A new "Topics in Subtropics" has been posted.  This newsletter is produced seasonally by a group of UC Agriculture and Natural Resources subtropical tree crop farm advisors, including UC Ventura County Cooperative Extension's Dr. Ben Faber.  These advisors contribute articles related to subtropical horticulture, citrus, avocado and other related areas.

The latest issue has recently been posted on our website and features articles on:

Cultural Practices to Reduce Pest and Disease in Avocado and Citrus.  This article by UC Ventura County Cooperative Extension advisor Dr. Ben Faber provides guidelines for practices from selection to maintenance that can mitigate disease and pests in trees.

Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer in California.  UC Cooperative Extension cross-county advisor Dr. Sabrina Drill discusses this pest and it's effects on Southern Californian trees. 

Electronic "sniffer" for Detecting HLB.   Dr. Faber also reports on a new device that can detect Huanglongbing (HBL) disease in trees.  Learn more about how it works and the advantage it could provide in preventing HLB spread through early detection.

Important Information Sources Related to Fire Management and Protection.  The fire season is still on us and this list of online and publshed resources provides useful information for property owners.

Bee Kill in Oregon - A reminder of pesticide use.  The State of Oregon has issued a moratorium on an aphid control pesticide after its use killed a large amount of bumble bees.  Read more about following the proper guidelines on pesticide use here.

Read the full articles from this newsletter or check out other issues of Topics in Subtropics here.