SHREVEPORT, La. — Warmer weather and recent rain can create the perfect conditions for garden pests to thrive.
In this week’s garden segment, Jennifer McGimsey at Akins Nursery shares tips on some of the most common pests homeowners may see this time of year, including slugs, snails, tent worms, and fire ants.
McGimsey says slugs and snails are often to blame when gardeners notice holes or damage on hostas and other leafy plants. These pests also target vegetables like cauliflower and lettuce, especially plants growing in shady areas.
One organic option to help control slugs and snails is a slug and snail bait, which can be sprinkled around plants to create a barrier and discourage feeding.
Another pest to watch for is tent worms. McGimsey says homeowners may notice large web-like structures high in trees.
To treat tent worms, she recommends removing the affected branch when possible and spraying the remaining part of the tree with BT, an organic bacteria strain used to help control the pests.
McGimsey also warns that recent rain has led to an increase in fire ants.
The best treatment depends on the situation, she says. For homes with pets, an organic option may be the better choice, while more severe infestations may require stronger treatments.
McGimsey says the best way to protect your garden is to stay ahead of the problem by regularly checking plants and addressing pests early.
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