Bugs and Insects | UC Master Gardener Program of Alameda County

Learn about the good insects and the pesky insects. Manage common problems encountered in Alameda county in both the vegetable garden and landscape/ornamental environment. Learn to spot invasives and how to manage them.

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Soldiers in Our Gardens

Learn how to identify, manage and attract beneficial insects, including soldier beetles. Protect the good insects that feed on the pests and pollinate plants.

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Over the Fence (Alameda County): Article

What is that Black Stuff on my Plant Leaves?

June 14, 2025

By Judy Quan

The black stuff on your leaves is likely sooty moldThe black stuff on your leaves is probably sooty mold, a fungal disease growing on plants and other surfaces, and it is often seen in the spring and summer. The leaves or stems have a black coating that looks like soot. If you look closely, it is growing…

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A close-up photo of a brown marmorated stink bug

Over the Fence (Alameda County): Article

Invasive Species: Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs

May 13, 2025

By Linda Carloni

The brown marmorated stink bug is an invasive pest in California, damaging gardens, crops, and invading homes. Learn how to identify and manage it.

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Citrus tree showing thinning canopy and fruits that fall easily, symptoms of HLB disease

Over the Fence (Alameda County): Article

Invasive Pests and Plants - the Asian Citrus Psyllid and HLB Threaten to Devastate Our Citrus

December 3, 2024

By Judy Quan

Protect citrus trees from the invasive Asian Citrus Psyllid. Learn how you can help prevent the spread of this harmful pest.

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Collage of photos of Spotted Lanternfly eggs, young (various instars) and adults

Over the Fence (Alameda County): Article

Invasive Plants and Pests - Tree of Heaven and its Buddy, the Spotted Lanternfly

November 3, 2024

By Linda Carloni

Learn how to identify and manage the invasive Tree of Heaven with guidance from UC Master Gardeners of Alameda County. Protect your landscape today!

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Over the Fence (Alameda County): Article

Invasive Pests and Plants – Why Worry? What To Do?

October 3, 2024

By Judy Quan

Learn how the Mediterranean Fruit Fly affects Alameda County crops and what you can do to prevent invasive pests from spreading.

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Collage 4 - Hornworm, Blossom End Rot, Catfacing, Sunscald

Over the Fence (Alameda County): Article

Summer Tomatoes - How to Manage Common Problems

July 15, 2024

By Linda Carloni

Learn to identify and manage common tomato problems in Alameda County. Expert solutions for blight, pests, fruit issues, and plant diseases.

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Over the Fence (Alameda County): Article

Battling Summer Vegetable Garden Pests: A Gardener's Guide

July 3, 2024

By Jim Farr

Master summer garden pests with safe, organic solutions. Expert guide covers aphids, caterpillars, earwigs & more.

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UC Master Gardener Program of Alameda County: Page

Citrus Leafminer

Understanding citrus leafminer: Learn why this common pest causes cosmetic damage but doesn't harm your citrus trees.

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UC Master Gardener Program of Alameda County: Page

Common Summer Pests – Do It Yourself Plant Doctoring

Learn how to identify summer garden pests with DIY plant doctoring tips to protect your plants and maintain a healthy, thriving garden all season long.

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