Fact Sheets

Informational literature on various topics regarding integrated pest management, beneficial insects, invasive species, vertebrate pests, arthropod pests, and plant diseases found in Utah's natural, urban, and agricultural landscapes. All fact sheets are authored and peer-reviewed by Utah State University faculty and research staff.

Visit the following sites for more fact sheets and resources on vegetables, fruit, turf, field/forages, and cut flowers in Utah.

Fact Sheet Search

Utah Pests
Research
Africanized honey bees, sometimes called “killer bees,” were detected in Utah for the first time in 2008. These bees are more aggressive and will defend the nest in greater numbers compared to domesticated honey bees in the United States; their sting is n
Africanized Honey Bee

Africanized Honey Bee

Africanized honey bees, sometimes called “killer bees,” were detected in Utah for the first time in 2008. These bees are more aggressive and will defend the nest in greater numbers compared to domesticated honey bees in the United States; their sting is n...

Utah Pests
Research
Downy mildew is an obligated parasite. Even though they look like fungi they are not. They belong to the Oomycota and are more closely related to algae than true fungi.
Alfalfa Downy Mildew

Alfalfa Downy Mildew

Downy mildew is an obligated parasite. Even though they look like fungi they are not. They belong to the Oomycota and are more closely related to algae than true fungi.

Utah Pests
Research
The alfalfa weevil is a major pest throughout Utah. It is a beetle with one generation per year. Eggs hatch in the spring, and the grub-like immature weevils (larvae) feed by chewing on the alfalfa foliage.
Alfalfa Weevil

Alfalfa Weevil

The alfalfa weevil is a major pest throughout Utah. It is a beetle with one generation per year. Eggs hatch in the spring, and the grub-like immature weevils (larvae) feed by chewing on the alfalfa foliage.

IPM
Utah Pests
Research
Codling moth, Cydia pomonella, is the key insect pest of apple, pear, and walnut throughout the world, including Utah (apple and pear). Effective management practices are based on accurate determination of the first flight of codling moths in the spring,
An Alternate Method for Setting Codling Moth Biofix

An Alternate Method for Setting Codling Moth Biofix

Codling moth, Cydia pomonella, is the key insect pest of apple, pear, and walnut throughout the world, including Utah (apple and pear). Effective management practices are based on accurate determination of the first flight of codling moths in the spring,

Utah Pests
Insects Beneficial
Research
Aphids are prey to many predatory insects, spiders, and parasitoids. Healthy predatory populations keep aphid populations low, which can reduce or eliminate the need for chemical controls.
Aphid Natural Enemies and Biological Control

Aphid Natural Enemies and Biological Control

Aphids are prey to many predatory insects, spiders, and parasitoids. Healthy predatory populations keep aphid populations low, which can reduce or eliminate the need for chemical controls.

Insects Vegetable
Research
Utah Pests
Aphids are a diverse family of insects with many species that inflict similar plant damage and can be managed using similar tactics. This fact sheet will focus on four of the most common aphids that are pests of vegetable crops in Utah.
Aphids on Vegetables

Aphids on Vegetables

Aphids are a diverse family of insects with many species that inflict similar plant damage and can be managed using similar tactics. This fact sheet will focus on four of the most common aphids that are pests of vegetable crops in Utah.

Research
Utah Pests
Tree Fruit Insects
Aphids are common, secondary pests of apples, but infestations resulting in economic loss are uncommon, except for woolly apple aphid. Aphids overwinter as eggs on tree limbs, or as nymphs on roots and/or limbs.
Apple Aphids

Apple Aphids

Aphids are common, secondary pests of apples, but infestations resulting in economic loss are uncommon, except for woolly apple aphid. Aphids overwinter as eggs on tree limbs, or as nymphs on roots and/or limbs.

Tree Fruit Insects
Research
Utah Pests
Apple maggot (Order Diptera, Family Tephritidae) is not currently a pest of commercial orchards in Utah, but it is regulated as a quarantine insect in the state. If it becomes established in commercial fruit production areas, its presence can inflict sub
Apple Maggot

Apple Maggot

Apple maggot (Order Diptera, Family Tephritidae) is not currently a pest of commercial orchards in Utah, but it is regulated as a quarantine insect in the state. If it becomes established in commercial fruit production areas, its presence can inflict sub

Research
Utah Pests
Tree Fruit Insects
There are few experiences that equal biting into a crisp, flavorful apple; few worse than finding half a worm in the remaining portion. Worms infesting apples and pears are immature larvae of codling moth.
Apple and Pear Insect Control For Homeowners (Codling Moth)

Apple and Pear Insect Control For Homeowners (Codling Moth)

There are few experiences that equal biting into a crisp, flavorful apple; few worse than finding half a worm in the remaining portion. Worms infesting apples and pears are immature larvae of codling moth.

Research
Utah Pests
Armyworms and cutworms are immature moths that feed on turfgrass leaves and stems. These caterpillars chew off young plants just above the ground and can be highly destructive.
Armyworm and Cutworms in Turf

Armyworm and Cutworms in Turf

Armyworms and cutworms are immature moths that feed on turfgrass leaves and stems. These caterpillars chew off young plants just above the ground and can be highly destructive.

Research
Invasive Insects
Utah Pests
[Update 8/2022: Northern giant hornet is the new common name for this pest.] Asian giant hornet is an invasive wasp that was detected in northwest Washington and British Columbia, Canada in fall 2019 and spring 2020; however, it is not known to be establi
Asian Giant Hornet (a.k.a. Northern Giant Hornet)

Asian Giant Hornet (a.k.a. Northern Giant Hornet)

[Update 8/2022: Northern giant hornet is the new common name for this pest.] Asian giant hornet is an invasive wasp that was detected in northwest Washington and British Columbia, Canada in fall 2019 and spring 2020; however, it is not known to be establi...

Invasive Insects
Utah Pests
Research
Asian longhorned beetle is an invasive wood-boring pest that threatens maple and other hardwood tree species, fall-foliage tourism, and maple syrup production in North America.
Asian Longhorned Beetle

Asian Longhorned Beetle

Asian longhorned beetle is an invasive wood-boring pest that threatens maple and other hardwood tree species, fall-foliage tourism, and maple syrup production in North America.

Utah Pests
Research
Insects Vegetable
Asparagus beetle and spotted asparagus beetle are leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae. These beetles feed exclusively on asparagus and are native to Europe. Asparagus beetle is the more economically injurious of the two species.
Asparagus Beetle

Asparagus Beetle

Asparagus beetle and spotted asparagus beetle are leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae. These beetles feed exclusively on asparagus and are native to Europe. Asparagus beetle is the more economically injurious of the two species.

Research
Invasive Insects
Utah Pests
A fact sheet detailing the brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB, Halyomorpha halys Stål), a recent invasive insect to North America from eastern Asia. In the last decade, it has become a severe urban nuisance and agricultural pest in the mid-Atlantic and nort
BMSB Management for Fruits and Vegetables

BMSB Management for Fruits and Vegetables

A fact sheet detailing the brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB, Halyomorpha halys Stål), a recent invasive insect to North America from eastern Asia. In the last decade, it has become a severe urban nuisance and agricultural pest in the mid-Atlantic and nort...

Research
Invasive Insects
Utah Pests
Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Invasive balsam woolly adelgid is a tiny sucking insect that was introduced to North America from Europe. In the U.S., it is a serious pest of true firs in forests, landscapes, and in seed and Christmas tree production.
Balsam Woolly Adelgid

Balsam Woolly Adelgid

Invasive balsam woolly adelgid is a tiny sucking insect that was introduced to North America from Europe. In the U.S., it is a serious pest of true firs in forests, landscapes, and in seed and Christmas tree production.

Utah Pests
Research
Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Bark beetles are one of the most destructive forest pests in the world. They are different than the larger longhorned and roundheaded/metallic woodboring beetles commonly infesting the inner wood of trees.
Bark Beetles

Bark Beetles

Bark beetles are one of the most destructive forest pests in the world. They are different than the larger longhorned and roundheaded/metallic woodboring beetles commonly infesting the inner wood of trees.

Utah Pests
Research
Utah is home to 18 species of bats All 18 can be found in southern Utah, while 6 species are found northern Utah, predominantly in the mountainous habitats.
Bats

Bats

Utah is home to 18 species of bats All 18 can be found in southern Utah, while 6 species are found northern Utah, predominantly in the mountainous habitats.

Research
Utah Pests
Bed bugs are one of the most difficult indoor pests to eradicate; hiring a pest control company is highly recommended. Bed bug control is intensive, and two or more visits from your pest control company are likely necessary to achieve control.
Bed Bugs: For Homeowners

Bed Bugs: For Homeowners

Bed bugs are one of the most difficult indoor pests to eradicate; hiring a pest control company is highly recommended. Bed bug control is intensive, and two or more visits from your pest control company are likely necessary to achieve control.

Research
Utah Pests
Bed bugs are one of the most difficult indoor pests to eradicate; standard insect control tactics will not eliminate an infestation. Bed bug control is intensive, and a minimum of two visits 10 to 14 days apart is mandatory.
Bed Bugs: For Pest Control Operators

Bed Bugs: For Pest Control Operators

Bed bugs are one of the most difficult indoor pests to eradicate; standard insect control tactics will not eliminate an infestation. Bed bug control is intensive, and a minimum of two visits 10 to 14 days apart is mandatory.

Research
Utah Pests
Insects Beneficial
Utah native bees
A beginner's guide to help identify common native bees in Utah, including social and solitary bees. The exotic western honey bee and bee "mimics" are also included, as well as information on human impacts on bees and what you can do to promote bee health.
Beginner's Guide to Common Native Bees

Beginner's Guide to Common Native Bees

A beginner's guide to help identify common native bees in Utah, including social and solitary bees. The exotic western honey bee and bee "mimics" are also included, as well as information on human impacts on bees and what you can do to promote bee health....

Research
Utah Pests
Beneficial Insects
Research
Utah Pests
Insects Beneficial
Big-eyed bugs are generalist predators that consume a wide variety of small prey including insect eggs, mites, aphids, and small caterpillars. These beneficial bugs can be found in landscapes, gardens, and many vegetable and field crops.
Beneficial Insects: Big-Eyed Bugs

Beneficial Insects: Big-Eyed Bugs

Big-eyed bugs are generalist predators that consume a wide variety of small prey including insect eggs, mites, aphids, and small caterpillars. These beneficial bugs can be found in landscapes, gardens, and many vegetable and field crops.

Utah Pests
Insects Beneficial
Research
Damsel bugs are generalist predators that consume a wide variety of prey including insect eggs, caterpillars, mites, and aphids. These beneficial bugs can be found in landscapes, gardens, and many field crops.
Beneficial Insects: Damsel Bugs

Beneficial Insects: Damsel Bugs

Damsel bugs are generalist predators that consume a wide variety of prey including insect eggs, caterpillars, mites, and aphids. These beneficial bugs can be found in landscapes, gardens, and many field crops.

Utah Pests
Research
Insects Beneficial
Mantids refer to an entire predatory group of insects in the order Mantodea. The term “mantis” or “praying mantis” actually refers to a particular genus of mantids. Therefore, only some mantids belong to the genus Mantis. There are about 2,000 species of
Beneficial Insects: Mantids

Beneficial Insects: Mantids

Mantids refer to an entire predatory group of insects in the order Mantodea. The term “mantis” or “praying mantis” actually refers to a particular genus of mantids. Therefore, only some mantids belong to the genus Mantis. There are about 2,000 species of

Research
Insects Beneficial
Utah Pests
Mantids are predatory insects common in gardens and flower beds. Buying mantid egg cases can provide some pest control, but often nymphs and adults are cannibalistic and indiscriminate carnivores.
Beneficial Insects: Mantids

Beneficial Insects: Mantids

Mantids are predatory insects common in gardens and flower beds. Buying mantid egg cases can provide some pest control, but often nymphs and adults are cannibalistic and indiscriminate carnivores.

Insects Beneficial
Research
Utah Pests
Minute pirate bugs are generalist predators of spider mites, aphids, thrips, psyllids, white flies, insect eggs, and small caterpillars.
Beneficial Insects: Minute Pirate Bugs

Beneficial Insects: Minute Pirate Bugs

Minute pirate bugs are generalist predators of spider mites, aphids, thrips, psyllids, white flies, insect eggs, and small caterpillars.

Research
Utah Pests
Insects Beneficial
Syrphid are beneficial predators of small soft-bodied pests like aphids, thrips, and scale insects. Adults may feed on pollen and nectar, pollinating plants in the process.
Beneficial Insects: Syrphid Flies

Beneficial Insects: Syrphid Flies

Syrphid are beneficial predators of small soft-bodied pests like aphids, thrips, and scale insects. Adults may feed on pollen and nectar, pollinating plants in the process.

Insects Beneficial
Research
Utah Pests
True bugs have piercing-sucking mouthparts and belong to the order Hemiptera and suborder Heteroptera. There are more than 38,000 species of true bugs, and are most closely related to aphids, cicadas, and leaf hoppers. Although some true bugs are con
Beneficial Insects: True Bugs

Beneficial Insects: True Bugs

True bugs have piercing-sucking mouthparts and belong to the order Hemiptera and suborder Heteroptera. There are more than 38,000 species of true bugs, and are most closely related to aphids, cicadas, and leaf hoppers. Although some true bugs are con

Utah Pests
Insects Beneficial
Research
True bugs are fluid feeding insects that suck out juices from plants and animals. Nymphs and adults feed on the same prey, especially soft-bodied insects like aphids and caterpillars.
Beneficial Insects: True Bugs

Beneficial Insects: True Bugs

True bugs are fluid feeding insects that suck out juices from plants and animals. Nymphs and adults feed on the same prey, especially soft-bodied insects like aphids and caterpillars.

Utah Pests
Insects Beneficial
Research
Predatory mites feed on all life stages of many small arthropods and target pest spider mites. Most predatory mite species do best in humid conditions and controlled environments such as greenhouses and high tunnels.
Beneficial Predatory Mites

Beneficial Predatory Mites

Predatory mites feed on all life stages of many small arthropods and target pest spider mites. Most predatory mite species do best in humid conditions and controlled environments such as greenhouses and high tunnels.

Utah Pests
Disease Vegetable
Research
Big Bud is caused by Phytoplasma species. Phytoplasmas are a unique type of small bacteria that do not have a cell wall. Phytoplasmas are transmitted from one plant to another by phloem-feeding insects such as leafhoppers and psyllids
Big Bud in Tomatoes and Peppers

Big Bud in Tomatoes and Peppers

Big Bud is caused by Phytoplasma species. Phytoplasmas are a unique type of small bacteria that do not have a cell wall. Phytoplasmas are transmitted from one plant to another by phloem-feeding insects such as leafhoppers and psyllids

Research
Turfgrass Insects
Utah Pests
Billbugs are weevils, a type of beetle, in the genus Sphenophorus. At least 10 billbug species are known pests of turfgrass and can be found in both warm and cool season turfgrasses throughout the United States.
Billbugs in Turfgrass

Billbugs in Turfgrass

Billbugs are weevils, a type of beetle, in the genus Sphenophorus. At least 10 billbug species are known pests of turfgrass and can be found in both warm and cool season turfgrasses throughout the United States.

Utah Pests
Research
Biting, Stinging, and Health-Related Insects
Research
Utah Pests
Black grass bugs are native to western North America. Monoculture reseeding of rangelands may contribute to outbreaks and severe plant damage. Black grass bug control with insecticides is often not practical to apply or economically feasible.
Black Grass Bugs

Black Grass Bugs

Black grass bugs are native to western North America. Monoculture reseeding of rangelands may contribute to outbreaks and severe plant damage. Black grass bug control with insecticides is often not practical to apply or economically feasible.

Insects Turf
Insect Forage & Field
Research
Utah Pests
Black grass bugs will feed on a variety of range grasses (e.g. wheatgrass, brome grass, orchardgrass, bluegrass) and field crops (e.g. barley, wheat, rye, oats). Great Basin wildrye and wheatgrasses are preferred if available, especially blue bunch wh
Black Grass Bugs

Black Grass Bugs

Black grass bugs will feed on a variety of range grasses (e.g. wheatgrass, brome grass, orchardgrass, bluegrass) and field crops (e.g. barley, wheat, rye, oats). Great Basin wildrye and wheatgrasses are preferred if available, especially blue bunch wh

Utah Pests
Insects Beneficial
Research
Blue orchard bees are solitary (do not live in a hive) and nest in pre-existing cavities. Blue orchard bees prefer fruit trees from the family Rosaceae, including apple, cherry, and peach. 
Blue Orchard Bee

Blue Orchard Bee

Blue orchard bees are solitary (do not live in a hive) and nest in pre-existing cavities. Blue orchard bees prefer fruit trees from the family Rosaceae, including apple, cherry, and peach. 

Utah Pests
Research
Insects Beneficial
The blue orchard bee (Osmia lignaria) is native to North America and is a highly efficient pollinator of orchards (Bosch and Kemp 2001; Peterson and Artz 2014). These bees reliably visit rosaceous orchard and caneberry flowers, especially in western U. S.
Blue Orchard Bee (Osmia lignaria): Commercial Pollinator for Orchards | USU

Blue Orchard Bee (Osmia lignaria): Commercial Pollinator for Orchards

The blue orchard bee (Osmia lignaria) is native to North America and is a highly efficient pollinator of orchards (Bosch and Kemp 2001; Peterson and Artz 2014). These bees reliably visit rosaceous orchard and caneberry flowers, especially in western U. S....

Research
Utah Pests
Although some species resemble lice, booklice and their relatives are not true lice. They feed on mold and other fungi, which are sometimes present in books. Eliminating sources of mold will help control booklice. Mold growth can be discouraged by decreas
Booklice and Their Relatives

Booklice and Their Relatives

Although some species resemble lice, booklice and their relatives are not true lice. They feed on mold and other fungi, which are sometimes present in books. Eliminating sources of mold will help control booklice. Mold growth can be discouraged by decreas...

Disease Vegetable
Utah Pests
Research
Botrytis neck rot is caused by Botrytis acclada and B. allii. The fungi are specific to members in the Alliaceae (onion and garlic) and can be found in all onion-producing regions around the world.
Botrytis Neck Rot of Onion

Botrytis Neck Rot of Onion

Botrytis neck rot is caused by Botrytis acclada and B. allii. The fungi are specific to members in the Alliaceae (onion and garlic) and can be found in all onion-producing regions around the world.

Research
Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Utah Pests
Boxelder bugs are a common nuisance insect to many homeowners. Although boxelder bugs are active throughout the summer, many people don’t notice them until they start “sunning” themselves on structures, particularly the southern-facing walls.
Boxelder Bug

Boxelder Bug

Boxelder bugs are a common nuisance insect to many homeowners. Although boxelder bugs are active throughout the summer, many people don’t notice them until they start “sunning” themselves on structures, particularly the southern-facing walls.

Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Utah Pests
Research
The boxelder leafroller is a pest of boxelder and other trees and shrubs in parts of the United States and Canada and is commonly found in Utah. Boxelder is the primary host, but damage can also occur on raspberry, birch, elderberry, white elm, and va
Boxelder Leafroller

Boxelder Leafroller

The boxelder leafroller is a pest of boxelder and other trees and shrubs in parts of the United States and Canada and is commonly found in Utah. Boxelder is the primary host, but damage can also occur on raspberry, birch, elderberry, white elm, and va

Research
Utah Pests
Invasive Insects
BMSB was first detected in Utah in 2012; it is now established in four counties (Weber, Davis, Salt Lake, and Utah) and has been detected in two other counties (Cache and Box Elder). As an aggressive generalist herbivore, BMSB infests a broad range of pla
Brown Marmorated Stink Bug

Brown Marmorated Stink Bug

BMSB was first detected in Utah in 2012; it is now established in four counties (Weber, Davis, Salt Lake, and Utah) and has been detected in two other counties (Cache and Box Elder). As an aggressive generalist herbivore, BMSB infests a broad range of pla...

Research
Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Utah Pests
Bumble flower beetles are common throughout the growing season on flowers, oozing sap, and other sweet, overripe, or fermenting matter. Bumble flower beetles seldom warrant the use of chemicals for control. Control methods include removing organic materia
Bumble Flower Beetle

Bumble Flower Beetle

Bumble flower beetles are common throughout the growing season on flowers, oozing sap, and other sweet, overripe, or fermenting matter. Bumble flower beetles seldom warrant the use of chemicals for control. Control methods include removing organic materia...

Utah Pests
Research
Tree Fruit Insects
The campylomma bug (or mullein plant bug; Hemiptera: Miridae) causes sporadic damage in Utah apple orchards. Damage is inflicted by nymphs, which feed on developing fruit causing dimpling and fruit distortion. As apple fruits mature, they become less susc
Campylomma Bug

Campylomma Bug

The campylomma bug (or mullein plant bug; Hemiptera: Miridae) causes sporadic damage in Utah apple orchards. Damage is inflicted by nymphs, which feed on developing fruit causing dimpling and fruit distortion. As apple fruits mature, they become less susc...

Research
Utah Pests
Tree Fruit Insects
Campylomma Bug Sampling Form
Utah Pests
Research
Disease Vegetable
The bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum infects pepper plants. Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum is found in all states west of the Rocky Mountains, Kansas, and Texas. The disease was first reported in the United States in 2004. Yield losses
Candidatus Liberibacter of Pepper

Candidatus Liberibacter of Pepper

The bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum infects pepper plants. Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum is found in all states west of the Rocky Mountains, Kansas, and Texas. The disease was first reported in the United States in 2004. Yield losses...

Utah Pests
Research
Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Cankerworms, also known as inchworms, are in the order Lepidoptera and family Geometridae. Geometrid moth adults have slender bodies and relatively large, broad forewings. Both fall and spring cankerworms occur in Utah, with the fall cankerworm being most
Cankerworms

Cankerworms

Cankerworms, also known as inchworms, are in the order Lepidoptera and family Geometridae. Geometrid moth adults have slender bodies and relatively large, broad forewings. Both fall and spring cankerworms occur in Utah, with the fall cankerworm being most...

Research
Tree Fruit Insects
Utah Pests
Cankerworms, also known as inchworms, are in the order Lepidoptera and family Geometridae. Geometrid moth adults have slender bodies and relatively large, broad forewings. Both fall, Alsophila pometaria, and spring, Paleacrita vernata, cankerworms oc
Cankerworms

Cankerworms

Cankerworms, also known as inchworms, are in the order Lepidoptera and family Geometridae. Geometrid moth adults have slender bodies and relatively large, broad forewings. Both fall, Alsophila pometaria, and spring, Paleacrita vernata, cankerworms oc

Research
Utah Pests
Carpenter ants do not eat wood as termites do, but chew through it to construct pathways and nests leaving behind a sawdust-like substance called frass. Carpenter ants can have two or more different sizes of workers, and one to many queens within a colony
Carpenter Ants

Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants do not eat wood as termites do, but chew through it to construct pathways and nests leaving behind a sawdust-like substance called frass. Carpenter ants can have two or more different sizes of workers, and one to many queens within a colony...

Utah Pests
Research
Carpenter ants include species that are among the largest ants found in the United States. They are social insects with a complex and well-defined caste system. The worker ants are sterile females and may occur in different sizes (majors and minors).
Carpenter Ants and Control in Homes

Carpenter Ants and Control in Homes

Carpenter ants include species that are among the largest ants found in the United States. They are social insects with a complex and well-defined caste system. The worker ants are sterile females and may occur in different sizes (majors and minors).

Research
Utah Pests
Carpenter bees cause damage to structural timbers and other wood products such as fence posts, utility poles, firewood, arbors, and lawn furniture. They avoid wood that is painted or covered with bark.
Carpenter Bees

Carpenter Bees

Carpenter bees cause damage to structural timbers and other wood products such as fence posts, utility poles, firewood, arbors, and lawn furniture. They avoid wood that is painted or covered with bark.

Research
Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Utah Pests
The larval stage of the carpenterworm, Prionoxystus robiniae is a wood-boring insect that affects various ornamental trees. Unlike most other wood-boring pests of ornamentals, which are mostly beetle larvae, the carpenterworm is a caterpillar belonging to
Carpenterworm

Carpenterworm

The larval stage of the carpenterworm, Prionoxystus robiniae is a wood-boring insect that affects various ornamental trees. Unlike most other wood-boring pests of ornamentals, which are mostly beetle larvae, the carpenterworm is a caterpillar belonging to...

Utah Pests
Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Research
The larval stage of the carpenterworm, Prionoxystus robiniae is a wood-boring insect that affects various ornamental trees. Unlike most other wood-boring pests of ornamentals, which are mostly beetle larvae, the carpenterworm is a caterpillar belonging to
Carpenterworm

Carpenterworm

The larval stage of the carpenterworm, Prionoxystus robiniae is a wood-boring insect that affects various ornamental trees. Unlike most other wood-boring pests of ornamentals, which are mostly beetle larvae, the carpenterworm is a caterpillar belonging to...

Utah Pests
Research
Tree Fruit Insects
There are a number of insects with the piercing-sucking feeding habit that can cause deformity and cat-facing type injury to pome and stone fruits, including lygus bug, stink bug, and boxelder bug. Cat-facing injury is caused by puncture feeding in flowe
Cat-facing Insects

Cat-facing Insects

There are a number of insects with the piercing-sucking feeding habit that can cause deformity and cat-facing type injury to pome and stone fruits, including lygus bug, stink bug, and boxelder bug. Cat-facing injury is caused by puncture feeding in flowe

Utah Pests
Research
Insects Vegetable
In Utah, there are three main caterpillar pests of cabbage and mustard family plants: imported cabbageworm, cabbage looper, and diamondback moth. The injury they cause is similar.
Caterpillar Pests of Brassica Vegetables

Caterpillar Pests of Brassica Vegetables

In Utah, there are three main caterpillar pests of cabbage and mustard family plants: imported cabbageworm, cabbage looper, and diamondback moth. The injury they cause is similar.

Utah Pests
Research
Insect Biting
Insects Beneficial
Centipedes are long, slender arthropods in the class Chilopoda. Centipede means “hundred feet” because they appear to have many legs. Insects, millipedes and arachnids are close relatives. Centipedes should be considered beneficial because they are exclus
Centipedes

Centipedes

Centipedes are long, slender arthropods in the class Chilopoda. Centipede means “hundred feet” because they appear to have many legs. Insects, millipedes and arachnids are close relatives. Centipedes should be considered beneficial because they are exclus...

Utah Pests
Research
Centipedes are predatory relatives of the insects, and are considered beneficial. Occasionally, centipedes enter homes and become a nuisance, but management options are available.
Centipedes

Centipedes

Centipedes are predatory relatives of the insects, and are considered beneficial. Occasionally, centipedes enter homes and become a nuisance, but management options are available.

Research
Utah Pests
Cereal leaf beetle is a serious insect pest of small grains throughout much of the United States. This insect is of regulatory concern to Utah; the presence of cereal leaf beetle in grain can restrict exporting to other counties and states.
Cereal Leaf Beetle

Cereal Leaf Beetle

Cereal leaf beetle is a serious insect pest of small grains throughout much of the United States. This insect is of regulatory concern to Utah; the presence of cereal leaf beetle in grain can restrict exporting to other counties and states.

Utah Pests
Research
Turfgrass Insects
Chinch bugs are “true bugs”. In Utah, the common chinch bug [Blissus leucopterus leucopterus (Say)], and western chinch bug (Blissus occiduus) may feed on turfgrass, especially under conditions of severe heat and drought.
Chinch Bugs

Chinch Bugs

Chinch bugs are “true bugs”. In Utah, the common chinch bug [Blissus leucopterus leucopterus (Say)], and western chinch bug (Blissus occiduus) may feed on turfgrass, especially under conditions of severe heat and drought.

Research
Insect Nuisance
Utah Pests
Clothes moths belong to a large group of small moths in the family Tineidae. There are two species of clothes moths that are of considerable economic importance. The webbing and the casemaking clothes moths are worldwide in distribution. The larvae of clo
Clothes Moths

Clothes Moths

Clothes moths belong to a large group of small moths in the family Tineidae. There are two species of clothes moths that are of considerable economic importance. The webbing and the casemaking clothes moths are worldwide in distribution. The larvae of clo...

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Utah Pests
Clover mites are not insects but are more closely related to chiggers, ticks, and spiders. They belong to the spider mite family Tetranychidae. These mites are found throughout the world on trees, shrubs, flowers, grasses, and agricultural crops.
Clover Mites

Clover Mites

Clover mites are not insects but are more closely related to chiggers, ticks, and spiders. They belong to the spider mite family Tetranychidae. These mites are found throughout the world on trees, shrubs, flowers, grasses, and agricultural crops.

Utah Pests
Research
The clover root curculio is an important agricultural pest in forage crops. Adult beetles feed on foliage while the more damaging larval stage feeds on roots. Heavy larval feeding has been associated with reduced stand establishment, disruption of nutrien
Clover Root Curculio

Clover Root Curculio

The clover root curculio is an important agricultural pest in forage crops. Adult beetles feed on foliage while the more damaging larval stage feeds on roots. Heavy larval feeding has been associated with reduced stand establishment, disruption of nutrien...

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Utah Pests
There are 4 species of cockroaches that commonly infest structures in Utah. The cockroach species infesting your home or apartment will determine your control strategy.
Cockroaches

Cockroaches

There are 4 species of cockroaches that commonly infest structures in Utah. The cockroach species infesting your home or apartment will determine your control strategy.

Tree Fruit Insects
Research
Utah Pests
Codling moth (Cydia pomonella; Order Lepidoptera, Family Tortricidae) is the most serious pest of apple and pear worldwide. In most of Utah, fruit must be protected season-long to harvest a quality crop. Insecticides are the main control tactic, with both
Codling Moth

Codling Moth

Codling moth (Cydia pomonella; Order Lepidoptera, Family Tortricidae) is the most serious pest of apple and pear worldwide. In most of Utah, fruit must be protected season-long to harvest a quality crop. Insecticides are the main control tactic, with both...

Utah Pests
Research
IPM
Mating disruption as a method to manage orchard pests became commercially available in the early 1990s, and was adopted by many Utah growers about a decade later. Use of this pest management technology c
Codling Moth Mating Disruption

Codling Moth Mating Disruption

Mating disruption as a method to manage orchard pests became commercially available in the early 1990s, and was adopted by many Utah growers about a decade later. Use of this pest management technology c

Utah Pests
Research
Insects Fruit
Codling Moth Sampling Form
Utah Pests
Research
The common crane fly is a newly detected turf pest in Utah that was found in golf course greens. A few species of crane fly have larval stages that feed on turfgrass.
Common Crane Fly in Turf

Common Crane Fly in Turf

The common crane fly is a newly detected turf pest in Utah that was found in golf course greens. A few species of crane fly have larval stages that feed on turfgrass.

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Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Utah Pests
This fact sheet provides descriptions and images of stink bugs, including the adult and immature stages, that are commonly encountered in gardens and farms in Utah.
Common Stink Bugs of Utah

Common Stink Bugs of Utah

This fact sheet provides descriptions and images of stink bugs, including the adult and immature stages, that are commonly encountered in gardens and farms in Utah.

IPM
Utah Pests
Research
While grasshoppers are still nymphs, is the best time for communities or neighborhoods to work together to suppress grasshopper populations. Treating as wide an area as possible is the key to success
Community Wide Grasshopper Control

Community Wide Grasshopper Control

While grasshoppers are still nymphs, is the best time for communities or neighborhoods to work together to suppress grasshopper populations. Treating as wide an area as possible is the key to success

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IPM
Utah Pests
Springtime, while grasshoppers are still nymphs, is the best time for communities or neighborhoods to work together to suppress grasshopper populations. Treating as wide an area as possible is the key to success. When grasshoppers become adults, they
Community-Wide Grasshopper Control

Community-Wide Grasshopper Control

Springtime, while grasshoppers are still nymphs, is the best time for communities or neighborhoods to work together to suppress grasshopper populations. Treating as wide an area as possible is the key to success. When grasshoppers become adults, they

Insects Vegetable
Research
Utah Pests
Slugs and snails are rated by many gardeners as the worst garden pests. Considering their competition, this is a dubious honor. These pests are not insects but are mollusks that are more closely related to shellfish, such as mussels and clams.
Controlling Slugs and Snails in Utah

Controlling Slugs and Snails in Utah

Slugs and snails are rated by many gardeners as the worst garden pests. Considering their competition, this is a dubious honor. These pests are not insects but are mollusks that are more closely related to shellfish, such as mussels and clams.

Insects Vegetable
Utah Pests
Research
Corn earworm (CEW) is the most destructive insect pest of sweet corn in Utah. CEW will also attack field corn, and pepper, and tomato fruits. The adult is a tan-brown moth that is most active at dusk; moths can be carried on wind currents and may travel u
Corn Earworm

Corn Earworm

Corn earworm (CEW) is the most destructive insect pest of sweet corn in Utah. CEW will also attack field corn, and pepper, and tomato fruits. The adult is a tan-brown moth that is most active at dusk; moths can be carried on wind currents and may travel u...

Utah Pests
Research
Disease Vegetable
Corn smut is a fungal disease that causes swellings (galls) on ears, leaves, stalks, and tassels of sweet and field corn. Smut is rarely observed in Utah and is not considered economically important for grain production.
Corn Smut

Corn Smut

Corn smut is a fungal disease that causes swellings (galls) on ears, leaves, stalks, and tassels of sweet and field corn. Smut is rarely observed in Utah and is not considered economically important for grain production.

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Utah Pests
Disease Landscape Ornamentals
Coryneum blight, also called shothole blight, is a fungal disease of stone fruit trees including peach, nectarine, apricot, cherry, and almond (ornamental as well as nut-bearing); however, the most commonly affected are apricot, peach, and nectarine.
Coryneum Blight or Shothole

Coryneum Blight or Shothole

Coryneum blight, also called shothole blight, is a fungal disease of stone fruit trees including peach, nectarine, apricot, cherry, and almond (ornamental as well as nut-bearing); however, the most commonly affected are apricot, peach, and nectarine.

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Disease Fruit
Utah Pests
Coryneum blight, also called shothole blight, is a fungal disease of stone fruit trees including peach, nectarine, apricot, cherry, and almond (ornamental as well as nut bearing); however, the most commonly affected are apricot, peach, and nectarine.
Coryneum or Shothole Blight

Coryneum or Shothole Blight

Coryneum blight, also called shothole blight, is a fungal disease of stone fruit trees including peach, nectarine, apricot, cherry, and almond (ornamental as well as nut bearing); however, the most commonly affected are apricot, peach, and nectarine.

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Utah Pests
Cranberry girdler is also known as the subterranean webworm. As the name implies, this webworm is more commonly found in turfgrass crowns and roots than above ground.
Cranberry Girdler

Cranberry Girdler

Cranberry girdler is also known as the subterranean webworm. As the name implies, this webworm is more commonly found in turfgrass crowns and roots than above ground.

Insects Landscape Ornamentals
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Utah Pests
Crickets will eat almost anything, including fabrics, other insects (dead or alive), food products, and furs. Occasionally crickets may enter the home or chirp near the home, and become a nuisance. Regular sanitation around the exterior of the home will d
Crickets

Crickets

Crickets will eat almost anything, including fabrics, other insects (dead or alive), food products, and furs. Occasionally crickets may enter the home or chirp near the home, and become a nuisance. Regular sanitation around the exterior of the home will d...

Utah Pests
Research
Insects Vegetable
Cucumber beetles are pests of cucurbits throughout the U.S. Western species of cucumber beetles will also feed on leaves of other vegetables.
Cucumber Beetles

Cucumber Beetles

Cucumber beetles are pests of cucurbits throughout the U.S. Western species of cucumber beetles will also feed on leaves of other vegetables.

Utah Pests
Disease Vegetable
Research
Beet Curly Top Virus (BCTV) is taxonomically a Curtovirus in the Geminiviridae family of plant pathogenic viruses. It is vectored, or carried, by the beet leafhopper (BLH) insect. BCTV causes curly top of tomato, a comon disease in Utah and the western U.
Curley Top of Tomato

Curley Top of Tomato

Beet Curly Top Virus (BCTV) is taxonomically a Curtovirus in the Geminiviridae family of plant pathogenic viruses. It is vectored, or carried, by the beet leafhopper (BLH) insect. BCTV causes curly top of tomato, a comon disease in Utah and the western U....

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Disease Cut Flowers
Utah Pests
Dahlia Mosaic Virus (DMV) is one of the most prevalent viruses impacting dahlias There are a variety of symptoms that range from mosaic patterns on leaves to chlorosis and stunting.
Dahlia Mosaic Virus

Dahlia Mosaic Virus

Dahlia Mosaic Virus (DMV) is one of the most prevalent viruses impacting dahlias There are a variety of symptoms that range from mosaic patterns on leaves to chlorosis and stunting.

Disease Vegetable
Utah Pests
Research
Damping-off is caused by several soilborne fungi including Pythium, Rhizoctonia, Fusarium and Phytophthora species. The fungi kill seedlings that are just germinating and seedlings that have been growing for several days.
Damping-off

Damping-off

Damping-off is caused by several soilborne fungi including Pythium, Rhizoctonia, Fusarium and Phytophthora species. The fungi kill seedlings that are just germinating and seedlings that have been growing for several days.

Utah Pests
Insect Nuisance
Research
Dermestid beetle larvae are considered scavengers that feed on dead tissue; however, they will feed on wool and dry food supplies such as flour and pasta.
Dermestid Beetles

Dermestid Beetles

Dermestid beetle larvae are considered scavengers that feed on dead tissue; however, they will feed on wool and dry food supplies such as flour and pasta.

Disease Landscape Ornamentals
Utah Pests
Research
Dothistroma needle blight is a fungal disease that occurs on a variety of coniferous trees. It is also known as “red band disease” in the western United States because of the distinct red banding symptoms that are produced.
Dothistroma Needle Blight

Dothistroma Needle Blight

Dothistroma needle blight is a fungal disease that occurs on a variety of coniferous trees. It is also known as “red band disease” in the western United States because of the distinct red banding symptoms that are produced.

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Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Utah Pests
Two major bark beetle species attack elm trees in Utah; both can transmit Dutch Elm Disease (DED) , leading to tree death, decline, or chronic stress. Preventive treatments such as foliar insecticide applications, severing root graphs between trees, injec
Elm Bark Beetles and Dutch Elm Disease

Elm Bark Beetles and Dutch Elm Disease

Two major bark beetle species attack elm trees in Utah; both can transmit Dutch Elm Disease (DED) , leading to tree death, decline, or chronic stress. Preventive treatments such as foliar insecticide applications, severing root graphs between trees, injec...

Invasive Insects
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Insect Nuisance
Utah Pests
First detected in 2014 in Utah, elm seed bug is now widely distributed along the Wasatch Front and Cache Valley, and has been reported west to Duchesne County, east to Tooele County, and south to Grand County. Elm seed bug activity peaks in mid-summer whe
Elm Seed Bug

Elm Seed Bug

First detected in 2014 in Utah, elm seed bug is now widely distributed along the Wasatch Front and Cache Valley, and has been reported west to Duchesne County, east to Tooele County, and south to Grand County. Elm seed bug activity peaks in mid-summer whe...

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Utah Pests
Invasive Insects
Emerald ash borer (EAB) (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) is an invasive woodboring beetle that has caused the decline and mortality of tens of millions of ash trees (Fraxinus spp.) in the U.S. It is considered the most destructive forest pest to ever invade Nort
Emerald Ash Borer

Emerald Ash Borer

Emerald ash borer (EAB) (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) is an invasive woodboring beetle that has caused the decline and mortality of tens of millions of ash trees (Fraxinus spp.) in the U.S. It is considered the most destructive forest pest to ever invade Nort...

Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Utah Pests
Research
Eriophyid mites are translucent, cigar-shaped microscopic mites that cause deformities on many plants species. These mites are noticed when their feeding causes abnormalities of plant tissues such as erineum, galls, brooms, leaf curling, blisters, rusts,
Eriophyid Mites

Eriophyid Mites

Eriophyid mites are translucent, cigar-shaped microscopic mites that cause deformities on many plants species. These mites are noticed when their feeding causes abnormalities of plant tissues such as erineum, galls, brooms, leaf curling, blisters, rusts,

Tree Fruit Insects
Small Fruit Insects
Utah Pests
Research
Invasive Insects
European Cherry Fruit Fly (ECFF) is a new invasive cherry-infesting pest that is not known to occur in Utah. Host plants include cherry and honeysuckle. Heavy infestations in Europe have resulted in 100% fruit loss. Since adults fly only short distances,
European Cherry Fruit Fly

European Cherry Fruit Fly

European Cherry Fruit Fly (ECFF) is a new invasive cherry-infesting pest that is not known to occur in Utah. Host plants include cherry and honeysuckle. Heavy infestations in Europe have resulted in 100% fruit loss. Since adults fly only short distances,

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Insects Vegetable
Utah Pests
The European earwig is an omnivore; it feeds on detritus, fungi, plants, and insects. Earwigs can injure the buds, leaves, flowers, and fruits of a broad range of plants, including fruits, vegetables, and ornamentals; they can be a nuisance pest by enteri
European Earwig

European Earwig

The European earwig is an omnivore; it feeds on detritus, fungi, plants, and insects. Earwigs can injure the buds, leaves, flowers, and fruits of a broad range of plants, including fruits, vegetables, and ornamentals; they can be a nuisance pest by enteri...

Utah Pests
Research
Tree Fruit Insects
The European red mite is native to Europe and was first introduced into the Pacific Northwest in the early 1900s. Since then, it has spread and become established throughout the United States and Canada. Mites are tiny arthropods, measuring less than 1/60
European Red Mite

European Red Mite

The European red mite is native to Europe and was first introduced into the Pacific Northwest in the early 1900s. Since then, it has spread and become established throughout the United States and Canada. Mites are tiny arthropods, measuring less than 1/60...

Bees and Pollinators
Research
Utah Pests
Insects Beneficial
Bees provide an important ecosystem service by contributing to the pollination of crop and wild plant species. The nonnative honey bee (Apis mellifera) is often recognized as the most important of the bee pollinators; however, the roughly 4,000 native Nor
Factors Contributing to Bee Decline

Factors Contributing to Bee Decline

Bees provide an important ecosystem service by contributing to the pollination of crop and wild plant species. The nonnative honey bee (Apis mellifera) is often recognized as the most important of the bee pollinators; however, the roughly 4,000 native Nor...

Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Utah Pests
Research
The fall webworm is a common defoliator of ornamental and fruit trees in Utah. Starting around late July, the caterpillars, webbing, and damage become noticeable, particularly in some of the canyons adjacent to populated areas.
Fall Webworm

Fall Webworm

The fall webworm is a common defoliator of ornamental and fruit trees in Utah. Starting around late July, the caterpillars, webbing, and damage become noticeable, particularly in some of the canyons adjacent to populated areas.

Disease Fruit
Utah Pests
Research
The popular Fuji, Gingergold, and Gala are more susceptible to fire blight. In addition, fire blight spreads more rapidly in high-density orchards.
Fire Blight Annual Management Guide for Utah

Fire Blight Annual Management Guide for Utah

The popular Fuji, Gingergold, and Gala are more susceptible to fire blight. In addition, fire blight spreads more rapidly in high-density orchards.

Research
Disease Fruit
Utah Pests
Fire blight is a serious disease of apple and pear trees. In the last decade in Utah, there were several seasons where this disease caused extensive losses. The prime conditions for infection require the combination of open blossoms, warm temperatures
Fire Blight in Utah: An Annual Management Guide

Fire Blight in Utah: An Annual Management Guide

Fire blight is a serious disease of apple and pear trees. In the last decade in Utah, there were several seasons where this disease caused extensive losses. The prime conditions for infection require the combination of open blossoms, warm temperatures

Disease Fruit
Utah Pests
Research
Fire blight is a bacterial disease of rosaceous plants. Economically, it is most serious on pears and apples. The bacterium that causes fire blight can be spread by insects, contaminated pruning or grafting tools, infected grafts, and any manner that carr
Fire Blight of Pears and Apples

Fire Blight of Pears and Apples

Fire blight is a bacterial disease of rosaceous plants. Economically, it is most serious on pears and apples. The bacterium that causes fire blight can be spread by insects, contaminated pruning or grafting tools, infected grafts, and any manner that carr...

Utah Pests
Research
Insects Vegetable
Flea beetles are common and problematic in Utah. They are present in late spring and early summer on many vegetable crops and ornamental plants. Adult flea beetles are small, shiny insects that have enlarged hind legs, allowing them to jump great distance
Flea Beetles on Vegetables

Flea Beetles on Vegetables

Flea beetles are common and problematic in Utah. They are present in late spring and early summer on many vegetable crops and ornamental plants. Adult flea beetles are small, shiny insects that have enlarged hind legs, allowing them to jump great distance...

Utah Pests
Research
Adult fleas feed on blood, but larvae feed on skin, feathers and hair. Although not common in Utah, regular grooming and sanitation will help monitor for fleas on household pets, and topical insecticides are very effective if needed.
Fleas

Fleas

Adult fleas feed on blood, but larvae feed on skin, feathers and hair. Although not common in Utah, regular grooming and sanitation will help monitor for fleas on household pets, and topical insecticides are very effective if needed.

Utah Pests
Research
Forage and Field Diseases
Research
Utah Pests
Forage and Field Insects
Research
Utah Pests
Native to the eastern United States, fox squirrels were first documented in Utah in 2011. It is unknown how fox squirrels made their way into Utah; however, it is possible they followed riparian corridors (areas along rivers, where trees often grow).
Fox Squirrels

Fox Squirrels

Native to the eastern United States, fox squirrels were first documented in Utah in 2011. It is unknown how fox squirrels made their way into Utah; however, it is possible they followed riparian corridors (areas along rivers, where trees often grow).

Utah Pests
Research
Fruit Diseases
Utah Pests
Research
Fungus gnats require high moisture conditions and decaying material. Adults are attracted to light and can be first seen flying near windows and doors. Plants damaged by fungus gnats will lack vigor, have poor color, and premature leaf drop.
Fungus Gnats

Fungus Gnats

Fungus gnats require high moisture conditions and decaying material. Adults are attracted to light and can be first seen flying near windows and doors. Plants damaged by fungus gnats will lack vigor, have poor color, and premature leaf drop.

Disease Vegetable
Research
Utah Pests
Fusarium wilt and Verticillium wilt are both soilborne fungal diseases that affect many vegetable crops grown in Utah. Both cause similar symptoms in their hosts.
Fusarium and Verticillium Wilts of Vegetables

Fusarium and Verticillium Wilts of Vegetables

Fusarium wilt and Verticillium wilt are both soilborne fungal diseases that affect many vegetable crops grown in Utah. Both cause similar symptoms in their hosts.

Bees and Pollinators
Utah Pests
Research
Insects Beneficial
Utah is home to about 1,000 named species of native bees, with several hundred species living in any one valley and adjacent montane habitats. Urbanization takes its toll on native bees, but many species can persist with a little help from gardeners and
Gardening and Landscaping Practices for Nesting Native Bees

Gardening and Landscaping Practices for Nesting Native Bees

Utah is home to about 1,000 named species of native bees, with several hundred species living in any one valley and adjacent montane habitats. Urbanization takes its toll on native bees, but many species can persist with a little help from gardeners and

Insects Beneficial
Utah Pests
Research
About 1,100 species of native bees reside in Utah. Some wild bees are superb pollinators of Utah's tree fruits, raspberries, squashes, melons and cucumbers. Few of our native bees have much venom or any inclination to sting.
Gardening for Native Bees in Utah and Beyond

Gardening for Native Bees in Utah and Beyond

About 1,100 species of native bees reside in Utah. Some wild bees are superb pollinators of Utah's tree fruits, raspberries, squashes, melons and cucumbers. Few of our native bees have much venom or any inclination to sting.

Research
IPM
Utah Pests
“Balance of Nature.” Virtually all pest populations are affected by natural enemies to some extent. In many cases, natural enemies are the primary regulating force of the pest populations.
General Concepts of Biological Control

General Concepts of Biological Control

“Balance of Nature.” Virtually all pest populations are affected by natural enemies to some extent. In many cases, natural enemies are the primary regulating force of the pest populations.

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Utah Pests
This page contains Utah Pests fact sheets that deal with fruit-related subjects
General Fruit Information

General Fruit Information

This page contains Utah Pests fact sheets that deal with fruit-related subjects

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Utah Pests
General IPM
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Utah Pests
Insects Vegetable
Grasshoppers are among the most conspicuous insects in Utah and are viewed by many as also among the most injurious to our crops and rangelands. We must also understand that because outbreaks can occur simultaneously across the landscape, suppression prog
Grasshoppers

Grasshoppers

Grasshoppers are among the most conspicuous insects in Utah and are viewed by many as also among the most injurious to our crops and rangelands. We must also understand that because outbreaks can occur simultaneously across the landscape, suppression prog...

Tree Fruit Insects
Research
Utah Pests
The greater peachtree borer (Order Lepidoptera, Family Sesiidae) is native to North America where wild cherries and plums are its native hosts. It is a sporadic pest in Utah stone fruit orchards, but if left unmanaged it can be severe enough to cause
Greater Peachtree Borer

Greater Peachtree Borer

The greater peachtree borer (Order Lepidoptera, Family Sesiidae) is native to North America where wild cherries and plums are its native hosts. It is a sporadic pest in Utah stone fruit orchards, but if left unmanaged it can be severe enough to cause

Utah Pests
Research
Insect pest management inside of Utah high tunnels.
High Tunnel Insects

High Tunnel Insects

Insect pest management inside of Utah high tunnels.

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Utah Pests
Insects High Tunnel
n Utah high tunnel production, there are a variety of caterpillar pests (larvae of moth and butterfly species) that cause economic damage to crops. Common caterpillar pest species found in Utah include hornworms, tomato fruit worms, imported cabbage worms
High Tunnel Management - Caterpillars

High Tunnel Management - Caterpillars

n Utah high tunnel production, there are a variety of caterpillar pests (larvae of moth and butterfly species) that cause economic damage to crops. Common caterpillar pest species found in Utah include hornworms, tomato fruit worms, imported cabbage worms...

Insects High Tunnel
Research
Utah Pests
Thrips are a common pest that can be found on many high tunnel crops, plus hundreds of weed species. Two species commonly found in Utah include Western flower thrips and Onion thrips. Bean thrips may also occur in the state.
High Tunnel Management - Thrips

High Tunnel Management - Thrips

Thrips are a common pest that can be found on many high tunnel crops, plus hundreds of weed species. Two species commonly found in Utah include Western flower thrips and Onion thrips. Bean thrips may also occur in the state.

Insects High Tunnel
Research
Utah Pests
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects with piercing-sucking mouthparts that feed on plant tissue. They can be found inside high tunnels all season long.
High Tunnel Pest Management - Aphids

High Tunnel Pest Management - Aphids

Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects with piercing-sucking mouthparts that feed on plant tissue. They can be found inside high tunnels all season long.

Utah Pests
Insects High Tunnel
Research
Integrated pest management for high tunnel strawberries. The season extending properties of high tunnels also extend the pest season. Insects can be present later into the fall than in the field. Cold temperatures are a good deterrent for most insects, si
High Tunnel Pest Management - Strawberry Pests

High Tunnel Pest Management - Strawberry Pests

Integrated pest management for high tunnel strawberries. The season extending properties of high tunnels also extend the pest season. Insects can be present later into the fall than in the field. Cold temperatures are a good deterrent for most insects, si...

Utah Pests
Research
Insect Biting
The hobo spider, Eratigena agrestis, is a member of the funnel-web spider family Agelenidae (Fig. 1). Funnelweb spiders are long-legged, swift-running spiders that build funnel or tube-shaped retreats in turf, log piles, rock piles, and other areas aro
Hobo Spider

Hobo Spider

The hobo spider, Eratigena agrestis, is a member of the funnel-web spider family Agelenidae (Fig. 1). Funnelweb spiders are long-legged, swift-running spiders that build funnel or tube-shaped retreats in turf, log piles, rock piles, and other areas aro

Research
Utah Pests
6-12 million people in the United States get infested with head lice every year. Although lice cannot jump or fly, they are very contagious and are spread by close human contact
Human Lice

Human Lice

6-12 million people in the United States get infested with head lice every year. Although lice cannot jump or fly, they are very contagious and are spread by close human contact

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Utah Pests
Very few insects are considered pests, and even fewer are actually parasites of humans. If you believe your body is infested with insects or other parasites, consult a physician immediately. Never try to remove parasites or treat yourself.
Human Parasites

Human Parasites

Very few insects are considered pests, and even fewer are actually parasites of humans. If you believe your body is infested with insects or other parasites, consult a physician immediately. Never try to remove parasites or treat yourself.

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Utah Pests
IPM
The lowest population density of a pest that will cause economic damage; or the amount of pest injury which will justify the cost of control.
Important Components of a Successful Pest Management Program

Important Components of a Successful Pest Management Program

The lowest population density of a pest that will cause economic damage; or the amount of pest injury which will justify the cost of control.

Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Research
Utah Pests
Aspens are one of the more popular forest trees in the Intermountain West. They add a brilliant yellow glow to the collage of fall colors. In an attempt to enjoy these beautiful trees around the home environment, many well-intentioned homeowners purchase
Important Pests of Ornamental Aspen

Important Pests of Ornamental Aspen

Aspens are one of the more popular forest trees in the Intermountain West. They add a brilliant yellow glow to the collage of fall colors. In an attempt to enjoy these beautiful trees around the home environment, many well-intentioned homeowners purchase

Insect Biting
Research
Invasive Insects
Utah Pests
The red and black imported fire ants (IFA) are an invasive and aggressive pest not known to occur in Utah, but parts of southern Utah may be suitable for colony establishment. IFA can be easily distinguished from other ants in Utah by both the varying siz
Imported Fire Ants

Imported Fire Ants

The red and black imported fire ants (IFA) are an invasive and aggressive pest not known to occur in Utah, but parts of southern Utah may be suitable for colony establishment. IFA can be easily distinguished from other ants in Utah by both the varying siz...

Utah Pests
Research
IPM
IPPM is a new pest management system addressing the mounting scientific evidence of global pollinator declines. IPPM uses basic IPM principles but prioritizes beneficial species for a more conservation-forward approach to managing pests.
Integrated Pest & Pollinator Management

Integrated Pest & Pollinator Management

IPPM is a new pest management system addressing the mounting scientific evidence of global pollinator declines. IPPM uses basic IPM principles but prioritizes beneficial species for a more conservation-forward approach to managing pests.

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Utah Pests
Invasive Insects
Learn how to identify some invasive insects and their look-alikes. Here, we provide a quick identification guide for brown marmorated stink bug, Japanese beetle, emerald ash borer, and Asian longhorned beetle.
Invasive Insects Lookalikes

Invasive Insects Lookalikes

Learn how to identify some invasive insects and their look-alikes. Here, we provide a quick identification guide for brown marmorated stink bug, Japanese beetle, emerald ash borer, and Asian longhorned beetle.

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Invasive Insects
Utah Pests
A listing of invasive insects that are currently in Utah or are potential invaders to the state, as well as related information regarding these insects.
Invasive Species

Invasive Species

A listing of invasive insects that are currently in Utah or are potential invaders to the state, as well as related information regarding these insects.

Utah Pests
Disease Vegetable
Research
Iris Yellow Spot Virus (IYSV) is a damaging viral pathogen of onions. The disease can devastate an onion field by destroying the photosynthetic area of the leaves of infected plants.
Iris Yellow Spot Virus in Onions

Iris Yellow Spot Virus in Onions

Iris Yellow Spot Virus (IYSV) is a damaging viral pathogen of onions. The disease can devastate an onion field by destroying the photosynthetic area of the leaves of infected plants.

Utah Pests
Invasive Insects
Research
This fact sheet describes the invasive Japanese beetle (JB) and lists vegetative hosts that can be affected by JB, including ornamental plants, trees, shrubs, turfgrass and vegetables. This pest can cause significant damage in high numbers. It was first d
Japanese Beetle

Japanese Beetle

This fact sheet describes the invasive Japanese beetle (JB) and lists vegetative hosts that can be affected by JB, including ornamental plants, trees, shrubs, turfgrass and vegetables. This pest can cause significant damage in high numbers. It was first d...

Utah Pests
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This key is intended as an identification aid for spider specimens commonly collected from indoor situations in Utah. It is not all-inclusive and will not correctly identify all spiders. However, the key does include groups that comprise about 90% of the
Key to Common Spiders of Utah

Key to Common Spiders of Utah

This key is intended as an identification aid for spider specimens commonly collected from indoor situations in Utah. It is not all-inclusive and will not correctly identify all spiders. However, the key does include groups that comprise about 90% of the

Utah Pests
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Landscape Ornamental Insects
Utah Pests
Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Research
Leafhoppers are common problems in home gardens and orchards throughout the state of Utah. There are many species of leafhoppers, several of which attack apples, roses, grapes, and potatoes. Most species overwinter in the egg stage in the bark of the host
Leafhoppers in the Home Garden

Leafhoppers in the Home Garden

Leafhoppers are common problems in home gardens and orchards throughout the state of Utah. There are many species of leafhoppers, several of which attack apples, roses, grapes, and potatoes. Most species overwinter in the egg stage in the bark of the host...

Insects Vegetable
Utah Pests
Research
“Leafminer” commonly describes the larval stage of various insects, but those that feed on vegetable crops are most commonly small yellow-and-black flies in the order Diptera. Vegetable host plants include leafy greens, beet, pea, tomato, onion, squash, a
Leafminers of Vegetable Crops

Leafminers of Vegetable Crops

“Leafminer” commonly describes the larval stage of various insects, but those that feed on vegetable crops are most commonly small yellow-and-black flies in the order Diptera. Vegetable host plants include leafy greens, beet, pea, tomato, onion, squash, a...

Tree Fruit Insects
Utah Pests
Research
Several species of leafrollers are economically important pests of tree fruits in North America. In Utah, injury to tart cherry crops from leafroller caterpillars prompted a 4-year survey for five species that are known to occur in the western U.S. Pherom
Leafrollers in Fruit Orchards

Leafrollers in Fruit Orchards

Several species of leafrollers are economically important pests of tree fruits in North America. In Utah, injury to tart cherry crops from leafroller caterpillars prompted a 4-year survey for five species that are known to occur in the western U.S. Pherom...

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Utah Pests
Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Lilac-ash borer, a clear-wing moth common in Utah, can be a destructive pest of many species of ash, privet, lilac, and related species. Adults emerge from host trees and lay eggs in the spring; larvae feed on wood within branches, overwinter in the heart
Lilac-Ash Borer

Lilac-Ash Borer

Lilac-ash borer, a clear-wing moth common in Utah, can be a destructive pest of many species of ash, privet, lilac, and related species. Adults emerge from host trees and lay eggs in the spring; larvae feed on wood within branches, overwinter in the heart...

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Utah Pests
Invasive Insects
Lily leaf beetle (LLB) is an exotic pest from Eurasia that causes damage to plants in the Liliaceae family. Native and cultivated Lilium and Fritillaria are sensitive to attack, including rare and endangered species. LLB can cause economic and aesthetic l
Lily Leaf Beetle (Lilioceris lilii)

Lily Leaf Beetle (Lilioceris lilii)

Lily leaf beetle (LLB) is an exotic pest from Eurasia that causes damage to plants in the Liliaceae family. Native and cultivated Lilium and Fritillaria are sensitive to attack, including rare and endangered species. LLB can cause economic and aesthetic l...

Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Utah Pests
Research
The locust borer, Megacyllene robiniae, belongs to the longhorned beetle family (Cerambycidae), referring to the long antennae of most of the species in this group. This insect occurs in Eastern Canada and in most of the U.S., wherever its host, black
Locust Borer

Locust Borer

The locust borer, Megacyllene robiniae, belongs to the longhorned beetle family (Cerambycidae), referring to the long antennae of most of the species in this group. This insect occurs in Eastern Canada and in most of the U.S., wherever its host, black

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Utah Pests
Lygus bug is the primary pest of alfalfa grown for seed in Utah. When in high numbers, lygus bug can prevent seed production or severely reduce yield potential. Early scouting can help make management decisions.
Lygus Bug in Alfalfa Seed

Lygus Bug in Alfalfa Seed

Lygus bug is the primary pest of alfalfa grown for seed in Utah. When in high numbers, lygus bug can prevent seed production or severely reduce yield potential. Early scouting can help make management decisions.

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Insects Beneficial
Utah Pests
Many native and managed bee species readily nest in bee hotels. This fact sheet discusses common hotel guests in Utah, proper hotel materials and placement, and the maintenance needed to keep your nesting bees healthy. 
Making and Managing Wild Bee Hotels

Making and Managing Wild Bee Hotels

Many native and managed bee species readily nest in bee hotels. This fact sheet discusses common hotel guests in Utah, proper hotel materials and placement, and the maintenance needed to keep your nesting bees healthy. 

Utah Pests
Research
Millipedes are related to trilobites, spiders and ticks, sowbugs, and crayfish, centipedes, and insects. Each group represents a different class of arthropods. Millipedes or "thousandlegged worms" include over 800 species of the class Diplopoda in North A
Millipedes

Millipedes

Millipedes are related to trilobites, spiders and ticks, sowbugs, and crayfish, centipedes, and insects. Each group represents a different class of arthropods. Millipedes or "thousandlegged worms" include over 800 species of the class Diplopoda in North A...

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Utah Pests
In a recent appraisal of Mormon crickets (Anabrus simplex Haldeman), Raffelson (1989) reminds us that these insects are a subject of great concern and dislike among Western ranchers and farmers.
Mormon Crickets

Mormon Crickets

In a recent appraisal of Mormon crickets (Anabrus simplex Haldeman), Raffelson (1989) reminds us that these insects are a subject of great concern and dislike among Western ranchers and farmers.

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Utah Pests
Necrotic Ring Spot (NRS) is a fungal disease that primarily affects the roots of turfgrasses. The disease occurs on turfgrasses worldwide. Many turf species can serve as host to the disease.
Necrotic Ring Spot

Necrotic Ring Spot

Necrotic Ring Spot (NRS) is a fungal disease that primarily affects the roots of turfgrasses. The disease occurs on turfgrasses worldwide. Many turf species can serve as host to the disease.

Utah Pests
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Necrotic ring spot and summer patch are two fungal diseases with similar above ground symptoms. Both pathogens mainly affect the root system and stolons of Kentucky bluegrass, annual bluegrass and tall fescue.
Necrotic Ring Spot and Summer Patch of Turfgrasses

Necrotic Ring Spot and Summer Patch of Turfgrasses

Necrotic ring spot and summer patch are two fungal diseases with similar above ground symptoms. Both pathogens mainly affect the root system and stolons of Kentucky bluegrass, annual bluegrass and tall fescue.

Utah Pests
Research
The European wasp has a native range from Europe to China. As a group, these wasps have a high rate of reproductive increase and are excellent invaders.
New European Wasp

New European Wasp

The European wasp has a native range from Europe to China. As a group, these wasps have a high rate of reproductive increase and are excellent invaders.

Utah Pests
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Nuisance, Stored Food, and Structural Insects
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Insect Nuisance
Utah Pests
Odorous house ants (OHAs) (Formicidae, Tapinoma sessile), derive their name from the rotten, coconut-like odor they give off when crushed. These tiny brown-toblack ants occur throughout the United States, and are an emerging pest ant in Utah where the pav
Odorous House Ants

Odorous House Ants

Odorous house ants (OHAs) (Formicidae, Tapinoma sessile), derive their name from the rotten, coconut-like odor they give off when crushed. These tiny brown-toblack ants occur throughout the United States, and are an emerging pest ant in Utah where the pav...

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Insects Vegetable
Utah Pests
Onion thrips are the most injurious insect pest to onions in Utah. Immature and adult thrips prefer to feed on young leaves in the inner neck of plants. Moderate to severe thrips feeding causes reduced bulb size.
Onion Thrips

Onion Thrips

Onion thrips are the most injurious insect pest to onions in Utah. Immature and adult thrips prefer to feed on young leaves in the inner neck of plants. Moderate to severe thrips feeding causes reduced bulb size.

Utah Pests
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Ornamental and Landscape Diseases
Utah Pests
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Ornamental and Landscape Diseases
Utah Pests
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This page contains fact sheets with info about ornamental pests, diseases, etc.
Ornamentals

Ornamentals

This page contains fact sheets with info about ornamental pests, diseases, etc.

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Utah Pests
This page contains fact sheets with info about ornamental pests, diseases, etc.
Ornamentals

Ornamentals

This page contains fact sheets with info about ornamental pests, diseases, etc.

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Utah Pests
Insects Landscape Ornamentals
The oystershell scale (Diaspididae Lepidosaphes ulmi) belongs to a group of insects called the armored, or hard scales. The adult insect is enclosed in a shell made up of its own shed skins and waxy secretions and resembles an oyster’s shell. Under th
Oystershell Scale

Oystershell Scale

The oystershell scale (Diaspididae Lepidosaphes ulmi) belongs to a group of insects called the armored, or hard scales. The adult insect is enclosed in a shell made up of its own shed skins and waxy secretions and resembles an oyster’s shell. Under th

Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Research
Utah Pests
The oystershell scale belongs to a group of insects called the armored scales. The adult insect is enclosed in a shell made up of its own shed skins and waxy secretions. Under this covering is a sac-like animal that is quite different in appearance from m
Oystershell Scale

Oystershell Scale

The oystershell scale belongs to a group of insects called the armored scales. The adult insect is enclosed in a shell made up of its own shed skins and waxy secretions. Under this covering is a sac-like animal that is quite different in appearance from m...

Tree Fruit Insects
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Utah Pests
Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Trees that are under stress or that have bark wounds are most susceptible to attack by Pacific flatheaded or flatheaded appletree borers Mature trees are not usually killed, but borer activity can weaken trees or contribute to eventual death. Newly plant
Pacific and Appletree Flatheaded Borers

Pacific and Appletree Flatheaded Borers

Trees that are under stress or that have bark wounds are most susceptible to attack by Pacific flatheaded or flatheaded appletree borers Mature trees are not usually killed, but borer activity can weaken trees or contribute to eventual death. Newly plant

Utah Pests
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Pantry pests are usually brought into the home in prepackaged food products. Beetles and moths are the most common pantry pests. Insects can feed on processed food or broken kernels and can chew through paper, cardboard and foil.
Pantry Pests

Pantry Pests

Pantry pests are usually brought into the home in prepackaged food products. Beetles and moths are the most common pantry pests. Insects can feed on processed food or broken kernels and can chew through paper, cardboard and foil.

Utah Pests
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Insects Beneficial
There are at least two families of stink bug parasitoids in Utah, Eupelmidae and Scelionidae. These are small, typically black wasps that may be mistaken for small gnats or ants. They will fly in search of stink bug egg masses. Once they find the eggs, th
Parasitoid Wasps of the Invasive Brown Marmorated Stink Bug in Utah

Parasitoid Wasps of the Invasive Brown Marmorated Stink Bug in Utah

There are at least two families of stink bug parasitoids in Utah, Eupelmidae and Scelionidae. These are small, typically black wasps that may be mistaken for small gnats or ants. They will fly in search of stink bug egg masses. Once they find the eggs, th...

Research
Utah Pests
Pavement ants are northern Utah’s most common pest ant in and around homes and structures. The pavement ant derives its name from the habit of nesting in soil along edges or in cracks around pavement, but they can be found nesting almost anywhere soil is
Pavement Ants

Pavement Ants

Pavement ants are northern Utah’s most common pest ant in and around homes and structures. The pavement ant derives its name from the habit of nesting in soil along edges or in cracks around pavement, but they can be found nesting almost anywhere soil is

Utah Pests
Disease Fruit
Research
The disease is caused by the fungus Taphrina deformans. Disease is most severe during cool wet conditions. Foliage is susceptible until it is fully expanded. Infected leaves are distorted and discolored (yellow, red or sometimes purple).
Peach Leaf Curl

Peach Leaf Curl

The disease is caused by the fungus Taphrina deformans. Disease is most severe during cool wet conditions. Foliage is susceptible until it is fully expanded. Infected leaves are distorted and discolored (yellow, red or sometimes purple).

Tree Fruit Insects
Utah Pests
Research
Peach twig borer (Anarsia lineatella) is found worldwide wherever stone fruits are grown. In Utah, it is a significant pest on peach/nectarine and apricot. There are typically three generations of peach twig borer in northern Utah (May-June, July, and A
Peach Twig Borer

Peach Twig Borer

Peach twig borer (Anarsia lineatella) is found worldwide wherever stone fruits are grown. In Utah, it is a significant pest on peach/nectarine and apricot. There are typically three generations of peach twig borer in northern Utah (May-June, July, and A

Utah Pests
Research
Peach twig borer is a major pest of peach, nectarine and apricot in Utah. There are multiple generations each year. Spring and early summer generations of larvae bore into and kill new shoots while later summer larvae attack fruit, typically entering frui
Peach Twig Borer

Peach Twig Borer

Peach twig borer is a major pest of peach, nectarine and apricot in Utah. There are multiple generations each year. Spring and early summer generations of larvae bore into and kill new shoots while later summer larvae attack fruit, typically entering frui...

Tree Fruit Insects
Research
Utah Pests
Peach twig borer is a key pest of peach, nectarine, and apricot. Mating disruption does not kill insects; it saturates the orchard with the female moth sex pheromone to delay or prevent mating.
Peach Twig Borer Mating Disruption

Peach Twig Borer Mating Disruption

Peach twig borer is a key pest of peach, nectarine, and apricot. Mating disruption does not kill insects; it saturates the orchard with the female moth sex pheromone to delay or prevent mating.

Tree Fruit Insects
Utah Pests
Research
Mating disruption as a method to manage orchard pests became commercially available in the early 1990s, and was adopted by many Utah growers about a decade later. Use of this pest management technology can be daunting due to high up-front costs and m
Peach Twig Borer Mating Disruption

Peach Twig Borer Mating Disruption

Mating disruption as a method to manage orchard pests became commercially available in the early 1990s, and was adopted by many Utah growers about a decade later. Use of this pest management technology can be daunting due to high up-front costs and m

Utah Pests
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Tree Fruit Insects
Peach Twig Borer Sampling Form
Utah Pests
Tree Fruit Insects
Research
Pear psylla is an important pest of pear in Utah. Young and adult psylla feed in leaf phloem tissues, producing sticky honeydew. Psylla can cause fruit russetting and stunt trees; psylla shock and transmission of pear decline can kill trees.
Pear Psylla

Pear Psylla

Pear psylla is an important pest of pear in Utah. Young and adult psylla feed in leaf phloem tissues, producing sticky honeydew. Psylla can cause fruit russetting and stunt trees; psylla shock and transmission of pear decline can kill trees.

Utah Pests
Tree Fruit Insects
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Pear Psylla Sampling Form
Tree Fruit Insects
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Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Utah Pests
The pear sawfly, which is actually a wasp, is a common pest on pear, cherry, and hawthorn in Utah. The slug-like appearance of the larval stage has prompted this insect to also be referred to as the pear or cherry slug in various parts of the country. Alt
Pear Sawfly

Pear Sawfly

The pear sawfly, which is actually a wasp, is a common pest on pear, cherry, and hawthorn in Utah. The slug-like appearance of the larval stage has prompted this insect to also be referred to as the pear or cherry slug in various parts of the country. Alt...

Research
Utah Pests
IPM
Pest managers cannot afford to take a pest management action without knowing if it is economically sound. Treating a pest needlessly is not conducive to making a profit. Other values such as aesthetics of the management situation (pertinent to landscapes
Pest Management Decision-Making: The Economic-Injury Level Concept

Pest Management Decision-Making: The Economic-Injury Level Concept

Pest managers cannot afford to take a pest management action without knowing if it is economically sound. Treating a pest needlessly is not conducive to making a profit. Other values such as aesthetics of the management situation (pertinent to landscapes

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Tree Fruit Insects
Utah Pests
Pest Monitoring Calendar - Apple
Utah Pests
Tree Fruit Insects
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Pest Monitoring Calendar - Apricot
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Utah Pests
Tree Fruit Insects
Pest Monitoring Calendar - Cherry
Tree Fruit Insects
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Utah Pests
Pest Monitoring Calendar - Peach and Nectarine
Tree Fruit Insects
Utah Pests
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Pest Monitoring Calendar - Pear
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Utah Pests
Tree Fruit Insects
Pest Monitoring Calendar - Plum
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Utah Pests
Disease Vegetable
Pink root (Phoma terrestris) is a devastating disease in onion production. The fungus is found worldwide in the soil and can be up 45cm (1.5 ft) deep.
Pink Root Disease of Onion

Pink Root Disease of Onion

Pink root (Phoma terrestris) is a devastating disease in onion production. The fungus is found worldwide in the soil and can be up 45cm (1.5 ft) deep.

Utah Pests
Research
Ground squirrels are troublesome rodent pests for farmers and homeowners. The Piute ground squirrel is commonly found in the Great Basin of Utah and Nevada.
Piute Ground Squirrels

Piute Ground Squirrels

Ground squirrels are troublesome rodent pests for farmers and homeowners. The Piute ground squirrel is commonly found in the Great Basin of Utah and Nevada.

Utah Pests
Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Research
The poplar borer, Saperda calcarata, is a member of the longhorned beetle family (Cermabycidae), so-named because of the adults’ long antennae. The larvae are known as roundheaded wood borers.
Poplar Borer

Poplar Borer

The poplar borer, Saperda calcarata, is a member of the longhorned beetle family (Cermabycidae), so-named because of the adults’ long antennae. The larvae are known as roundheaded wood borers.

Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Research
Utah Pests
The poplar bud gall mite (Eriophyes parapopuli) is an eriophyid mite. It is microscopic and about one-fourth the size of a spider mite. Adults are reddish and spindle-shaped. Poplar bud gall mite hosts include species of poplars, cottonwoods, and aspe
Poplar Bud Gall Mite

Poplar Bud Gall Mite

The poplar bud gall mite (Eriophyes parapopuli) is an eriophyid mite. It is microscopic and about one-fourth the size of a spider mite. Adults are reddish and spindle-shaped. Poplar bud gall mite hosts include species of poplars, cottonwoods, and aspe

Utah Pests
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Disease Vegetable
Leveillula taurica is a powdery mildew fungus capable of infecting onions, garlic, and over 1000 plants in various genera and species in the western United States.
Powdery Mildew on Onions

Powdery Mildew on Onions

Leveillula taurica is a powdery mildew fungus capable of infecting onions, garlic, and over 1000 plants in various genera and species in the western United States.

Disease Vegetable
Utah Pests
Research
Powdery mildew is widespread in Utah and affects many vegetables, fruit, and landscape plants. There are several species of powdery mildew fungi, and typically they target just a single host or only hosts in related plant families.
Powdery Mildew on Vegetables

Powdery Mildew on Vegetables

Powdery mildew is widespread in Utah and affects many vegetables, fruit, and landscape plants. There are several species of powdery mildew fungi, and typically they target just a single host or only hosts in related plant families.

Tree Fruit Insects
Utah Pests
Research
Prionus root borers belong to a family of beetles commonly known as long-horned beetles. The larvae are often referred to as round-headed borers because their body shape is cylindrical. Several species in the Prionus genus are large, root-boring beetles,
Prionus Root Borer

Prionus Root Borer

Prionus root borers belong to a family of beetles commonly known as long-horned beetles. The larvae are often referred to as round-headed borers because their body shape is cylindrical. Several species in the Prionus genus are large, root-boring beetles,

Utah Pests
Research
Pseudoscorpions are harmless to people and pets. They “hitchhike” on flies and beetles, and sometimes can accidentally enter the home. Pseudoscorpions are considered beneficial to humans because they feed on clothes moth larvae, carpet beetle larvae, book
Pseudoscorpions

Pseudoscorpions

Pseudoscorpions are harmless to people and pets. They “hitchhike” on flies and beetles, and sometimes can accidentally enter the home. Pseudoscorpions are considered beneficial to humans because they feed on clothes moth larvae, carpet beetle larvae, book...

Utah Pests
Invasive Insects
Research
The quagga mussel (Dreissena bugensis) and zebra mussel (D. polymorpha) are invasive mussels that threaten Western U.S. waterbodies. Zebra mussels were discovered in early 2021 in imported moss balls (algal balls) sold in aquarium and pet stores nationwid
Quagga Mussel (Dreissena bugensis) and Zebra Mussel (Dreissena polymorpha)

Quagga Mussel (Dreissena bugensis) and Zebra Mussel (Dreissena polymorpha)

The quagga mussel (Dreissena bugensis) and zebra mussel (D. polymorpha) are invasive mussels that threaten Western U.S. waterbodies. Zebra mussels were discovered in early 2021 in imported moss balls (algal balls) sold in aquarium and pet stores nationwid...

Small Fruit Insects
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Utah Pests
The raspberry crown borer attacks raspberry plants in northern Utah, causing cane-wilt and death. Crown borer has a 2-year life cycle; it spends much of it as a grub (larva) tunneling in the lower cane, crown and roots of raspberry plants.
Raspberry Crown Borer

Raspberry Crown Borer

The raspberry crown borer attacks raspberry plants in northern Utah, causing cane-wilt and death. Crown borer has a 2-year life cycle; it spends much of it as a grub (larva) tunneling in the lower cane, crown and roots of raspberry plants.

Small Fruit Insects
Utah Pests
Research
The raspberry horntail is a caneboring wasp that can cause crop loss to raspberries in northern Utah. Apply insecticides in the spring targeting adults, to prevent egg-laying in the new canes. Infested canes often become evident during summer when tips wi
Raspberry Horntail

Raspberry Horntail

The raspberry horntail is a caneboring wasp that can cause crop loss to raspberries in northern Utah. Apply insecticides in the spring targeting adults, to prevent egg-laying in the new canes. Infested canes often become evident during summer when tips wi...

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Utah Pests
Invasive pests
Red firebugs were first discovered in North America in Salt Lake City, Utah in 2008. These insects are seed feeders on a wide range of plants, including linden and mallow.
Red Firebug

Red Firebug

Red firebugs were first discovered in North America in Salt Lake City, Utah in 2008. These insects are seed feeders on a wide range of plants, including linden and mallow.

Utah Pests
Invasive pests
Research
Red firebugs were first discovered in North America in Salt Lake City, Utah in 2008. These insects are seed feeders on a wide range of plants, including linden and mallow.
Red Firebug

Red Firebug

Red firebugs were first discovered in North America in Salt Lake City, Utah in 2008. These insects are seed feeders on a wide range of plants, including linden and mallow.

Small Fruit Insects
Utah Pests
Research
Redberry mite injects a toxin as it feeds that causes fruit sections to remain red on an otherwise mature berry. Redberry mite is a microscopic pest of wild and cultivated blackberries. It was first detected in Utah in 2017 in Davis County.
Redberry Mite on Blackberry | USU

Redberry Mite on Blackberry

Redberry mite injects a toxin as it feeds that causes fruit sections to remain red on an otherwise mature berry. Redberry mite is a microscopic pest of wild and cultivated blackberries. It was first detected in Utah in 2017 in Davis County.

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Utah Pests
Insects Beneficial
Choose insecticides that are non hazardous to bees whenever possible. The more hazardous insecticide active ingredients include many of the organophosphates and the carbamates, and some of the synthetic pyrethroids and neonicotinoids.
Reducing Pesticide Poisoning of Bees

Reducing Pesticide Poisoning of Bees

Choose insecticides that are non hazardous to bees whenever possible. The more hazardous insecticide active ingredients include many of the organophosphates and the carbamates, and some of the synthetic pyrethroids and neonicotinoids.

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Utah Pests
Rock squirrels are fairly common across Utah, living in areas with rocky habitats. They belong to the group of squirrels called “ground squirrels” because they live in burrows and holes in the ground, rather than in trees.
Rock Squirrels

Rock Squirrels

Rock squirrels are fairly common across Utah, living in areas with rocky habitats. They belong to the group of squirrels called “ground squirrels” because they live in burrows and holes in the ground, rather than in trees.

Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Research
Utah Pests
The black vine weevil (Otiorhynchus sulcatus), lilac root weevil (O. meridionalis) strawberry weevil (O. ovatus) and rough strawberry root weevil (O. rugosostriatus) are a complex of non-native, snoutnosed beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) that cau
Root Weevils

Root Weevils

The black vine weevil (Otiorhynchus sulcatus), lilac root weevil (O. meridionalis) strawberry weevil (O. ovatus) and rough strawberry root weevil (O. rugosostriatus) are a complex of non-native, snoutnosed beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) that cau

Utah Pests
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Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Root weevils are common pests of landscape ornamentals and small fruits. Root weevils cause notching of leaf margins and root damage leading to canopy dieback or plant death.
Root Weevils

Root Weevils

Root weevils are common pests of landscape ornamentals and small fruits. Root weevils cause notching of leaf margins and root damage leading to canopy dieback or plant death.

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Utah Pests
Small Fruit Insects
Rose stem girdler is a common cane-boring beetle of raspberry and blackberry in central and northern Utah. Larval feeding in the cambium under the cane bark causes spiral grooves and gall-like swellings; injured canes may wilt and break off.
Rose Stem Girdler

Rose Stem Girdler

Rose stem girdler is a common cane-boring beetle of raspberry and blackberry in central and northern Utah. Larval feeding in the cambium under the cane bark causes spiral grooves and gall-like swellings; injured canes may wilt and break off.

Utah Pests
Research
IPM
Row covers on Utah farms. As an integrated pest management tool, row covers act as a physical barrier that prevents the movement of pests such as insects, birds, and mammals, to host plants.
Row Covers

Row Covers

Row covers on Utah farms. As an integrated pest management tool, row covers act as a physical barrier that prevents the movement of pests such as insects, birds, and mammals, to host plants.

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Utah Pests
Russian wheat aphid is a common pest of small grains. Controlling volunteer plants and adjusting planting dates can help reduce aphid outbreaks. Weekly scouting and timely insecticide applications can protect grain yields.
Russian Wheat Aphid

Russian Wheat Aphid

Russian wheat aphid is a common pest of small grains. Controlling volunteer plants and adjusting planting dates can help reduce aphid outbreaks. Weekly scouting and timely insecticide applications can protect grain yields.

Tree Fruit Insects
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Utah Pests
San Jose scale occurs in most fruit growing districts of the United States. In well maintained orchards, populations are generally too low to cause economic loss. Severe infestations of scale can cause tree and fruit injury.
San Jose Scale | USU

San Jose Scale

San Jose scale occurs in most fruit growing districts of the United States. In well maintained orchards, populations are generally too low to cause economic loss. Severe infestations of scale can cause tree and fruit injury.

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Insects Vegetable
Utah Pests
Sap beetles are typically considered a secondary pest of corn and overripe fruits and vegetables. Sap beetles are broadly identified by their small and ovular bodies and club-shaped antennae. Adult beetles feed on corn silk, pollen, and tassels. Larvae fe
Sap Beetle

Sap Beetle

Sap beetles are typically considered a secondary pest of corn and overripe fruits and vegetables. Sap beetles are broadly identified by their small and ovular bodies and club-shaped antennae. Adult beetles feed on corn silk, pollen, and tassels. Larvae fe...

Utah Pests
Research
Scorpions are most active at night, and hide under boards, rubbish, bricks, and in wood piles. Although all scorpions have venom, only one species in the United States is considered to have a potentially life threatening sting.
Scorpions

Scorpions

Scorpions are most active at night, and hide under boards, rubbish, bricks, and in wood piles. Although all scorpions have venom, only one species in the United States is considered to have a potentially life threatening sting.

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Utah Pests
Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Sequoia pear moth is not typically considered a serious pest of pines, but may cause limb dieback, unsightly resin masses, tree stress, or even tree death in severe cases. 
Sequoia Pitch Moth in Pines

Sequoia Pitch Moth in Pines

Sequoia pear moth is not typically considered a serious pest of pines, but may cause limb dieback, unsightly resin masses, tree stress, or even tree death in severe cases. 

Utah Pests
Research
Tree Fruit Insects
Shothole borers can cause damage to ornamental and fruit trees in Utah and adults are present from spring to early fall. Stressed or injured trees are more prone to attack.
Shothole Borer

Shothole Borer

Shothole borers can cause damage to ornamental and fruit trees in Utah and adults are present from spring to early fall. Stressed or injured trees are more prone to attack.

Utah Pests
Research
Small Fruit Insects
Utah Pests
Research
Invasive Insects
Small hive beetle (SHB) is a pest of honey and bumble bee colonies that is native to Africa. SHB feeds on pollen and honey, kills bee brood and workers, and causes honey to discolor and ferment.
Small Hive Beetle

Small Hive Beetle

Small hive beetle (SHB) is a pest of honey and bumble bee colonies that is native to Africa. SHB feeds on pollen and honey, kills bee brood and workers, and causes honey to discolor and ferment.

Research
Utah Pests
Snow molds are fungi that attack turfgrass under snow cover or in cool, wet weather. There are two different types of snow mold fungi that can infect grass and they can occur together on a plant.
Snow Mold on Turfgrass

Snow Mold on Turfgrass

Snow molds are fungi that attack turfgrass under snow cover or in cool, wet weather. There are two different types of snow mold fungi that can infect grass and they can occur together on a plant.

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Utah Pests
Sod webworms are the most widely recognized turfgrass insect pests in Utah. Sod webworm larvae are the damaging life stage and feed on turfgrass blades.
Sod Webworms

Sod Webworms

Sod webworms are the most widely recognized turfgrass insect pests in Utah. Sod webworm larvae are the damaging life stage and feed on turfgrass blades.

Research
Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Utah Pests
There are more than 1,000 different species of soft scales found throughout the world. Less than 5% are considered serious pests. Soft scales feed on a wide range of woody ornamental plants and often go unnoticed until they stunt growth or cause severe pl
Soft Scales in Utah

Soft Scales in Utah

There are more than 1,000 different species of soft scales found throughout the world. Less than 5% are considered serious pests. Soft scales feed on a wide range of woody ornamental plants and often go unnoticed until they stunt growth or cause severe pl...

Utah Pests
Research
Soil Health & Nutrition
Utah Pests
Research
Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Fruitworms chew holes in fruits and leaves, and can cause localized defoliation of fruit trees. Fruitworms can be monitored with beat-samples (abrupt shaking of tree branches over a tray). Applications of reduced-risk insecticides, such as Bacillus thurin
Speckled Green Fruitworm

Speckled Green Fruitworm

Fruitworms chew holes in fruits and leaves, and can cause localized defoliation of fruit trees. Fruitworms can be monitored with beat-samples (abrupt shaking of tree branches over a tray). Applications of reduced-risk insecticides, such as Bacillus thurin...

Insects Vegetable
Utah Pests
Research
Banks grass mites (BGM) and two-spotted spider mites (TSSM) are important agricultural pests of corn and a wide variety of other crops, garden, and landscape plants.
Spider Mites in Corn

Spider Mites in Corn

Banks grass mites (BGM) and two-spotted spider mites (TSSM) are important agricultural pests of corn and a wide variety of other crops, garden, and landscape plants.

Utah Pests
Insects Vegetable
Research
Banks grass mites (BGM) and two-spotted spider mites (TSSM) are important agricultural pests of corn and a wide variety of other crops, garden, and landscape plants.
Spider Mites in Corn

Spider Mites in Corn

Banks grass mites (BGM) and two-spotted spider mites (TSSM) are important agricultural pests of corn and a wide variety of other crops, garden, and landscape plants.

Small Fruit Insects
Utah Pests
Research
Spider mite feeding can cause 'mite burn' in raspberry plantings and is typically first observed on the lower leaves. The twospotted spider mite is the most common mite to attack raspberry in Utah. Populations can build quickly to high numbers during hot,
Spider Mites in Raspberry

Spider Mites in Raspberry

Spider mite feeding can cause 'mite burn' in raspberry plantings and is typically first observed on the lower leaves. The twospotted spider mite is the most common mite to attack raspberry in Utah. Populations can build quickly to high numbers during hot,...

Research
Small Fruit Insects
Utah Pests
Spider mites can be a challenging pest of raspberry. The twospotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae Koch) is the most common mite to attack raspberry in Utah. Spider mites are small eight-legged arthropods, but populations can build quickly to high numbe
Spider Mites in Raspberry

Spider Mites in Raspberry

Spider mites can be a challenging pest of raspberry. The twospotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae Koch) is the most common mite to attack raspberry in Utah. Spider mites are small eight-legged arthropods, but populations can build quickly to high numbe...

Utah Pests
Research
Insect Fruit
Spider and Predatory Mites Sampling Form
Research
Utah Pests
Spiders are beneficial predators that feed on pest and non-pest insects. The major spider of medical concern in Utah is the black widow. Brown recluse spiders do not occur in Utah.
Spiders

Spiders

Spiders are beneficial predators that feed on pest and non-pest insects. The major spider of medical concern in Utah is the black widow. Brown recluse spiders do not occur in Utah.

Invasive Insects
Research
Utah Pests
Spongy moths (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) are invasive leaf-eating (defoliating) pests that threaten trees and shrubs in urban, suburban, and rural landscapes. The spongy moth was accidentally introduced to the U.S. in 1869 by an amateur French entomologis
Spongy Moth

Spongy Moth

Spongy moths (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) are invasive leaf-eating (defoliating) pests that threaten trees and shrubs in urban, suburban, and rural landscapes. The spongy moth was accidentally introduced to the U.S. in 1869 by an amateur French entomologis

Utah Pests
Invasive Insects
Research
The spotted lanternfly (SLF) is a new invasive pest from China that was first detected in the U.S. in Pennsylvania in 2014 and has since spread to other states. SLF attacks more than 100 host plants, including grapes, fruit trees, hops, and hardwood and o
Spotted Lanternfly

Spotted Lanternfly

The spotted lanternfly (SLF) is a new invasive pest from China that was first detected in the U.S. in Pennsylvania in 2014 and has since spread to other states. SLF attacks more than 100 host plants, including grapes, fruit trees, hops, and hardwood and o...

Utah Pests
Invasive Insects
Research
Spotted wing drosophila (SWD) is an invasive insect native to Southeast Asia; it was first detected in Utah in 2010. SWD management tactics include removing nearby alternative host plants, timely harvest of fruit, expanding the preventive insecticide prog
Spotted Wing Drosophila

Spotted Wing Drosophila

Spotted wing drosophila (SWD) is an invasive insect native to Southeast Asia; it was first detected in Utah in 2010. SWD management tactics include removing nearby alternative host plants, timely harvest of fruit, expanding the preventive insecticide prog...

Invasive Insects
Research
Utah Pests
Spotted wing drosophila can attack fruit as soon as it begins to ripen, so that is when monitoring should begin. For example, place a trap in a cherry tree when the fruits begin to turn pink. Continue trapping for at least two weeks after harvest. Because
Spotted Wing Drosophila Monitoring

Spotted Wing Drosophila Monitoring

Spotted wing drosophila can attack fruit as soon as it begins to ripen, so that is when monitoring should begin. For example, place a trap in a cherry tree when the fruits begin to turn pink. Continue trapping for at least two weeks after harvest. Because...

Research
Utah Pests
Springtails are small, abundant, wingless insects that live in a variety of moist habitats. Because of their small size and micro- habitat, they are seldom observed. Most of them live in the soil or in other concealed situations.
Springtails

Springtails

Springtails are small, abundant, wingless insects that live in a variety of moist habitats. Because of their small size and micro- habitat, they are seldom observed. Most of them live in the soil or in other concealed situations.

Research
Utah Pests
Disease Landscape Ornamentals
Spruces tend to prefer abundant moisture and may not do well on droughty sites. Water stress caused by too little soil moisture or too much heat can predispose spruces to insect attack.
Spruce Health in Utah Landscapes

Spruce Health in Utah Landscapes

Spruces tend to prefer abundant moisture and may not do well on droughty sites. Water stress caused by too little soil moisture or too much heat can predispose spruces to insect attack.

Research
Insects Vegetable
Utah Pests
Entire plants may wilt when squash bug-feeding severs xylem vessels in vines. Injection of a toxin during feeding has been proposed as a cause for rapid plant wilt, but no salivary toxins have been confirmed in squash bugs.
Squash Bugs

Squash Bugs

Entire plants may wilt when squash bug-feeding severs xylem vessels in vines. Injection of a toxin during feeding has been proposed as a cause for rapid plant wilt, but no salivary toxins have been confirmed in squash bugs.

Disease Fruit
Research
Utah Pests
Fire blight is an important disease of apple and pear in Utah. Antibiotic streptomycin frequently used to control fire blight. Resistance to streptomycin first detected in 2006.
Streptomycin Resistance of Fire Blight

Streptomycin Resistance of Fire Blight

Fire blight is an important disease of apple and pear in Utah. Antibiotic streptomycin frequently used to control fire blight. Resistance to streptomycin first detected in 2006.

Utah Pests
Research
Termites eat and digest cellulose, and are attracted to moist or decayed wood. Subterranean termites need wood-to-soil contact and construct mud tubes to stay protected. Mature termite colonies can have over 1 million members and consume one pound of wood
Subterranean Termites

Subterranean Termites

Termites eat and digest cellulose, and are attracted to moist or decayed wood. Subterranean termites need wood-to-soil contact and construct mud tubes to stay protected. Mature termite colonies can have over 1 million members and consume one pound of wood...

Utah Pests
Disease Landscape Ornamentals
Research
Sudden oak death (SOD) and ramorum blight are caused by Phytophthora ramorum, a non-native water mold (oomycete) that originates from parts of Asia. Sudden oak death was given its name due to the appearance that entire trees were dying in just 2 to 4
Sudden Oak Death and Ramorum Blight

Sudden Oak Death and Ramorum Blight

Sudden oak death (SOD) and ramorum blight are caused by Phytophthora ramorum, a non-native water mold (oomycete) that originates from parts of Asia. Sudden oak death was given its name due to the appearance that entire trees were dying in just 2 to 4

Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Research
Utah Pests
Sycamore scale is a pest of sycamore trees (Platanus spp.), especially London planetree. Scale life stages are difficult to see with the naked eye, and therefore, symptoms of leaf damage are often noticed first. The primary symptom is yellow-to-brown leaf
Sycamore Scale

Sycamore Scale

Sycamore scale is a pest of sycamore trees (Platanus spp.), especially London planetree. Scale life stages are difficult to see with the naked eye, and therefore, symptoms of leaf damage are often noticed first. The primary symptom is yellow-to-brown leaf...

Research
Utah Pests
Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Sycamore scale (Hemiptera: Coccoidea Stomacoccus platani) is a pest of increasing importance on London planetree (Platanus x acerifolia) and California sycamore (P. racemosa) in urbanized areas throughout Utah. It is unknown how susceptible American s
Sycamore Scale

Sycamore Scale

Sycamore scale (Hemiptera: Coccoidea Stomacoccus platani) is a pest of increasing importance on London planetree (Platanus x acerifolia) and California sycamore (P. racemosa) in urbanized areas throughout Utah. It is unknown how susceptible American s

Utah Pests
Research
Take-all patch is a fungal disease of turfgrasses that primarily affects the roots of certain grass species. It has become a major disease of cool-season turfgrasses and can be found in many parts of the United States.
Take-all Patch in Turf

Take-all Patch in Turf

Take-all patch is a fungal disease of turfgrasses that primarily affects the roots of certain grass species. It has become a major disease of cool-season turfgrasses and can be found in many parts of the United States.

Disease Vegetable
Research
Utah Pests
A short summary of the top insect and disease pests of beans and how they are managed by the backyard gardeners.
The Backyard Garden: Bean Pests

The Backyard Garden: Bean Pests

A short summary of the top insect and disease pests of beans and how they are managed by the backyard gardeners.

Research
Disease Vegetable
Utah Pests
A short summary of the top insect and disease pests of cole crops and how they are managed by the backyard gardeners.
The Backyard Garden: Cole Crops Pests

The Backyard Garden: Cole Crops Pests

A short summary of the top insect and disease pests of cole crops and how they are managed by the backyard gardeners.

Disease Vegetable
Research
Utah Pests
A short summary of the top insect and disease pests of leafy greens and how they are managed by the backyard gardeners.
The Backyard Garden: Leafy Greens Pests

The Backyard Garden: Leafy Greens Pests

A short summary of the top insect and disease pests of leafy greens and how they are managed by the backyard gardeners.

Utah Pests
Disease Vegetable
Research
A short summary of the main insect and disease pests of peas and how they are managed by the backyard gardeners.
The Backyard Garden: Pea Pests

The Backyard Garden: Pea Pests

A short summary of the main insect and disease pests of peas and how they are managed by the backyard gardeners.

Research
Utah Pests
Disease Vegetable
A short summary of the main insect and disease pests of tomato and how they are managed by the backyard gardeners.
The Backyard Garden: Tomato Pests

The Backyard Garden: Tomato Pests

A short summary of the main insect and disease pests of tomato and how they are managed by the backyard gardeners.

Research
IPM
Utah Pests
Tree Fruit Insects
A short summary of the main insect and disease pests of apples and how they are managed by the backyard fruit grower.
The Backyard Orchard - Apple Pests

The Backyard Orchard - Apple Pests

A short summary of the main insect and disease pests of apples and how they are managed by the backyard fruit grower.

Utah Pests
Tree Fruit Insects
Research
Disease Fruit
A short summary of the main insect and disease pests of apricots and how they are managed by the backyard fruit grower.
The Backyard Orchard - Apricot Pests

The Backyard Orchard - Apricot Pests

A short summary of the main insect and disease pests of apricots and how they are managed by the backyard fruit grower.

Research
Disease Fruit
Utah Pests
Tree Fruit Insects
A short summary of the main insect and disease pests of cherries and how they are managed by the backyard fruit grower.
The Backyard Orchard - Cherry Pests

The Backyard Orchard - Cherry Pests

A short summary of the main insect and disease pests of cherries and how they are managed by the backyard fruit grower.

Disease Fruit
Research
Utah Pests
Tree Fruit Insects
A short summary of the main insect and disease pests of peaches and nectarines along with how they are managed by the backyard fruit grower.
The Backyard Orchard - Peach and Nectarine Pests

The Backyard Orchard - Peach and Nectarine Pests

A short summary of the main insect and disease pests of peaches and nectarines along with how they are managed by the backyard fruit grower.

Research
Tree Fruit Insects
Utah Pests
Disease Fruit
A short summary of the main insect and diseasae pests of pears and how they are managed by the backyard fruit grower.
The Backyard Orchard - Pear Pests

The Backyard Orchard - Pear Pests

A short summary of the main insect and diseasae pests of pears and how they are managed by the backyard fruit grower.

Tree Fruit Insects
Research
Disease Fruit
Utah Pests
A short summary of the main insect and disease pests of plum and how they are managed by the backyard fruit grower.
The Backyard Orchard - Plum Pests

The Backyard Orchard - Plum Pests

A short summary of the main insect and disease pests of plum and how they are managed by the backyard fruit grower.

Utah Pests
Research
IPM
The term Pest Management came about in the early 1960’s, which then evolved into Integrated Pest Management (IPM). However, many aspects of IPM have been practiced since plants were first cultivated by humans.
The Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Concept

The Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Concept

The term Pest Management came about in the early 1960’s, which then evolved into Integrated Pest Management (IPM). However, many aspects of IPM have been practiced since plants were first cultivated by humans.

Invasive Insects
Insects Beneficial
Utah Pests
Research
In June 2019, the samurai wasp [Trissolcus japonicus (Ashmead)] was discovered in Salt Lake City. This exotic parasitoid wasp is the most promising agent for biological control of BMSB and is uniquely evolved to lay its eggs inside of BMSB eggs. Help us p
The Samurai Wasp: New Hope in Fight Against BMSB

The Samurai Wasp: New Hope in Fight Against BMSB

In June 2019, the samurai wasp [Trissolcus japonicus (Ashmead)] was discovered in Salt Lake City. This exotic parasitoid wasp is the most promising agent for biological control of BMSB and is uniquely evolved to lay its eggs inside of BMSB eggs. Help us p...

Insects Landscape Ornamentals
Research
Utah Pests
Thousand cankers is a newly recognized disease of walnuts, caused by a fungus (Geosmithia morbida) that is spread by the walnut twig beetle (Pityophthorus juglandis). The beetle is endemic to the native range of Arizona walnut (Arizona, New Mexico, an
Thousand Cankers Disease of Walnut

Thousand Cankers Disease of Walnut

Thousand cankers is a newly recognized disease of walnuts, caused by a fungus (Geosmithia morbida) that is spread by the walnut twig beetle (Pityophthorus juglandis). The beetle is endemic to the native range of Arizona walnut (Arizona, New Mexico, an

Utah Pests
Insects Vegetable
Research
In Utah, three-lined potato beetles are pests to various crops and weeds within the nightshade family, most notably tomatillos (Physalis spp.).
Three-Lined Potato Beetle

Three-Lined Potato Beetle

In Utah, three-lined potato beetles are pests to various crops and weeds within the nightshade family, most notably tomatillos (Physalis spp.).

Utah Pests
Insect Biting
Research
Ticks occasionally attach to humans and pets in Utah. This fact sheet discusses the commonly encountered ticks of Utah and the diseases they can vector.
Ticks and Tickborne Diseases of Utah

Ticks and Tickborne Diseases of Utah

Ticks occasionally attach to humans and pets in Utah. This fact sheet discusses the commonly encountered ticks of Utah and the diseases they can vector.

Disease Vegetable
Utah Pests
Research
In Utah, Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) most commonly affects tomatoes, peppers, and tomatillos. It has also been found in ornamental plants such as blanket flower(Gaillardia sp.), and zinnia, and weeds.
Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus of Tomato & Pepper

Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus of Tomato & Pepper

In Utah, Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) most commonly affects tomatoes, peppers, and tomatillos. It has also been found in ornamental plants such as blanket flower(Gaillardia sp.), and zinnia, and weeds.

Utah Pests
Research
Insect Vegetable
Tomato and tobacco hornworms are closely related species that cause similar damage to the same host plants. Both are equivalent in size and appearance. Tomato hornworms are the larval stage of the fivespotted hawkmoth (Manduca quinquemaculata) and tobacco
Tomato and Tobacco Hornworms

Tomato and Tobacco Hornworms

Tomato and tobacco hornworms are closely related species that cause similar damage to the same host plants. Both are equivalent in size and appearance. Tomato hornworms are the larval stage of the fivespotted hawkmoth (Manduca quinquemaculata) and tobacco...

Research
Utah Pests
Disease Vegetable
TMV/ToMV is transmitted from handling contaminated tobacco products. TMV/ToMV is also transmitted by handling infected plants.
Tomato/Tobacco Mosaic Virus

Tomato/Tobacco Mosaic Virus

TMV/ToMV is transmitted from handling contaminated tobacco products. TMV/ToMV is also transmitted by handling infected plants.

Research
Utah Pests
Tree Fruit Insects
Utah Pests
Research
Turf Diseases
Research
Utah Pests
Turf Insects
Utah Pests
Research
Insects Turf
There are a number of insects that can cause aesthetic and economic loss to turfgrass in Utah – in home lawns as well as in athletic fields and on recreational lands. Good turfgrass cultural practices are the primary way to prevent insect infestation
Turfgrass Cultural Practices and Insect Pest Management

Turfgrass Cultural Practices and Insect Pest Management

There are a number of insects that can cause aesthetic and economic loss to turfgrass in Utah – in home lawns as well as in athletic fields and on recreational lands. Good turfgrass cultural practices are the primary way to prevent insect infestation

Utah Pests
Research
Turfgrass Irrigation and Water Management
IPM
Utah Pests
Research
Degree days (often referred to as “growing degree days”) are accurate because insects have a predictable development pattern based on heat accumulation. Insects are exothermic (“cold-blooded”) and their body temperature and growth are affected by their su
Using Degree Days to Time Treatments for Insect Pests

Using Degree Days to Time Treatments for Insect Pests

Degree days (often referred to as “growing degree days”) are accurate because insects have a predictable development pattern based on heat accumulation. Insects are exothermic (“cold-blooded”) and their body temperature and growth are affected by their su...

Research
Utah Pests
Vegetable Diseases
Vegetable Diseases

Vegetable Diseases

Vegetable Diseases

Research
Utah Pests
Vegetable Insects
Research
Utah Pests
Invasive Insects
Velvet longhorned beetle is an invasive wood-boring beetle first detected in Utah in 2010. VLB can negatively impact fruit yield, tree longevity, and wood marketability. Prevention, monitoring, and early detection are the key management recommendations fo
Velvet Longhorned Beetle

Velvet Longhorned Beetle

Velvet longhorned beetle is an invasive wood-boring beetle first detected in Utah in 2010. VLB can negatively impact fruit yield, tree longevity, and wood marketability. Prevention, monitoring, and early detection are the key management recommendations fo...

Utah Pests
Research
Vertebrate pest management in Utah.
Vertebrate Pests

Vertebrate Pests

Vertebrate pest management in Utah.

Research
Utah Pests
Voles are a frequent pest of turf, ornamental plantings, orchards, hay and pasture in Utah. They are active throughout the year and damage can occur at any time. 
Voles

Voles

Voles are a frequent pest of turf, ornamental plantings, orchards, hay and pasture in Utah. They are active throughout the year and damage can occur at any time. 

Tree Fruit Insects
Utah Pests
Research
Walnut husk fly (Order Diptera, Family Tephritidae; is the most common insect pest of walnuts in Utah. Husk fly larvae (maggots) tunnel in walnut husks, causing them to soften and decay, and stain the shell.
Walnut Husk Fly

Walnut Husk Fly

Walnut husk fly (Order Diptera, Family Tephritidae; is the most common insect pest of walnuts in Utah. Husk fly larvae (maggots) tunnel in walnut husks, causing them to soften and decay, and stain the shell.

Tree Fruit Insects
Utah Pests
Research
Walnut husk fly (Order Diptera, Family Tephritidae; is the most common insect pest of walnuts in Utah. Husk fly larvae (maggots) tunnel in walnut husks, causing them to soften and decay, and stain the shell.
Walnut Husk Fly

Walnut Husk Fly

Walnut husk fly (Order Diptera, Family Tephritidae; is the most common insect pest of walnuts in Utah. Husk fly larvae (maggots) tunnel in walnut husks, causing them to soften and decay, and stain the shell.

Research
Utah Pests
Tree Fruit Insects
Mites are small arthropods that are more closely related to spiders and ticks than to insects. Mites in this group are web spinners, hence the name “spider” mites. They are an important and destructive group of pests to agricultural crops worldwide.
Web Spinning Spider Mites

Web Spinning Spider Mites

Mites are small arthropods that are more closely related to spiders and ticks than to insects. Mites in this group are web spinners, hence the name “spider” mites. They are an important and destructive group of pests to agricultural crops worldwide.

Utah Pests
Research
West Nile Virus was first detected in North America in 1999 and is a relatively new concern in Utah. West Nile Virus is transmitted by mosquitoes. Horses, humans and some birds are particularly sensitive to developing West Nile Virus symptoms compared to
West Nile Virus in Utah

West Nile Virus in Utah

West Nile Virus was first detected in North America in 1999 and is a relatively new concern in Utah. West Nile Virus is transmitted by mosquitoes. Horses, humans and some birds are particularly sensitive to developing West Nile Virus symptoms compared to

Tree Fruit Insects
Utah Pests
Research
The western cherry fruit fly (Rhagoletis indifferens, Order Diptera, Family Tephritidae) is the most important pest of sweet and tart cherries in Utah. Once the skin of fruits becomes soft enough to penetrate, adult females insert eggs with their oviposit
Western Cherry Fruit Fly

Western Cherry Fruit Fly

The western cherry fruit fly (Rhagoletis indifferens, Order Diptera, Family Tephritidae) is the most important pest of sweet and tart cherries in Utah. Once the skin of fruits becomes soft enough to penetrate, adult females insert eggs with their oviposit...

Research
Utah Pests
Insect Biting
Western conenose bug is an insect that feeds on the blood of vertebrates and can carry the parasite that causes Chagas disease of humans. This insect is present in Utah, but is not commonly found.
Western Conenose Bug (Kissing Bug)

Western Conenose Bug (Kissing Bug)

Western conenose bug is an insect that feeds on the blood of vertebrates and can carry the parasite that causes Chagas disease of humans. This insect is present in Utah, but is not commonly found.

Insects Vegetable
Utah Pests
Research
Western corn rootworm is one of the most devastating corn insect pests in the United States. In some years, corn rootworms can cause up to $1 billion in yield loss and control costs.
Western Corn Rootworm

Western Corn Rootworm

Western corn rootworm is one of the most devastating corn insect pests in the United States. In some years, corn rootworms can cause up to $1 billion in yield loss and control costs.

Research
Utah Pests
Tree Fruit Insects
Western flower thrips are native to western North America and are widespread throughout this region. This species feeds on hundreds of different weed and crop hosts.
Western Flower Thrips

Western Flower Thrips

Western flower thrips are native to western North America and are widespread throughout this region. This species feeds on hundreds of different weed and crop hosts.

Research
Tree Fruit Insects
Utah Pests
Western tentiform leafminer populations can vary tremendously between years or even between generations within a single year. A large population in Utah’s commercial fruit districts hasn’t been observed since the early 2000s. Increasing resistance to orga
Western Tentiform Leafminer

Western Tentiform Leafminer

Western tentiform leafminer populations can vary tremendously between years or even between generations within a single year. A large population in Utah’s commercial fruit districts hasn’t been observed since the early 2000s. Increasing resistance to orga...

Research
Utah Pests
Tree Fruit Insects
Western Tentiform Leafminer Sampling Form - Apple and Cherry
Utah Pests
Research
Tree Fruit Insects
Western tentiform leafminer is an indirect pest that mines the leaves of apple and cherry. It can diminish the photosynthetic capability of trees and reduce fruit size and quality. Leafminer populations can fluctuate dramatically within and between years.
Western Tentiform Leafminer 

Western Tentiform Leafminer 

Western tentiform leafminer is an indirect pest that mines the leaves of apple and cherry. It can diminish the photosynthetic capability of trees and reduce fruit size and quality. Leafminer populations can fluctuate dramatically within and between years....

Utah Pests
IPM
Research
Biochar is a charcoal-like product that contains no petroleum. It is made by heating biomass such as herbaceous or woody crop residues, non-salvageable timber and slash, or animal manure, in a contained system. There are many potential uses for biocha
What Is Biochar and How Is It Used?

What Is Biochar and How Is It Used?

Biochar is a charcoal-like product that contains no petroleum. It is made by heating biomass such as herbaceous or woody crop residues, non-salvageable timber and slash, or animal manure, in a contained system. There are many potential uses for biocha

IPM
Research
Utah Pests
Biochar is a charcoal-like product that contains no petroleum. It is made by heating biomass such as herbaceous or woody crop residues, non-salvageable timber and slash, or animal manure, in a contained system. There are many potential uses for biochar in
What is Biochar and How is it Used?

What is Biochar and How is it Used?

Biochar is a charcoal-like product that contains no petroleum. It is made by heating biomass such as herbaceous or woody crop residues, non-salvageable timber and slash, or animal manure, in a contained system. There are many potential uses for biochar in...

Research
Utah Pests
Tree Fruit Insects
White Apple Leafhopper Sampling Form
Research
Utah Pests
Tree Fruit Insects
The white apple leafhopper (Order Homoptera, Family Cicadellidae) is the most common and serious of the leafhopper pests found on apple and other tree fruits. The rose leafhopper can be a pest of apple and pear in the Northwest.
White Apple Leafhopper | USU

White Apple Leafhopper

The white apple leafhopper (Order Homoptera, Family Cicadellidae) is the most common and serious of the leafhopper pests found on apple and other tree fruits. The rose leafhopper can be a pest of apple and pear in the Northwest.

Utah Pests
Research
Insects Vegetable
Wireworms are the immature form (larvae) of click beetles. Severe damage from wireworms in Utah is rare. Wireworms live in the soil and feed on seeds, roots, crowns, and stalks of various plants.
Wireworm

Wireworm

Wireworms are the immature form (larvae) of click beetles. Severe damage from wireworms in Utah is rare. Wireworms live in the soil and feed on seeds, roots, crowns, and stalks of various plants.

Utah Pests
Research
The yellow sac spider has a necrotic bite and is of concern in Utah. These spiders are bright-yellow to bright-green in color with darkened “feet.” Yellow sac spiders are nocturnal, and spend the day in white, flattened sacs; indoors they can be found in
Yellow Sac Spiders

Yellow Sac Spiders

The yellow sac spider has a necrotic bite and is of concern in Utah. These spiders are bright-yellow to bright-green in color with darkened “feet.” Yellow sac spiders are nocturnal, and spend the day in white, flattened sacs; indoors they can be found in

Research
Utah Pests
Yellowjackets, hornets and wasps are closely-related social wasps commonly found in Utah. All social wasps are capable of repeatedly stinging without dying if they feel threatened. Bees are often blamed for most stings, but about 90% of all stings are lik
Yellowjackets, Hornets, and Paper Wasps

Yellowjackets, Hornets, and Paper Wasps

Yellowjackets, hornets and wasps are closely-related social wasps commonly found in Utah. All social wasps are capable of repeatedly stinging without dying if they feel threatened. Bees are often blamed for most stings, but about 90% of all stings are lik...

Disease Vegetable
Utah Pests
Research
The non-culturable bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum causes zebra chip disease of potatoes. Bacteria are transmitted by potato psyllids,(Bactericera cockerelli).
Zebra Chip Disease of Potato

Zebra Chip Disease of Potato

The non-culturable bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum causes zebra chip disease of potatoes. Bacteria are transmitted by potato psyllids,(Bactericera cockerelli).