Dave Roberts

Dr. Dave Roberts

Dr. Roberts has researched many issues in Michigan’s plant industry, including Oak Wilt, Dutch Elm Disease, and Diplodia Tip Blight of Pines, along with a variety of cultural problems such as plant nutrition and herbicide toxicity. During his career, he has discovered a variety of new diseases and pests such as Phomopsis Canker of Spruce and the first bacterial wilt disease of turfgrasses in North America. In the early 2000s, his research on Ash Decline in Southeast Michigan led to the discovery of the invasive Emerald Ash Borer in North America.  In his retirement, Dr. Roberts intends to remain active with the Green Industry. Dr. Roberts is President, CEO and CBW (Chief Bottle Washer) of The Plant Doctor, LLC…aka the Tree Doctor.

The Plant Doctor, LLC

Herbicide Phytotoxicity in Landscapes and Nurseries: What’s In a Name?

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Herbicides represent important tools to manage unwanted plants (weeds) in Landscapes and Nurseries. Herbicides are especially efficient and efficacious in lieu of physical means. Unfortunately, mistakes do happen. And when herbicide mistakes happen, they often present HUGE problems for our industry. Mistakes may occur from supplier advice, our failure to thoroughly read and understand herbicide labels, notoriously confusing labels, uncontrollable variables such as weather, and misapplication, among other contributors.

The Tree Doctor’s Diary: Recent Experiences from the Field

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In his role as Michigan’s Plant Doctor, aka “The Tree Doctor”, Dr. Dave is called upon every year by Nurserypersons, Arborists, Landscapers, Suppliers and the Public to solve perplexing plant problems in the landscape and nursery. These plant problems range from pests to diseases and from environmental issues to dilemmas from cultural inputs. In this interesting session, a variety of problem-solving scenarios will be presented in his interesting story-telling style that will not likely lull you to sleep.

An Oak Wilt Update: New Revelations in Detection and Management

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Oak Wilt continues to spread in Michigan. The disease has infiltrated some communities so insidiously that it has become almost impossible to stop. Property owners are so confused with the array of management options and the cost estimates that they become indecisive about how to proceed. Community associations often become gridlocked.  In these situations, the disease continues to spread and becomes far more difficult and costly to manage. Furthermore, mismanagement is not uncommon, leading to more costs and disease advancement.