Identifying Bug Damage

Sometimes the cause of a garden problem is easy to identify. Fan‑shaped mounds of soil littering a lawn are obviously the work of a pocket gopher; slime trials leading to plants with large, ragged holes in the leaves can only mean slugs or snails.

A bigger challenge is deducing the source of trouble when many explanations are possible. Leaf yellowing and wilting, for example, may be due to insects, nematodes, diseases, or improper watering.

​If you can’t find clear evidence of a pest, the best course is to assume that growing conditions are at fault, then to focus on improving them. If you're convinced a pest or disease is the villain, check the rogues’ gallery for a likely candidate— but be sure all the evidence fits before placing blame.

For help in solving problems you can’t identify on your own, consult your Cooperative Extension office or a reputable local nursery.

Types of Bugs

aphids

thrips

spidermites

leafminer

whitefly

grasshopper

grubs

mealybug

Insect Damage Charts

More

Even More

Watch Nick on KCAL
Natural and Organic Insect Control

Protecting Your Home Against Insects

Nick gives his helpful hints for warding off insects in and around the home. As always Nick takes the natural approach and even teaches you how to make your own insecticidal soap.

Posted by Nick Federoff on Tuesday, April 3, 2012

​More Information on Controlling Insects at Bonide.com