Unwanted Pests In The Garden

Even though gardening is viewed as a relaxing hobby, for those who are afraid of creepy crawlies, it'll often come with a few uninvited guests and some jump scares. While some insects are helpful, others can damage leaves, stems, or roots before you notice. Knowing what to look for makes it easier to respond early and keep plants in good condition. Here are just 5 common bugs you might meet in your backyard.

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1. Aphids

For those afraid of bugs, you might even find this variety cute! Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that often cluster on new growth and the undersides of leaves (which might at times give you a shock). They feed by piercing plant tissue and can cause curling, yellowing, or stunted growth. 

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2. Slugs and Snails

These slimy and creepy-looking bugs aren't particularly loved by many, but you'll often find them in your garden nonetheless. Slugs and snails commonly feed at night and leave irregular holes in leaves and tender seedlings. Even if you don't see them, their presence is often confirmed by shiny slime trails on soil or foliage.

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3. Spider Mites

Anything with the word spider in it is enough to make us scared! Although spider mites are tiny and can be difficult to see, their damage is noticeable. Leaves may show fine speckling, a dusty look, or gradual browning as they continue to feed. In heavier infestations, delicate webbing may appear along stems or leaf edges.

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4. Whiteflies

Whiteflies are small, pale insects that fly up in a quick cloud when disturbed. They feed on plant sap, and while they look harmless, they can weaken plants over time, which leads to yellowing leaves. Like aphids, they often leave sticky residue that can contribute to further issues.

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5. Cabbage Worms

As the name suggests, cabbage worms are green caterpillars that commonly target leafy vegetables such as kale, cabbage, and broccoli. They chew through leaves and can leave behind scattered droppings that make damage easier to identify. Regular leaf checks help catch them early, especially on the inner leaves where they like to hide.

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