The 2012 ASHS Annual Conference

Trees are a main component of urban landscapes, parks and roadways, and along with turfgrasses are usually the major users of water in these settings, with mature trees consuming potentially as much as 400-L in a summer day. The use of native and adapted tree species is strongly promoted as a way to save water in Texas urban landscapes. Unfortunately several of the recommended and widely planted native tree taxa (i.e. Ulmus, Celtis, Prosopis, Maclura, etc.) are susceptible to broadfleaf mistletoe (Phoradendron spp.) infestations, whose severity and impact on the growth, health and water economy of the trees are undocumented. We are investigating aspects related to the spread and biology of broadleaf mistletoe in urban landscapes and rights-of way, and in particular evaluating the use (extraction) of water and nutrient by mistletoes in Texas-native trees. Results from these efforts would be used to draw viable recommendations for landscape horticulturists, arborists and homeowners to effectively monitor and manage mistletoe infestations in urban trees and forests, improving overall tree health and water use efficiency.