I See Dead Plants

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. Sebastian Eves-van den Akker of the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom. They discuss how Sebastian and his lab are using tech such a machine learning and 3d printing to gather data regarding plant parasitic nematodes. Additional Resources   List of Contributors: Siyuan Wei, Jie Zhou, Olaf Prosper Kranse, Unnati Sonawala, Gang Sun, Ziyang He, Beatrice Senatori, Clement Pellegrin, Andrea Díaz-Tendero Bravo, Roberta Healey, Victor Hugo Moura de Souza, Vincent C.T. Hanlon, George Harpum, Tithira Wijayathilake, Adela Gaja Jezierska-Suwinska, Anika Damm, Kerry VerMeulen, Thomas Baum, Lida Derevnina, Ji Zhou, Sebastian Eves-van den Akker. Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction and Background of the Speaker 02:45 Sebastian's Journey into Plant Sciences 05:43 Exploring Nematodes and Their Impact 08:54 Research Focus: Cyst Nematodes and Their Mechanisms 11:40 Drivers of Nematode Research in the UK 14:34 Innovative Methods in Nematode Research 17:47 High-Throughput Imaging and AI in Research 20:31 Logistics of Large-Scale Experiments 24:28 The Greenhouse Imaging Project 26:48 The Challenges of Lab Work 29:57 Designing the Imaging Machine 33:14 Collaborative Engineering in the Lab 36:23 AI and Nematode Detection 42:08 Building Growth Curves from Data 43:51 Nematode Interactions: Cooperation or Competition? 45:47 Genetic Screening for Nematode Traits 49:29 Future Directions: AI and Nematode Research 51:54 Innovations in Screening Technology 55:36 Communication Between Plants and Animals 56:28 Advancements in Nematode Management 01:00:26 Understanding Nematodes as Orphan Diseases 01:07:50 outro with logo.mp4 Zaworski, E. (Host) and Eves-van den Akker, S. (Interviewee). S5:E12 (Podcast). Seeing the Unseen: New Technologies for Studying Plant-Parasitic Nematodes. 6/17/2026. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. Tom wolf of Agrimetrix research and training. They discuss spray drones past, current and future, with regards to agriculture. Additional Resources https://sprayers101.com/about/ Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction to Spray Drones and Pesticide Applications 00:55 Who Operates the Drones? 01:17 Challenges of Pesticide Application with Drones 11:10 Practical Applications and Future of Drone Technology 14:37 The Evolution of Drone Technology in Agriculture 19:01 Challenges and Limitations of Drone Spraying 25:05 Cost vs. Efficiency: The Drone Dilemma 30:04 Future Prospects of Spray Drones 36:58 Key Takeaways for Farmers on Drone Usage 44:08 outro with logo.mp4 Zaworski, E. (Host) and Wolf, T. (Interviewee). S5:E10 (Podcast). Attack of the Spray Drones! Part 2. 6/10/2026. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. Tom wolf of Agrimetrix research and training. They discuss spray drones past, current and future, with regards to agriculture. Additional Resources https://sprayers101.com/about/ Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction to Spray Drones and Pesticide Applications 02:21 Tom Wolf's Journey into Plant Sciences 10:28 Understanding Drones: Basics and Types 14:24 The Evolving Drone Market and Manufacturers 18:32 The Technological Advancements in Spray Drones 19:41 The Evolution of Drone Design and Functionality 23:54 Understanding Swath Width and Its Variables 26:32 Challenges in Standardizing Drone Operations 31:44 Understanding the Complexity of Drone Applications 35:15 Training and Certification in Drone Usage 39:30 Who Operates the Drones? 47:05 outro with logo.mp4 Zaworski, E. (Host) and Wolf, T. (Interviewee). S5:E10 (Podcast). Attack of the Spray Drones! Part 1. 6/3/2026. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. David Shapiro-Ilan of the USDA-ARS. They discuss the work of David's lab using entomopathogenic nematodes as a form of biocontrol. Additional Resources https://www.ars.usda.gov/research/publications/publication/?seqNo115=411611   Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction to Entomopathogenic Nematodes 03:21 Life Cycle and Mechanism of Action 06:19 Host Specificity and Target Insects 09:15 Applications in Agriculture 12:04 Production and Formulation of Nematodes 14:55 Cost and Economic Considerations 17:37 Future of Entomopathogenic Nematodes 20:37 Wrap-Up and Final Thoughts 28:53 outro with logo Zaworski, E. (Host) and Shapiro-Ilan, D. (Interviewee). S5:E9 (Podcast). Nematode Allies: Exploring Entomopathogenic Nematodes. 5/27/2026. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. José González-Acuña, recent Ph.D. graduate at Iowa State University. They discuss José's Thesis work on frogeye leaf spot and efforts to expand the ever growing library of plant disease predictive models. Additional Resources https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-026-46975-z#Sec14 https://journals.ashs.org/view/journals/horttech/27/5/article-p710.xml https://cropprotectionnetwork.org/news/new-crop-risk-tool-enhances-disease-management-decisions Time Stamps 00:00 Understanding Machine Learning Models 03:23 Choosing the Right Model for the Project 06:13 Metrics for Model Evaluation 08:48 Challenges in Data Collection and Standardization 11:38 Insights on Frog Eye Leaf Spot Modeling 13:44 Future Directions and Improvements 17:40 Understanding Weather Data's Role in Disease Modeling 19:42 Data Collection and Analysis for Disease Severity 21:29 Introduction to Decision Support Systems (DSS) 22:27 The Importance of Decision Support in Agriculture 24:09 Future of Predictive Modeling and Decision Support Systems 28:44 The Role of Farmers in Utilizing Predictive Models 32:14 Economic Benefits of Decision Support Systems 34:29 Elevator Pitch: Explaining Predictive Modeling to the Public 37:58 outro with logo.mp4 Zaworski, E. (Host) and González-Acuña, J. (Interviewee). S5:E8 (Podcast). Frog Eye-PM: Predictive Modeling Part 2. 5/20/2026. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. José González-Acuña, recent Ph.D. graduate at Iowa State University. They discuss José's Thesis work on frogeye leaf spot and efforts to expand the ever growing library of plant disease predictive models. Additional Resources https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-026-46975-z#Sec14 https://journals.ashs.org/view/journals/horttech/27/5/article-p710.xml https://cropprotectionnetwork.org/news/new-crop-risk-tool-enhances-disease-management-decisions Time Stamps 00:44 Introduction to Jose's Academic Journey 03:13 The Path to Plant Pathology 13:45 Understanding Frog Eye Leaf Spot 18:55 Management Strategies for Frog Eye Leaf Spot 21:51 Fungicide Resistance and Its Implications 23:39 The Journey to Predictive Modeling 25:57 The Role of Predictive Models in Agriculture 28:49 Understanding Predictive Modeling 34:26 Types of Predictive Models 40:09 Logistic Regression and Machine Learning Models 45:36 outro with logo.mp4   Zaworski, E. (Host) and González-Acuña, J. (Interviewee). S5:E7 (Podcast). Frog Eye-PM: Predictive Modeling Part 1. 5/13/2026. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Fernando Garcia-Bastidas, also known as Dr. banana. They discuss banana production and the very destructive disease known as banana wilt.   Additional Resources https://www.keygene.com/banana-research-and-breeding-keygene/ https://linktr.ee/DrBananaGarcia https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhPEErJnErU   Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction to Bananas and Fernando's Journey 00:42 Introductions 03:28 The Fascinating World of Bananas 06:12 KeyGene and Banana Breeding Innovations 09:07 Understanding Panama Disease and Its History 12:09 The Impact of Fusarium Wilt on Banana Cultivation 15:00 Banana Propagation and Monoculture Risks 18:17 Challenges in Banana Production 20:56 Fusarium Wilt: Transmission and Biosecurity Measures 23:48 The Global Spread of Fusarium Wilt 27:05 Social Implications of Fusarium Wilt 29:31 Future of Banana Cultivation and Breeding 39:30 The Impact of Fusarium on Banana Production 39:44 Understanding Banana Races and Their Threats 41:43 Geographical Spread of Fusarium Race 4 43:38 Banana Production: Global Insights 45:41 Management Strategies Against Fusarium 49:38 Symptoms and Effects of Fusarium Wilt 53:33 Breeding for Resistance: The Future of Bananas 57:55 Consumer Acceptance and Market Challenges 01:00:29 Exploring Banana Diversity and Flavor Profiles 01:04:38 The Future of Banana Production 01:08:38 Public Awareness and the Importance of Bananas 01:16:25 Outro Zaworski, E. (Host) and Garcia-Bastidas, F. (Interviewee). S5:E6 (Podcast). Dr. Banana vs. Tropical Race 4. 4/15/2026. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Brian Kelley of the Gathering Growth foundation. They discuss Brian's mission to photograph and document some of the nation's oldest and largest trees to raise awareness and preserve their legacy.   Additional Resources https://www.gatheringgrowth.org/ https://www.americanforests.org/champion-trees/ https://nationalchampiontree.org https://soundcloud.com/user-954267106 Time Stamps (00:00) Introduction to Gathering Growth Foundation (01:12) Adventures in Tree Photography (15:02) The Importance of Documenting Trees (25:05) Future Projects and Aspirations (35:03) Engaging the Public with Tree Awareness Zaworski, E. (Host) and Kelley, B. (Interviewee). S5:E5 (Podcast). Documenting the Nations Grandest Trees: The Gathering Growth Foundation Part 2. 3/25/2026. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Brian Kelley of the Gathering Growth foundation. They discuss Brian's mission to photograph and document some of the nation's oldest and largest trees to raise awareness and preserve their legacy.   Additional Resources https://www.gatheringgrowth.org/ https://www.americanforests.org/champion-trees/ https://nationalchampiontree.org https://soundcloud.com/user-954267106 Time Stamps (00:00) Introduction to I See Dead Plants Podcast (01:34) Brian Kelly and the Gathering Growth Foundation (05:32) The Journey from Skateboarding to Tree Photography (12:54) The Importance of Documenting Trees (16:01) Understanding Champion Trees (25:30) The Role of State and Global Tree Registries (27:49) Why Documenting Trees Matters (33:55) Documenting Trees: The Process and Outputs Zaworski, E. (Host) and Kelley, B. (Interviewee). S5:E4 (Podcast). Documenting the Nations Grandest Trees: The Gathering Growth Foundation Part 1. 3/18/2026. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. Sam Markell of North Dakota State University. They discuss the emerging threat of SCN in North Dakota and how the SCN coalition aims to combat this ever-present threat.   Additional Resources https://www.thescncoalition.com/   Time Stamps (00:00) Introduction to the ICDeadPlants Podcast (05:57) Understanding Soybean Cyst Nematode (SCN) (12:08) The Impact of SCN in North Dakota (17:59) The SCN Coalition: A Public-Private Partnership (23:58) Reviving the SCN Coalition and Its Strategies (31:18) Building Partnerships for Agricultural Success (41:06) Advice for Future Public-Private Partnerships (46:09) Recognizing Achievements and Future Directions (51:01) The Impact of the SCN Coalition on Farmers Zaworski, E. (Host) and Markell, S. (Interviewee). S5:E3 (Podcast). Silent Yield Killer: Soybean Cyst Nematode and the SCN Coalition. 3/11/2026. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. Lauren Diepenbrock, Entomologist from University of Florida. They discuss the devastating and complicated insect/plant disease complex, citrus greening.   Additional Resources https://crec.ifas.ufl.edu/research/citrus-production/disease-identification/citrus-greening-huanglongbing/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0261219424002990 Time Stamps (00:00) Understanding Citrus Greening and Its Impact (03:03) The Role of Alternate Hosts and Landscape Changes (06:03) Geographical Spread of Citrus Greening (09:13) Global Challenges in Citrus Production (11:50) Management Strategies for Citrus Greening (15:03) Innovative Approaches to Pest Management (23:11) Managing Citrus Pests and Diseases (27:51) Innovative Approaches in Citrus Research (30:43) International Collaboration in Citrus Management (35:10) Future Research Directions in Citrus Greening (42:38) Understanding Citrus Greening's Complexity Zaworski, E. (Host) and Diepenbrock, L. (Interviewee). S5:E2 (Podcast). When Life Doesn't Give you Lemons: Citrus Greening Part 2. 3/4/2026. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. Lauren Diepenbrock, Entomologist from University of Florida. They discuss the devastating and complicated insect/plant disease complex, citrus greening.   Additional Resources https://crec.ifas.ufl.edu/research/citrus-production/disease-identification/citrus-greening-huanglongbing/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0261219424002990 Time Stamps (00:00) Introduction to Citrus Greening and Guest Background (14:03) Understanding the Citrus Industry and Its Challenges (20:07) Innovative Solutions in Citrus Growing (25:34) Challenges in Citrus Production (31:14) Understanding Citrus Greening (39:42) The Role of Psyllids in Citrus Health   Zaworski, E. (Host) and Diepenbrock, L. (Interviewee). S5:E1 (Podcast). When Life Doesn't Give you Lemons: Citrus Greening Part 1. 2/25/2026. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. Danielle Mikolajewski a postdoctoral candidate in the plant pathology department at the University of Florida. Ed and Danielle discuss some of Danielle's Ph.D. research on chestnut blight and one of the methods being studied in attempt to bring back the American Chestnut; hypovirulence.   Additional Resources https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/13033/ Time Stamps (00:00) Introduction to ICDeadPlants Podcast (10:04) Journey into Plant Pathology (19:52) Understanding Chestnut Blight (30:01) Exploring Hypovirulence and Its Implications (30:30) The Super Donor Concept (34:25) Challenges and Limitations of the Super Donor (38:47) Potential Environmental Impacts of Hypoviruses (42:57) The Importance of American Chestnut (45:47) Future of American Chestnut Research (49:33) Exploring Hypovirulence in Other Pathogens (52:44) Summarizing the Research Impact Zaworski, E. (Host) Mikolajewski, D. (Interviewee). S4:E45 (Podcast). Blights Get Sick Too: Chestnut Blight and Hypovirulence. 12/31/2025. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. Adam Varenhorst of South Dakota State University. They discuss Adam's work with an emerging insect problem in soybeans, Sunflowers and other plants the dectes stem borer.   Additional Resources https://academic.oup.com/jee/article/118/5/2338/8177282 Time Stamps (00:00) Introduction to I See Dead Plants Podcast (01:24) Understanding the Dectes Stem Borer (03:29) Historical Context and Pest Management Challenges (05:27) Larvae Behavior and Infestation Indicators (12:25) Crop Rotation and Trap Cropping Strategies (16:33) Non-Chemical Management Strategies (20:39) Future Research Directions (31:42) Key Takeaways for Growers (37:34) Acknowledgments and Resources Zaworski, E. (Host) Varenhorst, A. (Interviewee). S4:E44 (Podcast). Boring Problems?: Managing the Dectes Stem Borer Part 2. 12/24/2025. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode of Alternate Hosts Ed is Joined once again by Dr. Madeline Henrickson to interview Dr. Danielle Mikolajewski, post-doctoral candidate at University of Florida. In order to get you into the holiday spirit they discuss the disease that whipped out the American Chestnut and left us all wondering what chestnuts roasting on an open fire may have been like. Thanks for listening and Happy Holidays!   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. Adam Varenhorst of South Dakota State University. They discuss Adam's work with an emerging insect problem in soybeans, Sunflowers and other plants the dectes stem borer.   Additional Resources https://academic.oup.com/jee/article/118/5/2338/8177282 Time Stamps (00:00) Introduction to ICDeadPlants Podcast (14:37) Understanding the Dectes Stem Borer (20:18) Agricultural Landscape of South Dakota (24:31) Life Cycle and Impact of Dectes Stem Borer (30:20) Adaptation and Host Preferences of Dectes Stem Borer (38:55) Nationwide Distribution and Future Research Zaworski, E. (Host) Varenhorst, A. (Interviewee). S4:E43 (Podcast). Boring Problems?: Managing the Dectes Stem Borer Part 1. 12/17/2025. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. Mark Hoddle of University of California Riverside. They discuss some of Mark's worldly adventures while trying to track down biological control agents and his work with the South American palm weevil. Additional Resources Entomology's Indiana Jones Biocontrol lab Center for Invasive Species South American Palm Weevil Time Stamps (01:08:56) Flight Capacity and Energy Dynamics (01:10:23) Analyzing Flight Patterns and Dispersal (01:11:51) Implications of Dispersal Patterns (01:13:55) Urban Environments and Invasive Species (01:15:39) Host Preferences and Economic Impact (01:17:30) Management Strategies for Invasive Weevils (01:19:56) Innovative Control Methods in Agriculture (01:22:01) Economic Considerations in Pest Management (01:24:25) Trapping and Monitoring Techniques (01:27:17) Attract and Kill Strategies (01:30:09) Field Trials and Efficacy of Treatments (01:38:26) Proactive Management of Invasive Pests (01:42:01) Proactive Approaches to Invasive Pests (01:51:44) Biological Control Innovations (01:59:42) Future of Invasive Species Management (02:06:52) Public Awareness and Invasive Species (02:12:22) Closing Thoughts and Resources Zaworski, E. (Host) Hoddle, M. (Interviewee). S4:E42 (Podcast). The Bug Crusade: Adventures of the Indiana Jones of Entomology Part 2. 12/3/2025. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. Mark Hoddle of University of California Riverside. They discuss some of Mark's worldly adventures while trying to track down biological control agents and his work with the South American palm weevil. Additional Resources Entomology's Indiana Jones Biocontrol lab Center for Invasive Species South American Palm Weevil Time Stamps (00:00) Introduction to Dr. Mark Hoddle (02:43) Mark's Journey into Entomology (05:50) Transition to Biological Control Agents (08:34) Diverse Insect Pests and Their Management (11:54) Adventures in Field Research (14:40) International Collaborations in Entomology (17:34) The Importance of Networking in Academia (20:33) Upcoming Research and Challenges Skip to the main topic: (23:55) The South American Palm Weevil and Its Impact (35:15) The Charismatic Palm Tree and Its Weevil Invader (36:18) Understanding the South American Palm Weevil (39:06) The Journey of the Weevil to California (42:19) The Invasion of Two Weevil Species (46:55) The Impact of Human Activity on Weevil Spread (49:40) The Complex Life Cycle of Palm Weevils (58:04) Culinary Delights: Eating Weevil Larvae (01:04:44) Flight and Spread of the Palm Weevil (01:06:34) Understanding Insect Flight Mechanics   Zaworski, E. (Host) Hoddle, M. (Interviewee). S4:E41 (Podcast). The Bug Crusade: Adventures of the Indiana Jones of Entomology Part 1. 11/26/2025. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. Chad Hart Ag economist at Iowa State University. They discuss the basics of ag economics, the current state of the ag economy and what the future may hold. Additional Resources https://faculty.sites.iastate.edu/chart/extension-presentations https://www.extension.iastate.edu/agdm/ https://www.card.iastate.edu/ Time Stamps   How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) Hart, C. (Interviewee). S4:E40 (Podcast). Dr. Doom's Crash Course in Ag Economics Part 2. 11/12/2025. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. Chad Hart ag economist at Iowa State University. They discuss the basics of ag economics, the current state of the ag economy and what the future may hold. Additional Resources https://faculty.sites.iastate.edu/chart/extension-presentations https://www.extension.iastate.edu/agdm/ https://www.card.iastate.edu/ Time Stamps (0:00) Introductions Skip to the main topic: (7:08) What is economics? (9:25) what is the ag economy? (15:16) How much of a role do pests and diseases play in the ag economy (29:05) Changes to the ag economy over time How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) Hart, C. (Interviewee). S4:E39 (Podcast). Dr. Doom's Crash Course in Ag Economics Part 1. 11/5/2025. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode of alternate hosts Ed Zaworski, Maddle Henrickson and Chelsea Harbach embrace the spirit of Halloween and discuss the salem witch trials. One possible explaination for the witch hunt is that the people of salem consumed grains infested with a plant disease called ergot. Whatever you believe, join us for a fun conversation shedding light on a historically significant plant disease! Happy Halloween! Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. Deb Samac of the USDA-ARS. They discuss the long-overlooked disease of alfalfa, bacterial stem blight. Additional Resources https://apsjournals.apsnet.org/doi/10.1094/PHYTO-02-23-0059-R?url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori:rid:crossref.org&rfr_dat=cr_pub%20%200pubmed Time Stamps (0:00) Introductions (4:06) Overview of alfalfa production Skip to the main topic: (16:30) Bacterial stem blight (21:33) The role of frost (25:00) Pathogen differentiation (30:15) Pseudomonas and ice nucleation (39:02) Disease management (49:15) wrap-up How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host)  Samac, D.(Interviewee). S4:E38 (Podcast). Blightmare on Stem Street: Alfalfa Bacterial Stem Blight. 10/22/2025. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. Isaac Esquivel of the University of Florida and Dr. Phillip Roberts of the University of Georgia. They discuss a new pest of cotton, the cotton jassid or two-spot leaf hopper, that has very rapidly become a new concern for cotton growers. Additional Resources https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4450/16/9/966 https://site.extension.uga.edu/colquittag/2025/08/cotton-jassid-two-spotted-cotton-leafhopper-in-georgia/ https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/crop-production/alabama-cotton-jassid-update/ Time Stamps (0:00) Introducing Our Guests and Their Entomology Journeys Skip to the main topic: (5:33) Identifying the New Cotton Pest and Its Damage (12:52) How the Cotton Jassid Rapidly Invaded the Southeast (25:13) Managing the Jassid Across Multiple Crop Hosts (33:13) Exploring Long-Term Solutions and Environmental Influences (40:20) Essential Advice for Cotton Growers Facing the Jassid (53:37) Highlighting Agricultural Importance and Team Contributions How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) Esquivel, I. and Roberts, P. (Interviewees). S4:E37 (Podcast). A New Threat to Cotton: The Cotton Jassid. 10/8/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. Adam Ingrao. They discuss Adam's Heroes to hives program and his philosophy on implementing integrated pest management. Additional Resources https://miffs.org/heroes-to-hives/ https://miffs.org/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QvEc6_Hook https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mY80cEx15H0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_1GuCEK1Hpk Time Stamps (0:45) Introductions   (2:23) How did Adam get his start in Entomology (4:50) Heroes to Hives program (9:54) How do bees help veterans (14:10) Do bees benefit from more beekeepers Skip to the main topic: (16:43) Integrated pest management discussion begins (19:11) The IPM triangle (23:57) Scouting and IPM (30:50) The 5 Ws of IPM (35:11) Making an IPM plan (41:44) Insect damage thresholds (47:29) Wrap-up How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) Ingrao, A. (Interviewee). S4:E36 (Podcast). The IPM Triangle: Making a Plan to Use Integrated Pest Management. 10/1/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews the sustainable pest management lab from the university of Hawaii at Manoa, led by Dr. Koon-Hui Wang. Along with graduate students Roshan Paudel, Lauren Braley and Ben Wiseman they discuss various projects the lab is working on across several different crops. Additional Resources   How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) Wang, KH, Paudel, R., Braley L. and Wiseman, B.(Interviewees). S4:E35 (Podcast). Island IPM: CTAHR Sustainable Pest Management Part 2. 9/24/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.

In this episode Ed interviews the sustainable pest management lab from the university of Hawaii at Manoa, led by Dr. Koon-Hui Wang. Along with graduate students Roshan Paudel, Lauren Braley and Ben Wiseman they discuss various projects the lab is working on across several different crops. Additional Resources   How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) Wang, KH, Paudel, R., Braley L. and Wiseman, B.(Interviewees). S4:E34 (Podcast). Island IPM: CTAHR Sustainable Pest Management Part 1. 9/17/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.

In this episode Ed is joined by co-host Dr. Travis Faske of University of Arkansas to interview Dr. Tom Allen of Mississippi State University. They discuss curvularia leaf spot of corn, which has recently been showing up in some midwestern states. Additional Resources https://cropprotectionnetwork.org/encyclopedia/curvularia-leaf-spot-of-corn https://plantpathology.ca.uky.edu/files/ppfs-ag-c-09.pdf     How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. and Faske, T. (Hosts) Allen, T. (Interviewee). S4:E32 (Podcast). Wicked Corn Curveball: Insights on Curvularia Leafspot. 9/10/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed talks with Dr. Steve Hanson of New Mexico State University. They discuss chile (not chili ) pepper diseases.   Additional Resources https://apsjournals.apsnet.org/doi/epdf/10.1094/PHP-12-20-0112-BR https://cpi.nmsu.edu/   How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) Hanson, S. (Interviewee). S4:E32 (Podcast). Cursed Chiles: An Overview of Chile Pepper Diseases Part 2. 9/3/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed talks with Dr. Steve Hanson of New Mexico State University. They discuss chile (not chili ) pepper diseases.   Additional Resources https://apsjournals.apsnet.org/doi/epdf/10.1094/PHP-12-20-0112-BR https://cpi.nmsu.edu/   How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) Hanson, S. (Interviewee). S4:E31 (Podcast). Cursed Chiles: An Overview of Chile Pepper Diseases Part 1. 8/27/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network.   Transcript

In this episode Ed talks with Dr. Lina Quesada-Ocampo of North Carolina State University. They discuss Lina's work with the pathogen Phytophthora capsici and the damage it can do on various vegetable crops.   Additional Resources https://www.annualreviews.org/content/journals/10.1146/annurev-phyto-021622-103801 https://apsjournals.apsnet.org/doi/epdf/10.1094/PDIS-02-12-0211-FE https://veggiepathology.wordpress.ncsu.edu/   How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) Quesada-Ocampo, L.M.(Interviewee). S4:E30 (Podcast). Drowned in Dread: Phytophthora capsici. 8/20/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e30-drowned-in-dread-phytophthora-capsici   Transcript

In this episode Ed Interviews Dr. Carrie Harmon of the University of Florida plant diagnostic center. They discuss plant diagnostics, how they have evolved over time and how the National Plant Diagnostic Network (NPDN) unites diagnosticians across the country. Additional Resources https://npdn.org/ https://apsjournals.apsnet.org/doi/full/10.1094/PHYTOFR-11-24-0123-FI https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34432509/ https://apsjournals.apsnet.org/doi/epdf/10.1094/PHP-08-20-0074-MR How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) Harmon, C. (Interviewee). S4:E29 (Podcast). Symp-tomb Check: Evolving Plant Disease Diagnostics. 8/13/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e29-symp-tomb-check-evolving-plant-disease-diagnostics Transcript

In the episode Ed interviews Dr. Carl Bradley of the University of Kentucky. They discuss red crown rot of soybeans. Additional Resources https://apsjournals.apsnet.org/doi/10.1094/PHP-04-22-0041-DG https://plantpathology.ca.uky.edu/files/ppfs-ag-s-25.pdf https://bsppjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/ppa.13790 https://cropprotectionnetwork.org/maps/red-crown-rot-map How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host)and Bradley, C. (Interviewee). S4:E28 (Podcast). A Scarlet Plague: Red Crown Rot of Soybean. 7/30/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e28-a-scarlet-plague-red-crown-rot-of-soybean   Transcript

This week Ed interviews Zach Schumm, entomologist with the Iowa State University Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic. They discuss Zach's role in diagnostics and stinkbugs. Additional Resources https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/pidc https://npdn.org/   How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) Schumm, Z. (Interviewees). S4:E27 (Podcast). Smells Like Trouble: A Stinkbug Overview Part 2. 7/16/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e27-smells-like-trouble-a-stinkbug-overview-part-2     Transcipt

This week Ed interviews Zach Schumm, entomologist with the Iowa State University Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic. They discuss Zach's role in diagnostics and stinkbugs. Additional Resources https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/pidc https://npdn.org/   How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) Schumm, Z. (Interviewees). S4:E26 (Podcast). Smells Like Trouble: A Stinkbug Overview Part 1. 7/9/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e26-smells-like-trouble-a-stinkbug-overview-part-1 Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews a podcast alumni, Dr. Vinson Doyle of Louisiana State University. They discuss the evolution of cercospora taxonomy and how it may relate to soybean diseases. Additional Resources https://bsppjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/ppa.13261 https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10658-020-01969-z https://apsjournals.apsnet.org/doi/epdf/10.1094/PHYTO-12-15-0332-R https://apsjournals.apsnet.org/doi/epdf/10.1094/PDIS-02-25-0407-RE   How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) and Doyle, V. (Interviewee). S4:E25 (Podcast). Taxonomic Tumult: Cercospora Species and Soybean Diseases Part 2. 7/2/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e25-taxonomic-tumult-cerospora-species-and-soybean-diseases-part-2   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews a podcast alumni, Dr. Vinson Doyle of Louisiana State University. They discuss the evolution of cercospora taxonomy and how it may relate to soybean diseases. Additional Resources https://bsppjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/ppa.13261 https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10658-020-01969-z https://apsjournals.apsnet.org/doi/epdf/10.1094/PHYTO-12-15-0332-R https://apsjournals.apsnet.org/doi/epdf/10.1094/PDIS-02-25-0407-RE   How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) and Doyle, V. (Interviewee). S4:E24 (Podcast). Taxonomic Tumult: Cercospora Species and Soybean Diseases Part 1. 6/25/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e24-taxonomic-tumult-cerospora-species-and-soybean-diseases   Transcript

In this episode Ed discusses the Soybean tentiform leafminer, an emergent insect pest of soybean, with Dr. Bob Koch of the University of Minnesota. Additional Resources Initial detections in soybean:  https://doi.org/10.1093/jipm/pmab038 Laboratory rearing methods:  https://scholar.valpo.edu/tgle/vol57/iss1/9/ Genome and genetic variability among populations: https://doi.org/10.1093/g3journal/jkaf021 Development and longevity:  https://doi.org/10.1093/ee/nvae059 Distinguishing stages and sexes:  https://doi.org/10.1093/aesa/saae040 Insecticide efficacy:  https://doi.org/10.1093/jee/toae249 Host range and host plant resistance:  https://doi.org/10.1093/jee/toaf098 Extension articles: https://extension.umn.edu/soybean-pest-management/soybean-tentiform-leafminer-minnesota-soybean https://blog-crop-news.extension.umn.edu/2024/01/the-soybean-tentiform-leafminer-has.html https://blog-crop-news.extension.umn.edu/2022/09/updates-on-new-leaf-mining-pest-of.html How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) and Koch, R. (Interviewee). S4:E23 (Podcast). Tunnels of Terror: Soybean Tentiform Leafminer. 6/18/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e23-tunnels-of-terror-soybean-tentiform-leafminer   Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Devin Radosevich, Ph.D. Student at Iowa State University. They discuss Devin's work, in the Gassmann lab, with short stature corn and insect pests. Additional Resources How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) Radosevich, D. (Interviewees). S4:E22 (Podcast). Crawlers of Compact Corn: Insect Pests and Short Stature Corn. 6/4/2025. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e22-crawlers-of-compact-corn-insect-pests-and-short-stature-corn   Transcript

In this Episode Ed Talks with Dr. Matt Back and Dr. Kasia Dybal of Harper Adams University. We discussed the complicated system of potato cyst nematode in the United Kingdom. Additional Resources https://www.pcnhub.ac.uk/ https://horticulture.ahdb.org.uk/knowledge-library/pcn-grower-guide https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/pest-management/idahopcn https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/full/10.5555/20220386636 https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/full/10.5555/20220386629 https://bsppjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/ppa.13002 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0929139315300135?ref=pdf_download&fr=RR-2&rr=91f05c443bd3ad00 How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) Back, M. and Dybal, K. (Interviewees). S4:E21 (Podcast). Tubers of Terror: Unearthing the Potato Cyst Nematode Part 3. 5/21/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e21-tubers-of-terror-unearthing-the-potato-cyst-nematode-part-3 Transcript

In this Episode Ed Talks with Dr. Matt Back and Dr. Kasia Dybal of Harper Adams University. We discussed the complicated system of potato cyst nematode in the United Kingdom. Additional Resources https://www.pcnhub.ac.uk/ https://horticulture.ahdb.org.uk/knowledge-library/pcn-grower-guide https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/pest-management/idahopcn https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/full/10.5555/20220386636 https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/full/10.5555/20220386629 https://bsppjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/ppa.13002 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0929139315300135?ref=pdf_download&fr=RR-2&rr=91f05c443bd3ad00 How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) Back, M. and Dybal, K. (Interviewees). S4:E20 (Podcast). Tubers of Terror: Unearthing the Potato Cyst Nematode Part 2. 5/14/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e20-tubers-of-terror-unearthing-the-potato-cyst-nematode-part-2 Transcript

In this Episode Ed Talks with Dr. Matt Back and Dr. Kasia Dybal of Harper Adams University. We discussed the complicated system of potato cyst nematode in the United Kingdom. Additional Resources https://www.pcnhub.ac.uk/ https://horticulture.ahdb.org.uk/knowledge-library/pcn-grower-guide https://www.uidaho.edu/cals/potatoes/pest-management/idahopcn https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/full/10.5555/20220386636 https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/full/10.5555/20220386629 https://bsppjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/ppa.13002 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0929139315300135?ref=pdf_download&fr=RR-2&rr=91f05c443bd3ad00 How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) Back, M. and Dybal, K. (Interviewees). S4:E19 (Podcast). Tubers of Terror: Unearthing the Potato Cyst Nematode Part 1. 5/7/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e19-tubers-of-terror-unearthing-the-potato-cyst-nematode-part-1 Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews "Dr. Fear" herself, Dr. Carrie Fearer of Virginia Tech University. They discuss Beech leaf disease and what is known so far about this disease.   Additional Resources https://www.clevelandmetroparks.com/about/conservation/publications https://www.fs.usda.gov/inside-fs/delivering-mission/sustain/beech-leaf-disease-emerging-forest-threat-eastern-us https://extension.psu.edu/guide-to-beech-leaf-disease-for-the-public https://research.fs.usda.gov/treesearch/64592 https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/efp.12488 https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/efp.12725 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37797062/ How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) and Fearer, C. (Interviewee). S4:E18 (Podcast). Beech Leaf Destroyer: A Beech Leaf Disease Overview. 4/30/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e18-beech-leaf-destroyer-a-beech-leaf-disease-overview Transcript

In this episode Ed talks with Dr. Chris DiFonzo of Michigan State University. They discuss some of the work Chris has done throughout her career including soybean aphid, west bean cutworm and the handy Bt trait table. Additional Resources https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17849878/ https://academic.oup.com/jipm/article/10/1/27/5558144 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17349112/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26470169/ https://www.researchgate.net/publication/373379481_Western_bean_cutworm_Lepidoptera_Noctuidae_feeding_and_development_on_industrial_hemp_in_the_laboratory_and_field https://www.haifa-group.com/sites/default/files/2024-03/BC22010-Page11-13.pdf How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) and DiFonzo, C. (Interviewee). S4:E17 (Podcast). Six -Legged Siege: Row Crop Insects and Management with Bt Part 2. 4/23/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e17-six-legged-siege-row-crop-insects-and-management-with-bt-part-2   Transcript

In this episode Ed talks with Dr. Chris DiFonzo of Michigan State University. They discuss some of the work Chris has done throughout her career including soybean aphid, west bean cutworm and the handy Bt trait table. Additional Resources https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17849878/ https://academic.oup.com/jipm/article/10/1/27/5558144 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17349112/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26470169/ https://www.researchgate.net/publication/373379481_Western_bean_cutworm_Lepidoptera_Noctuidae_feeding_and_development_on_industrial_hemp_in_the_laboratory_and_field https://www.haifa-group.com/sites/default/files/2024-03/BC22010-Page11-13.pdf How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) and DiFonzo, C. (Interviewee). S4:E16 (Podcast). Six -Legged Siege: Row Crop Insects and Management with Bt Part 1. 4/16/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e16-six-legged-siege-row-crop-insects-and-management-with-bt-part-1 Transcript

In this episode Ed talks with Dr. Sean Toporek of South Dakota State University. The discuss Sean's experience as a new faculty member starting a program from scratch. Additional Resources How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) and Toporek, S. (Interviewee). S4:E15 (Podcast). Petrifying Pathogens and Faculty Frights: Unraveling the Unknown in Academia Part 2. 4/9/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e15-petrifying-pathogens-and-faculty-frights-unraveling-the-unknown-in-academia-part-2 Transcript

In this episode Ed talks with Dr. Sean Toporek of South Dakota State University. The discuss Sean's experience as a new faculty member starting a program from scratch. Additional Resources How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) and Toporek, S. (Interviewee). S4:E14 (Podcast). Petrifying Pathogens and Faculty Frights: Unraveling the Unknown in Academia Part 1. 4/2/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e14-petrifying-pathogens-and-faculty-frights-unraveling-the-unknown-in-academia-part-1 Transcript

In this episode Ed Talks with Dr. Damon Smith of the University of Wisconsin. They discuss Damon's work in disease forecasting and predictive modeling. Additional Resources https://badgercropdoc.com/ https://ipcm.wisc.edu/apps/ How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) and Smith, D. (Interviewee). S4:E13 (Podcast). Prophecy of Plague: Plant Diseases and Predictive Modeling Part 2. 3/26/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e13-prophecy-of-plague-plant-diseases-and-predictive-modeling-part-2 Transcripts

In this episode Ed Talks with Dr. Damon Smith of the University of Wisconsin. They discuss Damon's work in disease forecasting and predictive modeling. Additional Resources https://badgercropdoc.com/ https://ipcm.wisc.edu/apps/ How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) and Smith, D. (Interviewee). S4:E12 (Podcast). Prophecy of Plague: Plant Diseases and Predictive Modeling Part 1. 3/19/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e12-prophecy-of-plague-plant-diseases-and-predictive-modeling-part-1 Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. Dave Coyle from Clemson University in South Carolina. They discuss the ongoing problem of southern pine beetle destruction of pine plantations. Additional Resources https://spb.clemson.edu/ https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fsbdev2_042840.pdf https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378112724001828 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378112715002017?via%3Dihub https://academic.oup.com/jof/article/113/5/454/4599701 https://www.ncforestservice.gov/forest_health/fh_spbpp.htm   How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) and (Interviewee). S4:E11 (Podcast). Southern Pine Specters: An Overview of the Southern Pine Beetle Part 2. 3/12/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e11-southern-pine-specters-an-overview-of-the-southern-pine-beetle-part-2 Transcript

In this episode Ed interviews Dr. Dave Coyle from Clemson University in South Carolina. They discuss the ongoing problem of southern pine beetle destruction of pine plantations. Additional Resources https://spb.clemson.edu/ https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fsbdev2_042840.pdf https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378112724001828 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378112715002017?via%3Dihub https://academic.oup.com/jof/article/113/5/454/4599701 https://www.ncforestservice.gov/forest_health/fh_spbpp.htm   How to cite the podcast: Zaworski, E. (Host) and (Interviewee). S4:E10 (Podcast). Southern Pine Specters: An Overview of the Southern Pine Beetle Part 1. 3/5/25. In I See Dead Plants. Crop Protection Network. https://sites.libsyn.com/416264/s4e10-southern-pine-specters-an-overview-of-the-southern-pine-beetle-part-1 Transcript