Garden pests and diseases are common challenges that can affect plant health, growth, and productivity, requiring careful observation and management to maintain a thriving garden.
Aphids – Small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from leaves and stems, causing curling and yellowing. They feed on vegetables, roses, and fruit trees.
Cabbage Worms – Green caterpillars that chew large holes in cabbage, kale, broccoli, and cauliflower leaves. They can stunt plant growth if left uncontrolled.
Tomato Hornworms – Large green caterpillars with horn-like tails that devour tomato, pepper, and eggplant leaves quickly.
Japanese Beetles – Metallic green beetles that skeletonize leaves on roses, grapes, beans, and other ornamentals.
Spider Mites – Tiny red or yellow mites that feed on plant sap, especially on tomatoes, cucumbers, and roses. Leaves may turn yellow and develop fine webbing.
Mealybugs – Small, white, cottony insects that feed on succulents, citrus, and houseplants, weakening plants and producing sticky honeydew.
Slugs & Snails – Mollusks that feed on tender leaves of lettuce, cabbage, and flowers, leaving irregular holes and slime trails.
Powdery Mildew – White, powdery fungus that affects cucumbers, squash, roses, and grapes, reducing photosynthesis and plant vigor.
Botrytis (Gray Mold) – Gray, fuzzy fungus on strawberries, tomatoes, and ornamentals that causes rotting of fruits and leaves.
Rust – Orange or reddish pustules on leaves of beans, hollyhocks, and roses, reducing photosynthesis and weakening plants.