Urban and Landscape Plants

Urban and landscape plants encompass all plants species that are seen in a landscape setting including ornamentals (annuals and perennials) grown in gardens or as houseplants, turf, trees, and shrubs.  Plants are used to beautify several areas of our daily lives and allow us to enjoy several outdoor activities.

Diseases can significantly reduce the aesthetic value of plants in a landscape setting. Environmental conditions in the landscape, nursery, or greenhouse often are favorable to development diseases. Because of the high relative humidity, the greenhouse environment can especially be favorable to certain diseases that affect flowers, leaves, and stems of ornamentals. Improper or excessive watering can lead to development of crown and root diseases.  There are several abiotic (non-living agents) stresses such as drought, nutrient deficiencies, and air pollution for example which can cause severe damage to plants and affect the overall aesthetic quality. Through awareness of the causes of plant diseases and proper plant selections, a landscape can be very eye appealing and enjoyed by all.