Common Garden Problems

Even though snails are probably the most common problem for home gardeners, there are also another three subjects that almost always appear on the common garden problems list. Finding a quality Garden Directory to get information on different problems is a smart way to avoid gardening problems.

What I mean by this is aphids, whiteflies and powdery mildew:
Upon taking a close inspection of your garden, you will almost certainly find aphids, whiteflies and powdery mildew. There are few insect pests that are more widespread than aphids and whiteflies, and no fungus disease is more common than powdery mildew.

Aphids and whiteflies are particularly bothersome, as the are extremely quick to breed, and once they have reached high numbers, they can damage fruits, leaves, stems and even roots as they suck the plant juices.

Even though there are many different species of aphids, the most commonly known are the green, soft-bodied variety that are approximately 1/16th of an inch in size.

They are generally widespread on new plants that are just emerging such as roses. The plant becomes weakened when the aphids suck the plant juices from leaves and stems. On a more serious level, they can then transmit virus diseases that will gradually kill certain plants.

Whiteflies also reproduce quickly, and suck plant juices, resulting in the weakening of plants.

Prevention is the first line of defense against aphids and whiteflies. It is important to check your plants on a regular basis. And if you see any evidence of them, you should get them under control as quickly as possible.

A strong jet of plain water will very often control aphids. The water knocks them off the plants resulting in the death of the insect. If plain water does not work, you can mix a little soap with the water and spray your plants. There are of course, commercial insecticidal soaps available on the market these days.

Spraying horticultural oil or a strong substance such as malathion as a last resort will also cure your problem.

Sticky yellow traps can be used to control whiteflies. They are attracted to the color yellow and aim straight for it. These yellow traps are coated with a sticky substance, and they can be hung in your garden. Once the whiteflies land on the trap, they stick and die.


It is also possible to spray whiteflies with the same substances that you would use for aphids. However, it is advised to spray whiteflies at dusk rather than during the day. The reason for this is that whiteflies are less active at dusk. If you spray them during the day, you will find that you will be met with a cloud of whiteflies as they fly away. Growing in Greenhouses can help to reduce the amount of flies and pests you have greatly.

Powdery mildew is another problem that you may come across:
This powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as white, powdery patches on the upper sides of leaves.

Powdery mildew should be treated with sulfur dust. It is also possible to make your own fungicide by mixing together 1 tablespoon of baking soda with half a teaspoon of oil and then adding to a spray bottle with 1 quart of warm water. There are also commercial sprays available if you would prefer to use that method.