Category: Plant Pests & Diseases

Plants require adequate amounts of nutrients to thrive. An imbalance or deficiency in any of the essential plant nutrients can cause poor growth, low yields, and plant health issues. Identifying and correcting nutritional deficiencies is crucial for the health and productivity of plants. Recognizing Nutrient Deficiency Symptoms The first step in addressing plant nutrient deficiencies…

Beetles are common household pests that can quickly become a nuisance if left unchecked. While some beetle species are harmless, others can damage your home, possessions, and even food. Knowing how to identify, prevent, and safely remove beetle infestations is crucial for keeping your home pest-free. Identifying Beetles and Signs of Infestation The first step…

Cutworms can be a nuisance in the garden, destroying young vegetable and flower seedlings overnight. These crawling caterpillars chew through stems at or below the soil line, killing plants. One eco-friendly solution for controlling cutworms is creating barriers with toilet paper rolls. This straightforward technique prevents cutworms from reaching vulnerable seedlings. What Are Cutworms? Cutworms…

Wood ash can be a great addition to garden soil in many cases. When used correctly, wood ash provides nutrients that benefit plants and helps improve the soil structure. However, there are also some potential downsides to using wood ash that need to be considered. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of…

Invasive plant species are plants that are non-native to a region and cause harm to the environment, economy, or human health. These plants spread aggressively and displace native species, often causing drastic changes to ecosystems. Learning to identify invasive plants is an important skill for land managers, conservationists, and nature enthusiasts. Photographs are useful tools…

Ground covers are low-growing plants that spread quickly to form a dense mat, smothering weeds and preventing soil erosion. They provide an attractive, low-maintenance alternative to lawns. However, some aggressive ground covers can become invasive pests that outcompete native plants. When choosing ground covers, it’s important to avoid plants that could harm ecosystems. Here are…

Armyworms are voracious caterpillars that can quickly decimate lawns, pastures, and crops if left uncontrolled. Getting rid of armyworms in your yard takes proactive monitoring and control methods. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about armyworm identification, life cycle, damage, and control for yards and gardens. What Are Armyworms? Armyworms are the…

Cicadas are set to emerge in large numbers across parts of the eastern United States in 2023 after spending nearly two decades underground. For homeowners and gardeners, this influx of large, noisy insects can present challenges in protecting landscapes, plants, and outdoor living spaces. With some preparation and diligence, it is possible to minimize the…

Artillery fungus is a common nuisance mold found outdoors that can leave tiny black spots on houses, cars, patio furniture, and other surfaces. Learning how to identify artillery fungus and prevent its spread can help homeowners minimize the annoying black specks caused by this mold. What Is Artillery Fungus? Artillery fungus, also known as shotgun…

Whether they are buzzing around your backyard or trying to build a nest in your eaves, dealing with wasps can be frustrating and even frightening. However, there are several natural methods you can try to deter wasps and keep them from becoming a nuisance around your home. With some simple strategies and DIY solutions, you…