Pests in the Urban Landscape

Urban neighborhood and park.

The Pests in the Urban Landscape blog shares the latest resources and information from the UC IPM Urban & Community team to help you sustainably manage pests in the home, garden, and landscape. 

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A dense stand of spiny yellow starthistle plants with light green, spindly foliage and bright yellow flowers.
Pests in the Urban Landscape: Article

Invasive Species: Nature’s Troublemakers

March 11, 2026
By Lindsey Hack
California is famous for its scenic wilderness and biological diversity. Unfortunately, our state’s unique ecosystems are in danger, and invasive species are among the biggest threats to our environment. Invasive species can cause all kinds of environmental damage, such as harming wildlife, disrupting our…
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The green foliage of a small sycamore tree coated with fluffly, white patches of powdery mildew fungus.
Pests in the Urban Landscape: Article

What's That Powdery Stuff on My Plants?

March 5, 2026
By Belinda Messenger-Sikes
Have you seen white powdery-looking patches appearing on the leaves of your roses or sycamore trees? While home gardeners may be familiar with this sign of the plant disease powdery mildew on their veggies, ornamental plants and landscape trees can also be infected. In addition to those powdery spots, the…
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Tree with oranges hanging off the branches.

When Life Gives You Citrus (and Pests)

February 23, 2026
By Yulie Velez
Citrus season is here! And some citrus pests may be too. Perhaps you’ve encountered a few ant problems with your citrus trees, but did you know there are other pests you should be on the lookout for such as psyllids, leafminers, cottony cushion scale, and mealybugs? Read more below for tips on how to…
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Japanese beetle. Credit: D. Cappaert, Bugwood.org)
Pests in the Urban Landscape: Article

National  Invasive Species Awareness Week 2026

February 18, 2026
By Lindsey Hack
This week (February 23-27, 2026) is National Invasive Species Awareness Week (NISAW), an event dedicated to raising awareness about invasive species, the threats they pose, and how we can slow their spread. When it comes to invasive species, your actions can have a big impact! What Can You Do? Take…
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