One of the most annoying insects on the planet is the fungus gnat. These tiny flying insects are usually associated with indoor houseplants. But for those of us who grow vegetables or who start seeds indoors, they can be just as bothersome. Not only are they a nuisance, but the larvae…
If your plants have small, round, or sometimes irregularly shaped holes in their leaves, it could be a sign that flea beetles are making their home in your garden. The term flea beetle refers not to an individual species but to a group of beetles characterized by their petite size and…
You have probably heard of the groundhog from Pennsylvania named Punxsutawney Phil who is said to be able to predict winter's duration depending on whether or not he sees his shadow. But have you heard of the Woolly Bear caterpillar who can also make predictions about winter's severity? Much like…
Cabbage and related brassicas are the preferred plants for a variety of caterpillars or worms as they are sometimes erroneously referred to. Cabbage loopers, the checkered cabbage white butterfly, and the imported cabbage white butterfly ( both the small white and the large white) are common pests found in gardens.…
If you haven't seen a cabbage looper in person, just wait. It is a common pest and one of the easiest to identify in the home garden. The light green caterpillar (larva), found throughout North America and Mexico, has white stripes down its back and measures approximately 1 to 2…
Mealybugs are common pests that plague both indoor plants and outdoor gardens. Nymphs and adult mealybugs equally pose a threat because they suck the sap out of plants via their needle-like stylets, causing leaves to turn yellow and drop off. Flower buds and fruit are also at risk. What's more,…
Many people associate mealybugs with indoor plants. However, these small pests, which are related to scales and whiteflies, can also be found living outdoors in colonies on ornamental and vegetable plants where they can do significant damage by feeding on the sap. Their honeydew secretions add additional woes because it…
Okra is one of my favorite vegetables to grow. It's a fascinating plant that is heat tolerant, which is perfect for our warmer climate, and it has beautiful hibiscus-like flowers. Plus, its green finger-shaped pods can be prepared a number of ways, including grilled, roasted, fried, and stewed. Who doesn't…
As they say, looks can be deceiving. Such is the case for the cucumber beetle. This small, seemingly innocuous insect can cause tremendous damage to your garden. I'll show you how to identify the adult and larval stages, as well as how to control, and possibly even prevent, these pesky…
Leaf-footed bugs are members of the Coreidae family of insects, which are primarily sap-suckers. These strange pests are so named because of the leaf-shaped flair located on each hind leg. They are approximately 1/2" to 3/4" in length, not including their long antennae. The adults range in color from gray,…