Late June is a vibrant time for New Jersey landscapes—but it’s also prime time for some pesky invaders. If you’re a homeowner or landscaper in the Garden State, you may have noticed signs of damage caused by landscape pests like spider mites, azalea lace wings, and pine spittlebugs. These pests can wreak havoc on your plants, but here’s the good news: there are effective ways to tackle them.
Spider Mites
Tiny but destructive, spider mites target a wide variety of plants, leaving telltale yellowing or stippling on leaves and webbing in severe infestations.
Management Methods:
- Horticultural oil application: Coat plants with horticultural oils to suffocate mites while being gentle on beneficial insects.
- Strong water spray: Use a targeted spray to dislodge and wash away mites from affected plants.
- Introduce predatory mites: Natural predators like Phytoseiulus persimilis eat spider mites, keeping their population in check.
Azalea Lace Wings
Azalea lace wings are a headache for azalea lovers, mottling leaf surfaces with their feeding and turning foliage pale. These pests are particularly visible underneath leaves.
Management Methods:
- Insecticidal soap: Apply as soon as you spot the problem to target the pests without harming the rest of your garden.
- Horticultural oil: Apply carefully on the undersides of leaves, where these pests tend to hide.
- Systemic insecticides: For heavy infestations, consider systemic insecticides that work from within the plant.
Pine Spittlebugs
Known for their frothy, bubbly masses, pine spittlebugs can harm the appearance and health of pine trees by feeding on sap.
Management Methods:
- Strong water spray: Wash off the frothy spittle masses with a firm water spray.
- Insecticidal soap: Target nymphs directly for effective control.
- Pruning: Remove heavily infested branches to limit the spread.
Say Goodbye to Landscape Pests
Managing landscape pests doesn’t have to be daunting. With integrated pest management techniques, you can reduce damage while maintaining a healthy ecosystem. Keep your late June landscape thriving, and remember to address pest issues early for the best results!
If you’re dealing with these pests, implement these solutions today or contact Allison Pest Control to enjoy a healthier, more beautiful landscapes.
