Residents should expect to see an increased number of bugs in their yards this season, according to the County Entomologist, Dr. David Kellum, who will discuss what the public might find in their gardens and how to treat the pests on Tuesday, March 25 at 11 a.m. at Armstrong Garden Center at 1350 West Morena Boulevard.
“The rainy winter has caused a lot of plant growth, and that means there is more food for bugs. You can expect to see more snails, caterpillars, ants and earwigs around the yard, as well as other types of pests,” according to Dr. Kellum, County Entomologist with the Department of Agriculture, Weights and Measures.
Pests can severely damage home and commercial plants if they are not caught early. They can attack roots, stems, leaves, flowers and fruits. In addition, there are beneficial bugs, such as ladybugs, which can help reduce the pests.
The County Entomologist plays an important part in local agriculture by identifying insects for County programs, local farmers, nurseries and the public.
Residents are encouraged to submit unfamiliar insects to the entomology lab for identification. These samples often alert the County’s agriculture staff to new and potentially damaging pests in our region. For more information, call the lab at (858) 694-3897.
The public can also learn more about how to manage pests in their gardens and homes by visiting http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/awm/pest_mgt/ipm.htm. The site also has information about the County’s award-winning Integrated Pest Management Program.
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