Management: Bacterial
year-old stems. The disease commonly occurs Blight / Canker, Chapter 9.
during cool, wet weather in spring.
Black Spot (Diplocarpon rosae): Black to reddish- BANNER MAXX: 33 mL Remove infected leaves.
brown spots with smooth or irregular, CAPTAN 50-WP: 200-250 g Water during the day so that
“fringed” edges are visible on both sides of the CAPTAN 80-WP: 125-150 g leaves dry off before sunset.
leaf. Leaves yellow and drop. Spots can CAPTAN 80 WDG: 120-140 g Rake up and compost fallen
resemble those caused by downy mildew (see COMPASS 50WG: 15-20 g leaves and apply lime
below). COPPER 53W: 560 g sulphur during dormant
DACONIL 2787F: 180 mL season. Protect young leaves
DACONIL Ultrex: 110 g on susceptible varieties before
EAGLE WSP T&O: 30 g infection with the other
FUNGINEX DC: 100 mL fungicides listed. For resistant
NOVA 40W: 34 g varieties see Appendix J. For
PHYTON 27: 390 mL landscape and home garden
RHAPSODY: 1-2 L control see the Ministry’s
SENATOR 70WP: 50-75 g Home & Garden Pest
Management Guide for British
Columbia.
Brand Canker (Coniothyrium spp.): This fungal Prune out diseased canes in
disease causes small, longitudinal splits in the early spring. Disinfect
bark, through which tiny, black, fungal fruiting pruning tools between
bodies protrude. It often affects plants that are bushes. Avoid leaving large
under stress or damaged by other factors. pruning stubs.
Brown Canker (Cryptosporella spp.): This canker has a Same as for Brand Canker
light brown centre with a purple margin. (see above).
Yellow to brown spores exude from the canker
in damp weather.
Crown Canker (Cylindrocladium scoparium): This PHYTON 27: 125-400 mL Plant new stock in a sterile
disease is primarily a greenhouse problem. It (miniature roses) growing medium. Do not
has rarely been found in BC: once on imported import stock from areas
bareroot stock from the Southern US, where the where the disease is known to
disease occurs in fields. The bark is blackened occur in production fields.
and water-soaked at the graft union. Canes The fungus is soil-borne once
become girdled and produce few and inferior it is introduced.
blooms.
Crown Gall (Agrobacterium tumefaciens): Galls appear See General Disease Management: Crown Gall, Chapter 9.
on lower stems and roots.

Downy Mildew (Peronospora sparsa): Infection by COPPER 53W: 560 g
wind-blown sporangia produced by the
organism cause reddish-purple leaf spots to Management:
appear on the upper leaf surface during cool, In the polyhouse, monitor plants and remove infected leaves;
wet weather. Infected leaves yellow and drop, control humidity; clean up crop debris at the end of the season;
leading to poor plant vigour and growth. alternate crops if possible.
Disease symptoms resemble those caused by In the nursery, avoid overhead watering in the evening.
crown gall, nutritional or environmental factors Some of the most popular roses, including ‘Austin’,
and even black spot. The fungus can be ‘Meidiland’ and mini-roses are highly susceptible. Climbing
systemic in infected plants, which may not roses are often infected but tolerant of the disease, which
show symptoms in the greenhouse, so is often a produces only mild leaf spotting. However, they are a source
problem in propagation nurseries. of infection for other roses in the nursery and landscape.
Powdery Mildew (Sphaerotheca spp.): A white, See General Disease Management: Powdery Mildew, Chapter 9.
powdery growth appears on leaves. Young For resistant varieties see Appendix J.
leaves curl and are more purplish than normal.
Rose Graft Canker (Coniothyrium rosarum): Cankers Use disease-free wood for
develop in forcing beds at the graft union. grafting. Rogue out diseased
Canes die when the canker has encircled the plants.
graft.
Rust (Phragmidium spp.): Rusty yellow and brown See General Disease Remove all infected
spots appear on leaves and stems. Management: Rust, Chapter 9. overwintering leaves. For
resistant varieties see
Appendix J.
Stem Canker (Leptosphaeria spp.): Black spots and See Brand Canker (above).
stem cankers form, often at tips where canes Sterilize pruning tools.
have been pruned back. Provide good growing
conditions.
Viruses:
Mosaic: Chlorotic areas appear along midribs of Use virus-free rootstocks and scionwood for propagation.
leaflets and leaves may be distorted. Infected Many roses will sustain some mosaic virus infection without
plants may do well until stressed, then can serious injury, unless grown under stressful conditions. Water
quickly drop leaves and decline. and fertilize to promote healthy, vigorous plants.
Streak: The streak virus causes brown rings and Use virus-free rootstocks and
brown vein-banding on fully expanded leaves scionwood for propagation.
and brownish or greenish rings on canes.
Transmitted by grafting.
Insects:
Rose Midge (Dasineura rhodophaga): Larval (maggot) ORTHENE 75% SP: Mist
feeding occurs within the emerging leaf and blower = 1,312 g/1,000 L;
flower buds, which causes the buds to wither Hydraulic sprayer = 637
and turn black. Midge feeding can cause g/1,000 L
complete failure of a bloom cycle. Peak injury
occurs from mid-June to early July, and in late
August/September.
Sawfly (Rose Slug) (Endelomyi aethiops): The larval See General Insect and Mite Management: Sawflies, Chapter 11.
stage of the rose slug feeds only on roses. It
skeletonizes the upper surface of leaves. The
larva has a brown head and pale-green body
that is up to 13 mm long. It moves to the soil in
mid-summer to overwinter and pupate the
following spring. There is only one generation
per year.
Thrips: Elongate, very small insects. Cause bronzing and drying of leaves and petals. Buds turn black and fail to open.
See General Insect and Mite Management: Thrips, Chapter 11.

SALIX - WILLOW
Diseases:
Blight (Marssonina salicicola, Septoria spp. and other No fungicides are registered In nurseries, prune and burn
fungi): These fungi overwinter as twig cankers. for control of these diseases diseased twigs at least twice
During wet spring weather, new leaves and on willow. per year. See under
shoots become infected. Under severe POPULUS.
conditions, defoliation and extensive twig
death occurs.
Insects:
Alder Flea Beetle (Altica ambiens ulni): The beetle is 6
mm long, metallic green to blue with yellow
legs. The adult and larval stages skeletonize
leaves, but seldom cause serious injury.
Aphids: A small to medium-sized, light green or See General Insect and Mite Management: Aphids, Chapter 11.
yellow aphid sucks sap from leaves. A large,
black aphid feeds on the bark of twigs. Large
numbers produce much honeydew and attract
wasps.
Poplar and Willow Borer (Cryptorhynchus lapathi): DURSBAN WSP: 44.8 g See under POPULUS and in
The adult beetle is 6 mm long, dark brown, PRO DURSBAN TURF: 50 mL General Insect and Mite
mottled, with light brown, grey, and pink Management: Bark Beetles and
scales. Larvae feed in soft tissue of inner bark Wood Borers, Chapter 11.
and sapwood, especially at the base of the tree,
which they kill.
Satin Moth (Leucoma salicis): The larvae are See under POPULUS and in General Insect and Mite
defoliators of cottonwood, poplar and willow, Management: Caterpillars and Moths, Chapter 11.
and occasionally attack oak and aspen.
SKIMMIA
Diseases:
Black Root Rot (Thielaviopsis basicola): T. basicola is a SENATOR 70WP: 65-85 g
soil-inhabiting fungus that causes root rot on a
broad range of ornamental plants. The disease
is favoured by wet and warm (12-18oC) soils.
The symptoms include yellowing of foliage,
branch dieback, and blackened areas on roots.
SORBUS - MOUNTAIN ASH

Diseases:
Apple Scab (Venturia inaequalis): This fungus causes Rake and destroy fallen
scab (black spots) on leaves and fruit. Leaves leaves. Control scab on apples
are curled and distorted. New infections occur if grown nearby (see under
whenever there is a moderate to prolonged MALUS).
rainy period. The same fungus causes apple
scab.
Fire Blight (Erwinia amylovora): New shoots wilt See General Disease Management: Fire Blight, Chapter 9.
suddenly in late spring and turn black or
brown. Dead leaves hang downward on
infected twigs. It is not considered to be a
problem in Coastal areas.

Mites:
Pearleaf Blister Mite (Phytoptus pyri): The mite is a See General Insect and Mite Management: Mites, Chapter 11.
tiny, elongated, worm-like pest, about 0.2 mm
long. They overwinter beneath outer bud
scales. Eggs are deposited in spring in leaf galls
that develop as a result of feeding and
irritation. Small, brown blisters appear on
lower surfaces of leaves in spring.
SYRINGA - LILAC
Diseases:
Bacterial Blight (Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae): See General Disease Management: Bacterial Blight/Canker,
Dark black streaks appear on young shoots or Chapter 9.
on one side of a shoot in early spring. Leaf
spots are brown, often with a yellow halo.
Flowers wilt and turn brown. Buds are
blackened. Rainy springs favour disease.
Powdery Mildew (Microsphaera spp.): A white, See General Disease Management: Powdery Mildew, Chapter 9.
powdery growth appears on leaves usually late
in the growing season.
Insects:
Ash and Lilac Borer (Podosesia syringae): See under FRAXINUS - ASH
Leafminer (Caloptilia syringella): The adult is a small, See General Insect and Mite Management: Leafminers / Needle
slender grey moth. It begins the season as a Miners, Chapter 11.
leafminer in late May, just before blossom time.
The mines may run together to form a blotch.
The larva forms a cocoon within the fold of a
leaf where it overwinters.
Oyster Shell Scale (Lepidosaphes ulmi): This is the See General Insect and Mite Management: Scales, Chapter 11.
most common scale attacking lilac. It is
identified by its oyster-like appearance.
TAXUS - YEW
Diseases:
Root Rot (Phytophthora sp.) See General Disease Management: Root Rots Caused by
Phytophthora and Pythium, Chapter 9.
THUJA - RED CEDAR, ARBORVITAE
Diseases:
Armillaria Root Rot (Armillaria spp.): Branches turn No chemical control.
brown, often starting on one side of the tree. Management: Avoid growing Thuja in soils recently cleared
Examination reveals root rot and decay at the of native forest vegetation. Rogue out and burn diseased
base of the trunk. plants taking care to remove all traces of tree roots and fungal
See General Disease Management: Root Rot Caused “rhizomorphs” before re-planting with resistant species. For a
by Armillaria, Chapter 9. list of resistant plants see Appendix M.

Berckmann’s Blight / Seiridium Blight / Coryneum COPPER SPRAY 50: 400 g Prune out affected branches
Canker (Seiridium spp., teleomorph Coryneum DITHANE DG, M-45 or WSP and twigs. This disease is the
berckmannii): Severe twig and branch canker 80WP: 275-350 g main limiting factor to the
occurs only on Platycladus orientalis (formerly PENNCOZEB 80WP: 275-350 g successful growing of P.
Thuja orientalis). Foliar blight can also occur on Spray twice every fall and orientalis in Coastal BC.
Thuja plicata and Chamaecyparis spp. Foliage again in spring to protect new
looks greyish and infected twigs dieback. foliage. Dying twigs are often
Young twig tips are infected, and the disease infected by secondary fungi
progresses inward on the tree. Spores infect so a laboratory diagnosis is
twigs in late September but disease symptoms often needed to confirm this
may not be apparent until the following spring. disease.
Tiny, black, fungal fruiting bodies are found in
late summer/fall where twigs and branches are
girdled.
Cedar Flagging (physiological): Common on Thuja A natural occurrence; not
plicata (western red cedar). In late summer, damaging to the tree. May be
patches of foliage turn yellow to reddish-brown more severe in droughty
on branches scattered about the tree. years.
Foliar Blight/Dieback (Kabatina thujae): This disease COPPER SPRAY 50: 400 g Examine soil for correct pH,
affects Thuja occidentalis and Chamaecyparis spp., Apply once in the fall and nutrient levels and drainage.
causing leaf and shoot dieback in spring. It is a every 2-3 weeks in the spring Avoid overhead watering.
sign that the plants are not growing well. to protect new growth. Irrigate early in the day.
Keithia Blight (Didymascella thujina): Tiny, circular, Treat at least 3 times between Avoid overhead watering of
brown to black, fungal fruiting bodies appear March and mid-June. Thuja plicata. T. plicata
on scale leaves in late spring. The leaves then ‘Atrovirens’ and ‘Excelsa’ are
turn brown and affected areas fall out. Later, See General Disease especially susceptible. Locate
infected leaves drop, leaving branches with a Management: Keithia Blight, nursery beds of these varieties
sparse or bare appearance. Dormant spores Chapter 9. away from mature T. plicata
adhering to the foliage in the fall can germinate windbreaks. Do not propagate
and cause new infections during propagation. from infected plants.
Leaf Browning/Purpling (Environmental): Foliage Cold temperatures in winter
takes on an overall brownish or purplish colour and early spring, rather than
in early spring. This colour change may occur drought, are responsible for
rapidly. Healthy plants will green-up as the the temporary leaf browning.
growing season progresses. Provision for shelter or
Note: During flowering, some varieties may windbreaks may help. T.
exhibit an overall reddish-purple colour. The occidentalis ‘Smaragd’ is less
colour may become suddenly more noticeable susceptible than other
in years with more intense flowering. varieties.
Insects and Mites:
Cypress Tip Moth (Leafminer) (Argyresthia MALATHION 500E: 250 mL
cupressella): Adult moths are silvery-tan in In late April, mid-June and
colour and are active in early June. Eggs are early July, spray to control
inserted into the green tips of one and two- larvae outside the foliage or
year-old twigs. The larvae tunnel into leaf moths before egg laying.
scales and remain there until the next spring.
Infested twigs turn yellow, then brown in late
winter. A cocoon is spun around the foliage in
early June of the second year for the pupal
stage. Two to three weeks later, adults emerge.
Mites: Damage usually occurs first at the bottom of See General Insect and Mite Management: Mites, Chapter 11.
the plant and on the south side. Monitor by
gently shaking the foliage above a sheet of
white paper.

Redwood Bark Beetle (Phloeosinus sequoiae): The See General Insect and Mite Management: Bark Beetles and Wood
beetle commonly attacks weakened, dying or Borers, Chapter 11.
dead trees. The female beetle will bore into the
inner bark and lay about 50 eggs. The emerged
larvae feed in the sapwood and phloem. It
overwinters as an adult or larva. Adults emerge
in the summer and feed on small branches of
cedar and cypress, which can lead to flagging.
Root Weevils: Adults may girdle twigs a few See General Insect and Mite Management: Root Weevils, Chapter
centimeters from tips. Tips turn brown making 11.
the tree unmarketable. Serious damage may
occur on landscape plantings also.
TILIA – LINDEN
Diseases:
Sooty Mould: Black mould grows on aphid secretions Control aphids to reduce sooty mould. See General Insect and
on leaves. Mite Management: Aphids and Adelgids, Chapter 11.
Mites:
Gall Mite (Phytoptus tiliae): Mites form red to Dormant season only:
greenish, pocket-like galls on the upper surface DORMANT OIL: 2 L
of leaves. Galls are about 5 mm long. This is a
pest of T. cordata.
TSUGA - HEMLOCK
Diseases:
Botrytis Blight (Botrytis cinerea): Botrytis causes a See General Disease Management: Botrytis Blight and Storage
foliar blight of seedlings and container-grown Moulds, Chapter 9.
plants in humid conditions.
Tip Blight (Sirococcus conigenus): Death of young See General Disease Management: Sirococcus Blight, Chapter 9.
shoots, often forming a “hook” at the tip. Also
causes seed decay and seedling blight. See
under PICEA.
Insects:
Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (Adelges tsugae): This INSECTICIDAL SOAP 47% or Nitrogen fertilization has
sucking insect appears as white, cottony puffs 50.5%: 2 L; spray after May 1 been shown to enhance
on the bark and base of needles. Infestation LANDSCAPE OIL: 1-2 L to adelgid survival and negate
often leads to the production of abundant control eggs, nymphs and pest control measures. If this
black, sooty mould. Premature needle drop adults insect is a problem, reduce
may occur. nitrogen fertilization as much
See General Insect and Mite
See Comment 30 in Federal Plant Quarantine as possible.
Management: Woolly Adelgids,
Regulations in Chapter 2. Chapter 11.
Hemlock Looper (Lambdina fiscellaria): Pale yellow FORAY 48BA: 2.4-3.2 L/ha See General Insect and Mite
caterpillars, up to 25 mm long, with a double THURICIDE 48LV: 160-240 Management: Caterpillars and
row of small black dots along body, cause mL Moths, Chapter 11.
severe defoliation of outer shoots and twigs.

ULMUS - ELM
Diseases:
Dutch Elm Disease (Ceratocystis ulmi ): BC is free of Tree Injection:
Dutch Elm Disease, which is spread by bark ARBOTECT 20-S: See product label for application rate, etc.
beetles, such as the Native and European Elm
To control the disease-vectoring beetle, see European Elm Bark
Bark Beetles. The vectors do occur in BC.
Beetle (below).
Beetles acquire the fungus in the fall when they
tunnel under the bark of infected branches to Management: BC and Alberta remain free of Dutch Elm
breed. They spread the pathogen when they Disease. Rapid identification and removal of infected trees
emerge and feed on new, young twigs. The first before beetles can breed in dead branches is essential to
symptoms of disease are wilt and dieback of prevent its spread. Contact the Pacific Forestry Centre,
branches in mid-summer, often on only one Victoria, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, or your local
side of the tree. Dark streaks can be found in BCMA office immediately, if you observe wilt disease
the sapwood of infected branches. American symptoms on an Ulmus tree. Do not bring Ulmus or Zelkova
elm is highly susceptible; Siberian and Chinese into BC. See British Columbia Plant Protection Regulations,
elm may become infected but do not wilt and Chapter 2 for information on the voluntary nursery
die, so these resistant species rarely transmit certification program for the disease. Nurseries, parks and
the fungus. Other fungal diseases may cause landscapers are advised to monitor American elm for dieback
branch dieback on elm with similar symptoms. and prune out any dead or dying elm branches in the
dormant season to prevent beetle breeding.
Wet Wood or Slime Flux (Erwinia nimmipressuralis, Affected trees may die
and other bacteria): This bacterium is an invader quickly, or limb by limb, and
of old, weakened or damaged trees and is a are a risk to fall down. Trees
sign of other injury. It causes slimy, smelly may be cleaned up to some
cankers on trunks and branches and/or extent by drilling holes just
discolouration of interior wood. Exudate runs below the affected area and
down the trunk causing further discolouration inserting plastic pipe to drain
of the bark and attracts insects. It commonly exudate from the trunk. An
affects old poplars, horse chestnuts and maples. infected tree will eventually
have to be cut down.
Insects:
Elm Leaf Beetle (Xanthogaleruca luteola): Attacks all ACECAP 97: for rate, see label or Aphids and Adelgids,
elm species. The black, grub-like, larvae Chapter 11.
skeletonize the lower side of the leaf. Can lead CONSERVE or SUCCESS 480 SC: 2.5 mL
to premature leaf drop. In the spring, the adult ENTRUST 80 W: 1.5 g
beetles lay yellow eggs in clusters on the ORTHENE 75% SP: Mist blower = 1,312 g/1,000 L; Hydraulic
underside of leaves. Larvae pupate on the sprayer = 637 g/1,000 L (do not apply to American elms)
ground at the base of the tree or in bark THIONEX EC: 125-175 mL
crevices. Adult beetles leave the tree to find a THIONEX 50 W: 100 g
suitable overwintering site in the fall. SEVIN T&O: 230-350 mL
European Elm Bark Beetle (Scolytus multistriatus): See Nursery: Apply insecticides to prevent beetle feeding. Follow
Dutch Elm Disease (above). a regular spraying and monitoring program.
Woolly Apple Aphid (Eriosoma larigerum): This aphid ACECAP 97: for rate, see label or Aphids and Adelgids,
causes clusters of rolled, twisted, and dwarfed Chapter 11.
leaves at the growing tip of elm shoots. Eggs INSECTICIDAL SOAP 47% or 50.5%: 2 L
overwinter on elm. After hatching in the POUNCE 384 EC: 9 mL
spring, the insect then moves to apple, where it Greenhouse only:
feeds on leaves and roots. It is present all IMPOWER 60WP: See label.
summer. See General Insect and Mite Management: Aphids and Adelgids,
Chapter 11.

VIBURNUM
Diseases:
Powdery Mildew (Microsphaera spp.): Leaves become DACONIL 2787F: 250 mL Fungicide applications are
covered with white, powdery growth in late DACONIL Ultrex: 150 g not usually warranted on
summer. The same fungus infects a wide range landscape plants. Sulphur
of woody, deciduous hosts. should not be used on
Viburnum. See General Disease
Management: Powdery Mildew,
Chapter 9.
Insects:
Viburnum Leaf Beetle (Pyrrhalta viburni): The larvae ACTARA 25 WG: 280 g/ha To manage this pest prune
and adults both cause severe leaf CONSERVE 480 SC: 25 out and destroy infested
skeletonization and defoliation of ornamental mL/ha twigs after egg laying has
viburnums. Viburnum opulus is a preferred stopped in the fall.
host, but it also causes moderate to slight injury
on V. dentatum, V. lantana, V. tinus and V. See Appendix K for
trilobum. The viburnum leaf beetle has one information on the
generation per year. It overwinters as eggs, susceptibility of Viburnum
which are usually deposited in a straight row species to the viburnum leaf
on the lower surface of 1- or 2-year-old twigs. beetle.
The eggs hatch in the spring and the larvae
begin to feed. In early summer, the larvae drop
to the ground to pupate. Adult beetles emerge
one month later. Female beetles will lay up to
500 eggs from late summer to the first frost.

Pesticides 15
This information on safe pesticide use is summarized from the BC Pesticide Applicator Course for agricultural
producers. Study kits for the course are available from the Distribution Centre by phoning 1-800-282-7955.
Legislation The Food and Drugs Act

Laws protect applicators, bystanders, consumers All foods must be free of harmful amounts of
and the environment. You can be fined for breaking substances. Health Canada sets levels of allowable
the laws. pesticide residues on crops at harvest. These levels
are called maximum residue limits or MRLs. The
Canadian Food Inspection Agency takes random
Canadian Laws samples of crops to test for pesticide residues at the
time of sale. If residues are more than the MRL the
Pest Control Products Act & crop may be seized. If you follow the
recommendations on the labels and wait the
Regulations required days before harvest, residues should not
Every pesticide used or sold in BC must be be over the limit.
registered by Health Canada. Each label must have
a PCP Act number on it. Using pesticides without a The Fisheries Act and
PCP Act # (from other countries) is against the law
unless you have a Grower Requested Own Use Migratory Birds Regulations
(GROU) Import Certificate. The GROU program You can be charged if you kill or harm fish or
allows Canadian growers to import and use foreign migratory birds with pesticides. This applies to
versions of products registered in Canada. A list of creeks, rivers and lakes on your own property as
the products approved under the GROU program well as on public land. It is illegal to introduce
is available on the PMRA website. pesticides into waters either directly or indirectly
When a pesticide is applied to a crop, the crop and through spray drift or run-off.
pest treated must be listed on the pesticide label.
Using pesticides for uses not on the label is against Transportation of Dangerous
the law. However, there are a few minor pesticide
uses that may be registered but not on the label. Goods Act
This guide includes these minor uses. Information Certain dangerous goods cannot be transported
on minor use is available under “Pesticide unless you use shipping documents, special labels
Registration” on the Ministry’s Pesticide Wise and vehicle signs. Ask your pesticide dealer if the
website. product you have bought needs special transport
Pesticides are labeled as Domestic, Commercial or procedures. Growers are usually exempt from this
Restricted. Restricted products are more hazardous when they are transporting less than 500 kg of
and have special restrictions on the label. pesticide.
British Columbia Laws

Integrated Pest Management
Act and Regulations
The BC Ministry of Environment also has rules
about the sale and use of pesticides in BC. Rules
that apply to farmers include:
Nursery Production Guide Pesticides • 1

1. Pesticides labeled Restricted or Commercial The regulations on pesticides outline requirements
must be kept in vented and locked storage that for pesticide applicator certification, emergency
has a warning sign on the door. medical care, washing facilities, personal protective
clothing and equipment, application equipment,
2. Anyone buying or using pesticides labeled
pesticide application, posting warning signs, re-
Restricted must have an applicator certificate.
entry into treated areas, record keeping, drift
Table 15.2 lists pesticides (referred to in this prevention, and aerial application. Copies of the
guide) that can be purchased and used only by regulations are available from any WorkSafeBC
certified applicators under the Integrated Pest office.
Management Act.
Their pesticide regulations state that workers must
3. An authorization such as a pesticide use be over 16 years old and must have a valid
licence, pest management plan or permit is pesticide applicator certificate from the Ministry of
required to apply pesticides to public land. Environment if they mix, load or apply moderately
Contact the regional Ministry of Environment or very toxic pesticides, or if they clean or maintain
office for details. application equipment for these pesticides. Table
4. Businesses selling pesticides must be licensed 15.2 lists which pesticides are moderately or very
and their sales people must be certified. toxic and, identifies which pesticides can only be
used by certified applicators. Anyone under the age
5. Anyone applying pesticides in exchange for a of 25 years is considered a young employee and
fee must have an applicator certificate and a must complete a “new or young employee”
Pesticide Use Licence. But, if you spray your orientation. FARSHA (1-877-533-1789) can help
neighbour’s crops you do not need a license as develop or present a program for your farm.
long as the work is done as a favor and no
money is exchanged. The WorkSafeBC re-entry requirements are listed in
this chapter in the Re-entry Restrictions Section.
6. Everyone must dispose of containers and The record keeping requirements have been
leftover pesticides safely. incorporated into the grower’s spray record. Refer
to the regulations for the rest of WorkSafe BC’s
The Ministry of Environment was in the process of
requirements.
amending the Integrated Pest Management
Regulation when this section was published.
Proposed amendments to the regulation will Toxicity
require that pesticides used in landscaped areas are
Some pesticides are more poisonous or toxic than
applied by trained people and, will change the way
others. The categories of pesticide toxicity used in
Domestic class pesticides are sold and update the
this guide are listed in Table 15.1. The categories
schedule of excluded pesticides. Information on the
indicate short-term toxicity and are based on the
changes can be found on the Ministry of
LD50 of the active ingredient. The LD50 values are
Environment website.
only a guide to the toxicity of a pesticide to humans.
WorkSafeBC Table 15.1. Oral and Dermal LD50 Values of the

Short Term Toxicity Categories
WorkSafeBC Regulations for Occupational Health
and Safety apply to farmers who must be registered Toxicity Oral LD50 Dermal LD50
by WorkSafe BC. If you are unsure whether they (mg/kg) (mg/kg)
apply to you, call WorkSafe BC at 1-888-621-7233. Very Toxic 0 to 50 0 to 200
FARSHA (Farm and Ranch Safety and Health
Association) at 1-877-533-1789 can also provide Moderately 51 to 500 201 to 1,000
information on WorkSafeBC regulations. Toxic
The WorkSafeBC regulations cover conditions of Slightly Toxic over 500 over 1,000
workplaces such as general safety procedures,
hazardous substances, pesticides, confined spaces
such as silos and storage bins, protective clothing
and equipment, tools, machinery and equipment,
and animal handling.
2 • Pesticides Nursery Production Guide

Figure 15.1. The pesticide warning symbols used to identify product hazards.
Hazard Shapes and Symbols Exposure

Shapes and symbols on pesticide labels indicate Pesticides can enter your body through the skin
how harmful a pesticide can be. The shapes (dermal), the mouth (oral), the lungs (inhalation) or
indicate how hazardous the product is. The the eyes. The skin is the most common route of
symbols inside the shapes tell you the type of poisoning for pesticide applicators. Skin contact
hazard. If symbols are not on labels, the pesticide may occur from a splash, spill or drift. Your skin is
has very low hazard. most likely to get contaminated when mixing and
loading pesticides.
Hazard
The hazard of using a pesticide depends on both its
toxicity and the amount of exposure. Reduce
hazards by selecting pesticides with low toxicity
and by reducing exposure. Wear protective gear
and follow safety guidelines.

If a pesticide contacts the eyes, put on waterproof
Poisoning and First Aid gloves and hold the eyelids open and rinse with
clean water for 15 minutes or more. Do not use an
Symptoms of Pesticide eye cup. Do not use chemicals or drugs in the wash
water.
Poisoning
If pesticide contacts the skin, put on waterproof
Know the poisoning symptoms of the pesticides gloves, remove the contaminated clothing and
you use. Read pesticide labels for symptoms. wash the affected area of the skin with lots of soap
Effects from pesticide poisoning vary from person and water. Cover burned areas with a loosely
to person and are often hard to recognize. Some applied, clean cloth. Do not apply any drugs or
poisoning symptoms are headache, fatigue, nausea, medications to the burned area. Do not use
dizziness, irritation of the skin or nose or throat, ointments, greases, creams, lotions or other drugs.
blurred vision, tiny pupils, trembling, perspiration, If the victim is in shock, keep the person lying
difficulty breathing, vomiting and unconsciousness. down and warm until medical help arrives.
Call the Poison Control Centre or a doctor
If pesticide was breathed in, take the victim to fresh
immediately if you suspect poisoning, and follow
air as quickly as possible, loosen tight clothing and
their instructions.
watch for signs of unconsciousness or convulsions.
Poison Control Centres are open 24 hours a day. If breathing has stopped or is difficult, keep the
They give first aid information and treatments for airway open and begin resuscitation. Use a plastic
poisoning. The phone number of the Poison Control facemask to protect yourself. To prevent chilling,
Centre (1-800-567-8911) can be found in the front of wrap the patient in blankets but do not overheat.
the phone book under Emergency Numbers. Keep patient as quite as possible.
If a pesticide is swallowed:
First Aid
 If a person is conscious and able to swallow,
Make sure you, and other people on the farm, know give them ½ to 1 glass of milk or water. Larger
what to do in case of an emergency. Consider quantities may cause vomiting.
taking a first aid course and CPR course.
 Do not induce vomiting.
If someone has been poisoned:
 Call the Poison Control Centre at 1-800-567-
1. Protect yourself. 8911 for further advice.
2. Move the victim from the area of  If the patient is retching or vomiting, place the
contamination. patient face down with their head lower than
3. Check if the victim is breathing. If breathing their body in the recovery position. This
has stopped or is very weak, clear the airway prevents vomit from entering the lungs and
and begin artificial respiration. Continue until causing more damage. Do not let the patient lay
the victim is breathing normally or until on their back. Clean the vomit from the patient
medical help arrives. When doing mouth-to- and collect some in case the doctor needs it for
mouth resuscitation, use a plastic mask to chemical tests.
protect yourself from poison.  When medical advice cannot be obtained, check
4. Call the Poison Control Centre (1-800-567-8911) and follow the pesticide label for directions.
or ambulance. Be ready to tell them the  The doctor may recommend administering
pesticide name, active ingredient, and the PCP activated charcoal to adsorb pesticide still in
Act registration number. the stomach. Follow the doctor’s instructions.
5. Unless the Poison Control Centre or doctor tells Activated charcoal should be administered
you otherwise, follow the procedures listed only with the advice of a medical attendant or
below, then: doctor.
6. Transport the patient to the nearest hospital.

Protective Clothing and Boots - Wear waterproof, unlined knee-high boots
of rubber or neoprene when you load, mix or apply
Equipment pesticides. Wear your pant legs outside of your
boots. Do not wear boots made of leather or fabric.
Wear protective clothing and equipment to Wash the outside of your boots after each use.
minimize exposure to pesticides. Remember to
wear safety equipment during mixing and loading, Goggles and Face Shields - Wear goggles if
application and clean-up. Always wear coveralls, there is a chance of getting pesticide spray or dust
waterproof boots, waterproof gloves and a proper in your eyes. Do not use goggles with cloth or foam
hat. You may also need to wear eye or face headbands. Do not wear contact lenses when
protection, and a respirator, waterproof apron, handling pesticides. Face shields provide extra
waterproof pants and jacket. The equipment you protection when mixing and loading toxic
wear depends on the pesticide and type of pesticides. Wash goggles and face shields after use.
application. Therefore, follow the safety
recommendations on the pesticide label.
Hats - Wear a waterproof hat when pesticides
may be splashed or when you could be exposed to
Coveralls - Wear long-sleeved coveralls over full- drift. Wear a wide-brimmed rubber rain hat when
length pants and long-sleeved shirts. Make sure the you will get wet with spray. Do not wear baseball
coveralls are closed at the neckline and wrists. caps, fabric hats, or hats with leather or cloth inner
Remove your coveralls as soon as you have finished bands.
your pesticide activities. Remove them immediately
if they become wet through with pesticide. Wear
Aprons - Wear a waterproof apron when you
waterproof clothing if you might get wet during
pour and mix concentrated pesticides.
pesticide application.
Some disposable coveralls are suitable for pesticide Respirators - Wear a respirator when the label
use. Check with your supplier to see which ones says to wear one; or when the label says to avoid
can be used for pesticide application. When inhalation of dust, vapour, or spray mist; or if there
removing disposable coveralls, take care to not is a danger poison symbol on the label; or if you are
contaminate inside the coveralls if you plan to use applying pesticides in an enclosed space. Make sure
them again. Between wearing, hang them in a well- your respirator fits. Men should shave before using
ventilated area away from other clothing. Do not a respirator as facial hair prevents a proper fit.
launder disposable coveralls but do wash clothing
worn under disposable coveralls as you would Full-face respirators give more protection and may be
other clothing worn during pesticide use. Replace more comfortable than a half-face mask and goggles.
with a new coverall when severe pilling (balls on Do not use dust masks when applying pesticides.
the surface), rips or holes appear. To discard, place They do not protect you from the fumes.
in a plastic garbage bag and take to a landfill site.
Do not dispose of used coveralls by burning. Specially designed, enclosed tractor cabs fitted with
air-purifying devices can protect you from pesticide
vapours. A regular enclosed cab is not adequate
Gloves - Always wear gloves when handling protection if a respirator is required.
pesticides. Many glove materials are available. Use
unlined, waterproof gloves unless the pesticide Special respirators must be worn when using a
label recommends a specific material. Do not use highly toxic fumigant such as methyl bromide.
gloves made of leather, cloth or natural rubber, or Check the label for details.
gloves with cloth linings. Make sure the gloves
Respirators must be approved by NIOSH or an
have no holes or leaks. Keep your coverall sleeves
agency sanctioned by WorkSafeBC. The cartridges
over the gloves and fold down the tops of the
remove toxic fumes from the air. Cartridges labeled
gloves to make cuffs. Wash your gloves before
for organic vapours or pesticides are needed for
removing them and after each use.
most pesticides. Filters remove dust and mist. Both
filters and cartridges must be replaced regularly for
the respirator to work.

When you use your respirator: Use rubber gloves. Pre-rinse clothing using the
presoak cycle. Use a high water level and the
1. Check the intake and exhaust valves.
hottest water setting on your machine. Use a heavy-
2. Make sure there are no air leaks around the duty detergent.
face mask. Do an inhalation or exhalation test.
If clothes are heavily contaminated, run through
3. Change the dust filter after 4 hours of use or two complete cycles. Hang clothes outside to dry in
more often if breathing becomes difficult. the sunlight if possible. Clean the washing machine
by running it through a full cycle with detergent
4. Change the cartridges after 8 hours of use or
and no clothes to remove any pesticide residue.
sooner if you can smell the pesticide. Replace
cartridges at least once a year and more often if
you use them frequently.
Personal and Environmental
Protective Equipment for Safety Guidelines
Fumigants, Smoke Bombs and Buying Pesticides
Foggers  Make sure the pesticide is registered for your
Use a full-face gas mask with correct canister when specific use (crop and pest).
applying very toxic pesticides indoors. Keep a  Only buy an amount that you can use up in a
spare canister on hand as they can lose their year.
effectiveness. A self-contained breathing apparatus
that supplies clean air is recommended for indoor
work with gases or extremely toxic compounds. Transporting Pesticides
Wear a full-face mask when lighting smoke bombs  Never transport pesticides with food, feed,
and when airing the house. Light the bomb farthest fertilizer, clothing or household goods.
from the door and work toward the door. If smoke  Lock up the pesticides if you leave your
bombs are placed in more than one path, they vehicle.
should be lit at the same time by a separate person
 Never transport pesticides in the passenger
in each path.
section of any vehicle.
When using fogging machines, wear complete
 Ask the supplier if you need shipping papers
protective clothing, including hat, jacket, pants or
and vehicle warning signs.
coveralls, waterproof gloves and full-face mask.
Cleaning Protective Clothing Storing Pesticides & Shelf Life

Pesticides vary in their stability and response to
and Equipment storage conditions. Try to purchase a quantity of
After application, wash your gloves, boots, goggles, pesticide that can be used up in one growing
faceshield and apron. Wash your respirator face season. However, under proper storage conditions
piece with soap and warm water. Then rinse it with most pesticides can be used after at least one year
clean water and dry it with a clean cloth. Keep the of storage. Follow these guidelines for storage:
cleaned respirator in a plastic bag in a clean, dry  The law says Commercial and Restricted
place. Store the respirator and protective clothing pesticides must be kept in locked and vented
away from pesticides and spray equipment. storage that has a warning sign on the door.
Discard any clothing that has become soaked with a  Store pesticides in their original container with
pesticide. the original label. If a label is illegible or
Launder all your clothing after each day of missing, label it with the trade name, active
applying pesticides. Wash protective clothing ingredient and PCP number. Then obtain a
separately from the rest of the laundry. Do not replacement label from your dealer or the
touch contaminated clothing with bare hands. PMRA website.

 Never keep pesticides near livestock, food,  Prevent contaminating the water supply by
feed, fertilizer, seed, wells, water supplies or in leaving at least a 15 cm air gap between the end of
your home. the filler hose and the water in the spray tank. You
can also use a backflow preventer valve.
 Pesticide storage should be 30.5 metres from
any well.
 Keep herbicides separate from other pesticides. Applying Pesticides
 Return pesticides to storage when not in use.  Read and follow label directions.
 Keep a list of the pesticides in storage.  Use calibrated application equipment.
 Protect the pesticides from extreme  Use the label rate.
temperatures. Freezing destroys some liquid  Wash before eating, drinking, smoking or using
pesticides. the toilet.
 Close containers when not in use.  Have fresh water and emergency supplies on
 Dispose of unwanted, unmarked and damaged hand.
containers.  Make sure the area to be treated is clear of
 Keep containers above floor level to protect people and animals.
from dampness and flooding.  Do not work alone when handling very toxic
 Post emergency numbers nearby. pesticides.
 Keep a fire extinguisher, broom and shovel,  Post warning signs if necessary to keep people
absorptive material and protective clothing out of treated areas.
nearby in case of emergencies.  Use separate equipment for applying
herbicides.
Mixing and Loading Pesticides  Cover or remove animal food and water
containers near the treatment area.
 Wear protective clothing and equipment.
 Wear gloves to replace or clean plugged
 Read and follow label directions.
nozzles. Do not blow out a plugged nozzle or
 Choose a mixing and loading site away from screen with your mouth. Use a soft brush or
people, livestock, pets, wells and water bodies. toothpick to fix plugged nozzles.
 Measure accurately.  Shut off the spray nozzles when you turn and
 Do not rip open paper pesticide bags. Slit them stop the flow of granulars at the end of rows.
open with a sharp knife.  Pesticides must be registered for chemigation
 Mix pesticides in still or low wind conditions. before they can be applied through irrigation
Stand upwind of the pesticide. systems. Therefore, only apply pesticides
through the irrigation system when the label
 Hold the container below eye level when has instructions for chemigation. If chemigation
measuring or adding pesticide into the spray is used, follow Chemigation Guidelines for BC.
equipment. This publication is available from the Ministry
 Only use mixing equipment for pesticides and of Agriculture.
return it to locked storage when not in use.  Use and maintain the tractor speed chosen
 Triple rinse pesticide containers as soon as they during calibration.
are empty. Rinse measuring and mixing  Prevent pesticides from contaminating non-
equipment. Put rinse water into the sprayer. target areas. Leave an untreated area around
 Use clean water. The pH of the water should be lakes, streams, ditches and wells. Spray down
from 5.0 to 7.0, and the alkalinity should be wind from sensitive areas.
below 60 to 80 ppm.  Minimize drift by:
 Prevent overflow. Do not leave the tank  Not spraying in strong winds or dead calm.
unattended. There is usually less wind in the early
morning and late evening.

 Not spraying when temperatures are  Return the containers to your pesticide storage
greater than 30°C. until you can take them to a public dump, back
 Using boom sprayers with as low pressure to the supplier or to a collection site. Containers
as possible, the correct nozzles, large can be buried on your land 0.5 metres below
volumes of water and setting the boom as the surface. The burial site must be flat, not a
near to the ground as possible to still get bog, gravel or sandy soil and at least 200 metres
uniform coverage. from wells, lakes, rivers, streams or ponds.
 Using a drift control agent.  Do not burn pesticide containers.
 Using drift guard or other specialty nozzles

that reduce drift. Re-entry Restrictions
People can be poisoned by working in pesticide-
After Applying Pesticides treated areas too soon after application. Poisoning
may occur due to inhaling pesticide fumes or
 Clean equipment away from water supplies. handling treated plants. Farmers are required to
 Remove and clean protective clothing and post a sign that informs workers when they can
equipment. enter a field. The sign must state the application
date and the re-entry time. Signs can be obtained
 Shower.
from FARSHA.
 Keep records of every application.
Most pesticide labels state when a treated area can
be re-entered. The restricted-entry interval (REI) is
Disposal of Unwanted the period of time that agricultural workers, or
Pesticides anyone else, must not do hand labour in areas after
a pesticide has been applied. The purpose of the
 Calculate the amount needed so none is left REI is to allow time for pesticide residues and
over. vapours to dissipate to safe levels before work can
be resumed in the area.
 Do not re-spray an area to get rid of leftover
spray. WorkSafeBC has also established REIs for
pesticides. Their regulations require people to not
 Apply left over material according to label
enter a treated field until they have waited the
directions on another site or crop listed on the
following periods:
label. Do not put unwanted pesticides into
sewers, down drains or on the land.  24 hours for a slightly toxic pesticide,
 Contact the regional office of the BC Ministry of  48 hours for a moderately or very toxic
Environment or Ministry of Agriculture for pesticide, and
information on the disposal of unwanted
 the total of the re-entry intervals for tank mixes
pesticides.
of moderately and very toxic pesticides.
Disposal of Containers Growers should follow the REI stated on the

pesticide label. If there is no REI on the label, then
 Drain the container into the spray tank for at growers should apply the REI periods established
least 30 seconds or shake out the bag. by WorkSafeBC.
 Triple or pressure rinse drums, glass bottles, The Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA)
plastic and metal containers. Single rinse plastic has prepared a guideline to follow if a farmer needs
and paper bags. to enter a treated area before the end of the REI.
The guideline states that a certified applicator may
 Put the rinse water into the spray tank.
enter a treated area during the REI period to
 Crush, puncture or damage empty containers perform short-term tasks provided:
so they cannot be re-used.
 No entry for 4 hours following the end of
pesticide application.
 No hand labour activity is performed.

 The certified applicator wears the personal Information on the label REI and relative toxicity of
protective equipment that the label specifies for each pesticide is provided in Table 15.2. Use the
mixing/loading and wears a NIOSH-approved REI on the label if it is longer than the WorkSafeBC
respirator if entering within 4-12 hours after re-entry interval.
application.
 The time in the treated area during the REI Grazing Restrictions
doesn’t exceed one hour in any 24-hour period.
If animals are to graze a treated area, check the
 Decontamination supplies are available for pesticide label for grazing restrictions. Wait the
washing off pesticides and pesticide residues. required time before grazing.
Special Environmental Precautions

buffer zone when the label says to. A buffer zone
Buffer Zones only needs to be left between the end of the spray
Many pesticide labels now contain buffer zone boom and the downwind sensitive area. Labels will
information. Buffer zones are strips of land next to tell you what sensitive areas must be protected and
sensitive areas, in which pesticide application is not the size of the buffer zone. Labels may require
permitted (see Figure 15.2). The purpose of the protection of water bodies (aquatic) or planted
buffer zone is to protect sensitive areas from areas (terrestrial).
pesticide drift. Applicators are required to leave a
Figure 15.2. Schematic of a pesticide buffer zone.

Protecting Fish and Other Follow label directions regarding the size of
buffer zones from downwind bodies of water to
Wildlife keep pesticides out of the water.
Some pesticides are toxic to fish, birds and wildlife.  Do not destroy vegetation along fish bearing
Exposure to trace amounts of these pesticides may waters and do not spray with pesticide.
be lethal. Destroying the vegetation along fish-  Incorporate granular insecticides.
bearing water harms fish by removing food and
shelter, but also increases the risk of pesticide entry.  Use precautions to prevent drift, leaching and
run-off to areas outside the treated area.
Protect fish and wildlife from pesticide poisoning
 Store treated seed where it cannot be eaten by
by following label precautions, safety guidelines in
animals.
the guide and the guidelines below:
 Place baits in covered bait stations.
 Use pesticides only when necessary.
 Select the least toxic and least persistent pesticide.

Protecting Bees and Beneficial Streamside Protection
Insects Growers are encouraged to examine their farm
activities and modify any practices that could put
Bees and other pollinating insects are essential for
fish habitats at risk. Some areas where risk may
the production of many crops, while other insects
occur include the use of pesticides, fertilizers,
can control pests. Many pesticides, particularly
manure and woodwaste.
insecticides, are very toxic to honeybees, wild bees
and beneficial insects. Protect these insects from
pesticide poisoning by:
Emergency Response
 Telling nearby beekeepers about your spray
program.  Keep the phone numbers for the Poison Control
Centre, doctor, ambulance and Provincial
 Not applying pesticides near hives. Emergency number for dangerous goods spills
 Not applying pesticides toxic to bees when nearby (1-800-663-3456). The Poison Control
plants are in bloom. Centre phone number is in the front section of
the telephone book.
 Selecting formulations least harmful to bees.
Microencapsulated formulations are very  Have protective gear and equipment easily
hazardous; dusts are more hazardous than available.
sprays; wettable powders are more hazardous  Keep absorptive material, a container for
than EC and liquid formulations; granulars are contaminated waste, tools to pick up
least hazardous to bees. contaminated material, bleach and hydrated
 Reducing drift. lime available.
 Timing applications carefully. Evening sprays
are less hazardous than morning sprays. Both Spills
are safer than midday.
 Protect yourself.
 Keep bystanders away.
Protecting Groundwater
 Do not eat, smoke or drink during clean up.
Groundwater is the source of water for wells and
springs. It is very difficult to clean contaminated  Work upwind of the spill.
groundwater. The solution to groundwater  Contain the spill. Surround and cover it with
contamination is prevention. absorbent material.
Groundwater contamination is most likely to occur  Clean up the spill.
where soils are gravelly or sandy, the water table is
 Decontaminate the area using bleach or
close to the soil surface, there is high rainfall or
detergent. Absorb excess liquid with absorbent
extensive irrigation, or the pesticide is injected or
material.
incorporated into the soil. Pesticides that are
persistent in the soil, are weakly absorbed and  Put contaminated absorbent material in the
leach quickly, or are highly soluble may special waste container and seal it.
contaminate groundwater.  Remove and wash protective gear. Shower.
Remember to avoid spills, drift and irrigation run  If you need help, call the Provincial Emergency
off, and to properly dispose of unwanted pesticides number (1-800-663-3456).
and empty containers. Never store pesticides near
wells or pumphouses and guard against leaking
containers.
Fires
Well construction, maintenance and location can be Fires involving pesticides can be very dangerous.
factors in contamination. Maintain proper seals Burning pesticides may release toxic fumes that are
between pump and pump base, as well as seals poisonous to firefighters, bystanders and animals,
between well casings. or that may contaminate the environment.
Pressurized containers can explode. Pesticides can
spill out of containers damaged by the fire. Run-off
from fighting a fire can contaminate a larger area.

Ahead of time, give your fire department a list of Growers are allowed to apply unlabelled tank
all pesticides in storage (brand names, active mixes of registered pesticides as long as:
ingredient, PCP #’s and quantity remaining).
 The application timings of all products tank
Update the list each year.
mixed are compatible with regards to crop and
In case of a fire, call the fire department and tell pest staging.
them there is a fire involving pesticides. Keep  Each product tank mixed is applied in
people and animals away from the fire. accordance with its registered product label. In
For more information on practices to reduce the cases where use directions differ for the
risk of a fire and to deal with fires that involve products to be tank mixed, the most restrictive
pesticides, check out the Ministry’s Pesticide Wise directions must be followed.
website.  The tank mix is not specifically excluded or
contradicted on either tank mix partner label.
Tank Mixing Pesticides
It is often economical and convenient to apply a
Adjuvants
mixture of two or more pesticides when more than Adjuvants can be an important part of a pest
one pest is to be controlled. However, proceed with control program because they help to overcome
caution because mixing non-compatible pesticides some of the variables that potentially reduce the
can result in damage to the application equipment effectiveness of a pesticide. Adjuvants are used as
or crop, or reduce pest control. The best source of spray solution additives to prevent problems
information on tank mixing is the pesticide label; associated with spray application such as beading,
many labels do contain information on pesticides incomplete coverage, run-off, adverse water quality
that can be used in a tank mix. Some labels even or removal through rain and wind.
contain directions for mixing the product with
other pesticides. Alternatively, information on Adjuvant products include surfactants, wetting
pesticide compatibility can be obtained from the agents, crop oils, thickeners, drift control agents,
registrant and extension specialists. penetrants, anti-foam agents, stickers and
spreaders. When choosing an adjuvant, decide
If you are uncertain whether two pesticides are which aspects of the spray application need
compatible, perform a compatibility test prior to improvement. In addition, the environmental
applying the tank mix. Test the compatibility by conditions before, during and after the application,
mixing the pesticides in a small volume of water in as well as the characteristics of the plant surface
the relative proportions that you plan to use them. should be taken into consideration.
The components should mix well when the mixture
is stirred or shaken. The mixture should not Surfactants are perhaps the most frequently used
separate nor should components settle out rapidly class of adjuvant. Surfactants reduce the surface
upon standing. When applying a new tank mixture, tension of a solution so that it can spread and cover
it is recommended to apply on a small scale. a surface more efficiently. Surfactants are classified
as non-ionic (uncharged), cationic (positively
In general, it is riskier to mix two different types of charged), and anionic (negatively charged). Spray
formulations, for example wettable powders with coverage can also be improved by the type and set-
emulsifiable concentrates. When using emulsified up of the application equipment.
concentrates, always read the warnings on the
manufacturer’s label. Tank mixes should be applied Not all pesticides are labeled to be used with an
promptly to reduce the risk of crop injury or a adjuvant. Always consult the product labels as
decrease in effectiveness. some combinations can be hazardous for your
health, damaging to crops or cause the product to
Spray injury can also arise from a variety of other be ineffective. For example, spray tank mixes of
causes. Improper operation of sprayers, excess copper fungicides and organosilicone surfactants
dosage of chemicals, sudden weather change should be avoided because the surfactant can
during or following spraying, sprays applied at low enhance foliar uptake of copper and lead to
volume, or spraying during extremely hot periods phytotoxicity.
(32°C or higher) may cause either fruit or foliage
injury.

nonylphenoxy polethoxy ethanol (Agral 90) is a When added, this adjuvant agent improves the
non-ionic liquid wetting and spreading agent adherence of the pesticide to the leaf surface
registered for use with a range of specific crops and prevents the product from dripping off,
and controlled products. Controlled products resulting in longer spray activity. Citowett Plus
that can be mixed with Agral 90 include is especially useful for application to plants
Gramoxone and Reglone. This product may with hairy, dusty or waxy leaf and bud
cause eye and skin irritation so proper surfaces. It is compatible with a number of
protective wear should be used. Applying more chemical products at various mix rates. Take
than the recommended rate, or combining this precautions when applying this product as
product with pesticides that already contain a contact with eyes can cause severe burning and
wetting agent, can lead to loss of spray due to stinging or lead to loss of vision. Get medical
excess run-off. Specific spray mix and usage attention immediately if this product gets in
instructions vary and are available on the eyes. Consult the product labels for a full list of
pesticide labels. Refer to the Agral 90 product products approved for use with these adjuvants
label for a complete list of compatible products. along with their specific use instructions.
octylphenoxypolyethoxy ethanol (Super Spreader, dimethylpolysiloxane (Halt) is a defoaming agent
Citowett Plus, Companion) is a non-ionic, water for addition to tank mix during filling and
soluble product that forms a continuous agitation to control foam formation or existing
uniform film on the leaf surface to improve foam. Keep from freezing.
foliage wettability.
polyacrylamide (On-Target) is a drift retarding
compound for deposition improvement and
drift retardation during spray operations. On
Target is compatible with most water soluble
and wettable powder pesticides and desiccants.
This product can be irritating to the eyes, skin
and respiratory system. Keep from freezing.
Pesticides Registered for Ornamental, Nursery and

Landscape Uses
Pesticide Name, Relative Toxicity The toxicity data are based on tests with rats and
rabbits and are considered relevant to all mammals
and Certification Requirement including humans. The principal sources of
Most pesticides have three different names, which information for the tables are Farm Chemicals
include the chemical, trade and common names. Handbook (1999), The Pesticide Manual (12th Edition,
The common and trade names are most frequently 2000) published by the British Crop Protection
used when referring to a particular pesticide. The Council, and product MSDS reports. Table 15.1 lists
common name is an acceptable abbreviation of the the toxicity categories used in this guide.
chemical name (= active ingredient). The Products labeled RESTRICTED require pesticide
manufacturer or formulator assigns the pesticide applicator certification under the BC Integrated Pest
trade name. There can be multiple trade names for Management Act (IPMA). All products that are very
one active ingredient. For example, Roundup, or moderately toxic, either orally or dermally,
Touchdown and Credit are all trade names of require pesticide applicator certification under
pesticides containing the active ingredient WorkSafeBC (WSBC) regulations. If either
glyphosate. The first letter of a trade name is regulation requires certification, the pesticide
always capitalized (e.g. Roundup), whereas the first applicator must have the certificate.
letter of the common name is lower case (e.g.
glyphosate), with the exception of some  is used to indicate products that are classed as
abbreviated common names (e.g. MCPA). danger poison.

Table 15.2. Acute toxicity, chemical class, labeled re-entry interval (REI) and certification requirements of the
pesticides recommended for use on ornamental plants. Pesticides with an REI of ‘dried’ means the treated
area may be entered to work on the crop once the spray has dried. If the label does not provide a REI, then
apply the REI established by WorkSafeBC (see the section on re-entry intervals on page 8).
Acute Relative Certification
Toxicity Required
REI
Trade Name Active Ingredient (hrs) Group1 Oral Dermal IPMA WSBC
ALGAECIDES &
DISINFECTANTS
1-bromo-3-chloro-5,5-
Agribrom - - S S N N
dimethylhydantoin
didecyl dimethyl
KleenGrow 12 QA M N Y
ammonium chloride
potassium
Virkon - - S N N
monopersulfate
FUMIGANTS
Basamid dazomet I-16 S S N N
Vapam metam-sodium - - S S N N
FUNGICIDES
Acrobat dimethomorph 12 F-40 S S N N
Aliette Ornamental & WDG fosetyl-aluminum dried F-U S S N N
Arbotect 20-S thiabendazole - F-1 S - N N
Banner MAXX propiconazole 12 F-3 S S N N
Pseudomonas fluorescens
BlightBan A506 4 - S S N N
strain A506
Pantoea agglomerans,
BlightBan C9-1 4 - - - N N
strain C9-1
Bloomtime Biological FD Pantoea agglomerans,
4 - - - N N
Biopesticide strain E325
Aureobasidium pullulans
Blossom Protect dried - S S N N
DSM 14940 and 14941
Botran 75W dicloran 12 F-14 S S N N
Bravo Ultrex 90 SDG chlorothalonil 48 F-M S S N N
Captan 50-WP & 80-WP, 80WDG captan 96 F-M S S N N
Compass 50WG trifloxystrobin 12 F-11 S S N N

Confine Extra phosphorous acid - F-33 S S N N
48
Copper Spray 50 copper oxychloride F-M S S N N
(Ghse=24)
Copper 53W tribasic copper sulphate - F-M M S N N
12
Daconil 2787F & Ultrex chlorothalonil F-M S S N N
(Ghse=48)
Decree 50 WDG fenhexamid 4 F-17 S S N N
1 Pesticidesare categorized into different resistance management groups based on their target site/mode of
action. Rotate pesticides of different groups to manage against the development of pest resistance.

Table 15.2. (Cont’d) Acute Relative Certification
Toxicity Required
REI
FUNGICIDES (Cont’d)
Dithane DG, M-45, & 80WP mancozeb - F-M S S N N
Dygall Agrobacterium radiobacter - - – – N N
Eagle WSP T&O myclobutanil dried F-3 S S N N
Equal 65 WP dodine 48 F-U12 S S N N
Ferbam 76WDG ferbam dried F-M S S N N
Fixed Copper copper oxychloride - F-M S S N N
Folpan 50 WP folpet 24 F-M S S N N
Funginex DC triforine 48 F-3 S S N N
Heritage azoxystrobin dried F-11 S S N N
Kasumin kasugamycin 12 - S S N N
Kumulus DF sulfur 24 F-M S S N N
Lime Sulphur 23% sulphide sulphur 48 F-M S S N N
Maestro 80DF captan 96 F-M S S N N
Manzate DF & PRO-STICK mancozeb 24 F-M S S N N
Meltatox dodemorph-acetate 12 F-5 S S N N
MilStop potassium bicarbonate 4 - S S N N
Mycostop Streptomyces griseoviridis - - S - N N

Nova 40W myclobutanil 12 F-3 S S N N
cyprodinil +
Palladium 12 F-9 + 12 S S N N
fludioxonil
Penncozeb 80 WP mancozeb 24 F-M S S N N
Phostrol phosphite 12 F-33 S S N N
48
Phyton 27 copper, as elemental F-M S S N N
(Ghse=24)
Polyram DF metiram - F-M2 S S N N
Presidio fluopicolide 12 F-43 S S N N
propamocarb
Previcur N 24 F-28 S S N N
hydrochloride
Pristine WG boscalid + pyraclostrobin 72 F-7 + 11 S S N N
Quadris azoxystrobin 12 F-11 S S N N
Ranman 400 SC cyazofamid 12 F-21 S S N N
extract of Reynoutria
Regalia Maxx dried - S S N N
sachalinensis
Revus mandipropamid 12 F-40 S S N N
Rhapsody ASO Bacillus subtilis - - S S N N

Rootshield G & WP Trichoderma harzianum 4 - S - N N
Rovral WDG & 50WP iprodione 4-12 F-2 S S N N

Toxicity Required
REI
FUNGICIDES (Cont’d)
Senator 70WP thiophanate-methyl - F-1 S S N N
Streptomycin 17 streptomycin sulfate 24-336 F-18 S S N N

Subdue MAXX metalaxyl 24 F-4 S S N N
cyprodinil +
Switch 62.5 12 F-9 + 12 S S N N
fludioxonil
Sulphur sulphur - F-M S S N N
Topas 250E propiconazole 12 F-3 S S N N
Truban 25EC & 30WP etridiazole 12 F-14 S S N N
Vydate oxamyl 24 N-1A V S Y Y
Ziram 85W ziram - F-M S S N N
HERBICIDES
Aim EC carfentrazone-ethyl 12 H-14 S S N N
Amitrol 240 amitrole 12 H-11 S S N N
Bonanza 400 trifluralin 12 H-3 S S N N
Casoron G-2 & G-4 dichlobenil 24 H-20 S S N N
Dacthal W-75 chlorthal 12 H-4 S S N N
Devrinol 2-G, 10-G, 50-DF &
napropamide 12 H-15 S S N N
DF-XT
Dual II Magnum s-metolachlor 12 H-15 S S N N
dried
EcoClear acetic acid - S S N N
or 12
Frontier Max dimethenamid-P 24 H-15 S S N N
Gallery 75 DF isoxaben 12 H-21 S S N N
Garlon XRT triclopyr 12 H-4 S S N N
Goal 2XL oxyfluorfen 12 H-14 S S N N
Gramoxone paraquat 24 H-22 M M N Y
Kerb 50 WSP & SC propyzamide 24 H-15 S S N N
Lontrel 360 clopyralid 12 H-4 S S N N
Munger Horticultural
acetic acid dried - S S N N
Vinegar Plus
Princep Nine-T simazine 12 H-5 S S N N
Prowl H2O pendimethalin 24 H-3 S S N N
Rival EC trifluralin 12 H-3 S S N N
Ronstar 2G oxadiazon - H-14 S S N N
Roundup PRO, Touchdown
glyphosate 12 H-9 S S N N
Total, Original 360, Credit 45

Toxicity Required
REI
HERBICIDES (Cont’d)
Safer’s De-Moss soaps - - S S N N
Safer’s TopGun fatty acids dried - S S N N
Simadex Simazine F,
simazine 12 H-5 S S N N
Simazine 480
Treflan EC & G trifluralin 12 H-3 S S N N
Velpar DF hexazinone 48 H-5 S S N N
Venture L fluazifop-P-butyl 12 H-1 S S N N
INSECTICIDES
Avid 1.9% EC abamectin dried I-6 S S N N
ABIETIV nucleopoly-hedrovirus - - - - - -
ACECAP 97 acephate 72 I-1B S S N N
Actara 25 WG thiamethoxam 12 I-4 S S N N
Ambush 500EC & 50EC permethrin dried I-3 M S N Y
Beleaf 50 SG flonicamid 12 I-9c S S N N
BioProtec CAF Bacillus thuringiensis - I-11 – – N N
Botanigard ES & 22 WP Beauveria bassiana 4 - S S N N
Citation 75WP cyromazine 12 I-17 S S N N
Confirm 240F tebufenozide dried I-18 S S N N
Conserve 480 SC spinosad dried I-5 S S N N
Cygon 480-ORN dimethoate - I-1B M M N Y
Decis 5 EC deltamethrin 12 I-3 M S N Y
Diazinon 50 W & 50 EC diazinon 96-120 I-1B S S N N
Dimilin 25% WP diflubenzuron 12 I-15 S S N N
Dipel WP & 2X DF Bacillus thuringiensis - I-11 S S N N
Distance pyriproxyfen 12 I-7 S S N N
Doktor Doom EC pyrethrin - I-3 S S N N
Dursban PRO, Turf & WSP chlorpyrifos 48 I-1B M S N Y
Dylox 420 L & 80% SP trichlorfon 24 I-1B M S N Y
Dyno-Mite pyridaben 12 I-21 S S N N
Endeavor 50WG pymetrozine 12 I-9B S S N N
Enstar EW kinoprene 12 I-7 S S N N
Entrust 80 W spinosad dried I-5 S S N N
Foray 48BA Bacillus thuringiensis - I-11 – – N N
Forbid 240 SC spiromesifen 12 I-23 S S N N
Imidan 50-WP phosmet 72 I-1B M S N Y
Intercept 60 WP imidacloprid 12 I-4 M S N Y

Toxicity Required
REI
INSECTICIDES (Cont’d)
Insecticidal Soaps – Opal (47%),
salts of fatty acids - - S S N N
PRO (25%), Safer’s (50.5%)
Lagon 480 E dimethoate - I-1B M M N Y
Landscape Oil mineral oil 12 - S S N N
Malathion 25W & 85EC malathion 12 I-1B S S N N
Merit 60 WP imidacloprid 0 I-4 M S N Y
Met52 EC Metarhizium anisopliae F52 dried - S S N N
Movento 240 SC spirotetramat 12 I-23 S S N N
Nemasys Steinernema feltiae - - S S N N
Nemasys H & L Heterorhabditis megidis - - S S N N
NoFly WP Paecilomyces fumosoroseus 4 - S S N N
Orthene 75% SP acephate 12-72 I-1B S S N N
Pounce 384 EC permethrin dried I-3 M S N Y
PureSpray Green mineral oil 12 - S S N N
Pyganic Crop Protection EC pyrethrins 12 I-3 S S N N
Ripcord 400 EC cypermethrin - I-3 M S N Y
Sanmite pyridaben 12 I-21 S S N N
Sevin T&O carbaryl - I-1A M S N Y
Success 480 SC spinosad dried I-5 S S N N
Superior 70 Oil mineral oil 12 - S S N N
Surround WP kaolin - - S S N N
Thionex EC & 50 W endosulfan 48 I-2A V M N Y
Trounce fatty acids + pyrethrins - I-3 S S N N
TriStar 70 WSP acetamiprid 12 I-4 S S N N
MITICIDES
Apollo SC clofentezine 12 I-10 S S N N
Avid or AGRI-MEK 1.9% EC abamectin dried I-6 S S N N
Dyno-Mite pyridaben 12 I-21 S S N N
Floramite SC bifenazate 12 I-25 S S N N
Forbid 240 SC spiromesifen 12 I-23 S S N N
Kanemite 15 SC acequinocyl 12 I-20B S S N N
Sanmite pyridaben 12 I-21 S S N N
Shuttle 15 SC acequinocyl 12 I-20B S S N N
Vendex 50W fenbutatin-oxide 12-48 I-12 S S N N

Toxicity Required
REI
PLANT GROWTH REGULATORS

Florel PGR ethephon 12 - S S N N

Appendix A: Susceptibility of White-barked Birch to Bronze
Birch Borer
Since 1978, the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania has evaluated many species and
accessions of white-barked birch for resistance to bronze birch borer. The findings of this research were
reported in an article in American Nurseryman (April 1, 2003, pp 40-46). The evaluations were based on the
survival of a relatively small number of trees established at the arboretum. The most promising birches grown
were Betula maximowicziana and B. maximowicziana x papyrifera. Contact the arboretum for the latest findings of
this work.
Nursery Production Guide Appendix A •1

Appendix B: Susceptibility of Boxwood Cultivars to
Box Blight (Cylindrocladium buxicola)
(Source: North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension)
Boxwood Varieties Susceptibility Rating
Buxus sempervirens 'Suffruticosa' HS

B. sinica var. insularis 'Justin Brouwers' HS
B. sempervirens 'Elegantissima' S
B. sempervirens 'American' S
Buxus X 'Glencoe' (Chicagoland Green) S
B. sempervirens 'Marginata' S
B. sempervirens 'Jensen' S
B. microphylla var. japonica 'Morris Midget' S
B. microphylla var. japonica 'Morris Dwarf' S
Buxus X 'Green Mound' MS
Buxus X 'Conroe' (Gordo) MS
B. microphylla 'Green Pillow' MS
B. microphylla 'Grace Hendrick Phillips' MS
B. microphylla 'Jim Stauffer' MS
Buxus X 'Green Mountain' MS
B. microphylla 'John Baldwin' MT
Buxus 'Green Gem' MT
B. sempervirens 'Fastigiata' MT
B. sempervirens 'Dee Runk' MT
B. microphylla 'Winter Gem' MT
B. microphylla 'Golden Dream' T
B. harlandii T
B. sinica var. insularis 'Nana' T
B. microphylla var. japonica 'Green Beauty' T
Disease Susceptibility Key:

Highly Susceptible HS
Susceptible S
Moderately Susceptible MS
Moderately Tolerant MT
Tolerant T
Nursery Production Guide Appendix B • 1

Appendix C: Susceptibility of Cornus species to Powdery
Mildew
(Source: J. Environmental Hort., 23(4):190-192. December 2005)
The study was conducted by the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, TN. The susceptibility to powdery
mildew differed significantly within and between different Cornus species.
Resistant1 Intermediate2 Highly Susceptible3

C. alba ‘Bud’s Yellow’ C. alba ‘Ivory Halo’ (25%) C. florida ‘Cherokee Sunset’
C. alternifolia C. amomum (50%) C. florida x C. nuttalli ‘Eddie’s
White Wonder’
C. controversa C. drummondii (25%)
C. nuttalli
C. mas ‘Aurea’ C. florida ‘Cherokee Brave’ (25%)
C. mas ‘Golden Glory’ C. florida ‘Cloud 9’ (50%)
C. mas ‘Reston’ C. kousa (10%)
C. kousa var. chinensis (50%)
C. macrophylla (25%)
C. obliqua (25%)
C. racemosa (25%)
C. sericea (10%)
C. stricta (25%)
1 All of the resistant plants had 0% of foliage with signs of powdery mildew.
2The level of signs of powdery mildew observed in the study varied between the intermediate plants and is
presented in brackets.
3 All of the highly susceptible plants had 100% of foliage with signs of powdery mildew.
Nursery Production Guide Appendix C • 1

Appendix D: Susceptibility of Crabapple, Firethorn
and Cotoneaster to Fire Blight and Other Diseases
Malus spp. Fire Powdery Scab Cotoneaster spp. Fire Blight
(Crabapple) Blight Mildew
‘Almey’ R R HS C. adpressus praecox R
M. baccata R - R C. adpressus praecox `Boer’ R
M. baccata HS - R C. apiculatus R
columnaris C. conspicuus decorus S
M. coronaria S - S C. dammeri S
`Charlottae’
C. horizontalis perpusillus HS
‘Dolgo’ R - R
C. microphyllus S
M. floribunda S - R
C. rotundifolius S
‘Hopa’ - - HS
C. salicifolius repandens S
‘Jacki’ SS SS R
C. salicifolius repandens cvs. S*
‘Kelsey’ R - S
* except Èmerald Spray’ which is resistant
‘Liset’ R R HR
‘Makamik’ R - R
‘Oekonomierat - - S Disease Susceptibility Key:
Echtermeyer’ R Resistant
(‘Cheal’s Weeping’ HR Highly Resistant
or ‘Pink Weeper’)
MR Moderately Resistant
‘Prince Georges’ - - S
SR Slightly Resistant
‘Profusion’ R S R
S Susceptible
‘Radiant’ R - S
HS Highly Susceptible
‘Red Jade’ R - MR
MS Moderately Susceptible
‘Red Splendor’ R R R
SS Slightly Susceptible
M. robusta R R R
persicifolia
‘Royalty’ HS S S
‘Selkirk’ R - R
‘Strathmore’ - - S
‘Thunderchild’ R - -
‘Van Eseltine’ - - HR
Pyracantha spp. Fire Scab

(Firethorn) Blight
P. atalantioides Àurea’ S R
P. coccinea HS HS
P. rogersiano `Waterili’ MR R
P.x.`Golden Charmer’ MR R
P.x. Òrange Glow’ MR R
P. koidzumii `Santa Cruz MR R
Prostrata’
Nursery Production Guide Appendix D • 1

Appendix E: Susceptibility of Daylily Cultivars to Daylily
Rust (Puccinia hemerocallidis)
(Source: Daylily Rust (Puccinia hemerocallidis) Factsheet, Plant Disease Diagnostic Clinic, Cornell University)
Resistant Moderately Susceptible Very Susceptible

Age of Gold Butterflake Attribution
All-American Hero Crystal Tide Colonel Scarborough
Antique Rose Gertrude Condon Crepe Eyed Ruffles
Barbara Mitchell Joan Senior Double Buttercup
Butterscotch Ruffles Prelude to Love Flower Shop
Catherine Neal Star Struck Hello Sunshine
Creole Blush Stella D’Oro Imperial Guard
Dainty Designer Wilson’s Yellow Irish Ice
Devonshire Cream Karie Ann
Ed Brown Lemon Yellow
Fashion Design Little Gypsy Vagabond
Femme Fatale Lonesome Dove
Gentle Rose Ming Toy
Golden Mandy Pandora’s Box
Happy Returns Pardon Me
Heartfelt Patience Plus
Holy Spirit Pink Beacon
Joie de Vivre Quannah
Joleyne Nichole Rosie Pinkerton
Lavender Bonnet Royal Ebony
Lilac Lady Russian Rhapsody
Mac the Knife Silken Touch
Mae West Siloam Doolebug
Meadow Sweet Siloam Ralph Henry
Neon Pink Solomon's Robes
Pink Flirt Splendid Touch
Prairie Blue Eyes Springtime Treasurer
Raspberry Splash Violet Explosion
Siloam Bill Monroe White Wow
Siloam Double Classic Woodland Romance
Siloam Ury Winnifors
Yangtze
Nursery Production Guide Appendix E • 1

Appendix F: Susceptibility of Juniper Varieties to Phomopsis
(Phomopsis juniperivora) Twig Blight
(Source: F.M. Zeitoun, Juniper Twig Blight, Ornamental Northwest Seminars, 1998.)
Susceptible Varieties
Juniperus chinensis ‘Hollywood’, ‘Pfitzer Blue’
J. c. procumbens nana ‘Ames’, ‘Spartan’
J. conferta ‘Blue Pacific’, ‘Emerald Sea’
J. horizontalis ‘Bar Harbor’, ‘Blue Chip’, ‘Blue Horizon’, ‘Blue Mat’,
‘Prince of Wales’, ‘Wiltonii’
J. sabina ‘Blue Tam’, ‘Broadmoor’, ‘Green Tam’, ‘Tam’
J. virginiana ‘Manhattan Blue’, ‘Sky Rocket’
Nursery Production Guide Appendix F • 1

Appendix G: Susceptibility of Rhododendrons to Feeding by
Adult Root Weevils
(Issued by Washington State University Cooperative Extension, J.O. Young, Director, and the U.S. Department
of Agriculture.)
Blossom Colors Rating* Blossom Colors Rating*

Hybrids dauricum (Dauricum) lavender-rose 97
‘P.J. Mezzitt’ (P.J.M.) pink 100 intricatum mauve 97
‘Jock’ pink 92 (Lapponicum)
‘Sapphire’ blue 90 minus (Carolinianum) rose, white 93
‘Rose Elf’ white, flushed 89 desquamatum rose, violet 93
violet-pink (Heliolepis)
‘Cilpinense’ white 88 ferrugineum rose, white 93
(Ferrugineum)
‘Lucky Strike’ deep salmon-pink 83
hemsleyanum white 93
‘Exbury Naomi’ lilac tinged 81
(Fortunei)
yellow
cuneatum rose 90
‘Virginia Richards’ yellow with 81
(Lapponicum)
crimson blotch
fastigiatum lilac, purple 90
‘Cowslip’ cream, pink 80
(Lapponicum)
‘Luscombei’ rose-pink 80
yakushimanum white, rose 90
‘Vanessa’ soft pink 80 (Ponticum)
‘Oceanlake’ deep violet-blue 80 ungernii (Ponticum) white, pale pink 83
‘Dora Amateis’ white, lightly 79 rubiginosum pink, rose 83
spotted green (Heliolepis)
‘Crest’ yellow 79 irroratum (Irroratum) white, ivory, rose 83
‘Rainbow’ carmine-pink 76 racemosum (Virgatum) white, rose 80
‘Point Defiance’ pink 76 russatum blue-purple 80
‘Naomi’ pink 76 (Lapponicum)
‘Pilgrim’ rich pink 76 carolinianum pink, mauve, 80
‘Letty Edwards’ yellow 76 (Carolinianum) white
‘Odee Wright’ yellow 76 oreodoxa (Fortunei) rose, white 80
‘Moonstone’ yellow 73 oreotrephes (Triflorum) mauve, purple, 77
rosy red
‘Lady Clementine pink 72
Mitford’ vernicosum (Fortunei) white, rose 77
‘Candi’ bright rose 72 adenophorum (Taliense) rose 77
‘Graf Zeppelin’ bright pink 71 campylogynum pink, purple, 77
(Campylogynum) crimson
‘Snow Lady’ pure white 71
xanthocodon ivory, yellow 77
‘Loderi Pink delicate pink 71
(Cinnaborinum)
Diamond’
diaprepes (Fortunei) white, pale rose 73
‘Faggetter’s Favorite’ cream with pink 70
pubsescens white, rose 73
Species (Series)
(Scabrifolium)
heliolepis (Heliolepis) white, rose 100
lepidostylum pale yellow 73
impeditum (Lapponicum) purplish blue 100 (Trichocladum)
scintillans (Lapponicum) purplish blue 100
burmanicum yellow, greenish- 100
(Maddenii) white
Nursery Production Guide Appendix G • 1

Appendix G: Susceptibility of Rhododendrons to Feeding by Adult Root Weevils (Cont’d)
Blossom Colors Rating*
Species (Series) cont.
pemakoense lilac-pink 73
(Uniflorum)
arizelum (Falconeri) white, yellow, 73
rose
glaucophyllum white, rose 73
(Glaucophyllum)
decorum (Fortunei) white, pink, 73
chartreuse
cardiobasis (Fortunei) white, rose 73
praestans magenta-rose, 73
pink
hippophaeoides lilac, rose 73
(Lapponicum)
eurysiphon ivory, rose 73
(Thomsonii)
imperator pink, rose 70
(Uniflorum)
concatenans apricot, yellow 70
(Cinnaborinum)
yunnanense white, lavender, 70
(Triflorum) pink
ciliatum (Maddenii) white, rose 70
discolor (Fortunei) white, pink 70
davidsonianum white, pink, rose 70
(Triflorum)
*The higher the number, the less feeding is expected. A 100 rating indicates complete resistance.
2 • Appendix G Nursery Production Guide

Appendix H: Susceptibility of Rhododendrons and
Azaleas to Phytophthora Root Rot
(Source: 2000 PNW Plant Disease Management Handbook, Oregon State University.)
Hybrids Species
‘Caroline’ R. davidsoniamum ‘Serenade’
‘Martha Isaacson’ R. delavayi
‘Pink Trumpet’ R. glomeralatum
‘Professor Hugo de Vries’ R. hyperethrum
‘Red Head’ R. lapponicum
R. occidentale
Azalea cultivars1 R. poukanense
‘Corrine Murrah’ R. pseudochrysanthum
‘Fakir’ R. quinquefolium
‘Formosa’ R. sanctum
‘Hampton Beauty’ R. simsii
‘Merlin’ R. websterianum
1the 5 azalea cultivars with the lowest root rot ratings but were not statistically
different from 28 other cultivars
Nursery Production Guide Appendix H • 1

Appendix I: Susceptibility of Rhododendrons to
Phytophthora ramorum
(Source: Plant Pathology (2010) 59, 301-312)
Rhododendron Cultivars Susceptibility Rhododendron Cultivars Susceptibility

Class* Class*
Albatross Townhill White 1 Harvest Moon 4
Albert Schweitzer 3 Helmut Vogel 1
Anna Baldsiefen 1 John Walter 4
Anna Rose Whitney 2 Kalinka 2
Bad Eilsen 2 Lem’s Monarch 1
Baden-Baden 2 Lord Roberts 3
Belkanto 3 Marcel Ménard 3
Bengal 3 Marianne 4
Blue Peter 3 Mme Masson 3
Blue Tit 3 Morgenrot 1
Boursault 3 Morning Cloud 1
Britannia 3 Mrs. Kint 1
catawbiense Grandiflorum 3 Nova Zembla 2
Cheer 4 Otto 1
Chevalier Félix de Sauvage 3 Percy Wiseman 1
Cosmopolitan 2 Pink Pearl 3
Cunningham’s White 2 Polaris 3
Delta 3 ponticum Variegatum 4
Dora Amateis 2 Praecox 3
Double Date 1 President Roosevelt 3
Etoile de Sleidinge 3 Red Jack 1
Fantastica 1 Rocket 3
Gartendirektor Rieger 1 Roseum Elegans 3
Germania 3 Saxon Glow 1
Golden Torch 1 Scarlet Wonder 3
Goldkrone 3 Shamrock 1
Gomer Waterer 3 Tortoiseshell Orange 1
Grace Seabrook 4 Virginia Richards 1
Halfdan Lem 1 Vulcan 3
Wilgen’s Ruby 3
Nursery Production Guide Appendix I • 1

Rhododendron Species Susceptibility
Class*
R. ambiguum 1
R. arboreum 1
R. campylocarpum 3
R. campylogynum var. 1
myrtilloides
R. carolinianum 2
R. catawbiense 3
R. caucasicum 2
R. cinnabarinum 1
R. dichroantum 3
R. dichroantum subsp. 3
scyphocalix
R. fortunei 3
R. impeditum 1
R. insigne 1
R. keiskei 1
R. molle ssp. japonicum 2
R. occidentale 2
R. ponticum 3
R. racemosum 1
R. russatin 4
R. wardii 3
R. williamsianum 1
R. yakushimanum 1
*The susceptibility class was based on the size of lesions formed following the incubation of detached, non-
wounded leaves that were inoculated by dipping in a suspension of zoospores (A 1 mating type; EU1 lineage)
for 60 seconds. Class 1 contains the “most resistant” and Class 4 contains the “most susceptible”
cultivars/species.
2 • Appendix I Nursery Production Guide

Appendix J: Susceptibility of Rose Varieties to Certain Diseases
A. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Rose Disease Ratings (Based on information from the
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Research Station in Morden, Manitoba. *Rating based on personal
experience of D. Woodske, BCMA.)
Black Powdery Rust Black Powdery Rust

Spot Mildew Spot Mildew
Hybrid Tea Floribunda

‘Aztec’ HR HR MR ‘Elizabeth of Glamis’ HR MR MR
‘Bewitched’ HR HR HS ‘Europeana’ HR HR HR
‘Charlotte Armstrong’ HR MR MR ‘Gene Boerner’ HR MS HR
‘Chicago Peace’ HR MR MR ‘Pinnocchio’ HR MS HR
‘Chrysler Imperial’ HR HS HS ‘Redgold’ HR MS HR
‘Command HR S HR ‘Roman Holiday’ MS MS HR
Performance’ ‘Sarabande’ HR HR HR
‘Eclipse’ - HS HR ‘Spartan’ HR MS HR
‘Ena Harkness’ HR HS HS
Shrub Roses
‘Fragrant Cloud’ HR MR HR
‘Adelaide Hoodless’ HS MR* MR
‘Garden Party’ HR HS HR
‘Alexander HR HR MR
‘Helen Traubel’ HR MR MR
McKenzie’
‘Irish Gold’ HR HR HR
‘Assiniboine’ MS SS HS
‘Kordes Perfecta’ HR HR HS
‘Champlain’ MS HS* -
‘Miss All American HR HR HS
‘Cuthbert Grant’ HR HR SS
Beauty’
‘Henry Kelsey’ MR-HR HR HR
‘Mister Lincoln’ HR HS HS
‘John Cabot’ SS HR HR
‘Mojave’ MR MR MR
‘John Davis’ SS HR HR-MR
‘Pascali’ HR MR MR
‘John Franklin’ MR HR MS
‘Peace’ HR MR HS
‘Morden Blush’ MR HR HR
‘Pink Peace’ HR MS HS
‘Morden Cardinette’ MS SS HR
‘Red Devil’ MR HR HR
‘Morden Centennial’ MR HR MR
‘Royal Highness’ MR HS HS
‘Morden Fireglow’ MR HR SS
‘Tiffany’ HR MR MR
‘Morden Ruby’ MR HR HR
‘Tropicana’ HR HS HR
‘Nearlywild’ HR HR HR
Grandiflora ‘Prairie Joy’ HR HR HR
‘Aquarius’ HR MR MR ‘Prairie Princess’ MR - HR
‘Camelot’ HR MR HS ‘Prairie Youth’ MS HR SS
‘Comanche’ HR MR HS ‘William Baffin’ HR HR HR
‘Montezuma’ HR HS HS ‘Winnipeg Parks’ SS SS* -
‘Ole’ MR HR MR foetida bicolor HS SS -
‘Pink Parfait’ MR MR MR `Persian Yellow’
‘Queen Elizabeth’ HR S MR rubifolia HR-MR HR HR
‘Scarlet Knight’ MR MR MR rugosa `Blanc HR HR HR
double de Coubert’
Nursery Production Guide Appendix J • 1

Appendix J: Susceptibility of Rose Varieties to Certain Diseases (Cont’d)
Black Powdery Rust Black Powdery Rust
Spot Mildew Spot Mildew
Shrub Roses cont. rugosa `Jens Munk’ SS HR HR
rugosa `Charles MR HR HR rugosa `Pink SS-HR - -
Albanel’ Grootendorst’
rugosa `Hansa’ HR - - rugosa `Therese SS-HR - SS
rugosa `Henry HR HR HR Bugnet’
Hudson’
Notes: Two ratings indicate dependence on year. Therefore, a low disease year results in more resistance
than in a high disease year. The incidence of rust decreases if the stems with the overwintering stage are
pruned out and destroyed early in the year. The key can be found at the end of Appendix J.
B. International Rose Test Garden Rose Disease Ratings (Cultivars in this table were grown and
tested at the Portland International Rose Test Garden; many also were grown at the Longview, WA Public
Library Rose Garden. Cultivars may react differently in other areas of the Pacific Northwest. From the 1997
PNW Plant Disease Control Handbook.
Colour Black Spot Powdery Rust
Mildew
Hybrid Teas
‘Blue Nile’ M MR MR R
‘Color Magic’ PB MR MR MR
‘Dainty Bess’ LP MR MR MR
‘Double Delight’ RB MR MR MR
‘Electron’ DP R R R
‘Folklore’ OB MR MR MR
‘Granada’ RB MR S MR
‘Headliner’ PB MR S MR
‘Heirloom’ M MR MR MR
‘Helmut Schmidt’ MY R MR R
‘Honor’ W MR MR MR
‘Just Joey’ OB R R R
‘Keepsake’ PB R R R
‘Las Vegas’ OB R R R
‘Medallion’ AB MR MR MR
‘New Day’ MY R MR R
‘Olympiad’ MR MR MR R
‘Paradise’ MB MR MR MR
‘Peter Frankefeld’ DP R MR R
‘Polarstern’ W R MR R
‘Precious Platinum’ MR R MR R
‘Princess Margaret’ MP MR MR R
‘Pristine’ W MR MR R
‘Silver Jubilee’ PB R R R
‘Touch of Class’ PB MR S R
‘Voodoo’ OB R R R
2 • Appendix J Nursery Production Guide

Colour Black Spot Powdery Rust
Mildew
Glandiflora
‘Gold Medal’ DY MR MR MR
‘Love’ RB R R R
‘New Year’ OB R MR R
‘Prominent’ OR MR MR R
‘Shreveport’ OB MR MR MR
‘Tournament of Roses’ MP R R R
Floribunda
‘Bonica’ MP R MR R
‘Cherish’ MP MR MR R
‘Class Act’ MR R R
‘Escapade’ M R MR MR
‘Eye Paint’ RB MR R R
‘French Lace’ W MR MR MR
‘Iceberg’ W R MR R
‘Impatient’ OR R R R
‘Intrigue’ M MR MR R
‘Little Darling’ YB MR MR MR
‘Liverpool Echo’ OB R R R
‘Marina’ OB MR MR R
‘Matangi’ RB R R R
‘Orangeade’ OR R MR MR
‘Play Girl’ MP R R R
‘Play Boy’ RB R R R
‘Regensberg’ PB R R R
‘Sexy Rexy’ MP R R R
‘Shocking Blue’ M MR MR MR
‘Showbiz’ MR R R R
‘Sun Flare’ MY MR MR R
‘Sunsprite’ DY MR MR MR
‘Trumpeter’ OR R R R
‘Viva’ DR R R R
Climbers
‘Altissimo’ MR MR MR R
‘Dortrmund’ MR R R R
‘Dublin Bay’ MR R R R
‘Golden Showers’ MY MR MR MR
‘Handel’ RB MR. MR R
‘Joseph’s Coat’ RB MR MR MR
‘Royal Sunset’ AB R R R
Nursery Production Guide Appendix J • 3

Colour Classification Key:
AB Apricot Blend MR Medium Red
DP Deep Pink MY Medium Yellow
DR Dark Red OB Orange Blend
DY Deep Yellow OR Orange Red
LP Light Pink PB Pink Blend
M Mauve RB Red Blend
MB Mauve Blend W White
MP Medium Pink YB Yellow Blend

R Resistant S Susceptible
HR Highly Resistant HS Highly Susceptible
MR Moderately Resistant MS Moderately Susceptible
SR Slightly Resistant SS Slightly Susceptible
4 • Appendix J Nursery Production Guide

Appendix K: Susceptibility of Viburnum species to the
Viburnum Leaf Beetle (Pyrrhalta viburni)
(Source: The Cut Flower Quarterly, 19(4):26-28. Fall 2007)
Resistant - show little or no Viburnum bodnantense

feeding damage, and survive Viburnum carlesii
infestations rather well. Viburnum davidii
Viburnum x juddii
Viburnum plicatum
Viburnum plicatum var. tomentosum
Viburnum rhytidophyllum
Viburnum setigerum
Viburnum sieboldii
Moderately Susceptible – Viburnum alnifolium
species show varying degrees Viburnum burkwoodii
of susceptibility, but usually are Viburnum x carlcephalum
not destroyed by the beetle. Viburnum cassinoides
Viburnum dilatatum
Viburnum farreri
Viburnum lantanoides
Viburnum lentago
Viburnum macrocephalum
Viburnum x pragense
Viburnum prunifolium
Viburnum x rhytidophylloides
Viburnum tinus
Susceptible - species are Viburnum acerifolium
eventually destroyed, but Viburnum lantana
usually are not heavily fed Viburnum rufidulum
upon until the most susceptible Viburnum sargentii
species are eliminated.
Viburnum wrightii
Highly Susceptible - species Viburnum dentatum
that are the first to be attacked, Viburnum nudum
and are generally destroyed in Viburnum opulus
the first 2-3 years following Viburnum opulus var. americana
infestation.
Viburnum propinquum
Viburnum rafinesquianum
*Viburnum plants exhibit more feeding damage when grown in the shade.
Nursery Production Guide Appendix K • 1

Appendix L: Susceptibility of Witch-hazels to Phyllosticta
Leaf Spot (Phyllosticta hamamelidis)
(Source: American Nurseryman, January 15, 2006, pp: 41-43)
The study was conducted in Pennsylvania at Longwood Gardens, the Scott Arboretum, and the Morris
Arboretum. The evaluations were performed over 4 seasons at Longwood Gardens, and over 3 seasons at
both arboreta.
Blight Ratings
Low Moderate High
(0-20% of plant expressing blight (21-40% of plant expressing (>40% of plant expressing
symptoms) blight symptoms) blight symptoms)
Hamamelis intermedia ‘Feuerzauber’* H. intermedia ‘Diane’ H. intermedia ‘Arnold Promise’
H. intermedia ‘Hiltingbury’* H. intermedia ‘Jelena’ H. intermedia ‘Carmine Red’*
H. japonica * H. intermedia ‘Luna’ H. intermedia ‘Pallida’
H. mollis ‘Brevipetala’* H. intermedia ‘Nina’* H. intermedia ‘Ruby Glow’*
H. mollis ‘Early Bright’ H. intermedia ‘Orange Beauty’* H. intermedia ‘Sunburst’*
H. mollis ‘James Wells’* H. intermedia ‘Primavera’
H. mollis ‘Princeton Gold’ H. intermedia ‘Westerstede’*
H. vernalis H. japonica ‘Flavopurpurascens’*
H. vernalis ‘Christmas Cheer’* H. mollis
H. vernalis ‘Lombart’s Weeping’* H. mollis ‘Boskoop’*
H. vernalis ‘Red Imp’* H. vernalis ‘Carnea’*
H. vernalis ‘Sandra’
H. virginiana
*A small sample size (<4 plants) was used to evaluate leaf blight resistance of this witch-hazel.
Nursery Production Guide Appendix L • 1

Appendix M: Susceptibility of Plants to Armillaria Root Rot
(Source: Univ. of California, Div. of Agricultural Sciences, Leaflet 2591, revised Aug. 1979.)
Botanical Name Common Name Botanical Name Common Name

A. Susceptible to Armillaria Root Rot Juniperus spp. 1 Prostrate Junipers
Kerria japonica Japanese Rose
ORNAMENTALS
Laburnum anagyroides Golden Chain-Tree
Ceanothus arboreus Catalina Mountain Lilac
Laburnum x watereri Long Cluster Golden
Ceanothus thyrsiflorus Blue Blossom Chain Tree
Cercidiphyllum Katsura-Tree Ligustrum spp. 1 Privet (except Jap. Privet)
japonicum
Lithocarpus densiflora Tanbark-Oak
Cercis canadensis Eastern Redbud
Malus hupehensis Tea Crabapple
Choisya ternata Mexican Orange
Malus sargentii Sargent Crab
Cinnamomum camphora Camphor Tree
Malus toringoides Cutleaf Crabapple
Cistus palhinhae St. Vincent Rock Rose
Malus x eleyi Eley Crab
Cotoneaster buxifolius Boxleaf Cotoneaster
Myrtus communis Variegated Myrtle
var. vellaeus
‘Variegata’
Cotoneaster horizontalis Rock Cotoneaster
Paulownia lilacina
Cotoneaster microphyllus Rockspray Cotoneaster
Paulownia tomentosa Empress Tree
Cotoneaster pannosus Silver-Leaf Cotoneaster
Pelargonium spp. 1 Geranium
Cotoneaster salicifolius Hardy Willowleaf
Picea pungens Colorado Blue Spruce
var. floccosus Cotoneaster
Pinus monophylla Pinyon Pine
Cytisus x spachianus Easter Broom
Prunus laurocerasus Cherry or English Laurel
Deutzia scabra Fuzzy Deutzia
Prunus triloba Flowering Almond
Erica herbacea Heath, Mediterranean
Heather Pyracantha angustifolia Narrowleaf Firethorn
Erica spp. 1 (except E. Heather Quercus dumosa California Scrub Oak
arborea) Quercus virginiana Southern Live Oak
Eriobotyra japonica 1 Loquat Rhus trilobata Squawbush
Escallonia montevidensis Montevideo Escallonia Rosa spp. 1 Rose
Escallonia rubra var. Red Escallonia Salix x blanda 1 Weeping willow
macrantha Spartium junceum Spanish Broom
Eucalyptus pauciflora Cabbage Gum Syringa vulgaris Lilac
Eucalyptus sideroxylon Pink Iron Bark Thuja plicata Western Red Cedar
Euonymus japonica Golden Euonymus Viburnum tinus Laurustinus
‘Aureo-marginata’
Weigela florida Weigela
Fagus sylvatica European Beech
Zantedeschia spp. 1 Calla
Fraxinus holotricha Kimberly Blue Ash
Fuchsia spp. 1 Fuchsia FRUIT AND NUTS
Heteromeles arbutifolia Christmas Berry, Castanea mollissima Chinese Chestnut
California Holly Fragaria chiloensis var. Strawberry
Hibiscus spp. 1 Hibiscus ananassa 1
Hydrangea macrophylla 1 Hydrangea Juglans regia 1 English Walnut
Hydrangea quercifolia Oakleaf Hydrangea Pistacia vera Pistachia
Hypericum beanii Henry St. Johnswort Prunus armeniaca Apricot
Nursery Production Guide Appendix M • 1

Appendix M: Susceptibility of Plants to Armillaria Root Rot (Cont’d)
Botanical Name Common Name
A. Susceptible to Armillaria Root Rot cont’d
FRUIT AND NUTS cont.
Prunus persica Flowering Peach
Prunus serrulata Japanese Flowering Cherry
Prunus tomentosa Nanking Cherry
Prunus virginiana var. Chokecherry
demissa
Pterocarya stenoptera Chinese Wingnut
Rubus spp. 1 Brambles
Vitis spp. Grape
1Although not tested at the San Jose field station, plants that are known to be susceptible and that should not
be planted in Armillaria-infested soil.

B. Moderately Resistant to Armillaria Quercus chrysolepis Canyon Life Oak
Root Rot Sequoia giganteum Giant Redwood
Spiraea prunifolia Bridal Wreath Spiraea
ORNAMENTALS
Wisteria macrostachya Wisteria
Abelia x grandiflora White Abelia
Zelkova serrata Japanese Zelkova
Acer negundo var. Box Elder
californicum FRUIT AND NUTS
Berberis darwinii Darwin Barberry Cydonia oblonga Quince
Berberis thunbergii Green Japanese Prunus spp. Black Damas Plum
Barberry
Prunus avium Mazzard Sweet Cherry
Berberis wilsoniae Wilson Barberry
Pyrus communis Pear
Chamaecyparis Lawson Cypress, Port
lawsoniana Orford Cedar C. Immune or Highly Resistant to
Chimonanthus praecox Wintersweet Armillaria Root Rot
Cladrastis lutea Yellow Wood ORNAMENTALS
Cytisus purpureus Purple Broom Abutilon spp. 2 Flowering-Maple
Elaeagnus commutata Silverberry Arctostaphylos spp. 2 Manzanita
Euonymus japonica Evergreen Euonymus Betula pumila Swamp Birch
Hebe x andersonii Anderson Speedwell Broussonetia papyrifera Paper Mulberry
Hebe speciosa Showy or Imperial Buxus sempervirens Common or English Box
Speedwell
Buxus sempervirens Common Box (Tree
Koelreuteria paniculata Golden Raintree arborescens form)
Lagerstroemia indica Crape Myrtle Callicarpa japonica Beauty-berry
Ligustrum japonicum Japanese Privet Calocedrus decurrens Incense Cedar
Picea abies Norway Spruce Calycanthus occidentalis Western Spice Bush
Pinus jeffreyi Jeffrey Pine Carpenteria californica Bush Anemone
Pseudotsuga menziesii Douglas-Fir Catalpa bignonioides Common Catalpa
Pyracantha coccinea Scarlet Firethorn Catalpa hybrida
Quercus chrysolepis Canyon Life Oak var.japonica
2 • Appendix M Nursery Production Guide

Appendix M: Susceptibility of Plants to Armillaria Root Rot (Cont’d)
C. Immune or Highly Resistant to Palms2 Various genera
Armillaria Root Rot cont’d Philadelphus spp. 2 Mock-Orange
ORNAMENTALS cont. Phlomis fruticosa Jerusalem Sage
Catalpa ovata Chinese Catalpa Pinus monticola Western White Pine
Celtis occidentalis Hackberry Pinus nigra Austrian Pine
Cercis occidentalis California Redbud Pinus patula Mexican Pine
Cercis siliquastrum Judas Tree Pinus radiata Monterey Pine
Chaenomeles lagenaria Japanese Quince Pinus sylvestris Scots Pine
Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Ellwoodii’ Pinus torreyana Torrey Pine
Clerodendron bungei Kashmir Bouquet Platanus spp. 2 Plane Tree or Sycamore
Corynabutilon vitifolium Prunus caroliniana American Cherry Laurel
Cotinus coggyria Smoke Tree Prunus ilicifolia Holly-leaf Cherry
Cryptomeria japonica Japanese Cedar Prunus lyonii Catalina Cherry
Cupressocyparis leylandii Leyland Cypress Quercus ilex Holly Oak
Elaeagnus angustifolia Oleaster, Russian Olive Quercus lobata California White Oak
Erica arborea Tree Heath Raphiolepis umbellata2 Yeddo-Hawthorn
Eucalyptus camaldulensis Red Gum Rhus aromatica Fragrant Sumac
Exochorda racemosa Pearlbush Robinia spp. 2 Locust
Fraxinus oxycarpa Sambucus canadensis American or Sweet Elder
Ginkgo biloba Maidenhair Tree Sequoia sempervirens Coast Redwood
Gleditsia triacanthos Shademaster Locust Shepherdia artentea Buffalo Berry
forma mermis Tamarix spp. 2 Tamarisk
Gymnocladus dioica Kentucky Coffee-tree Taxodium distichum Bald Cypress
Hedera helix2 English Ivy Ulmus parvifolia Evergreen Chinese Elm
Hibiscus syriacus Rose-of-Sharon Vitex agnus-castus Blue Chaste Tree
Hypericum patulum St. Johnswort Wisteria sinensis Chinese Wisteria
llex aquifolium English Holly
FRUIT AND NUTS
llex opaca American Holly Castanea dentata American Chestnut
Liquidambar orientalis Oriental Sweet Gum Castanea sativa Spanish Chestnut
Liquidambar styraciflua American Sweet Gum Diospyros kaki Japanese Persimmon
Liriodendron tulipifera Tulip Tree Diospyros lotus Date-Plum Persimmon
Lonicera nitidia Box Honeysuckle Diospyros virginiana Common Persimmon
Maclura pomifera Osage Orange Juglans hindsii California Black Walnut
Magnolia grandiflora Southern Magnolia Malus spp. French crabapple
Mahonia aquifolium Oregon Grape Prunus americana American Plum
Malus floribunda Japanese Flowering Crab Prunus cerasifera Cherry Plum
Malus ioensis Prairie Crabapple Prunus persica Indian Peach
Metasequoia glyptostroboides Dawn Redwood Prunus serotina salicifolia Black Cherry
Morus spp. 2 Mulberry Prunus virginianum Chokecherry
Myrica pensylvanica Bayberry Pyrus communis ‘Bartlett’, ‘Old Home x Farmingdale’
Nandina domestica Sacred Bamboo
2 Commonly grown in California; rarely attacked by Armillaria root rot. The relative resistance of these plants
has not been tested, but it is likely they have some resistance and are probably safe to use in infested soil.
Nursery Production Guide Appendix M • 3

Appendix N: Susceptibility of Plants to Verticillium Wilt
(Source: University of California, Division of Agricultural Sciences, Leaflet 2703, revised March 1979.)

A. Susceptible to Verticillium Wilt Rhaphiolepis umbellata Yeddo Hawthorn
Rhus spp. Sumac
TREES
Ribes spp. Currant, Gooseberry
Acer spp. Maple
Rosa spp. Rose
Acer negundo Box Elder
Rubus spp. Bramble
Ailanthus altissima Tree-of-Heaven
Sambucus spp. Elderberry
Carya illinoensis Pecan
Syringa vulgaris Lilac
Catalpa spp. Catalpa
Viburnum spp. Wayfaring-Tree, others
Cercis canadensis Redbud
Cladrastis lutea Yellow Wood HERBACEOUS ORNAMENTALS
Elaeagnus angustifolia Oleaster, Russian Olive Abutilon spp. Abutilon
Fraxinus spp. Ash Antirrhinum majus Snapdragon
Koelreuteria paniculata Golden Rain Tree Aster spp. Aster
Liriodendron tulipifera Tulip Tree Calceolaria spp. Slipperwort
Magnolia grandiflora Southern Magnolia Campanula spp. Bellflower
Nyssa sylvatica Black Gum, Pepperidge Celosia argentea var. Cockscomb
cristata
Pistacia chinensis Chinese Pistache
Centaurea imperialis Sweet Sultan
Prunus spp. Apricot, Cherry, Peach,
Plum Chrysanthemum spp. Marguerite, Daisy
Robinia pseudoacacia Black Locust Coreopsis lanceolata Tickseed
Tilia spp. Linden (some varieties) Dahlia variabilis Dahlia
Ulmus spp. Elm Delphinium ajacis Rocket Larkspur
Digitalis purpurea Foxglove
GROUND COVERS, SHRUBS, AND VINES
Dimorphotheca sinuata Cape Marigold
Berberis (Mahonia) Barberry
Eschscholzia californica California Poppy
spp.
Gerbera jamesonii Transvaal Daisy
Campsis radicans Trumpet Creeper
Helichrysum bracteatum Strawflower
Cistus ladanifer Spotted Rock Rose
Heliotropium Heliotrope
Cistus palhinhai Rock Rose
arborescens
Cistus x purpureus Orchid-Spot Rock Rose
Impatiens balsamina Garden Balsam
Cotinus coggygria Smoke Tree
Lathyrus odoratus Sweet Pea
Erica spp. Heather
Liatris spp. Gayfeather
Fuchsia spp. Fuchsia
Lobelia erinus Lobelia
Hebe ‘Carnea’ Hebe
Matthiola incana Stock
Jasminum magnificum Angel Wing Jasmine
Paeonia spp. Peony
Jasminum mesnyi Primrose Jasmine
Papaver orientale Oriental Poppy
Ligustrum spp. Privet
Pelargonium x domesticum Pelargonium
Nandina domestica Sacred Bamboo
Pelargonium x hortorum Geranium
Rhaphiolepis indica Indian Hawthorn
Petunia hybrida Petunia
Nursery Production Guide Appendix N • 1

Appendix N: Plants Resistant or Susceptible to Verticillium Wilt (Cont’d)
A. Susceptible to Verticillium Wilt cont’d Gleditsia spp. Locust
Gleditsia triacanthos Honey Locust
HERBACEOUS ORNAMENTALS cont. llex spp. Holly
Phlox spp. Phlox Juglans spp. Walnut
Physalis alkekengi Chinese Lantern Plant Liquidambar Liquidambar, Sweet
Polemonium spp. Polemonium styraciflua Gum
Rudbeckia serotinia Black-eyed Susan Malus spp. Apple, Flowering
Salpiglossis sinuata Painted Yongue Crabapples
Salvia farinacea Mealy-Cup Sage Morus spp. Mulberry
Salvia haematodes Sage Nerium oleander Oleander
Salvia pitcheri Blue Sage Platanus racemosa Western Sycamore
Schizanthus pinnatus Butterfly Flower Platanus spp. Plane Tree
Senecio cruentus Florists’ Cineraria Pyracantha spp. Pyracantha, Firethorn
Pyrus spp. Pear
B. Resistant or Immune to Verticillium Wilt
Quercus spp. Oak
FAMILIES Salix spp. Willow
Cactaceae Cactus family Sorbus aucuparia European Mountain Ash
Graminae Cereal grains, corn, Tilia spp. Linden (some varieties)
grasses, milo, sorghum,
others Umbellularia California Laurel
californica
Gymnospermae Gymnosperms (cypress,
fir, ginkgo, larch, HERBACEOUS ORNAMENTALS
juniper, pine, sequoia, Ageratum spp. Ageratum
spruce, others)
Althaea rosea Hollyhock
Monocotyledoneae Monocots (bamboo, Alyssum spp. Alyssum
banana, gladiolus, Anemone spp. Anemone
grasses, iris, lily, onion, Aquilegia spp. Columbine
orchids, palms, others) Begonia semperflorens Fibrous Begonia
Begonia tuberhybrida Tuberous Begonia
Polypodiaceae Fern family (ferns)
Bellis perennis English Daisy
TREES AND SHRUBS Browallia spp. Browallia
Arctostaphylos spp. Manzanita Cheiranthus cheiri Wallflower
Betula spp. Birch Cleome spp. Cleome
Buxus spp. Box Dianthus spp. Pinks, Sweet William
Carpinus spp. Hornbeam Gaillardia spp. Gaillardia
Ceanothus spp. Ceanothus Geum spp. Geum
Cercidiphyllum Katsura Tree Gypsophila panniculata Baby’s Breath
japonicum
Helianthemum Sun Rose
Cistus salvifolius Sage-Leaf Rock Rose nummularium
Cistus tauricus Rock Rose Helianthus spp. Sunflower
Cornus spp. Dogwood Helleborus niger Christmas Rose
Crataegus spp. Hawthorn Heuchera sanguinea Coral Bells
Fagus spp. Beech Iberis spp. Candytuft
2 • Appendix N Nursery Production Guide

Appendix N: Plants Resistant or Susceptible to Verticillium Wilt (Cont’d)
Botanical Name Common Name
HERBACEOUS ORNAMENTALS cont’d
Impatiens sultani Impatiens
Lantana spp. Lantana
Lunaria annua Honesty, Silver Dollar
Oenothera spp. Evening Primrose
Penstemon spp. Penstemon
Platycodon Balloon Flower
grandiflorum
Portulaca grandiflora Moss Rose
Potentilla spp. Potentilla
Primula spp. Prim Rose
Ranunculus asiaticus Persian Buttercup
Scabiosa atropurpurea Scabiosa, Sweet
Scabious
Tropaeolum majus Nasturtium
Verbena hybrida Verbena
Vinca minor Periwinkle
Viola spp. Pansy, Viola, Violet
Zinnia spp. Zinnia
Nursery Production Guide Appendix N • 3

Appendix O: Rust Diseases of Conifers
(Source: R. Hunt, Conifer/Ornamental Rusts and Conifer Needle Diseases, 2001, Nursery Short Course.)
Conifer Host Non-conifer Host Rust Pathogen

Abies Cytisus, chickweed Melampsorella sp.
Abies Fuchsia, Epilobium Puccinastrum epilobii
Abies Salix Melampsora abieti-capraearum
Abies ferns Milesina spp.
Abies huckleberry, Vaccinium corymbosum Puccinastrum goeppertianum
Abies ferns Uredinopsis spp.
conifer Potentilla tridentata Puccinastrum potentillae
Juniperus Amelanchier, Cotoneaster, Crataegus, 10 species of Gymnosporangium
Malus, Pyrus, Sorbus
Larix Populus (aspen, cottonwood) Melampsora spp.
Larix Betula Melampsoridium sp.
Larix Salix Melampsora paradoxa
Picea Arctostaphylos Chrysomyxa arctostaphyli
Picea Rubus (raspberry) Puccinastrum1 americanum
Picea Vaccinium corymbosum Chrysomyxa vaccinii
Picea Labrador tea Chrysomyxa ledicola
Picea wintergreen Chrysomyxa pirolata
Picea Arbutus menziesii Puccinastrum sparsum
Picea2 Rhododendron Chrysomyxa ledi var.
Picea2 Rhododendron Chrysomyxa piperiana
Pinus Ribes (currant, gooseberry) Cronartium ribicola
Pinus none Endocronartium harknessii
Pinus Solidago sp. Coleosporium asterum
Pinus2 Endymion (bluebell) Coleosporium campanulae
Pseudotsuga Populus (aspen, cottonwood) Melampsora spp.
Tsuga Vaccinium corymbosum, V. trilobum Puccinastrum vaccinii
Tsuga Salix Melampsora epitea
Tsuga2 Hydrangea Puccinastrum hydrangeae
1sometimes placed in Naohidemyces
2not reported for this host in BC
Nursery Production Guide Appendix O • 1

Appendix P: Juniper Rusts in Western Canada
Bethel’s Clavariform Quince Mountain Pear Nelson’s Juniper

Rust Rust Rust Ash Rust Trellis Rust Broom
Rust* Rust
Juniperus - - - - S - -
chinensis
J. communis - S S S R - -
J. horizontalis S - - - R S S
J. sabina - - - - S - -
J. scopulorum S - - - S S S
J. squamata - - - - R - -
J. virginiana - - - - S - -
*Note: Pear trellis rust ratings are from BCMAFF Pest Control Note 94-01.

R Resistant S Susceptible
Nursery Production Guide Appendix P • 1

Appendix Q: Ornamentals Not Favoured for Browse
by Deer
(Adapted from: Plant Information, The Morton Arboretum Plant Clinic, 1997.)
Trees Groundcovers
Betula Birch Ajuga Ajuga
Castanea Chestnut Asperula Sweet Woodruff
Catalpa Catalpa Convallaria Lily-of-the-Valley
Cercis Redbud Cornus Bunchberry
Cotinus Smoke Tree moss various types
Fagus Beech Nepeta Catmint
Fraxinus Ash Pachysandra Pachysandra
Ginkgo Ginkgo Sedum Sedum
Gleditsia Honey Locust Sempervivum Hen and Chickens
Larix Larch Vinca Vinca
Liquidambar Sweet Gum Hardy Perennials
Liriodendron Tulip Tree Achillea Yarrow
Metasequoia Dawn Redwood Aconitum Monkshood
Ostrya Ironwood Alchemilla Lady’s Mantle
Oxydendrum Sourwood Anemone Anemone
Picea Spruce Aquilegia Columbine
Platanus Sycamore Arabis Rock Cress
Robinia Black Locust Artemisia lactiflora Artemisia
Sassafras Sassafras Asarum Ginger
Syringa reticulata Tree Lilac Asclepias Butterfly Weed
Taxodium Cypress Astilbe Astilbe
Thuja plicata Western Red Cedar Bergenia Bergenia
Shrubs Caltha Marsh Marigold
Berberis Barberry Cerastium Snow-in-Summer
Buxus Boxwood Chrysanthemum Daisy
Calycanthus Sweet Shrub Coreopsis Coreopsis
Cotinus Smoke Bush Cyclamen Cyclamen
Forsythia Forsythia Delphinium Larkspur
Hamamelis Witch Hazel Dianthus Pinks
Juniperus Juniper Echinacea Purple Coneflower
Kerria Kerria Epimedium Epimedium
Mahonia Oregon-grape Erigeron Fleabane Daisy
Potentilla Cinquefoil ferns various types
Spiraea Spirea Flipendula hexapetala Meadowsweet
Symphoricarpos albus Snowberry Fragaria Wild Strawberry
Symphoricarpos Coral Berry Gentiana Gentian
orbiculatus Geranium Cranesbill
Syringa Lilac
Nursery Production Guide Appendix Q • 1

Geum Geum Mentha Mint
Helenium Sneezeweed Ocimum Basil
Helleborus Hellebore Origanum Oregano
Hesperis Dame’s Rocket Perilla Perilla
Hibiscus Hibiscus Petroselinum Parsley
Iberis Candytuft Rosmarinus Rosemary
Iris Iris Ruta Rue
Lamium Lamium Salvia Sage
Linaria Toadflax Santolina Santolina
Liriope spicata Lily Turf Satureja Savory
Lobularia Alyssum Stachys Lamb’s Ears
Lychnis Lychnis Symphytum Comfrey
Monarda Bee Balm Tanacetum Tansy
Paeonia Peony Teucrium Germander
Perovskia Russian Sage Thymus Thyme
Phlox Phlox Annuals/Biennials
Polemonium Jacob’s Ladder Ageratum Ageratum
Pulmonaria Lungwort Antirrhinum Snapdragon
Rudbeckia Black-eyed Susan Campanula Campanula
Salvia Salvia Dianthus Sweet William
Saponaria Soapwort Digitalis Foxglove
Solidago Goldenrod Helianthus Sunflower
Thalictrum Meadow Rue Heliotropium Heliotrope
Tiarella Foam Flower Ipomoea Moonflower
Veronica Veronica Lobelia Lobelia
Viola Violet Lobularia Alyssum
Hardy Bulbs Matthiola Stocks
Allium Allium Mimulus Mimulus
Eranthis Eranthis Myosotis Forget-Me-Not
Fritillaria Crown Imperial Papaver Poppy
Galanthus Snowdrop Petunia Petunia
Muscari Grape Hyacinth Salvia Salvia
Narcissus Daffodil Tagetes Marigold
Scilla Scilla Tropaeolum Nasturtium
Herbs Vines
Allium Chives Akebia Akebia
Anethum Dill Celastrus Bittersweet
Angelica Angelica Clematis Clematis
Chrysanthemum Feverfew Lonicera Honeysuckle
Foeniculum Fennel Parthenocissus Boston Ivy, Virginia Creeper
Lavandula Lavender Polygonum Silver Lace Vine
Levisticum Lovage Vitis Grape
Matricaria Chamomile Wisteria Wisteria
Melissa Lemon Balm
2 • Appendix Q Nursery Production Guide

Nursery Production Guide Appendix Q • 3
PLANT HEALTH LABORATORY SAMPLE SUBMISSION FORM
BC Ministry of Agriculture Date received:

Plant Health Laboratory Sent via: Mail □ Courier □ Walk in □
Abbotsford Agriculture Centre
Abbotsford, British Columbia, V3G 2M3 SPECIMEN NO.
Telephone: (604) 556-3126, Toll-Free 1-888-221-7141
GROWER NAME PHONE NO. SUBMITTED BY PHONE NO.
FARM NAME FAX NO. COMPANY NAME FAX NO.
ADDRESS ADDRESS
POSTALCODE POSTALCODE
EMAIL EMAIL
Landscape □ Field □ Nursery □ Golf course □ DIAGNOSTIC REPORT TO BE SENT TO

SAMPLE COLLECTION SITE
Greenhouse □ Orchard □ Vineyard □ Other □
Whole Plant □ Branches □ Leaves □
SAMPLE TYPE
Soil □ Insect ID □ Other □
PLANT VARIETY PLANT AGE COLLECTION DATE

DESCRIPTION OF SYMPTOMS (Problem description, possible causes, specific questions etc.).) ATTACH DISTRIBUTION OF PRIORITY
SEPARATE SHEET IF NECESSARY. SYMPTOMS
□ Urgent
□ Routine
Whole crop □
□ Casual
Random □
□ Research
Localized □
□ Invasive
Edge of field □
Alien Species
Few rows □
High/dry area □
Low/wet area □ SEVERITY OF
SYMPTOMS
Sunny area □
Shady area □ □ Slight
HERBICIDES/OTHER CHEMICALS USED
Varietal □ □ Moderate
Other □ □ Severe
% CROP
IS THE PROBLEM SPREADING? AFFECTED
WHEN DID SYMPTOMS DRAINAGE IRRIGATION TYPE PRODUCTION SYSTEM PREVIOUS CROP
FIRST APPEAR
Good □ Overhead □ CONVENTIONAL □
OTHER CROP OR WEEDS FUTURE CROP
Fair □ Drip □ ORGANIC □
SHOWING SYMPTOMS
Poor □ Other □
SAMPLE DIAGNOSTIC TURN-AROUND TIME AND FEES *Each plant sample with different symptoms collected from
different locations is considered a separate submission. A
separate report will be prepared for each submission
STANDARD DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDUREincludes identification of most plant pathogenic fungi, number.
bacteria, insects, nematodes, phytoplasma, viruses, viroids as well as cultural and physiological conditions that If the problem is widespread (common problem on many
are apparent and may be responsible for plant health problems. Cost per submission:* hosts or varieties), plants from these groups can be pooled
Urgent – 3 days** = $33.60 to submit under one submission number. A diagnostic

report will be provided on the submission not on individual
Routine – 7 days** = $22.40 plants.
Casual – 14 days** = $16.80
Standard Diagnostic Fee includes the HST (12%) *Golf course samples from different areas/greens require
separate submission numbers.
** Diagnostic response time (working days) may vary depending upon the procedures/tests required
Any questions, call us at the number printed on top of the
for the sample. Suggested time frame is not guaranteed.
page.
NOTE: RESULTS ARE VALID ONLY FOR THE SAMPLE SUBMITTED TO THE LAB.
For out of province
PAYMENT METHOD: samples, please
Cash/Cheque/Credit/Debit. Enclose payment with the sample.
Cheques payable to: Minister of Finance and Corporate Relations contact (604)556-3128
prior to submitting.
Updated May 2, 2012
Sample Collection, Packaging and Submission Information
1. Samples submitted to the lab must be representative of the symptoms observed in the field. Specimens must be fresh.
2. For woody specimens (branches, stem sections, roots and crown etc.) – Ensure that samples do not dry out. Wrap in damp paper towel
if needed and enclose sample in plastic bag.
3. Submit several plants or plant parts showing the various symptom It is better to submit too much of a specimen than too little. Do not
submit dead or decayed tissue. Include a healthy plant for comparison, if possible.
4. Dig up plants rather than pulling them from the ground to preserve feeder roots. If plants are potted, submit the whole pot. Enclose
base of the plant, roots and pots in a plastic bag so that it is secured at the plant crown to prevent drying of roots and contamination of leaves
with soil. Include roots with samples showing symptoms of dieback.
5. It is important that you collect the sample prior to pesticide application. Once pesticides have been applied it may be difficult
to get an accurate and timely diagnosis.
6. If a sample cannot be mailed immediately, keep it refrigerated or out of direct sunlight.
7. Turf disease samples should be at least 10 cm by 10 cm and as deep as the roots. Include the margin of the affected areas in each sample.
8. Soil samples for pH, EC (electrical conductivity), club root and nematode assessments may require specific collection techniques. The lab
does not do soil or tissue, nutrient and/or chemical residue analysis. If you have questions regarding this, contact laboratory personnel.
9. Fill out the form with as much detail as possible, attach another sheet if necessary. Package sample securely, enclose appropriate payment
and send or deliver to the address below. Diagnostic forms should never be packaged where they will be in contact with any soil or tissue.
Plant Health Laboratory

BC Ministry of Agriculture
Abbotsford Agriculture Centre
1767 Angus Campbell Rd
Abbotsford BC, V3G 2M3
Tel: (604) 556-3126, Toll free: 1-888-221-7141
Fax: (604) 556-3154
Web address: http://www.al.gov.bc.ca/cropprot/lab.htm
Working Hours: 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. Monday to Friday
Greyhound bus —
Urgent samples can be sent prepaid via Greyhound to the Abbotsford Bus Depot. Ministry personnel will collect packages from
the bus depot. Send parcels early in the week (Monday - Wednesday) to ensure adequate delivery time.
Courier —
Urgent or perishable samples should be sent by courier.
BC Ministry of Agriculture, Plant Health Laboratory —
The Plant Health Laboratory provides diagnosis of plant health problems caused by diseases and insects affecting crops/plants
grown in B.C. and in cooperation with other ministry staff promotes pest management recommendations which emphasize IPM
(Integrated Pest Management). The Plant Health Laboratory is part of the Plant Health Unit in the Plant and Animal Health Branch.
Note: All test results are confidential and will remain the property of the client except where the Plant Health Laboratory is
required to report the results (quarantine or regulatory significance) to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
Failure to recover or identify a disease or insect in a sample does not imply that a field or commodity
represented by the sample is free of the organism. Due to uneven distribution and/or seasonal fluctuations
of disease or insect population in plant tissue and limitations of the sampling procedure used, the Plant
Health Laboratory does not guarantee, warrant or imply, as a result of negative test results, freedom of
infection in the population from which the sample was withdrawn.
Appendix S: Publications and Contacts
Internet Sites
There are numerous Internet sites that have catalogues of useful nursery publications, including:
 American Nurseryman Publishing Co.
 Canadian Forest Service
 Oregon State University Extension and Experiment Station
 Timber Press
 University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources Catalog
 Washington State University Cooperative Extension
Forest Nursery Production

Diseases and Insects in British Columbia Nurseries, 1989. Sutherland, Shrimpton and Sturrock. FRDA Report 065,
ISSN 0835-0752
The Container Tree Nursery Manual, 1989. Landis et al.
Volume 1 - Container Nursery Planning, Development and Management
Volume 2 - Containers and Growing Media
Volume 3 - Container Nursery Environment
Volume 4 - Seedling Nutrition and Irrigation
Volume 5 - The Biological Component: Nursery Pests and Mycorrhizae
Volume 6 - Seedling Propagation
Volume 7 - Seedling Processing, Storage, and Outplanting
Growing Healthy Seedlings: Identification and Management of Pests in Northwest Forest Nurseries, 1990. Hamm,
Campbell and Hansen. Special publication #19. Forest Research Laboratory, Oregon State University,
Corvallis
Forest Nursery Pests, 1989. Cordell et al. Agriculture Handbook No. 680. US Dept of Agriculture
General Production
Arboriculture: Integrated Management of Landscape Trees, Shrubs, and Vines, 3rd Edition, 1998. Harris et al.
Prentice-Hall Inc.; ISBN: 0133866653
Environmental Guidelines for the Nursery and Turf Industry in British Columbia, 1994. BC Ministry of Agriculture,
Fisheries and Food, Resource Management Branch, Abbotsford, BC
Nursery Management: Administration and Culture, 4th Edition, 1999. Davidson, Mecklenburg and Peterson.
Prentice-Hall Canada, Inc. Toronto, ON; ISBN: 0138579962
Nursery Production, 2nd Ed., 1989. Heuser and Stinson, Editors. Pennsylvania State University, University
Park, PA
Nursery Production Guide Appendix S • 1

Plant Production in Containers, 1984. Whitcomb. Lacebark Publications, Stillwater, OK. Lacebark Publications;
ISBN: 096131091X
Starting a Nursery Business in BC (2nd Edition), 2006. Woodske. BC Ministry of Agriculture and Lands.
Available on the Internet at: www.al.gov.bc.ca/ornamentals/factsheets.htm
Irrigation
BC Frost Protection Guide. Van der Gulik and Williams. Irrigation Industry Association of British Columbia &
BC Ministry of Agriculture and Lands
Chemigation - Guidelines for British Columbia, 1993. Van der Gulik. BC Ministry of Agriculture and Lands and
Irrigation Industry Association of BC (IIABC). Available from the IIABC at 2330 Woodstock Dr., Abbotsford,
BC, V3G 2E5
BC Trickle Irrigation Manual, 1999. Van der Gulik. BC Ministry of Agriculture and Lands and Irrigation
Industry Association of BC (IIABC). Available from the IIABC at 2330 Woodstock Dr., Abbotsford, BC, V3G
2E5
BC Sprinkler Irrigation Manual. Van der Gulik. Irrigation Industry Association of BC & BC Ministry of
Agriculture and Lands
A wide range of irrigation factsheets are available from the Sustainable Agriculture Management Branch of the BC
Ministry of Agriculture:
Energy Efficient Sprinkler Irrigation System Design
Irrigation Economics, 2000 (580.000-3)
Trickle Irrigation Scheduling Using Evapotranspiration Data, 2001 (577.100-4)
Trickle Irrigation Emitter Selection
Trickle Irrigation Design Information, 1987 (565.230-1)
Efficient Installation of a Centrifugal Pump, 1982 (575.340-1)
Is Your Irrigation Plan Economically Feasible?
Irrigation System Underground Pipe Installation
Irrigation System Maintenance, 1994 (577.200-1)
Irrigation System Cross Connection Control, 1985 (578.130-1)
Irrigation Parameters for Efficient System Operation, 1988 (551.200-2)
Irrigation Flow Measurements, 1976 (501.400-1)
Irrigation Tips to Conserve Water on the Farm, 2001 (500.310-1)
Irrigation Scheduling Techniques, 1997 (577.100-1)
Irrigation Equipment Costs, 1994 (580.200-1)
Pest Identification and Management

Christmas Tree Diseases, Insects and Disorders in the Pacific Northwest, 1997. Chastagner (editor). Washington
State University Cooperative Extension, Pullman, WA; MISC0186. Contact WSU Bulletin Office, 1-800-723-
1763, or online at: caheinfo.wsu.edu
Coincide: The Orton System of Pest Management, Plantmen’s Publications, P.O. Box 1, Flossmoor, Illinois, 60422
2 • Appendix S Nursery Production Guide

How to Identify Rhododendron and Azalea Problems, 1993. Antonelli et al. Washington State University
Cooperative Extension, Pullman, WA
Landscape Plant Problems: A Pictorial Diagnostic Manual, 1996. Byther et al. Washington State University
Cooperative Extension, Pullman, WA; MISC0194. Order online at: caheinfo.wsu.edu
Pacific Northwest Plant Disease, Insect and Weed Control Handbooks. Revised annually. Oregon State University
Extension Service, Corvallis; Phone: (541) 737-2513, Fax: (541) 737-0817, Email: puborder@orst.edu, Internet:
extension.oregonstate.edu/eesc/
Diseases
Common Tree Diseases of British Columbia, 1996. Allen, Morrison and Wallis. Canadian Forest Service, Victoria,
BC; Phone: (250) 363-0600, Fax: (250) 363-0775, Internet: bookstore.pfc.forestry.ca
Diseases of Pacific Coast Conifers, 1979. Bega. USDA Forest Service, Agriculture Handbook #521, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, DC
Diseases of Populus in British Columbia: A Diagnostic Manual, 1998. Callan. Canadian Forest Service, Victoria,
BC; Phone: (250) 363-0600, Fax: (250) 363-0775, Internet: bookstore.pfc.forestry.ca
Diseases of Trees and Shrubs, 1987. Sinclair, Lyon and Johnson. Cornell University Press, Ithaca, NY; ISBN:
0801415179
Diseases of Woody Ornamentals and Trees in Nurseries, 2001. Jones and Benson. The American
Phytopathological Society, St. Paul, MN; ISBN: 0-89054-264-3
Leaf Scorch of Shade Trees (EB 1711), 1986. Johnson and Ophardt. Washington State University Cooperative
Extension, Pullman, WA
Phytophthora, Its Biology, Taxonomy, Ecology, and Pathology, 1988. Erwin, Bartnicki-Garcia and Tsao. American
Phytopathological Society, APS Books, St. Paul, MN; ISBN: 0890540845
Powdery Mildews (EB 1054), 1991. Maloy. Washington State University Cooperative Extension, Pullman, WA
The Tree Rusts of Western Canada, 1974. Ziller. Canadian Forest Service, Publication #1329
Insects and Mites

Caterpillars of Pacific Northwest Forests and Woodlands, 1995. Miller. National Center Forest Health Management,
US Forest Service, Dept of Agriculture. FHM-NC-06-95
Insect and Mite Pests of Ornamental Shrubs and Shade Trees of British Columbia, 1994. Gerber et al. BC Ministry of
Agriculture, Fisheries and Food; ISBN 0-7726-2142-X
Insects That Feed On Trees and Shrubs, 2nd Revision, 1991. Johnson and Lyon. Comstock Publishing Assoc;
ISBN: 0801426022
Root Weevil Control on Rhododendrons (EB 0970), 1993. Antonelli and Campbell. Washington State University
Cooperative Extension, Pullman, WA
Scale Insects on Ornamentals (EB 1552), 1990. Suomi. Washington State University Cooperative Extension,
Pullman, WA
Spruce Spider Mite Biology and Control in Christmas Trees (Special Report 875), 1991. West et al. Oregon State
University Extension Service, Corvallis
Tree & Shrub Insects of the Prairie Provinces, 1988. Ives and Wong. Canadian Forest Service, Northern Forestry
Centre, Edmonton, Alberta. Information Report NOR-X-292
Western Forest Insects, 1977. Furniss and Carolin. Misc. Pub. 1339. US Dept of Agriculture

Integrated Pest Management
A Field Guide to Beneficial Insects & Arachnids in British Columbia Seed Orchards, 1996. Hall. M.P.M. thesis, Simon
Fraser University
Biological Control of Insect and Mite Pests of Woody Landscape Plants, 1993. Raupp, Van Driesche and Davidson.
American Nurseryman Publishing Co. Suite 2100, 77 W. Washington St., Chicago, IL, 60602-2904
Integrated Pest Management for Bedding Plants: A Scouting and Pest Management Guide (IPM #407), 2nd Edition,
2000. Casey (editor). Cornell Cooperative Extension, Ithaca, NY. Available from: New York State IPM
Program, Phone: (607) 255-2080
Integrated Pest Management for Floriculture and Nurseries (#3402), 2001. Dreistadt. University of California
Statewide Integrated Pest Management Project; ISBN: 1-879906-46-5. Available from: University of California,
Agriculture and Natural Resources, Phone: (510) 642-2431, 1-800-994-8849, Fax: (510) 643-5470, Email:
danrcs@ucdavis.edu, Internet: anrcatalog.ucdavis.edu
Integrated Pest Management Manual for Landscape Pests in British Columbia, 2000. Gilkeson and Adams. BC
Ministry of Environment. Available from the Ministry of Environmenta Customer Service Centre by phone at
250 952-4460 or toll free at 1-800-282-7955, and by fax at 250 952-4431. The manual is available on-line at:
www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/epdpa/ipmp/landscape-pestmgmt.htm
IPM Training Manual for Wholesale Nursery Growers, 1992. Daar, Olkowski and Olkowski. B.I.R.C. P.O. Box
7414, Berkeley, CA, 94707
Landscape IPM, 1994. Davidson and Raupp. American Nurseryman Publishing Co. Suite 2100, 77 W.
Washington St., Chicago, IL, 60602-2904
Natural Enemies Handbook: The Illustrated Guide to Biological Pest Control (#3386), 1998. University of California
Statewide Integrated Pest Management Project; ISBN: 1-879906-41-4. Available from: University of California,
Agriculture and Natural Resources, Phone: (510) 642-2431, 1-800-994-8849, Fax: (510) 643-5470, Email:
danrcs@ucdavis.edu, Internet: anrcatalog.ucdavis.edu
Pacific Northwest Landscape Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Manual, 1999. Bobbitt et al. Washington State
University Cooperative Extension. Available from the WSU Bulletin Office, 1-800-723-1763, or online at:
caheinfo.wsu.edu
Pests of Landscape Trees and Shrubs - An Integrated Pest Management Guide, 1994. Dreistadt, Clark and Flint.
University of California Publication 3359
Slugs and Snails

Field Guide: Land Snails of British Columbia. Royal BC Museum Handbook, 2004. Forsyth, Robert G. Victoria: Royal
BC Museum. 188 pages. ISBN 0-7726-5218-X. For additional information on the field guide, see:
http://www3.telus.net/rforsyth/lsbc.html#pri
Weeds
Common and Botanical Names of Weeds in Canada, 1992. Mulligan. Canada Communication Group Publishing,
Ottawa, ON; Cat. No. A53-1397/1991
Common Weeds of Canada Field Guide, 1992. Mulligan. NC Press Ltd. (Agriculture Canada), Toronto, ON;
ASIN: 0920053599
Field Guide to Noxious and Other Selected Weeds of British Columbia, 2000. Cranston, Ralph and Wikeem. BC
Ministry of Agriculture and Lands & BC Ministry of Forests

Nursery and Landscape Weed Control Manual, 1992. Rice. Thomson Publications, Fresno, CA; ISBN: 0685570061
Ontario Weeds, 1992. Publications Ontario (publication #505), 50 Grosvenor St., Toronto, ON; Phone: 1-800-
668-9938, Fax: (416) 326-8315
Pacific Northwest Weed Control Handbook. Revised annually. Oregon State University Extension Service,
Corvallis; Phone: (541) 737-2513, Fax: (541) 737-0817, Email: puborder@orst.edu, Internet:
extension.oregonstate.edu/eesc/
Weed Biology and Control in Agriculture and Horticulture, 1985. Gwynne and Murray. Batsford Academic and
Educational, London, UK; ASIN: 0713435313 (Out of Print)
Weeds of the West, 9th Edition, 2000. Whitson. Western Society of Weed Science - University of Wyoming;
ISBN: 0941570134
Plant Identification
Herbaceous Perennial Plants, 2nd Edition, 1997. Armitage. Stipes Publishing Co.; ISBN: 087563723X
Manual of Herbaceous Ornamental Plants, 4th Edition, 1993. Still. Stipes Publishing Co.; ISBN: 0875634338
Manual of Woody Landscape Plants: Their Identification, Ornamental Characteristics, Culture, Propagation and Uses,
5th Edition, 1998. Dirr. Stipes Publishing Co.; ISBN: 0875637957
Perennial Garden Plants: Or the Modern Florilegium: A Concise Account of Herbaceous Plants, Including Bulbs, for
General Garden Use, 3rd Edition, 1990. Thomas. Sagapress, Inc./Timber Press, Inc., Portland OR; ISBN:
088192167X
Trees and Shrubs for Temperate Climates, 3rd Rev. Ed., 1998. Courtright. Timber Press, Inc., Portland, OR; ISBN:
0881924156
Propagation
Grafting Methods for Propagating Ornamentals (VHS video, 115 minutes), 1991. Fincham. American
Nurseryman Publishing Co. Suite 2100, 77 W. Washington St. Chicago, IL, 60602-2904
Plant Propagation: Principles and Practices, 6th Edition, 1996. Hartmann (editor), Kester and Davies. Prentice-
Hall Canada, Inc., Toronto, ON; ISBN: 0132061031
Plant Propagation Volumes 1 & 2 (VHS video 20 minutes per volume), 1986. Volume 1: Seed, Specialized Parts,
Division, Micropropagation. Volume 2: Cuttings, Layering, Grafting, Budding. American Nurseryman Publishing
Co. Suite 2100, 77 W. Washington St. Chicago, IL, 60602-2904
Plants from Test Tubes: An Introduction to Micropropagation, 3rd Edition, 1996. Kyte and Kleyn. Timber Press;
ISBN: 0881923613
Practical Woody Plant Propagation for Nursery Growers, 1986. Macdonald. Timber Press,
Portland, OR; ISBN: 0881920622
Seeds of Woody Plants in North America, Revised Edition, 1992. Young and Young. Timber Press; ISBN:
0931146216
The Grafter’s Handbook, 1993. Garner. American Nurseryman Publishing Co. Suite 2100, 77 W. Washington St.
IL, 60602-2904
The Reference Manual of Woody Plant Propagation From Seed to Tissue Culture, 1986. Dirr and Heuser. Varsity
Press, Inc. Athens, GA; ISBN: 0942375009

Societies and Associations
BC Landscape and Nursery Association
Hedy Dyck, CEO
102, 5783 176A Street
Surrey, BC V3S 6S6
Phone: (604) 575-3505
Fax: (604) 574-7773
Canadian Ornamental Plant Foundation

P.O. Box 26029
Guelph, Ontario N1E 6W1
Phone: 1-800-265-1629
Fax: (519) 341-6748
BC Christmas Tree Council

Contact the Council for information on the regional Associations; the Kootenay Christmas Tree Association,
the Southwest BC Christmas Tree Association, and the Thompson Okanagan Christmas Tree Association
International Plant Propagator’s Society, Inc., (IPPS - Western Region)
Native Plant Society of British Columbia

Suite 195 -1917 West 4th Avenue
Vancouver BC V6J 1M7
Phone: (604) 255-5719
Perennial Plant Association

Phone: (614) 771-8431
Government
BC Ministry of Agriculture
1. Abbotsford Agriculture Centre (1767 Angus Campbell Rd., Abbotsford, V3G 2M3)
Contact Ornamental Specialization Phone
David Trotter Agroforestry and Christmas Trees (604) 556-3148
Siva Sabaratnam Disease Management (604) 556-3029
Tracy Hueppelsheuser Insect and Mite Management (604) 556-3031
Caroline Bédard Minor Use Pesticide Registration (604) 556-3028
Dave Woodske Ornamental Crop Production (604) 556-3044
Madeline Waring Pesticides (604) 556-3027
Vippen Joshi Plant Diagnostic Laboratory (604) 556-3127
Resource Management Branch (604) 556-3100
2. Regional Offices - contact information for Ministry of Agriculture regional offices is available online.
3. Business Risk Management – Production Insurance and AgriStability

Ministry of Environment
To keep abreast of updated contact information and information about the Ministry’s Integrated Pest
Management Program, see their web site at: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/ipmp/
For Environmental Emergencies, call the Ministry of Environment at 1-800-663-3456. Environmental

emergencies include hazardous or toxic spills, discharges, emissions, as well as dyke and dam failures, debris
flows and floods.
ENQUIRY BC - To reach any of the above provincial government offices, Toll Free calls may be routed
through: Enquiry BC at 1-800-663-7867; Vancouver: (604) 660-2421; Victoria (250) 387-6121; 1-800-661-8773
(TDD)
Recycling Hot Line (Recycling Council of BC) – Phone (604) 732-9253 (within Vancouver) or 1-800-667-
4321 (province wide)
Crown Publications – For copies of legislation and other government publications, Phone (250) 387-6409 or
1-800-663-6105 (toll-free in BC)
BC Poison Control Centre – 1-800-567-8911
Canadian Food Inspection Agency

Western Area Office
BC Mainland/Interior (includes Yukon)
4321 Still Creek Dr., Suite 400
Burnaby, BC, V5C 6S7
Phone: (604) 666-6513
Fax: (604) 666-1261
Kelowna District Office

1853 Bredin Road
Kelowna, BC V1Y 7S9
Phone: (250) 470-4884
Fax: (250) 470-4899

Tables – Metric Conversions
Imperial Units Conversion Metric Units Imperial Conversion Metric

Factor Units Factor Units
LENGTH oz./acre 70 g/ha
inches 2.5 centimetres (cm) lb./acre 1.12 kg/ha
feet 30 centimetres (cm)
bu./acre 0.9 hL/ha
feet 0.3 metres (m)
yards 0.9 metres (m) tons/acre 2.24 t/ha
miles 1.6 kilometres (km) fl. oz./acre 70 mL/ha
AREA pt./acre 1.4 L/ha
square inches 6.5 square centimetres
(cm2) qt./acre 2.8 L/ha
square feet 0.09 square metres (m2) gal./acre 11.2 L/ha
acres 0.40 hectares (ha) gal./acre (US) 9.35 L/ha
VOLUME
plants/acre 2.47 plants/ha
cubic inches 16 cubic centimetres
(cm3) oz./gal. 6.2 mL/L
cubic feet 0.03 cubic metres (m3) lb./gal. 0.1 kg/L
cubic yards 0.8 cubic metres (m3)
oz./sq.ft. 305 g/m2
fluid ounces 28 millilitres (mL)
(Imperial) lb./sq.ft 4.9 kg/m2
pints 0.57 litres (L) oz./ft.row 93 g/m row
quarts 1.1 litres (L)
lb./ft.row 1.5 kg/m row
gallons 4.5 litres (L)
(Imperial) ft./sec. 0.3 m/s
gallons (U.S.) 3.75 litres (L) m.p.h. 1.6 km/h
bushels 0.36 hectolitres (hL)
p.s.i. 6.9 kPa
WEIGHT
ounces 28 grams (g) To convert from imperial to metric, multiply
pounds 0.45 kilograms (kg) by the conversion factor. For example: 10
inches x 2.5 = 25 centimetres
short tons 0.9 tonnes (t)
TEMPERATURE To convert from metric to imperial, divide by
Fahrenheit (°F 0.56 Celsius (°C) the conversion factor. For example: 25
- 32) centimetres ÷ 2.5 = 10 inches
POWER Imperial Conversions:
horsepower 750 watts (w) lb/acre x 0.0033 = oz/yd2
0.75 kilowatts (kw)
gal/acre x 0.033 = oz/yd2

Useful Measurements
1 Imperial gallon = 4 quarts = 8 pints = 160 fluid ounces = 10 pounds of water = approximately 1.2 U.S.
gallons
1 U.S. gallon = .8345 or approximately 5/6 Imperial gallon = 8.3 pounds
1 Imperial pint = 20 fluid ounces = 570 mL
1 U.S. pint = 16 fluid ounces = 475 mL
1 pound = 16 ounces
1 tablespoon = 3 teaspoons = 14 mL
2 tablespoons = 1 fluid ounce = 28 mL
1 pound in 100,000 gallons of water = 1 ppm (part per million)
1 mile = 5,280 feet = 1,760 yards
1 yard = 3 feet = 36 inches
1 foot = 12 inches
1 acre = approximately 209 by 209 feet or 43,560 square feet.
1 square yard = 9 square feet
1 square foot = 144 square inches
1 mile per hour = 88 feet per minute
1 cubic yd = 27 cubic feet
1 cubic centimetre = 1 mL = 1 gram (for water)
mS = mmhos/cm = dS/m (conductivity readings)
Parts Per Million

1 per cent = 10,000 parts per million
Imperial: 1 fl. oz./gallon = 6250 ppm
1 gallon in 1,000,000 gallons of water = 1ppm
1 litre in 1,000,000 litres of water = 1ppm = 1 mL/1,000 L
Metric: 1 mg/litre (water) = 1 ppm
1 g/litre (water) = 1000 ppm
1 mL/litre = 1000 ppm

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Nursery Production Guide Table of Contents ● i

ii ● Table of Contents Nursery Production Guide

Nursery Production Guide Invasive Alien Species ● 1

2 ● Invasive Alien Species Nursery Production Guide

British Columbia Plant Protection Regulations

Little Cherry Disease

Nursery Production Guide Plant Movement Regulations • 1

2 • Plant Movement Regulations Nursery Production Guide

Federal Plant Quarantine Regulations

Nursery Production Guide Plant Movement Regulations • 3

4 • Plant Movement Regulations Nursery Production Guide

Nursery Production Guide Plant Movement Regulations • 5

6 • Plant Movement Regulations Nursery Production Guide

Nursery Production Guide Plant Movement Regulations • 7

Nursery Production Guide Plant Movement Regulations • 8

Nursery Production Guide Plant Movement Regulations • 9

10 • Plant Movement Regulations Nursery Production Guide

Plant Protection Conditions Marking of Goods

Phytosanitary Certification Options Shipping

e) post entry quarantine Consumption (Formal) Entry applies to product

Nursery Production Guide Plant Movement Regulations • 11

Canadian Nursery Certification Program (CNCP)

12 • Plant Movement Regulations Nursery Production Guide

Nursery Production Guide Plant Movement Regulations • 13

Site Selection depth will vary based on the nutrient to be

Nursery Production Guide Field Culture • 1

Planting blocks should be laid out in an orderly

2 • Field Culture Nursery Production Guide

Nursery Production Guide Field Culture • 3

4 • Field Culture Nursery Production Guide

Drainage Erosion Control

Nursery Production Guide Field Culture • 5

Types Seeding Rate Recommended Seeding Dates

Winter legumes (hairy vetch or 15 - 30 kg/ha  before September 15

6 • Field Culture Nursery Production Guide

Nursery Production Guide Field Culture • 7

8 • Field Culture Nursery Production Guide

Characteristic Level that indicates contaminated Concern

Protecting Water Quality Nutrient Management

Nursery Production Guide Field Culture • 9

Adapted from: Davidson, Mecklenburg and Peterson (1988)

10 • Field Culture Nursery Production Guide

Record Keeping Amount of P2O5 supplied = (225 kg/ha X 16) ÷ 100 = 36

Nursery Production Guide Field Culture • 11

12 • Field Culture Nursery Production Guide

Nursery Production Guide Field Culture • 13

14 • Field Culture Nursery Production Guide

Stunting of Shoot Tips

Young leaves chlorotic or distorted (crinkled, strap-like, downward curling  Calcium

Overall Leaf Chlorosis

B. Occurs first on older leaves

Plants Dark Green With Purple Coloration of Older Leaves

Necrotic Spots on Margins or Tips of Older Leaves

Effects of Lime  High rates of lime may help digest organic

Nursery Production Guide Field Culture • 15

16 • Field Culture Nursery Production Guide

Table 3.9. Typical nutrient content of various types of manure.

Nursery Production Guide Field Culture • 17

18 • Field Culture Nursery Production Guide