- Author: Belinda J. Messenger-Sikes
- Author: Karey Windbiel-Rojas
Weeds are usually thought of as native plants we don't want in areas such as landscapes, fields, or vegetable gardens either because they reduce economic output or they are considered aesthetically displeasing. Invasive plants are generally non-natives that infest natural ecosystems and can become problems.
There are four distinctions between a weed and an invasive plant. The first is how they are introduced to an area. Weedy plants in gardens, landscapes, or in agricultural fields are usually accidentally introduced. While that is sometimes true for invasive plants, they are more often intentionally introduced as ornamental plants, for aquarium use, or for food or fiber...
- Author: Donald R. Hodel
- Posted by: Elaine Lander
Damage and...
- Author: Cindy Kron
- Posted by: Elaine Lander
The spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is a new exotic pest that was first detected in Pennsylvania in 2014 and has since moved to other nearby states (Figure 1). Everyone, including home gardeners and retail nursery and garden center employees, can play a significant role in keeping this exotic pest out of California by being the eyes and ears needed for early detection.
The spotted lanternfly is a sizable planthopper insect which is about 1 inch long and 0.5 inch wide (Figure 2). It originates from northern China and it can also be found in Vietnam,...
[From the Summer issue of the UC IPM Retail Nursery & Garden Center News]
When you use firewood in the great outdoors, be aware that moving firewood can transport tree-killing insects and diseases. Find out more at the following resources:
- “Don't Move Firewood,” a campaign created by the Nature Conservancy, is an informational site aimed at the general public. You can also print posters, brochures, and other handouts.
- The California Firewood Task...
This week, we put the spotlight on invasive species and how these non-native plants, animals, and pathogens damage California's economy and environment.
You Can Make a Difference
Shot hole borers and the diseases they carry, and Asian citrus psyllid and huanglongbing disease are serious invasive pests of concern. Do your part to help prevent their spread. If you go camping this summer, don't move firewood from your home to the campground. For backyard citrus growers, find out if you are in a quarantine zone for Asian citruspsyllid. You can make a difference. Read the posts above to find out...