Category: Plant Pests & Diseases

Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that affects a wide variety of plants, including vegetables, fruits, flowers, and trees. It is caused by various species of fungi in the order Erysiphales. Powdery mildew is easy to identify by the white to gray powdery spots it causes on the leaves, stems and fruits of affected…

Septoria leaf spot is a very common disease of tomato plants, caused by the fungus Septoria lycopersici. It appears as small, circular spots on older tomato leaves, usually starting on the lower leaves and moving up the plant. The spots have gray centers with dark edges, and tiny black dots may be visible in the…

Growing grass in flower beds can be frustrating. Over time, grass can invade flower beds, robbing precious nutrients and moisture from flowers. Eliminating grass from flower beds takes some work, but a few techniques can help restore flower beds to their former grass-free glory. Why Grass Grows in Flower Beds There are a few reasons…

Bringing plants indoors can help purify the air, add beauty, and connect us with nature. But sometimes, those lovely green leaves start turning yellow. Yellowing leaves on houseplants are usually a sign that something is not quite right with your plant’s care. Understanding the cause can help you get your indoor plants back to their…

Leaning trees can be unsafe and unsightly, but often they can be saved with proper care and technique. Straightening and staking a leaning tree correctly is crucial for the tree’s long-term health and stability. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to properly straighten and stake a leaning tree. Assessing the Leaning Tree Before taking…

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed by sucking sap from plants. They can quickly become a nuisance on indoor plants, causing distorted growth, yellowing, and even death. Controlling aphids on houseplants takes some persistence and diligence, but is possible with a multi-pronged approach. Inspect Plants Frequently The first line of defense is vigilant monitoring…

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables to grow in home gardens. However, tomato plants are susceptible to various diseases that can severely impact your harvest. Knowing how to identify and treat common tomato diseases is crucial for any gardener who wants to enjoy a bountiful crop of juicy, flavorful tomatoes. This comprehensive guide…

Lettuce bolting, also known as premature seed stalk formation, is a common issue that can ruin a seemingly thriving lettuce crop. As lettuce plants transition from vegetative growth to reproductive growth, the leaves become bitter, tough, and unusable. Fortunately, there are several methods gardeners can use to prevent or delay lettuce from bolting. What Causes…

Leaf galls are abnormal plant growths caused by various parasites like insects, mites, fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes. These galls appear as swellings on leaves and stems of plants and can range from barely noticeable bumps to large growths that severely distort the plant’s foliage. While mostly harmless, severe infestations of leaf galls can weaken…

Tomatoes are one of the most popular crops grown in home vegetable gardens. However, they are susceptible to several diseases that can significantly reduce yields and fruit quality if left uncontrolled. Knowing how to identify and treat the most common tomato diseases is critical for any gardener wishing to successfully grow this crop. This article…