- Author: Karey Windbiel-Rojas
![Before and after hosing aphids off with water. [Credit: K. Windbiel-Rojas]](https://ucanr.edu/blogs/CCUrbanPests/blogfiles/79299small.png)
I've been hearing people say the aphids are really bad this year. While we can't confirm whether that is true, I know my roses are covered! There are many ways aphids can be controlled in the garden and landscape. Naturally occurring insects such as lady beetles, syrphid flies, and lacewings all eat aphids and other soft-bodied insects. Depending on proper plant care, you can prune off heavily infested plant parts on certain plants.
One of my favorite methods of controlling aphids is to hose them off my roses with water. You can buy a special nozzle for the job, but it's not necessary. Just adjust your regular spray nozzle to the desired spray and force and blast your sturdy plants with water. The strong blast will damage the...
- Author: Karey Windbiel-Rojas
Invasive pests threaten California's natural environments, agricultural production, structures
- Author: Karey Windbiel-Rojas
Many people have increased their use of disinfectants and sanitizers due to the COVID-19 crisis. It is important to use these products correctly to ensure they are effective and to protect one's health. See the infograph below from the National Pesticide Information Center about how to safely use disinfectants.
- Author: Karey Windbiel-Rojas
First thing first: "murder" hornets, or more correctly, the Asian giant hornet, have NOT been found in California.
The term murder hornet is also not quite accurate. It attacks honey bees, which isn't desirable of course, but the important thing to note that this insect's purpose is not to murder humans. Right now in California, we are keeping an eye out for this insect so there is no need to worry, yet.
The news and social media have been filled with stories about the Asian giant hornet (AGH) but here are some facts from credible sources:
- Author: Karey Windbiel-Rojas
