Sunflowers attract various pests that can affect their growth. Janet Knodel from North Dakota State University Extension warns growers about three common pests to watch out for.
Red sunflower seed weevils, sunflower moths, and lygus bugs are the main pests that may target sunflowers. These insects can damage the flowers and seeds, impacting the overall yield. Growers need to monitor their sunflower fields regularly to detect and manage these pests effectively. Proper pest control strategies can help protect sunflowers from infestations and ensure a healthy harvest.
When sunflowers begin blooming, it’s a sight to behold. But many insects are attracted to the bright yellow flowers, too. Janet Knodel, North Dakota State University Extension entomologist, says growers should be on the lookout for three pests: red sunflower seed weevils, sunflower moths and lygus bugs.
What flower keeps pests away?
Certain flowers can help repel pests. Geraniums are known to deter various insects like aphids, cabbage loopers, geranium budworms (also known as tobacco budworms), and fall cankerworms. Additionally, geraniums can be protected from damage caused by the four-lined plant bug, scale, and slugs. These natural pest repellents offer a chemical-free way to maintain the health and beauty of your garden.
What pests like zinnias?
Pests that commonly affect zinnias include invertebrates like aphids, broad mites, earwigs, leafminers, spider mites, thrips, true bugs, and whiteflies. Specific types of these pests include black bean aphids, twospotted mites, composite thrips, plant bugs (like Lygus spp.), and various species of whiteflies such as greenhouse whiteflies, silverleaf whiteflies, and sweetpotato whiteflies.
Do zinnias deter pests?
Do zinnias deter pests? Zinnias alone do not significantly deter pests like mosquitoes. To reduce mosquito presence in an outdoor area, consider planting mosquito-repelling plants such as marigolds, catnip, citronella, or rosemary. However, the number of plants needed to make a noticeable difference may vary, and it’s important to note that simply having these plants may not completely prevent mosquito bites in active outdoor spaces like where children play.
Do geraniums get pests?
Geraniums do get pests. Chrysanthemums can be effective at repelling pests due to the presence of pyrethrins in their blooms, which naturally repel insects such as roaches, mosquitoes, ants, fleas, and other pests. Consider planting chrysanthemums near your geraniums to help protect them from potential pest infestations. Additionally, regular inspection and proper maintenance can also help in managing pests on geraniums.
Do geraniums attract pests?
Geraniums can attract pests like aphids, cabbage loopers, geranium budworm, and fall cankerworms. Other common pests that may harm geraniums are the four-lined plant bug, scale, and slugs. It is essential to monitor your geranium plants regularly for signs of these pests and take appropriate measures to control infestations, such as using insecticidal soap or introducing natural predators like ladybugs. Proper care and maintenance can also help prevent pest problems in geraniums.
Does lavender keep insects away?
Yes, lavender can repel flying insects such as mosquitos, moths, and flies with its strong scent. To utilize lavender for insect control, rubbing the plant on the skin to release its oils is the most effective method. Additionally, planting lavender near entry points can help deter insects from entering your home due to its strong fragrance and natural properties. Crushed lavender leaves can also be scattered around outdoor seating areas to discourage pests.
What pests eat geraniums?
What pests eat geraniums? Insects such as aphids, cabbage loopers, geranium budworm (also known as tobacco budworm), and fall cankerworms are common culprits. Additionally, the four-lined plant bug, scale, and slugs can also cause damage to geranium plants.
Are squirrels afraid of marigolds?
Squirrels are not generally afraid of marigolds. However, zinnias, which contain compounds that produce a distinct odor, are effective at repelling mosquitoes, ticks, and other pests. The oils found in zinnias can also be used to create a natural insecticide. Therefore, planting zinnias in your garden can help keep pests at bay without harming the environment.
What flower kills roaches?
Chrysanthemums are the flowers that kill roaches. They contain pyrethrins, a natural insect-repelling substance that not only repels roaches but also mosquitoes, ants, fleas, and various other pests.
What flower attracts aphids?
Aphids are attracted to grains and seeds. Rodents are drawn to various kinds of baked goods and the crunchy texture of seeds, such as flax, pumpkin, and sunflower seeds. These attract pests due to their nutritional value and accessibility, making them common targets for infestations. Proper storage and disposal of these items can help prevent pest problems in gardens and homes.
What animals don’t like lavender?
Animals that don’t like lavender include mice, mosquitos, and various pests. Lavender plants emit a strong fragrance that repels these animals, making them stay away from your yard or garden. Consider planting lavender to naturally deter these common pests and maintain a critter-free environment without the need for harmful chemicals.
Why are there ants all over my zinnias?
“Why are there ants all over my zinnias?” Ants are attracted to the sweet honeydew produced by aphids, which are common pests found on zinnias. Planting lavender can help deter ants and other pests from infesting your garden. Lavender’s strong fragrance acts as a natural repellent, making it a beneficial addition to your yard to keep unwanted critters away from your plants.
Do all bugs hate lavender?
Yes, not all bugs hate lavender. Aphids are particularly attracted to mustard and nasturtium. Planting these near more valuable plants can serve as traps to keep aphids away from them. Additionally, lavender is known to repel some insect pests due to its strong aroma, making it a beneficial plant to have in your garden to help deter certain bugs.
What animals do marigolds deter?
Marigolds deter mosquitoes and other insects with their saturated colors like purple, red, white, and yellow. When planted outdoors, marigolds remain effective year after year in repelling bugs. Additionally, marigolds can deter nematodes, slugs, and rabbits due to their strong scent and natural compounds.
Are sunflowers toxic to other flowers?
Sunflowers are not toxic to other flowers. Marigolds, with their strong odor, act as natural pest repellents due to their scent that pests find unpleasant, such as squirrels. By planting marigolds near your flowers or garden, you can help keep these pests away and protect your plants from being fed on. This natural method can be beneficial for maintaining a healthy and thriving garden.
In conclusion, while sunflowers are not immune to attracting pests, they do not necessarily attract more pests than other plants in the garden. By practicing proper maintenance, such as monitoring for pests regularly and implementing natural pest control methods, you can successfully minimize any pest issues that may arise. Remember that a diverse garden ecosystem is key to maintaining a balance between pests and beneficial insects. Ultimately, the beauty and benefits of sunflowers far outweigh the potential pest concerns, making them a worthwhile addition to any garden.