Pests & Diseases

Fungus that only infects tomatoes. Like verticillium, causes leaf yellowing and discoloration of water-conducting tissues. Fungi spread in soil water, on equipment, transplants, or tubers. Once inside the root, the fungus grows until it reaches the water-conducting cells, inside which it spreads upward…

Late blight of potato was responsible for the Irish potato famine of the late 1840s. Late blight is caused by the oomycete Phytophthora infestans. Oomycetes are fungus-like organisms also called water molds, but they are not true fungi. CategoryFungiSigns/SymptomsLesions appear as small dark green water…

 Fungal disease that affects the blossoms, fruit, leaves, and shoots of peaches, ornamental flowering peaches, and nectarines. One of the most common disease problems for backyard gardeners growing these trees. When severe, the disease can reduce fruit production substantially. The loss of leaves and…

 Powdery mildew is a common disease on many types of plants and is prevalent in many areas of California. Infection occurs when fungus contacts a suitable host and environmental conditions are favorable. Infections spread as spores produced in these white patches move by wind and splashing rain to other…

Grows on plants and other surfaces covered with honeydew, a sticky substance created by some certain insects. Doesn’t infect plants, but the mold can indirectly do damage by coating leaves to the point that sunlight can’t reach the leaf surface. Without adequate sunlight, the plant cannot effectively…

Verticillium Wilt, one of the most widespread and destructive soil-borne diseases of plants, attacks many woody and herbaceous species throughout the world. The causal fungus, verticillium dahliae, infects susceptible plants through the roots and invades and plugs the water conducting tissues. Verticlllium…

Virus transmitted by aphids. After feeding on an infected plant, aphids are only able to transmit this virus for very short periods of time (minutes to a few hours). In general, spread of potyviruses in the field occurs when aphid activity is high and is often very rapid and localized. …

Two most common are mule deer and black-tailed deer. Both eat shrubs, vines, fruit and nut trees, garden vegetables, grasses, and small flowering plants. Deer dislike some plants, especially when other more palatable plants are available.Signs/SymptomsHoof prints two to three inches long, split in the middle…

 Small burrowing rodents that feed on roots of plants. A single gopher can inflict considerable damage in a short time. They live up to three years and eat a wide variety of vegetation, usually what they encounter while digging. Sometimes feed above ground, venturing only a body length or so from their…

Smart, dexterous, and can become very aggressive when cornered. When searching for den or food, they can be extremely destructive to homes and gardens. Communicate using a variety of sounds including purring, growling, hissing, and whistling. Eat plants and animals, including berries, nuts, acorns, pet food,…