Gardening

What are those curious, colorful, odd-looking growths you've seen growing on oak trees? Ever wonder what those little seeds are that jump around on the ground underneath oak trees in July or August?

Originally posted August 26, 2016; edited July 10, 2018 Have you seen big green beetles in your California yard or garden? Or beetles feeding on your roses or other plants? There are many kinds of beetles commonly found in our landscapes, but the Japanese beetle is not one of them.

When you see spiders in your garden, you may wonder if they can hurt you or your pets. The good news is, most spiders are not likely to bite or cause lasting harm if they do.

[Article modified on April 13, 2019 to correct inaccuracies.] New label changes will alter how fipronil is applied by pest management professionals (PMPs) in urban environments, particularly between November and February, during California's typical rainy season.

Rodenticides continue to come under scrutiny in California due to issues surrounding the potential for nontarget injury to wildlife and pets.

[From the Spring issue of the UC IPM Retail Nursery & Garden Center News] I hate crabgrass! is a common lament I've heard from residents during my 35 years as a UCCE Weed Science Farm Advisor.

[From the Spring issue of the UC IPM Green Bulletin] Argentine ants can be a damaging ant pest species in both agricultural and urban environments in California. Outdoors, they disrupt biological control by tending honeydew-producing pests and protecting them from natural enemies.

During California Invasive Species Action Week (June 2 June 10), we highlighted several pests, but there are many more invasive species out there. Now that you know about them, share your knowledge of invasive species with others.

Now until June 17, you can purchase Pests of the Garden and Small Farm together with the Vegetable Pest Identification for Gardens and Small Farms and save a bundle! Use this link http://anrcatalog.ucanr.edu/Items.aspx?search=specials.

Spring is in full swing and summer is right around the corner. If you work in agricultural, turf, landscape, or structural settings, you are probably at your busiest. If you handle pesticides as part of your work, you most likely wear some sort of personal protective equipment (PPE).