Category: Plant Pests & Diseases

Apple trees are susceptible to several diseases that can reduce fruit yields and tree vigor. As an apple grower, it’s important to be familiar with the most common apple diseases so you can identify symptoms early and take preventative and control measures. In this article, we’ll discuss four of the most prevalent apple tree diseases…

Soil solarization is an eco-friendly weeding technique that uses the sun’s heat to eradicate weeds from your garden beds or lawn. It involves covering moist soil with plastic sheeting during the hot summer months to increase soil temperatures to levels that kill weed seeds and roots. When done correctly, soil solarization can eliminate up to…

The spotted lanternfly is an invasive insect that has become a serious pest in parts of the eastern United States. This striking-looking planthopper native to Asia was first detected in Pennsylvania in 2014 and has since spread to nearby states. Spotted lanternflies can cause major damage to grapes, fruit trees, hops, and hardwood trees. Controlling…

Chiggers, also known as red bugs or harvest mites, are tiny mites that can cause itchy rashes and skin irritation. Getting rid of chiggers on your skin, in your home, or around your property is important to prevent discomfort and continued bites. Here are the most effective methods for removing chiggers from your skin, home,…

Japanese beetles are invasive insects that can cause major damage to lawns, gardens, and landscapes. These metallic green and copper beetles with white tufts along their sides are originally from Japan but have become established in many parts of the United States. Japanese beetles feed on over 300 different plant species, devouring leaves, flowers, and…

Aphids are tiny sap-sucking insects that can quickly infest and damage plants in your garden. Making homemade sprays is an effective and natural way to get rid of aphids without using harsh chemicals. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to make homemade sprays to combat aphids in your garden or outdoor plants. Why Make…

Slugs can be a major nuisance in gardens, destroying flowers, vegetables, and other plants. Getting rid of garden slugs takes some work, but there are many effective organic, chemical-free methods available. With consistent prevention and control, you can have a slug-free garden. Why Slugs are Problematic in Gardens Slugs are mollusks that feed on decaying…

Earwigs are a common garden pest that can damage plants and be a nuisance. Getting rid of earwigs in your garden takes some work, but it can be done using both chemical and non-chemical methods. With persistence and by taking preventative measures, you can help keep earwig populations low and protect your garden plants. What…

Spider mites are tiny pests that can do major damage to indoor and outdoor plants. These barely visible insects spin fine webs on the undersides of leaves, suck nutrients from plant cells, and cause leaves to turn yellow, brown, or gray and die. An infestation can quickly get out of control, decimating a plant in…

Inspect Plants Frequently Check plants, including under leaves and along stems, at least once a week for early detection of mealybugs. Adult female mealybugs attach themselves to plants and produce egg sacs. Removing adults, egg sacs, and colonies of mealybug nymphs early can help prevent major infestations. Signs of an infestation include white waxy deposits,…