Solving pest problems

UC Master Gardeners recommend an integrated approach to solving pest problems by minimizing pesticides and using techniques found in nature. This scientific, comprehensive approach is called Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

• Identify the Problem: Home, Garden, Turf, and Landscape Pests

• Avoid Spreading Exotic and Invasive Plants and Pests

• A Broad Look at Managing Pests in Gardens and Landscapes

• A Weed Photo Gallery: Identify Broadleaf, Grass, Sedge, Aquatic

• Environmentally Sound Methods for Managing Pests; Plus, a Problem Diagnostic Tool

• Pesticide details, safe use guidance

Weeds

Every gardener knows weeds -- uninvited plants that interfere with land and water resources, are unattractive or unwanted, or just get in the way. A distinct group of weeds that occur in natural habitats are classified as invasive plants and can cause significant damage.

• Is That Beautiful Plant an Invader?

• How Do Weeds and Invasive Plants Differ?

• Four Categories of Weeds: Broadleaf, Grass, Sedge, Aquatic

• An Interactive Weed Identification Tool

• Weed Management in Gardens and Landscapes

• The California Invasive Plant Council in Berkeley maintains an inventory list of invasive species (including invasive weeds) and funds eradication projects. Before planting, check the list:
  • Invasive Plants A to Z

Pest or Guest?

Even a small garden can play a big part in supporting our ecosystem. Be a good host for your insect guests and let nature work for you. Select host plants for caterpillars to eat and pollinator plants to feed the adults. 

More Pest Tips

Pest Notes library

Exotic and invasive pests

Natural enemies gallery