Whiteflies are white or cream-colored, triangular-shaped insects that resemble miniature moths. They measure a mere 1/12 of an inch long (2 mm). While there are hundreds of species, there are only a handful that cause problems for home gardeners. When the weather turns warm, these soft-bodied insects congregate in groups, usually…
It can be frustrating to patiently wait for cucumbers to mature on the vine only to discover that the beautiful produce you longed for is deformed. When something like this happens, the first question we tend to ask is, what went wrong? The second question is, what can I do…
Cercospora leaf spot is a common fungal disease that affects a wide assortment of weeds, shrubs and plants, including flower and vegetable plants. In addition to leaves, the fungus can also affect other parts of the plant like stems, fruit, and seeds. Some of the crops that are more susceptible…
Leafhoppers are wedge-shaped insects, whose wings cover their bodies much like a roof is pitched over a house. They measure between 1/8 to 1/4 inch long (0.3 to 0.6 cm) and vary in color from green, to brown, to tan. Some sport a blend of colors including blue, gold, and…
Chamomile is a member of the Aster (Asteraceae) family as are daisies, calendula, zinnias, dahlias, cosmos, marigolds, artichokes, and lettuce. The two main types of chamomile are Roman chamomile, which is also referred to as English and Russian chamomile, and German chamomile, which is also called Hungarian, Italian, and blue…
Most people are familiar with edema, the term used for the swelling that occurs when body tissue retains too much fluid. But few are aware that edema can also occur in plants.What is Plant Edema?Plant edema, or oedema as it is also spelled, is a condition that occurs when a…
Green lacewings are beneficial insects that help control problematic pests in the garden and greenhouse. They measure approximately 1/2 to 3/4 inches in length (1 to 1.9 cm) and have long, translucent, lace-like wings (hence the name) that extend well beyond their bodies. Their long antennae and gold or copper-colored…
Cutworms are not worms, but rather caterpillars, that is, the larval stage of a various moths that are typically brown or gray. Cutworms are so named because they feed on the stems of seedlings and young plants, cutting them off at or just below the soil level. They can also…
Nasturtiums are annuals that have round, partially scalloped leaves that resemble water lily pads. The vibrant blooms, which are funnel-shaped and have a short spur on the underside, come in a variety of colors including golden yellow, orange, red, and crimson.Native to Central and South America, there are more than…
Many plant enthusiasts and gardeners throw their hands up in frustration when dealing with fungus gnats. While there are several organic treatment options available, some are disappointed because the methods don't seem to work. If that describes you, don't despair. Instead, learn how to implement these five secret strategies so…