- Author: Elaine Lander
- Author: Karey Windbiel-Rojas

“Aphids are really bad this year!” This is what we've been hearing on social media and from many home gardeners. Aphids can curl leaves, stunt plant growth, and make a mess by the sticky honeydew they exude. Some aphid species create galls which can also damage plants. Low to moderate aphid infestations usually don't damage plants but if you do have more aphids this year, there are many options for controlling them.
Aphids in landscapes and gardens can be managed by a number of different methods, including biological control. Biological control is when naturally occurring beneficial insects, mites, or other organisms (also called natural enemies) reduce a pest's abundance by eating or parasitizing them.
There...
- Author: Elaine Lander

While you are home working, learning, or relaxing, you may have noticed a few other critters sharing space with you. If some of these critters have 8 legs, we have a video to show you how to catch and release them!
Why might you release spiders outside? Spiders are beneficial insects called natural enemies. They are predators that help control other pests and insect eggs.
- Author: Elaine Lander

The last weeks of summer are here and many are maximizing time outdoors, whether in yards, parks, or natural areas. As you enjoy the sunshine and perhaps a picnic, it is possible you may encounter different types of stinging insects such as bees and wasps.
Here are some resources that can help you avoid getting stung.
- Author: Elaine Lander
- Editor: Karey Windbiel-Rojas

(Credit: Jack Kelly Clark)
While many of you are preparing for the 4th of July holiday, we at UC IPM are also thinking about stars and stripes but in a slightly different way: yellow starthistle and striped skunks.
We usually have pests on the brain, so we wanted to remind you of the resources we have to help you with pest management. Whether you have a pest in your home, or outdoors on lawns,

Holidays are a time for welcoming family and friends. But what if your loved ones accidentally bring along unwanted guests—bed bugs? These insects are excellent hitchhikers, hiding easily in luggage and sometimes on clothes. Bed bugs can be found in the finest hotels and accommodations such as dormitories, senior living facilities, and nursing homes, both in the United States and overseas.
Whether you are hosting a dinner party or overnight guests, below are a few tips to prepare your home for welcoming visitors and deter unwanted ones.
Make It Easy to Monitor for Bed Bugs
- Clean your space and reduce clutter to minimize hiding places and make it easier to inspect for bed...