PHC Matters

Deer are a common sight in Pennsylvania, and residents enjoy seeing deer. However, their presence can be a problem for homeowners, as deer cause damage to gardens and trees. Deer create different types of damage depending on their behavior in a residential area. This article will give you examples of deer damage to trees with photos to help you identify the problems….

Malvern, Pennsylvania – January 27, 2024– Burkholder PHC has recently been recognized for several notable Plant Health Care discoveries and occurrences. Starker Wright, manager of Burkholder PHC, has been directly involved in the following: Rescue treatment for eriophyid/rust mite damage Privet, rose, pear, spruce, and hemlock commonly show br…

During the winter, while the tree leaves have fallen and the colors of your backyard may seem to have faded away, a complex world of plant life awaits spring’s arrival. Ensuring robust plant health throughout these months requires specialized care. Winter plant health care services are essential for keeping your plants vibrant and healthy for spring. Learn Abou…

Evergreen trees are at the forefront of this holiday season, and we do get a lot of questions about browning in conifers at this time of the year, especially pines, cypresses, junipers, and cedars. Most of the time, this is caused by seasonal needle drop, which is not damaging at all, but can be alarming. If you have concerns about the late-season condition of your e…

We all love reindeer, but when local deer begin destroying property, some deer repellent action may need to be taken. The deer population in Pennsylvania is estimated to be around 1.5 million. You have probably seen deer around your neighborhood, especially if you live in a rural or suburban area. And as much as we enjoy seeing deer in nature, the damage to your lawn…

For homeowners who aspire to maintain their landscape’s health and visual appeal, knowing the right time to prune trees is helpful. Late fall to early winter marks the ideal time to prune river birch trees for several reasons, such as minimizing sap flow and preventing infestations that can lead to diseases. By adhering to this pruning schedule, you can reduce the ri…

In previous articles we have been discussing invasive species and plants. One example we mentioned is burning bush. Burning bush (Euonymus alatus) is a species of flowering plant native to central and northern China, Japan, and Korea. The plant is popular in landscapes for vibrant red foliage during the fall. However, burning bush is an invasive plant species that Pe…

Bacterial leaf scorch (BLS) is a systemic bacterial infection treated via cultural management practices. Eastern Pennsylvania residents have been dealing with this disease for decades. BLS is widespread in Pennsylvania on pin oaks and red oaks, is known to be spreading toward the state’s western region. Learn About Seasonal Plant Issues Cause & Spread BLS…