Harlequin Bugs

Harlequin Bugs

These handsome black-and-orange pests are found largely in the southern half of the country. Shield shaped and 1/4 inch long, the harlequin is a type of stink bug, releasing a foul odor when disturbed. Its highly distinctive eggs resemble neat rows of tiny white barrels with black hoops. Both adults and nymphs suck plant sap. … Read more

Grasshoppers

Grasshoppers

Also called locusts, the dozens of grasshopper species differ in size, color, and markings- but all flourish in areas with long, hot, dry summers. Target: All plants, especially grasses and weeds. Damage: If the insects descend in hordes, they’ll eat plants to the ground, but individual grasshoppers are a threat only to young plants. Life … Read more

Glassy Wing Sharpshooter

Glassy Wing Sharpshooter

There are some 2,500 species of these small, agile, wedge-shaped insects; many types are handsomely colored and patterned. Both adults and nymphs, which look like wingless or short-winged adults, suck sap from leaf undersides. Some species favor just one kind of plant, while others enjoy a wide variety. Leaf hoppers run sideways when disturbed and, … Read more

Geranium Budworms

Geranium Budworms

Also known as tobacco budworms, these close relatives of the corn earworm burrow into buds and feed from the inside; they also chew fully opened flowers. The striped, 1/4 inch to 3/4 inch long caterpillars are greenish to tan or reddish in color; they cause problems largely in mild climates, since they can’t survive cold … Read more

Fungus Gnats

Fungus Gnats

Fungus gnats are small, dark, short-lived flies, whose larvae feed on plant roots or fungi and aid in the decomposition of organic matter. The adults are 2-5 mm long and are important pollinators that can help spread mushroom spores as well as plant pollen. In houseplants, the presence of fungus gnats may indicate overwatering. They … Read more