Growing plants is a great way to help the environment and is proven to help your mental and physical health. However, common plant pests can make gardening difficult for even the most dedicated caretaker. SOS Exterminating can help find out what pests you are up against and assist you in getting rid of them.

Spider Mites

Officially members of the arachnid family, spider mites are extremely tiny. They can devastate both your outside and inside plants, and all you will likely see is the damage they cause. They love hot, dry places, so that makes them common plant pests in Arizona.

Evidence of spider mites can be the yellowing of leaves that were previously green. This happens when they suck the juicy nutrients out of the leaf, eventually causing major problems. They may also leave behind tiny webs that are visible to the human eye.

There are different types of spider mites, so you will need to make sure that you have someone experienced to treat for the many varieties that can take residence on your plants.

Mosquitoes

You probably already know that mosquitoes are a nuisance to humans. Their bites itch and they can carry diseases from one person to another. What you may not know is that plants in your yard may be bringing them to you.

Mosquitoes are drawn to areas with water, so a bit of standing water anywhere in your yard is great for them. They also want nectar from flowering plants, and this means your colorful garden may also be a home for these pests.

There are plants that actually repel mosquitoes, and it’s a good idea to sprinkle those in with the flowering plants that draw them to your yard. However, you might also need some help to make your yard as safe and as free of mosquitoes as possible. Look for companies with solutions that are safe for kids, pets, and the Earth.

Grub Worms

Anyone who has ever encountered grub worms will tell you that they are great in compost because of their ability to help break down decaying matter. Unfortunately, they are not at all beneficial to live plants in your yard that are trying to grow. Grub worms will eat the roots of plants before growing into beetles that will finish off what is left of your greenery.

Spring and fall tend to be when feeding grubs cause infestations, so those are the best times to treat your yard. You can also have maintenance applications of certain chemicals placed on your yard during other seasons to try to keep grub worms away completely.

Squash Vine Borers

If you want to grow your own squash, then you do not want squah vine borers anywhere near your yard. Though they are colorful and tend to look like very fancy moths, they can decimate squash vines easily and thoroughly.

The secret to their destruction is eggs. Once the squash vine borers lay eggs on your crop, it’s only a matter of time until they hatch and feed off of your plants. That’s why checking your plants regularly and removing any eggs you see is essential. If you don’t want to risk losing your entire plant because you didn’t see one egg, seek help from a professional early to keep your plants from getting infested.
Your yard is important to you, so contact SOS Exterminating to help you eliminate any unwanted guests before they cause permanent damage.