Hello, I am wondering if this crack in this Maple Tree is of any concern. If yes, anything I can wrap around this area, sort of like a bandaid to close it up?

I  planted pine trees they look strange. Some look like they are thin foliage at lower levels, while the upper portion of the tree is growing well.

The other tree has what looks like a pine cones growing into the branches. Are these trees ok? Do I need to be concerned?

Thanks so much for your time and help.

I have a chestnut apple tree, 40+ years old. Last year, after removing the protective plastic covering that has outgrown its size, the rabbits completely girdled the lower trunk, essentially killing the tree. I would not continue advising owners to abandon protecting the bark, when one of us has experienced disastrous results. Not really a question, Ric Roderick

I have 3 -10 ft. tall crape myrtle trees that are about 18 mos old and I discovered crape myrtle scale as the plants were beginning to bud after it had spread to 30-40% of each bush on the branches. I applied Bonide granules by spraying them on the branches with a hand spreader. My neighbor (and you) told me that it might have been more effective placing the granules in the soil in a circle around the tree. You advised against further applications then assuming that some was absorbed systemically from what fell to the ground below the trees. Indeed two of the trees flowered about 30% of expected and one hardly at all. I know I wasn't supposed to feed them when the plants were blooming to protect the bees due to the pollination that would result. The blossoms are getting ready to drop and I'm trying to plan for my next steps. Please advise.

Wondering what the tree is sick with and what to do to help it. It’s a very large, older tree and I’d be devastated to lose it. It’s looking sparse and not like itself the last couple months. Thought it was bc of the dry summer but upon looking closer, the leaves are yellowing / Turing black. See photos. Would love to know what this is and hopefully how to treat it. Thank you!

I think I squashed a bed bug nymph. Can I bring it in to be identified?

Dear Sirs, I love the pink swirl impatiens, but can't find them in the nurseries to purchase in the spring. Last year, we grew some from seed, but I can't remember what company I purchased them from. Can you recommend a seed company that would be a good bet to have them to start them early next spring? Thank you, Multnomah County Resident

2” long dark insect, possibly molted

I was disappointed in my community garden plot this year. Everything seemed stunted compared to neighboring plots. What would you recommend as soil amendments over the winter to improve next year’s yield? Thanks!