We'll review some of the more common ones, specifically leaf problems, in this issue. Always remember how important it is to identify a problem before you spray. Take a diseased sample to your local garden center or Cooperative Extension office, or use your own reference materials to pinpoint the cause and find the right control. Sometimes there is no control available. In the case of diseased plant material, any of these steps will help minimize spore production.
Leaves are sticky, yellow, and distorted.
Aphids are tiny insects that come in many colors and suck plant juices from the leaves. You ll often find them in vast colonies on succulent, new growth. Flea beetles are tiny black insects that hop like fleas when disturbed. They chew little holes throughout the leaf surface. Although flea beetles are rarely a problem to well-established plants, you can spray them with pyrethrins, methoxychlor, diazinon, or carbaryl.