Pests in the Urban Landscape

Urban neighborhood and park.

The Pests in the Urban Landscape blog shares the latest sustainable pest management news and information from the UC IPM Urban & Community Program. 

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A brown, dying shrub in front of a row of healthy green shrubs.
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Wilted plants: lack of water or disease?

February 4th, 2025
By Belinda Messenger-Sikes
A well-watered plant that suddenly wilts or unexpectedly drops its leaves could be infected with the soil pathogen Phytophthora. The disease it causes, Phytophthora root and crown rot, can affect many plants, including ornamental trees and shrubs, fruit trees, and vegetables.
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Two rat traps secured to a tree limb using a piece of wood and tape
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Your Rat Management Questions Answered!

January 14th, 2025
By Lauren Fordyce
UC IPM recently hosted a webinar on rat management presented by Dr. Niamh Quinn. During this webinar attendees were able to ask the expert their burning questions about rats and their management. Below are responses to common questions from the webinar.
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Wrapping Up the Year

December 20th, 2024
By Karey Windbiel
As the end of 2024 approaches, I'd like to reflect on the UC IPM Urban and Community program's accomplishments and share what's to come from us in 2025.
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Various grains stored in glass jars.
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Bugs in Your Holiday Cookies!?

December 16th, 2024
By Lauren Fordyce
In a recent TikTok video, a woman's holiday baking spree came to a halt when she discovered bugs in her flour. While initially alarmed, the woman was also intrigued.
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