Pests can include both insects and plant diseases, and can vary by the specific region and type of crop or plant. The top 25 pests in Oklahoma, the following is a list of common pests in the region, both for agriculture and in-home infestations:
- Aphids: These pests can be found in many garden plants and can cause significant damage if not controlled.
- Bagworms: These pests are commonly found in coniferous trees, but can also infest deciduous trees.
- Termites: Termites can cause significant structural damage to buildings and homes.
- Japanese Beetles: These pests can severely damage grass, crops, and ornamental plants.
- Squash Bugs: These pests can be a problem for gardeners growing squash and related plants.
- Tomato Hornworms: These caterpillars can cause significant damage to tomato plants.
- Grasshoppers: Grasshoppers can cause extensive damage to many types of plants and crops. They feed on leaves, stems, and flowers, often leaving ragged holes and defoliated plants. They are especially troublesome during hot, dry summers when populations surge. Early morning hand-picking, row covers, and encouraging natural predators like birds can help control them. For larger infestations, targeted insecticide use may be necessary.
- Armyworms: These caterpillars can damage a wide variety of crops, including wheat, corn, and grass.
- Cutworms: These pests attack the stems of young plants at the soil surface.
- Bedbugs: These pests are notorious for infesting homes and biting humans.
- Ants: Some species of ants can be a nuisance in homes and can also harm plants.
- Cockroaches: These pests can infest homes and are a significant health concern due to the diseases they can carry.
- Mice and Rats: These rodents can cause damage to property and crops and can also carry diseases.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can damage a wide variety of plants.
- Fire Ants: These ants can deliver painful bites and can also damage plants.
- Ticks: Ticks can be a nuisance to humans and pets due to the diseases they can transmit.
- Fleas: Fleas can infest homes and pets, causing discomfort and potential health problems.
- Chinch Bugs: These bugs are a common pest of lawns, particularly those with St. Augustine grass.
- Moths: Certain species of moths can damage crops and infest homes, where larvae feed on fabrics.
- Weevils: These beetles can be a serious pest for grain crops.
- Whiteflies: These tiny insects can cause significant damage to a wide variety of plants.
- Borers: Certain beetles and moth larvae bore into trees, causing extensive structural damage.
- Nematodes: These microscopic worms can harm plants by attacking root systems.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease affects a wide range of plants.
- Rust Fungi: These fungi infect many plants, leading to discoloration and reduced health.
Remember, the best way to control pests is through integrated pest management (IPM), which uses a combination of biological control, using pests’ natural enemies, and careful use of pesticides. You should also regularly monitor your plants and crops for signs of pest damage.
When Is It Time to Call in the Professionals?
Sometimes, despite your best efforts—and perhaps a dash of wishful thinking—certain pests simply refuse to budge. While many garden and household infestations can be handled with perseverance and clever DIY tactics, there are situations where professional intervention is not just helpful, but necessary. Consider seeking out a licensed pest control expert if:
- You’re facing infestations with pests known for being particularly tough to eliminate, such as termites, bedbugs, or venomous spiders.
- DIY measures aren’t making a dent, and the problem seems to return no matter what you try.
- The infestation poses risks to your health, your pets, or the structural integrity of your home.
- You’re not entirely certain which pest you’re up against—improper identification can lead to wasted time and resources.
Professionals have access to tools, treatments, and knowledge that go well beyond what’s available at your local hardware store. They can properly identify the pest, locate hidden infestations, and develop an integrated pest management (IPM) plan tailored to your situation. The peace of mind that comes from restoring your space—and keeping your plants, family, and sanity intact—is well worth it. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to get an inspection. It’s much easier to address issues early than to deal with full-blown invasions down the road.