Pest Management

by Ann Wright, UC Master Gardener of Nevada County From The Curious Gardener, Spring 2022 Weeds—these harbingers of spring can be tough garden pests, challenging even the most seasoned gardeners. There are many ways to manage these unwelcome plants that crowd our new seedlings, sometimes harboring…

By David Warman, UC Master Gardener of Placer County From The Curious Gardener, Winter 2021            Every gardener and homeowner is concerned for the safety of themselves and their family, particularly their children and pets. Using pesticides responsibly will help…

By Bonnie Bradt, UC Master Gardener of Nevada County From The Curious Gardener, Fall 2021Many of us “Foothill Dwellers” love it here, for the enjoyment of the natural world surrounding us. Sometimes however, that natural world comes in the form of critters, large and small, that love the same veggies,…

Let’s be real—California's rodent issue is extensive. In some areas, it may seem like an infinite sea of rats and mice. Commensal rodents, those that live among and benefit from association with humans, significantly affect public health, environmental sustainability, and urban infrastructure.  …

Vertebrate pests can pose a serious threat to the achievement of one’s “dream garden” by wreaking havoc on plants and vegetables literally overnight. They feed or gnaw on the roots of ornamental plants, vines, shrubs and trees, and even plastic water lines. In our area, pocket gophers, moles, voles and…

Urban and suburban areas are important habitats for migrating birds, but birds can also quickly become a nuisance or economic issue when they nest on buildings, homes, and other structures. Their activities can result in disruptive noises, lead to potential structural damage, and their droppings can create…

How to identify the pests that are damaging your lawn What is wrecking your lawn? It could be skunks, raccoons, moles, voles, pocket gophers, or lawn insects. Each leave behind evidence and signs of their presence.Skunks are out at dusk, during the night, and at dawn in residential areas searching for…

 (Este post está disponible en español)Strawberries in a hot climate:       Strawberries are a choice crop for many small farms in California's central valley who operate roadside farmstands and u-pick (aka "pick-your-own") for direct sales to customers, but the hot climate of the…

From tree-mapping to pest education, UC Master Gardeners are helping Californians combat invasive plants and pests through early detection, community science, and statewide partnerships.

Two worms and one idea (monitoring):     One of the main challenges to growing tree fruits are pests that can destroy the fruit or make it unmarketable. Some pests can injure the trees directly, affecting their growth.  The oriental fruit moth (scientific name, Grapholita molesta)…