Know Your Garden Pests
Aphids
Aphids are tiny soft-bodied insects that gather on new growth, flower buds, and the undersides of leaves. They feed by sucking plant sap, causing curled leaves, distorted growth, and sticky honeydew residue.
Commonly found on:
- Roses
- Vegetable plants
- Perennials
- Annual flowers
- Fruit trees
Signs of infestation:
- Curled or puckered leaves
- Sticky residue on foliage
- Ants crawling on plants
- Clusters of small green, black, yellow, or red insects
Control Methods:
- Spray plants with a strong stream of water to knock aphids off.
- Encourage beneficial insects such as ladybugs.
- Apply insecticidal products such as Ortho Bug B Gon Eco or Safer’s End-All for active infestations.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are one of the most common pests found on both outdoor and indoor plants. These tiny pests are difficult to see with the naked eye but can quickly cause serious damage.
Commonly found on:
- Houseplants
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Annual planters
- Evergreens
Signs of infestation:
- Tiny yellow speckles on leaves
- Fine webbing between stems and leaves
- Leaves turning bronze or brown
- Premature leaf drop
Control Methods:
- Increase humidity around affected plants.
- Rinse foliage regularly.
- Apply Safer’s End-All Miticide/Insecticide, which is specifically labeled for mites and their life stages.
- Repeat applications according to label directions for best results.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies resemble tiny white moths that fly up when plants are disturbed.
Commonly found on:
- Hibiscus
- Tomatoes
- Houseplants
- Annual flowers
Signs of infestation:
- Clouds of tiny white insects when plants are touched
- Sticky honeydew on leaves
- Yellowing foliage
Control Methods:
- Use yellow sticky traps for monitoring.
- Remove heavily infested foliage.
- Apply Ortho Bug B Gon Eco or Safer’s End-All to control active populations.
Scale Insects
Scale insects attach themselves to stems and leaves, appearing as small bumps that often go unnoticed.
Signs of infestation:
- Sticky residue
- Yellowing leaves
- Weak or declining growth
- Brown or tan bumps on stems
Control Methods:
- Prune heavily infested branches.
- Wipe off scale by hand where practical.
- Apply horticultural oils or insecticidal sprays according to label instructions.
Don’t Forget Plant Diseases
Not all plant problems are caused by insects. Fungal diseases become more common during periods of high humidity, poor airflow, or frequent rainfall.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew appears as a white powdery coating on leaves and stems.
Commonly found on:
- Roses
- Phlox
- Zucchini
- Cucumbers
- Bee balm
Control Methods:
- Improve air circulation.
- Avoid watering foliage late in the day.
- Remove severely infected leaves.
- Apply Ortho Garden Fungicide (Copper Fungicide) to help prevent and control many common fungal diseases.
Fruit Tree & Garden Diseases
Fruit trees and many edible crops can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spots, blights, and mildew.
Control Methods:
- Clean up fallen leaves and fruit.
- Prune for airflow.
- Apply copper-based fungicides or fruit tree sprays according to label directions.
- Begin preventative treatments before disease becomes severe.
Prevention Is Always Easier Than Treatment
The healthiest gardens experience the fewest pest problems. Consider these simple preventative measures:
✓ Inspect plants regularly
✓ Water consistently but avoid overwatering
✓ Remove dead or diseased plant material promptly
✓ Provide proper spacing for airflow
✓ Avoid excessive fertilizer, which can attract aphids and other sap-feeding insects
✓ Treat issues early before populations explode
Visit Ridgeview Garden Centre for Expert Advice
Not sure what’s damaging your plants? Bring in a sample leaf, a photo, or the affected plant, and our knowledgeable team can help identify the problem and recommend the right solution.
We carry a wide selection of pest and disease control products, including:
- Ortho Garden Fungicide (Copper Fungicide)
- Safer’s End-All Miticide/Insecticide
- Ortho Bug B Gon Eco Insecticide
- Fruit Tree & Garden Disease Control Products
A little attention today can save your plants from major damage later in the season and keep your garden looking its best all summer long.
Visit Ridgeview Garden Centre and let us help you keep your garden healthy, vibrant, and pest-free.