Got Nature? Blog

In this edition of ID That Tree, Purdue Extension Forester Lenny Farlee introduces us to Shumard oak, a native oak species found in parts of Indiana. While it is sometimes confused with other oaks, including northern red oak, this species has key characteristics that set it apart. Learn where Shumard oak is typically found, how it fits into Indiana’s woodland landscapes and what to look for when distinguishing it from similar plants. This video provides a helpful introduction to identifying Shumard oak whether you’re a student, landowner or just interested in better understanding the trees around you.

 

If you have any questions regarding wildlife, trees, forest management, wood products, natural resource planning or other natural resource topics, feel free to contact us by using our Ask an Expert web page.

Resources:
ID That Tree – Video Playlist, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube Channel
Purdue Arboretum Explorer
Conservation Tree Planting: Steps to Success, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
A Woodland Management Moment, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Woodland Stewardship for Landowners, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Fifty Common Trees of Indiana, Purdue Extension – FNR
Indiana Invasive Species Council
Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA)
Report Invasive, Purdue Extension
Habitat University, Episode 12 – Exploring the challenges of Invasive Species, Habitat University-Natural Resource University
Shrubs and Woody Vines of Indiana and the Midwest, Purdue University Press
Native Trees of the Midwest, Purdue University Press
Professional Forester, Indiana Forestry Woodland Owners Association
District Forester, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, 10+ acres
Find an Arborist, International Society of Arboriculture
Forest Improvement Handbook, The Education Store

Lenny Farlee, Extension Forester
Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center
Purdue Department of Forestry & Natural Resources

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In this edition of ID That Tree, Purdue Extension Forester Lenny Farlee introduces us to a native Indiana shrub that’s seen less often than some of its relatives. While it’s related to other sumac species, fragrant sumac has its own place in Indiana’s landscapes. Learn where it grows, how it fits into woodland and edge environment along with what makes it distinct from other sumacs you might recognize. Whether you’re a student, landowner or even just simply curious about native shrubs, this video offers a quick overview of this interesting bush in Indiana.

 

If you have any questions regarding wildlife, trees, forest management, wood products, natural resource planning or other natural resource topics, feel free to contact us by using our Ask an Expert web page.

Resources:
ID That Tree – Video Playlist, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube Channel
Purdue Arboretum Explorer
Conservation Tree Planting: Steps to Success, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
A Woodland Management Moment, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Woodland Stewardship for Landowners, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Fifty Common Trees of Indiana, Purdue Extension – FNR
Indiana Invasive Species Council
Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA)
Report Invasive, Purdue Extension
Habitat University, Episode 12 – Exploring the challenges of Invasive Species, Habitat University-Natural Resource University
Shrubs and Woody Vines of Indiana and the Midwest, Purdue University Press
Native Trees of the Midwest, Purdue University Press
Professional Forester, Indiana Forestry Woodland Owners Association
District Forester, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, 10+ acres
Find an Arborist, International Society of Arboriculture
Forest Improvement Handbook, The Education Store

Lenny Farlee, Extension Forester
Hardwood Tree Improvement and Regeneration Center
Purdue Department of Forestry & Natural Resources

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As the snow flies and the temperature drops, there are still some activities that we can do to remind us that spring is on the way. One of those is planning for tree planting. The Indiana DNR Division of Forestry operates a nursery system that provides tree and shrub seedlings to Indiana landowners. The seedlings are intended for conservation plantings for purposes like wildlife habitat, erosion control, windbreaks, and reforestation plantings. The state nursery also provides Select black walnut, red oak, white oak and black cherry seedlings for those interested in growing trees for timber. These seedlings are a result of tree breeding programs at the Division of Forestry and Purdue University. Seedlings are mostly bare-root one and two year old stock intended for spring planting. Seedlings are still available for purchase from the state nursery system. You can find ordering and contact information for the state nursery at Instructions for Ordering Tree Seedlings.

There are also several private nursery options for ordering tree seedlings in Indiana. The private nurseries may be able to offer species, sizes, and quantities of seedlings not available from the state, and can also sell trees for non-conservation purposes like landscaping and Christmas trees. The National Nursery and Seed Directory provided by the USDA Forest Service provides a directory of seed and plant sources across the region.

When planting trees and shrubs, be sure to check the suitability of your site for the species of plants you plan to use. Long-lived woody plants need to be on sites well-suited to their growth for good long-term results. You can consult the Web Soil Survey for maps and information covering the soil types on your property. You can also consult forestry and conservation professionals for advise and assistance. Purdue Extension offers several resources for planning your tree planting including publications and upcoming workshops. Check out upcoming events: Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) Events.

So, take some time while the snow is falling to make plans for a warm spring day of tree planting.

Resources:
Instructions for Ordering Tree Seedlings, Indiana DNR Division of Forestry
National Nursery and Seed Directory, USDA Forest Service
Conservation Tree Planting: Steps to Success – webinar, Purdue Extension-Forestry & Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube Channel
Web Soil Survey, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
Deer Impact, Purdue Extension Pond & Wildlife
Planting Forest Trees and Shrubs in Indiana (pdf), located on The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
Planting and Care of Fine Hardwood Seedlings (pdf), located on The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
Importance of Hardwood Tree Planting , The Education Store
Designing Hardwood Tree Plantings for Wildlife, The Education Store
Resources and Assistance Available for Planting Hardwood Seedlings, The Education Store
Creating a Wildlife Habitat Management Plan for Landowners, The Education Store
Forest Improvement Handbook, The Education Store
How to Build a Plastic Mesh Deer Exclusion Fence, The Education Store
ID That Tree, Purdue Extension-Forestry & Natural Resources (FNR) YouTube playlist
Woodland Stewardship for Landowners, Purdue Extension – FNR Extension YouTube Playlist
Woodland Management Moment, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Playlist

Lenny Farlee, Extension Forester
Hardwood Tree Improvement & Regeneration Center (HTIRC)
Purdue University Department of Forestry and Natural Resources

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Once the leaves have fallen and the landscape is dominated by shades of brown and gray, bright colors like red catch our attention. There are several red fruits that we may encounter in the late fall and winter here in Indiana that add some color to the landscape. These fruits are retained on trees and shrubs for a variety of reasons. Some are not as palatable to wildlife, so they are eaten later in the season. Some are more resistant to freeze damage and thus cling to branches longer than delicate fruits. There may also be an advantage to their appearance. Many of these plants have seeds dispersed by wildlife like birds, which eat the seeds and excrete them later, providing an opportunity to produce new plants away from the parent. Many birds can see much of the same color spectrum we do, plus enhanced vision in the ultra-violet bands. Brightly-colored seeds with waxy skins may reflect more ultra-violet light and be more noticeable to the birds.

What are some of those red fruits?
One family of plants accounts for several red fruit we can see in late fall and winter, the rose family. This family includes apples, plums, cherries, hawthorns, pears and others as well as the roses. In Indiana we have several hawthorns (Crataegus species) that produce a fruit resembling a tiny apple. These vary in size by species but are typically ¼ to ½ inch diameter and often held in clusters. Hawthorns are typically small trees and may have long thin thorns on the twigs.

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Purdue University Landscape Report: Early fall is the time to begin preparing trees for the winter and get them off to a good start in the following spring. Preventative maintenance and some good cultural practices in autumn boost trees’ health and vigor during the winter and creates an encouraging growing environment in the spring. Here are 5 good tips for trees:

1. Scout for pruning issues.
   It’s advantageous to schedule pruning tasks after leaves have fallen. It’s much easier to see the branch structure of trees and deciduous shrubs in order to perform good selective cuts. Look for those non-beneficial plant parts and remove them. These include any dead, broken and crossing branches which can be removed. Also, search out and remove those epicormics sprouts in the canopy and basal sprouts emerging from around the trunk and root collar.  Refer to this pruning publication for more information.
   

   Newly-established trees benefit from fertilizer

2. Feeding for the future.
   Typically, tree roots have produce more root growth during the fall. Root systems are important as storage organs or banks to reserve energy for later. These stores of starch will become active energy on demand in the spring when shoot growth, leafing and flowering occur. Fertilization during this time will maintain soil nutrient levels and increase root production, promoting new growth in the spring. Newly, established trees and those younger trees are especially responsive to supplemental feeding. However, not all trees need or require fertilization. Refer to this publication on fertilization for more information.
   

   Mulch provides a blanket of protection

3. Complete cultural practices.
   It’s always beneficial to the tree to replenish mulch to give root systems an extra layer of protection against temperature extremes. This helps maintain the moisture levels in the soil during those drier winter months as well. Maintaining 2-3 inches of composted mulch over the root zone of the tree and landscape provides great protection. Also, it may be a good time to consider providing protective wraps on thin-barked or newly planted trees, if needed. Also, now is a good time for inspecting those existing wraps to be sure they are effective and not too tight around the trunk or harboring hidden pest issues.
   

   Good moisture levels going into the winter is critical for tree health

4. Water needed, still.
   The dry, cool air and low precipitation that can sometimes occur during fall and early winter can take a toll on trees. Provide supplemental irrigation with deep watering to prevent root damage and a good spring start. It is advisable to water only when temperatures will be above 40^o Water around mid-day so there is time to soak in before the freezing night temperatures. Applying approximately 5 gallons water per inch of tree diameter will be adequate for times when there is little to no rainfall going into winter.
5. Take inventory.
   This is a good time to assess your site for vacancies. Check your property for potential planting locations to install new trees next spring. Research during the winter allows plenty of time for good decision-making which includes proper species selection and suitable locations. Refer to the tree selection publication for more information.

There are many resources available to learn about proper tree care. If you are uncertain on how to maintain your trees or prefer professional services, it is important to reach out to an ISA Certified Arborist to help with the tree, within your landscape, especially the larger, mature trees. A Certified Arborist can proactively identify, analyze and evaluate your tree needs to maintain this important asset, your trees.

Resources:
Why do leaves change color and why do leaves fall off in autumn?, Got Nature? Blog
Why Leaves Change Color, The Education Store, Purdue Extension
Fifty Common Trees of Indiana
An Introduction to Trees of Indiana
Native Trees of the Midwest, The Education Store
Why Leaves Change Color, USDA Forest Service, Northeastern Area
It’s Fall, but why are the leaves still green? article and video, WLFI.com

Lindsey Purcell, Urban Forest Specialist
Forestry and Natural Resources

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Purdue Landscape Report: Spring is finally here! Everywhere you look, one can find some spring color around. Some of the first plants to peek out of the ground are spring-flowering bulbs like crocus, daffodil and tulip.  But there are some beautiful spring time shrubs that are Indiana native plants you can add to your yard to be the first in the neighborhood with spring interest. Below, you’ll find a top 10 list of spring-flowering shrubs (in order of flower appearance).

Witch-hazel (Hamamelis x intermedia) Perhaps even earlier-flowering than Forsythia, is ‘Arnold Promise’ witch-hazel. This shrub can flower starting in late winter (unless we have unusually cold winter weather like polar vortices) and keep going all the way into spring. Bright flowers are yellow with red tinges, though there are red-flowering cultivars available. Witch-hazel can be grown as a shrub or a small tree and offers some yellow/orange/red fall color. It’s native!

Forsythia (Forsythia x intermedia) Forsythia is the traditional first-flowering plant in the spring. Hardy plants, their bright yellow blooms can catch your eye anywhere. There are new cultivars out.

Quince (Chaenomeles speciosa) In mid spring, you’ll find these shrubs covered with flowers. There are several cultivars and you may see white-flowering plants (‘Jet Trails’), red-flowering plants (‘Texas Scarlet’) or even large, double, fluffy, peach-pink flowers (‘Cameo’). After the show, this plant tends to fade into the background, but it’s a great native addition.

Korean Spice Viburnum (Viburnum carlesii) Korean spice viburnum blooms in late April with blooms that are pink/red while they are still in buds, opening to white flowers that are each a half inch wide. The flowers are presented on dense 2-3 inch groupings called cymes (semi-snowball) and very pleasantly fragrant. And luck of all luck, they have nice, clean leaves in the summer and great fall color. Can’t beat that in a multi-season shrub.

Flowering Almond (Prunus glandulosa) Here’s a small plant that grows well in full sun and its lovely. Flowering almond, particularly the cultivar ‘Rosea Plena’ has tons of pink flowers (double—lots of petals). Some cultivars have white flowers, and all present in mid to late spring.

Shadblow Serviceberry (Amelanchier canadensis) A multi-season-interest plant, serviceberry offers white flowers on 2-3 inch long inflorescences in April, which leads to sweet, juicy black fruit in the summer. Some plants can also have decent fall color (yellow with hints of orange and red). Serviceberry grows by suckering so it’s perhaps not a great choice for a small yard.

Lilac (Syringa vulgaris). The beautiful purple flowers (many, many colors are available, but purple is most common) are wonderfully fragrant in most of spring. They may only bloom for 2 weeks, but man those 2 weeks are worth having a lilac in your garden! Takes me straight back to my childhood.

 Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) An adaptable species, this plant is known for long-lasting black fruit in the fall and wine-red fall color. Spring flowers are white, presented in groups of 9-20 resulting in 1 to 1.5 inch groupings covering the plant in May. This species can spread and colonize large areas, which makes for a striking mass effect in the spring. Small plant (under 5 feet) thrives in part shade to full sun.

Mock Orange (Philadelphus coronarius) Fans of mock orange are serious about their use in the landscape. These plants can take care of themselves and they’ll reward you every May/June with white, fragrant flowers that are 1 to 1.5 inches wide.

Siberian Peashrub (Caragana arborescens) Granted, this is a great shrub for harsh sites (poor soils, drought, alkaline soil, cold, wind), but it’s unusual and doesn’t take much care. Leaves are pea-green and emerge with the yellow flowers in May. Later in the summer the fruit of the flowers, a narrow pod, makes a popping sound when it opens.

Remember, plants with more than one season of interest are like hitting the landscape jackpot. So, if you’ve chosen one of these plants because you love the flowers in the spring, just be aware that it may need to fade into the background for the rest of the year. Having said that, plants that usher in the new season are anticipated, loved and enjoyed. Make sure you’ve got some of these in your neighborhood for a dose of early spring joy.

This was adapted from Horticulture Newsletter – Cheryl Boyer – Kansas Extension. All plants listed in this article are native species of Indiana.

Read the original article posted in the Purdue Landscape Report April 2025 Newsletter: Top 10 Spring Flowering Shrubs.

Subscribe and receive the newsletter: Purdue Landscape Report Newsletter.

Resources:
Spring Tree Preparations, Purdue Extension Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR) Got Nature? Blog
Celebrate Pollinator Week with Flowers of June Tour, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Tracking the Bloom, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Indiana’s Native Orchids, Indiana Forestry & Woodlands Association (IFWOA) Webinar
Wildflowers and Ferns of Indiana Forests: A Field Guide, Google Books
ID That Tree Spring Bloom Edition: Bladdernut, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
ID That Tree, Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube playlist
Alternative Options for Invasive Landscape Plants (pdf), Purdue Extension – Purdue Horticulture and Landscape Architecture
Landscape Uses of Native Plants, Indiana Native Plant Society
Find an Arborist video, Trees are Good-International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)
Tree Installation: Process and Practices, The Education Store, Purdue Extension resource center
Tree Planting Part 1: Choosing a Tree video, Purdue Extension
Tree Wound and Healing, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – FNR
Shrubs and Woody Vines of Indiana and the Midwest, Purdue University Press
Ask an Expert: Tree Selection and Planting, Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube playlist
Recommended Indiana-native Plants for Attracting Pollinators (pdf), Purdue Extension – Entomology
Gardening for Pollinators, Purdue Garden Articles
Subscribe Purdue Extension-FNR YouTube Channel

Amanda Bailey, Extension Educator – Ag and Natural Resources
Purdue Extension – Warrick County

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While the weather may tell you otherwise, spring is upon us. With the changing weather comes greening grass, breaking buds and sprouting plants. This plethora of fresh growth can help cure the winter blues, but it also provides wildlife with a desirable food source. Recently you may have noticed deer and other wildlife’s increased utilization of winter wheat fields and other green areas like lawns – early spring is the time you see deer in Indiana feed extensively on grass.

For homeowners, this is the time you need to scout around your home for emerging plants in your lands​caping beds. Plants that are frequently browsed by deer such as tulips or hostas need special attention, but the limited amount of green plant material can leave any plant as a potential target. Most homeowners choose a type of taste repellent to protect plants. There are several tips on how to increase the efficacy of this approach.

1. Timing: It helps to have some foresight into when damage is likely to occur and/or the plant developmental stage(s). Unfortunately, this is usually based on past experience. Ideally, you want to time applications during these periods.  With tulips, for example, applying repellents early during sprouting, later during sprouting and during flower bud development will prevent damage during most years.
2. Type of repellent: There are many types of taste repellents labeled for deer and other wildlife species. Most have a combination of capsaicin, putrefied egg solids and/or fatty acids of ammonium soaps. There are, of course, others with different ingredients. So which do you choose? There have been many studies that have investigated the efficacy of repellents. The bottom line – they work, but control is not 100%.
3. Label: Failures can often result when not following the directions on the label. The label also provides safety information and what you can/can’t spray. Read and follow the label – it’s the law.
4. Expectations: You aren’t going to solve all of your wildlife problems by spraying a few plants or even everything. If you use repellents, reapply according to label directions (every three to four weeks is usually a good rule of thumb). To increase success, you may use them as part of an integrated approach that includes exclusion, cultural practices and other approaches.

Resources
Diagnosing and Controlling Wildlife Damage, The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s rescource center
Preventing Wildlife Damage – Do You Need a Permit?, The Education Store
Wildlife Conflicts, Purdue University
New Tool for Helping Landowners to Help Declining Birds, Got Nature? Blog, Purdue Extension – Forestry & Natural Resources (FNR)
Forest Management for Reptiles and Amphibians: A Technical Guide for the Midwest, The Education Store
Ask the Expert: Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment – Birds and Salamander Research, Purdue Extension – FNR
Developing a Wildlife Habitat Management Plan, The Education Store
The Nature of Teaching, Purdue Extension
ID That Tree, Playlist, Purdue Extension – Forestry and Natural Resources Youtube Channel
A Woodland Management Moment, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR Youtube Channel
Shrubs and Woody Vines of Indiana and the Midwest, Purdue University Press
Native Trees of the Midwest, Purdue University Press
Forest Improvement Handbook, The Education Store
Fifty Common Trees of Indiana, Purdue Extension – FNR
Invasive plants: impact on environment and people, The Education Store
ReportINvasive, Purdue College of Agriculture – Entomology
Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA)
District Forester, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, 10+ acres
Find an Arborist, International Society of Arboriculture

Brian MacGowan, Extension Wildlife Specialist
Department of Forestry and Natural Resources​

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Join Purdue Extension forester Lenny Farlee and wildlife specialist Brian MacGowan as they help you prepare for the holidays while keeping your family and local wildlife safe. This video discusses everything from how to choose and care for a real Christmas tree as well as what to do with it after the season and also how to make wildlife/nature-friendly decorations.

Topics Include:
– What can I do with my tree after Christmas that would benefit wildlife?
– Are artificial structures legal in Indiana lakes?
– What types of items can I collect from the wild for holiday decorations?
– How do I do it in an environmentally responsible way?
– Are there some things I shouldn’t or can’t collect?
– What outdoor holiday decorations can benefit wildlife?
– How do I make it last longer?
– Can I avoid problems with non-target wildlife?

If you have any questions regarding trees, forest management, wildlife, wood products or other natural resource topics, feel free to contact us by using our Ask an Expert web page.

Resources
Selecting an Indiana-Grown Christmas Tree, The Education Store, Purdue Extension resource center
Tips for First-Time Buyers of Real Christmas Trees, The Education Store
Indiana Christmas Tree Growers Association
Purdue University Invasive Species resources
Indiana DNR Division of Fish and Wildlife for wildlife possession rules
Feed the birds with a DIY wreath, Audubon
Dan Cassens: Tips for First-Time Christmas Tree Buyers, Video, Purdue Agriculture
Dan Cassens: Starting Your Own Christmas Tree Farm, Video

Lenny Farlee, Sustaining Hardwood Extension Specialist
Purdue University Department of Forestry and Natural Resource

Brian MacGowan, Extension Wildlife Specialist
Department of Forestry & Natural Resources, Purdue University

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Purdue Landscape Report: In the last newsletter, an article on triclopyr brought up much discussion on the Roundup brands now containing multiple active ingredients other than glyphosate. Professionals in the industry may encounter a client with herbicide damage symptoms that mimic growth-regulator injury instead of typical glyphosate damage symptoms. While the client may have used Roundup, they didn’t necessarily use glyphosate. Going forward, it’s important to keep in mind that Roundup no longer means glyphosate in the consumer market.

Roundup has been one of the most used herbicides for many different weed control applications. Roundup, with the active ingredient glyphosate, was first registered with the EPA in 1974. When Roundup went off patent in 2000, glyphosate started being sold under many different names. According to the National Pesticide Information Center there are currently over 750 products containing glyphosate. Formulations may differ with salt carriers, adjuvants, concentrations, and mixed with other herbicides.
Recently, Bayer announced glyphosate would be phased out of consumer Roundup products. In its place, consumer Roundup products include other active ingredients. This can lead to confusion in the consumer market. It’s important to note that professional-use Roundup (turf and ornamental, agronomic crops, etc.) still contains glyphosate.

Within the consumer Roundup product line, there are many different formulations designed for specific purposes, which include Roundup Weed and Grass Killer, Roundup for Lawns, Roundup for Lawns: Crabgrass Destroyer, Roundup Dual Action Weed and Grass Killer, Roundup Poison Ivy and Tough Brush Killer, among others. Each of these products contains distinct active ingredients that target different types of weeds.

Roundup Weed and Grass Killer: Glyphosate as the Active Ingredient
The original Roundup herbicide contains glyphosate as its primary active ingredient. Glyphosate is a systemic, non-selective herbicide, meaning it is absorbed by the plant and translocated throughout the vascular system, ultimately leading to the plant’s death. Glyphosate works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS), which is a key component of the shikimic acid pathway—a pathway critical for the synthesis of aromatic amino acids in plants.

Active Ingredient:

1. Glyphosate: The ‘traditional’ version of Roundup that controls many different weeds. Can take 10-14 days to kill weeds.
2. Pelargonic Acid: A contact herbicide that quickly breaks down cell walls. This is added to provide a quick burndown of the weed.

Roundup Dual Action Weed and Grass Killer Plus 4 Month Preventer: Multiple modes of action
Round Dual Action is a formulation that includes four very different herbicides that is intended for use in areas with limited vegetation (i.e. sidewalks, driveways, mulched beds). In addition to postemergence herbicides, this product includes two preemergence active ingredients.

Active Ingredients:

1. Triclopyr: Systemic herbicide that mimics auxins. Very effective herbicide for woody plants, which is used frequently in invasive species treatments.
2. Fluazifop: Grass-specific herbicide (graminicide) that controls several annual and perennial grasses.
3. Diquat: Contact herbicide that exhibit symptoms rapidly. Good for annual weeds.
4. Imazapic: Pre- and Postemergence control of several grasses and broadleaf weeds.

Roundup for Lawns: A Combination of Selective Herbicides
Roundup for Lawns is a specialized formulation designed for residential use, particularly for controlling broadleaf weeds in lawns. Unlike traditional Roundup, which contains glyphosate, Roundup for Lawns contains a combination of selective herbicides, including MCPA, quinclorac, dicamba, and sulfentrazone. These ingredients are chosen for their ability to target broadleaf weeds and grassy weeds without harming most turfgrass species. This product is similar to the traditional ‘three-way’ herbicides that are commonly used in turf.

Active Ingredients:

1. MCPA: MCPA is a selective herbicide that mimics the action of natural plant hormones known as auxins. When absorbed by broadleaf weeds, it causes uncontrolled growth, leading to the plant’s death.
2. Quinclorac: Quinclorac is effective against grassy weeds, primarily used for crabgrass control in turf. It can be similar to auxin herbicides, causing epinasty, curling, and a change of color.
3. Dicamba: Similar to MCPA, dicamba disrupts the growth of broadleaf weeds by mimicking natural plant hormones.
4. Sulfentrazone: Pre- and postemergence activity in turf. Very effective on nutsedge.

Roundup for Lawns: Crabgrass Destroyer
Roundup for Lawns: Crabgrass Destroyer is a product designed to control grassy weeds and several broadleaf weeds in cool-season turf. In addition to crabgrass, other grassy weeds and some broadleaves can be controlled.

Active Ingredients:

1. Topramezone: Very effective herbicide for several annual and perennial grassy weeds and some common broadleaf weeds.

Roundup Poison Ivy and Tough Brush Killer: Triclopyr for Tough Woody Plants
Roundup Brush Killer is formulated to tackle tough, woody plants, such as brush, brambles, and small trees. The active ingredient in this product is triclopyr, a selective herbicide that targets broadleaf plants with less damage to grasses. This product can be effective on invasive woody plants.

Active Ingredients:

• Triclopyr: Systemic herbicide that mimics auxins. Very effective herbicide for woody plants, which is used frequently in invasive species treatments.
• Glyphosate: The ‘traditional’ version of Roundup that controls many different weeds. Can take 10-14 days to kill weeds.

Conclusion
All of the consumer Roundup products contain unique active ingredients tailored to specific weed control needs. There can be understandable confusion around these products due to the historical uses of glyphosate. The Green Industry needs to be aware of the confusion around these products to better inform their clients. Understanding the active ingredients and mechanisms of action of these herbicides is crucial for their effective and safe use in various settings.

View the original article here: When Roundup Isn’t Roundup: Clearing up the confusion between products

Subscribe and receive the newsletter: Purdue Landscape Report Newsletter.

Resources:
Beyond Roundup: Alternatives to consider adding to your weed management plan, Purdue Landscape Report
Diagnosing Herbicide Injury on Garden and Landscape Plants, The Education Store, Purdue Extension’s resource center
Herbicide Injury, Purdue Plant Doctor
Find an Arborist video, Trees are Good-International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)
ID That Tree, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
Invasive Species Playlist, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel
A Woodland Management Moment, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel (Against Invasives, Garlic Mustard, Autumn Olive)
Woodland Stewardship for Landowners, Playlist, Purdue Extension – FNR YouTube Channel (Common Buckthorn, Japanese Barberry)
Report Invasive Species, Purdue Invasive Species
The GLEDN Phone App – Great Lakes Early Detection Network
EDDMaps – Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System
Episode 11 – Exploring the challenges of Invasive Species, Habitat University-Natural Resource University
What Are Invasive Species and Why Should I Care?, Purdue Extension-FNR Got Nature? Blog
Emerald Ash Borer Information Network, Purdue University and Partners
Aquatic Invasive Species, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant (IISG)
Invasive plants: impact on environment and people, The Education Store
Subscribe Purdue Extension-Forestry and Natural Resources YouTube Channel

Kyle Daniel, Commercial Landscape and Nursery Crops Extension Specialist
Purdue Horticulture & Landscape Architecture

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Lenny Farlee, sustaining hardwood Extension specialist for Purdue’s Department of Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR), has been named a 2024 Fellow of the Society of American Foresters (SAF). The SAF Fellow Award, one of the highest honors bestowed on an SAF member by their peers, recognizes long-standing service to forestry at the local, state, regional and national levels.

Farlee was honored with the award during the 2024 SAF National Convention, which took place in Loveland, Colorado from Sept. 17-20.

“Being named a Fellow of the Society of American Foresters is particularly meaningful to me since it originates from a nomination by my peers at the state level,” Farlee said. “I am very grateful that my colleagues in forestry here in Indiana considered my service worthy of recognition, and I owe much of the credit to them for their support of me through my career. It has been my privilege to serve the people and the profession as an Extension forester here at Purdue.”

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