Elm Zigzag Sawfly

The elm zigzag sawfly is an invasive sawfly that attacks elm trees. Populations were detected in Wisconsin for the first time in July 2024 and were quickly found in several counties across the state. In many cases, damage may be minor, but this invasive pest does have the potential to cause significant defoliation of elm trees.

Strategies for Identifying and Managing Insect Pests

By: PJ Liesch, Extension Entomology Specialist Even though insects can cause damage to our plants, not all of them are harmful. In this video, you will learn how to look for signs of insects, why identification is required, and different control options and methods. The first step in the management process of insects in yards […]

Plum Curculio

Plum curculio is one of the most common and detrimental pests of apple and other fruits in Wisconsin. Learn about the life cycle, damage patterns, and control options to effectively manage plum curculio.

European Pine Sawfly, Neodiprion sertifer

If you’ve noticed masses or writhing, dark green “caterpillars” on your pine trees this spring, you likely have an infestation of European pine sawfly.  To learn more about this pest, read this article…

Apple Maggot

If you have an apple tree in your backyard, you’ve probably found out that apple maggot likes your fruit as much as you do. Learn more about this pesky fly and what to do about it in this article…

Spotted Wing Drosophila

Spotted wing Drosophila is an invasive vinegar fly that can affect a wide variety of fruits, especially raspberries, in Wisconsin. Learn identification and management techniques in this factsheet.

Create a Butterfly Garden

Colorful butterflies can add a lot to a garden. Learn how to create a butterfly garden that will be attractive to many different types of butterflies in this article…

Japanese Beetle

The Japanese beetle, Popillia japonica, is a significant pest of landscape trees and shrubs, vegetable and fruit crops, and turfgrass. This factsheet describes the lifecycle of this beetle along with management and control options.

Fungus Gnats on Houseplants

Fungus gnats (Family Sciaridae) are insects commonly associated with overwatered houseplants. They can become a nuisance when they are present in large numbers and fly around inside a home. In most situations, fungus gnats are a cosmetic problem. However, on occasion, fungus gnat larvae can cause plant damage.

Zimmerman Pine Moth

While Zimmerman pine moth prefers Austrian and Scots pines, it will also attack Eastern white and mugo pines in the landscape. Learn about damage caused by this pest and control strategies in this factsheet.

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