Slugs and snails lack many things, such as intellect, cultural refinement, credit cards and sneakers. They also lack a protective exterior that most other biological organisms are familiar with. A good pest management plan may be needed.

However, most severe aphid infestations are established and maintained by ants. Therefore, aphid control, thrip control, moth control and even ant control (insect control) measure are necessary with these types of yucky insects. As for the moth, you can always consider buying a ‘moth trap’ (insect trap), available at most nursery or garden centers.

Those of us who truly enjoy gardening generally try to avoid problem situations that require the use of chemical pesticides. Application of pesticides is not the sort of chore that garden enthusiasts enjoy.

The preferred method of minimizing snail population is hand picking and having a good pest management program in place. To be effective, this procedure must be performed thoroughly and regularly.

Natural pathogens from Australia have mysteriously appeared in California and are causing problems on the eucalyptus tree. The main pests are the eucalyptus longhorn borer, eucalyptus gall wasp, various leaf eating beetles and at least six species of the psyllid.

Many of the chemicals formerly used to control insects and diseases in the garden are no longer available because they have been found to have detrimental effects to the environment or present a health risk to those who come into contact with them. A good pest management program is needed.