Pests You Want to Keep Out of Your Garden

Summer is almost here in the Garden State. If you are planning on keeping a garden this year, you need to know the pests you want to keep out of your garden.

Worms, Beetles and Bugs

If you are growing a vegetable garden, there are a variety of pests to keep an eye out for.

Cabbage worms and tomato hornworms are common caterpillar pests. They feed on the leaves of plants in the cabbage and tomato families, respectively. If you grow any of these crops, you will want to protect them from these hungry pests.

Squash vine borers are a species of moth. Their larvae burrow inside squash stems and prevent water from spreading through them. Plants affected by borers will wither and have large holes in the stems.

The cucumber and Mexican bean beetles also chew the associated plants’ leaves. Cucumber beetles, which also affect melons and squashes, spread bacteria that will cause plants to wilt.

Squash bugs are stink bug-like pests that can destroy young pumpkin and squash plants. Their life cycle revolves around plants in the squash family. While they don’t eat the leaves, they suck out sap from them which causes wilting and yellow spots.

Japanese beetles are another common pest you may find in your garden. They will eat up anything from vegetable crops to flowers, and their larvae will even attack your lawn.

Slugs

While they can also attack food crops, slugs will feed on your favorite ornamental plants. Hostas and flowers are at risk of destruction by slugs. Keep an eye out for them and their slime trails, particularly in the morning when they are most visible.

Mammals

Rodents can cause a variety of problems in your garden. Many of these pests will dig holes everywhere, and they often eat common garden plants. Mice can also invade your home or outbuildings.

Larger mammalian pests like deer and rabbits will happily eat your garden plants as well. If you live in an area where these pests can access your garden, be sure to take steps to protect your plants.

Pest Control

Pests can wreak havoc in your garden. While there are a variety of methods for controlling these pests yourself, professional assistance is the best way to eliminate garden pests. Contact Superior Pest Solutions as soon as you notice signs of an infestation, especially if pests have made their way inside your home.