Pest Management

It can be frustrating and challenging when the plants in your garden or landscape are less than perfectly healthy. The key to returning your plants to health is to identify what is causing the problem. Once you know what the problem is, you can implement the correct solution. It is also important to consider the impact of the weather and climate on your plants. Many times the problems are caused by extreme heat, sudden cold, drought or excess rain.

When an insect or disease has been identified, the first lines of defense are cultural practices that can reduce the problem. These could be anything from implementing pruning practices to selecting a different variety of flower for the location. If a problem is minimal or on a small scale, hand picking insects or diseased leaves can be effective. If an insect or disease problem is so advanced or widespread that a pesticide is needed, we recommend starting with the least toxic, lowest impact products before trying harsher products. There are many organic pesticides that can be very effective on common pest problems.

Helpful Links

• Agent Articles on Insects
• General Agent Articles
• Common Plant and Pest Problems
• Extension Entomology
• Plant Pathology

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I identify what is causing a problem for my plant?

It can be tricky to correctly identify insects, diseases, and other problems unless you have seen them before. Here are some keys to determining what is wrong:

• Has the weather been very hot, cold, dry or wet?
• Has the affected area stayed consistently wet for a period of time?
• When did you first notice the problem?
• What part of the plant is affected? New leaves? Older leaves? Entire plant?
• Are there holes in the leaves or areas that look like they have been eaten off?
• Did you or someone else spray something in the vicinity of the affected area?
• Are there spots, lesions, or discolorations on the plant?
• Is there a problem with how the plant is growing? Is it stunted? Misshapen? Leaves distorted?

If you cannot determine the cause on your own, please bring a sample to our office.

Physical Removal of Insects

Tips for Using Natural Pesticides

Nuisance Wildlife

Have questions? Contact our office where our Horticulture Extension Agent will assist you with questions.

Phone: (316) 321-9660

Email: callae@ksu.edu