Pest Control
Fall generation of allium leafminer emergence seen in Pennsylvania
Fall emergence of allium leafminer has been detected in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Allium leafminer (ALM) attacks plants in the Allium genus including onion, garlic, leek, scallions, shallots, and chives. The first signs are the linear... more »
California settles with pest control company for work performed in seven counties
The California Department of Pesticide Regulation has reached a settlement agreement with Pestmaster Services, Inc., over multiple alleged violations of pesticide laws and regulations, including the failure to obtain proper registrations and failure to submit... more »
Integrating biological controls for root-knot nematodes, weeds in organic farming
While weeds and plant parasites are a concern for all agricultural producers, organic producers are doubly challenged to combat these problems without chemical solutions. Through a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a University... more »
It’s a good time to check vegetables for root knot nematode
As this growing season winds down, and for the next few weeks, it is a good time to examine vegetable roots for root knot nematode (RKN). I would be suspicious of having RKN if my... more »
Mastronardi completes fifth EFI certification
Mastronardi Produce (sold under the SunsetĀ brand) has certified its fifth operation through Equitable Food Initiative. According to a news release, this certification marks a milestone for Mastronardi, making it one of just a handful of... more »
Pennsylvania agriculture finds another harmful pest in its midst
A few weeks back, you were alerted that the Swede midge was found on a Pennsylvania farm. We now warn you about another invasive pest, jumping worms. Jumping worms (Amynthas spp., also known as Asian... more »
Pennsylvania vegetable, berry crops impacted by weather, disease, pests
On Aug. 21, 2020, a drought watch was issued by the Department of Environmental Protection for 16 counties in Pennsylvania. These counties include McKean, Potter, Cameron, Clinton, Clearfield, Center, Butler, Armstrong, Indiana, Cameron, Blair, Huntingdon,... more »
Plant chemicals are a trick or treat for insects
Plants contain a mixture of hundreds of unique chemicals that can attract or repel pests like caterpillars. For the caterpillar, this means they can choose from a buffet of tasty plants with varying phytochemicals. Some... more »