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How can I keep my garden safe from pests during the summer months?
Dennis N.
Andrea Peck Master Gardener
These may be the dog days of summer, but creepy crawlies have their multiple eyes on
your garden delectables. Outfitted in a myriad of shapes, sizes and colors, pests remain
ambitious despite the heat and should not be underestimated; they are capable of mass
destruction in short order.
Before you get out your pesticide or shotgun, however, you must determine the type of
insect you are dealing with. Plant inspection is possibly the best defense a gardener has
when it comes to intercepting major pest problems. Examine the top and underside of
leaves, the surrounding soil and all other parts that have damage. Many problems can
be averted by simply hand-picking pests. Observe your garden beyond plant level. Flying
creatures, such as moths and butterflies have a life cycle. Those fluttery beasts, though
attractive, will be laying eggs and subsequently hatching into hungry caterpillars.
Aphids, whiteflies, scales, cicadas, mealybugs are sucking insects that latch onto the
leafy portion of ornamentals, fruit and nut crops and almost anything in between.
Distorted, curled or yellowed leaves are suspicious signs. Most of these insect culprits
exude a sticky, honeydew-type substance which attracts ants. To make matters worse,
they may carry plant viruses. Aphids multiply rapidly, but are easily destroyed by a sharp
blast of water. Insecticidal soap or horticultural oil sprayed on the underside of plant
leaves, has some effect on whiteflies.
The indecisive earwig can be destructive or beneficial depending on the circumstances.
When inspecting your plants, keep both possibilities in mind.
When controlling pests, it is best to start with the least invasive method of eradication.
Hand-picking is an option when populations are low. Soft-bodied insects typically don’t
survive a shot of water. Remember, pests don’t take a summer break. Provide your
plants with nutrient rich soil and adequate irrigation so that they are healthy enough to
sustain a mild pest ambushing. Remember to always read the label on any pesticide
product and follow the instructions. For more information on pest control methods visit
http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu.