- 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,...
- Author: Tunyalee A. Martin
During California Invasive Species Action Week (June 2 – June 10), we highlighted several pests, but there are many more invasive species out there. Now that you know about them, share your knowledge of invasive species with others. And no matter what your summer plans, here are some things YOU can do about invasive species from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and California Department of Food and Agriculture.
YOU: I'M TRAVELING TO AMAZING PLACES
- Learn what plants and animals you can bring into California.
The red imported fire ant, or RIFA for short, is no ordinary red ant. This invasive pest lives up to its name, delivering a sting that causes a burning sensation when its venom is injected into the skin.
People sometimes confuse RIFA with the native southern fire ant. Both can become very agitated when their nest is disturbed but RIFA are more likely to attack. RIFA can bite and sting its victim repeatedly, and its sting is more serious, causing a burning and itching sensation. This is followed by the formation of a white pustule, which can take several weeks to disappear. If not kept clean, the pustules can become infected and may leave permanent scarring. A small...