Some Purdue agronomy professors say lawn care professionals should stay away from a common herbicide.
The team of Purdue specialists announced late last week that the herbicide Imprelis should be avoided until more research is done into whether it harms trees. Imprelis, which is made by DuPont, is suspected of injuring evergreens as well as other trees and ornamental plants. The Purdue-based Indiana State Chemist has received 150 complaints since early June.
Local arborist David Duncan says you only have to worry about it if you pay the pros.
"This is something that at this point has most likely only happened if you have a professional lawn care service," said Duncan. "These chemicals are restricted use and so you've not likely got a hold of them yourself."
Symptoms include brown needles and twisted shoots, especially near treetops.
The EPA approved Imprelis late last year, in part because of its relatively low toxicity to people and animals.
