Description: Plants show brown blotches or stunted and distorted growth. Bug is dark to grayish-brown above and paler color underneath.
Control: Pick bugs by hand. They will hide under boards, etc., placed near the plants.
* Spray with Rotenone, Pyrethrum or Diazinon. Remove debris so bugs cannot overwinter.
* Pesticide use and recommendations for various areas are constantly changing. Check with your County agent for current recommendations.
Problem: Aphids Affected Area: Leaf and Stem
Description: Small Insects found on new stems and the underside of the leaf. Usually green. They suck fluids from the plant leaving a honey dew substance behind. Leaves turn pale yellow.
Control: Insecticidal soaps or a strong stream of water. Ladybug beetles are natural predators.
* Thiodan or Diazinon ? more than one application may be required.
A layer of aluminum foil under plants reflects light to underside of leaves and may deter aphids.
* Pesticide use and recommendations for various areas are constantly changing. Check with your County agent for current recommendations.
Problem: Powdery Mildew Affected Area: Leaf
Description: White powdery substance on leaves.
Control: Use surface or underground watering methods to avoid wetting leaves. Plant
resistant varieties. Rotate planting location from year to year.
Problem: Mosaic virus Affected Area: Leaf and Fruit
Description: Deformed (bumps) and discolored fruit and leaves.
Control: Plant resistant varieties. Control insects. Rotate location.
Avoid using pesticides as much as possible to protect the bee population. If pesticide treatment is required, apply when bees are less active ? very early in the morning, just before dawn or just after sunset in the evening. Avoid getting insecticides on
Container Gardens