App-arently There’s an App for That

No one knows the name of every plant or pest or tree in a client’s yard. But, with a smartphone and some of these apps, you have a world of information to search at your fingertips. Some apps don’t even require searching — just snap a photo. Here are 15 identification apps you and your crews should download.

1. Landscaper’s Companion – Plant & Gardening Reference Guide
With a reference guide to all plants including trees, shrubs, annuals and perennials, using this app gives you plant names and descriptions even without internet connection. Some versions allow users to add their own photos and keep notes on plants. There are versions for smartphones and the iPad.

2. Purdue Tree Doctor
Produced by Purdue University, you can use the collection of photos to diagnose what’s wrong and get options and recommendations for management for more than 175 tree problems.

3. Turfgrass Management – Lite
From professors at the University of Georgia, the app combines information from books on turfgrass science with photos for identifying turfgrass, weeds, diseases and insects.

4. Turf MD
Solely made to identify and manage turfgrass diseases, this app was created by the American Phytopathological Society. Peer-reviewed images and turf extension resources help identify and treat the disease in question.

5. Armitage’s Greatest Perennials and Annuals
Includes a large database of plants that can filter out for annuals, perennials or sun versus shade. Photos and plant information can be shared or added to a “Favorites” list. Helpful videos and other resources are also included.

App-reciate the full list here.