Category Archives: Insects

Bugs and creepy crawlies

Summer Issues – Weather and Pests

Posted on June 2, 2014 by AskthePlantMaster

Have you been fortunate enough to get some much needed rain this week? We did today, but not very much – our first rain in more than 3 weeks. Hopefully you’ve fared better than I. Prior to today’s brief shower, … Continue reading →

Posted in Aphids, Azaleas, grasshoppers, Insects, Plant Pests, Spider Mites, Summer Florida Gardening, Thrips, Watering Plants | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Continuing Pest Problems

Posted on May 13, 2014 by AskthePlantMaster

As in my last posting, pests continue to be a problem – not just insects, but also weeds. While driving around Central Florida recently, I noticed that many homeowners had numerous broadleaf weeds either flowering or developing seed heads, not … Continue reading →

Posted in Insects, Lawn Care, Lawn Pests, Plant Pests, Spider Mites, Spring Gardening, Weeds | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Pest control suggestions for grasshoppers, scale, spider mites, and aphids.

Posted on May 2, 2014 by AskthePlantMaster

To begin with, I wish to apologize for the delays in posting new blogs. Since my last posting I have been extremely busy, especially with Master Gardener work, which has included bi-weekly talks at DeBary Hall, (call 386-668-3840 to learn … Continue reading →

Posted in Aphids, grasshoppers, Insects, Plant Pests, Scale Insects, Spider Mites, Summer Florida Gardening | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Scale Insects

Posted on May 21, 2013 by AskthePlantMaster

  The longer I live in Florida, the more I’ve become aware of the growing problem of scale insects.  Would you believe that there are more than 7,500 species of these parasites, and most homeowners don’t even know they exist … Continue reading →

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Fire Ants

Posted on May 21, 2013 by AskthePlantMaster

  In the May 2013 issue of Total Landscape Care – Imported Fire Ant populations in Texas and the southern coasts of the U.S. appear to be declining.  However, they are being replaced by two new exotic invasive pests called … Continue reading →

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Pest Alert – Harlequin Ladybird

Posted on May 21, 2013 by AskthePlantMaster

  In the latest Journal Science, German researchers have discovered that the Harlequin Ladybird – a bright red ladybug that was used to control numerous insect pests in commercial greenhouse operations – has been found to harbor a single-celled fungus … Continue reading →

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White Flies

Posted on February 18, 2013 by AskthePlantMaster

Because of our location and weather, we have had more than our share of pest problems. Recently I learned about a new one we have to contend with – Rogose Spiraling Whitefly.  This pest affects over 60 plant species including … Continue reading →

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Caterpillars

Posted on October 25, 2012 by AskthePlantMaster

Caterpillars seem to be eating everything now.  Although they will form a pupae and later emerge as a butterfly or moth, if you want to eliminate them, then I suggest you apply liquid Sevin, preferably early in the morning or … Continue reading →

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Lawn Care Issues

Posted on October 25, 2012 by AskthePlantMaster

Have you noticed any light green yellowing areas in your lawn?  If so, this usually indicated a need for fertilizer, especially one containing iron.  Apply a slow (controlled) release fertilizer and water in following application. Soil insects are still with … Continue reading →

Posted in Fertilizing Lawn and Garden, Insects, Lawn Care, Lawn Pests, Plant Pests | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Pest Update

Posted on September 18, 2012 by AskthePlantMaster

A few days ago I posted on my blog an update on pest problems in our area; now there’s more to be concerned about, including: Lawn Pests – Brown Patch – Look for distinct circular patches of yellow-brown colored turf … Continue reading →

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