As the growing season continues, insect season also continues!
It's time to break out the detective hat and magnifying glass because determining whether an insect is a friend or foe is crucial for a healthy garden. Of the estimated 5 million species of insects found globally, only 1–3% of species are considered pests. So don't freak out immediately when you see an insect on your plant! The insect may be causing no harm to the plant and just taking a rest break.
Insect Pest Management
Insect pest management is a critical component of successful crop production. The key to an effective pest control program relies on regular monitoring, accurate identification, and proper control timing.
Why is it important?
Scouting and monitoring for insect pests can help:
- identify and address potential issues before a loss occurs
- mitigate damage
When to scout for pests?
Regular scouting should begin in early spring and continue weekly/bi-weekly throughout the season.
What to inspect?
Inspect all plant parts when scouting, including:
- leaves (tops and underside)
- stems
- roots
- flowers
- fruit
Friend: Ladybug (Lady Beetle)
Identification
There are nearly 500 species of ladybugs in North America. Their colors range from red to yellow to black to pink and have a variety of patterns. Ladybugs have two sets of wings, an oval-to-round shape, and most are less than 10 mm long.
Host Plants
Ladybugs feed on insects as well as nectar, pollen, and honeydew. You can attract them with flowers like:
- alyssum
- coriander
- dill
- sunflower
- yarrow
Reasons to Love Ladybugs
Ladybugs are fantastic pest control against many soft-bodied pest insects. They devour insects such as:
- aphids
- spider mites
- scale insects
- whiteflies
- leaf beetle larvae
- small caterpillars
Fun fact! Ladybugs can eat more than 50 aphids a day!
Foe: Tarnished Plant Bug
Identification
Adults about ¼” long, winged, and greenish-brown with yellow and black dashes, have a brassy appearance.
Host Plants
Wide host range, including:
- strawberries
- brambles
- blueberries
- tree fruit
- vegetables
- ornamentals
- weeds
Damage
- Adults and nymphs feed on unopened buds, flowers, and the tips of young fruit.
- Damaged areas of fruit do not develop further, causing misshapen "cat-faced" berries.
Did you find any Tarnished Plant Bugs in your garden?
Give us a call and we’ll talk you through what you can do to manage this pest.
Do you have more insect questions? Call us!
Nourse Farms is here to grow with you every step of the way!
Our customer service team is ready and available Monday–Friday, 9–5 p.m. EST. Call us at 413-665-2658.
Not a phone person? You can also email us at info@noursefarms.com!
