integrated pest management
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Introduction When you stroll through gardens and public places, you might notice some Camellia japonicas displaying earlier, larger, and more vibrant blooms than others. This striking phenomenon is often the result of a horticultural technique known as gibbing, in which gibberellic acid is employed to enhance the growth and beauty of these beloved flowering shrubs.…
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When we think of lizards, images of agile, scaly creatures often come to mind, scuttling across rocks or darting through the underbrush. However, the Eastern Glass Lizard (Ophisaurus ventralis) is an enigmatic reptile that defies these expectations. Stretching from 18 to 43 inches (46 to 108 cm) in length, these legless wonders could easily be…
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Introduction: Nature has a way of creating beautiful and intricate relationships between different species. One such remarkable relationship exists between the milkweed plant and the iconic monarch butterfly. The monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) is a symbol of beauty and resilience, while milkweed plants (Asclepias spp.) play a crucial role in their survival. In this blog,…
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Note: The annual life cycle of Vespa velutina can vary depending on geographic location and local environmental conditions. The following information was from research conducted in Europe. The timing here in Southern Georgia may or may not follow this pattern. Species Name: Vespa velutinaCommon Name: Asian Hornet (Europe), Yellow Legged Hornet (United States) Introduction:Vespa velutina,…
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Introduction:Savannah, Georgia, known for its historic charm and lush landscapes, is facing an unexpected challenge from an invasive species: Vespa velutina, also known as the yellow legged hornet. This aggressive and rapidly spreading hornet species is making its presence felt, posing potential threats to both the local ecosystem and human activities. Let’s delve into the…
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One of the funniest things I have ever seen was when a friend of mine had a run-in with a yellow jacket (Vespula sp.) nest. I was far enough away to be safe, and the cause of his antics was invisible to me. While at the time it seemed funny, such situations can be very…
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In the world of arachnids, spiders come in all shapes and sizes, showcasing a stunning diversity of colors, patterns, and behaviors. Among these fascinating creatures, the Joro spider and the Golden Silk Orb Weaver stand out as formidable and captivating representatives of their kind. Both renowned for their intricate web-building abilities, these spiders have unique…
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Introduction: As the warm breeze of late summer fills the air in Southeast Georgia, natural phenomenon graces the region – the appearance of two species of Datana caterpillars. Meet Datana ministra (yellow neck caterpillar) and Datana major (red headed azalea caterpillar), two caterpillars that show up this time of year every year. As the name…
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The Fall Webworm, scientifically known as Hyphantria cunea, is a moth species belonging to the family Erebidae. Native to North America, this insect is widely distributed throughout the eastern and southeastern regions of the United States. It has also been introduced to various parts of Europe, Asia, and South America. Lifecycle and Behavior: The Fall…
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Introduction: Gardening in the bountiful region of Southern Georgia brings with it numerous rewards, from vibrant flowers to homegrown fruits and vegetables. However, it also presents its fair share of challenges, one of which is the frustrating condition known as blossom end rot. This blog post aims to shed light on what blossom end rot…