It’s summertime, and bugs are on the prowl
0 Comments | Florida Times Union, Aug 14, 2010 | by TERRY BRITE DELVALLE
Welcome to summer in Florida. Hot humid weather creates a lush tropical oasis where heat-loving plants thrive – along with the bugs.
Less than 1 percent of all insects are pests, so the majority of the insects or bugs that you see are not a problem. Accept them, forget about them and move on. They may be feeding on other problem insects, breaking down organic debris or pollinating plants. Insects are part of the food chain for a host of animals (reptiles, birds, mammals, fish, amphibians, etc.) so they are very important to a healthy ecosystem.
Because such a small percentage of insects are pests, adopt Florida-friendly practices to protect the other 99 percent. This is referred to as Integrated Pest Management or IPM and is an environmentally-friendly method of controlling pests. Here are some guidelines.
IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM
Check landscape plants on a regular basis to inspect for problems. When a problem occurs, the first step is to correctly identify the insect or disease. Some plants are known for specific insect or disease problems.
For example: Aphids are expected pests of camellias, citrus, crape myrtles, gardenias, hibiscus, oleanders, roses, pecans and daylilies. Lace bugs are common on azaleas (especially those in full sun), fringe trees, pyracanthas and sycamore trees. Spider mites are frequent pests on azaleas, camellias, citrus, hollies, junipers, palms, pyracanthas and viburnum.
Landscape pests also are seasonal and may be more numerous due to weather conditions. Aphids, caterpillars, lace bugs, mites and scale are active spring through the fall. Aphids reach peak populations in mid July and spider mites are more abundant in hot, dry weather.
Thrips are more numerous in the spring. Whiteflies have peak numbers in early April, late June and again in early September.
Always check new tender growth and the underside of leaves. Knowing which pests attack specific plants and understanding when they are most active help to determine control techniques.
It may also help with plant selection. If you want a carefree landscape, choose plants that are disease-resistant and not prone to pest problems.
If you can’t find a pest but recognize there is a problem, look for signs. Ants and sooty mold are common with aphids, whiteflies, soft scale and mealybugs.
Holes eaten out of leaves are from chewing insects such as caterpillars, grasshoppers or beetles. Dull, gray-green leaves with fine spider webs are signs of spider mites. Flower drop may be due to thrips.
BIOLOGICAL CONTROL
Before spraying, look for beneficial insects. Common examples include lacewings, lady beetles, syrphid flies, assassin bugs, earwigs, praying mantis and predatory stinkbugs
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