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What Do Warm Winter Temperatures Do to Insect Populations?

News Article

A common question we have been receiving in the Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic (PIDC) is if the warmer winter temperatures we have been experiencing in Iowa will result in increased insect and arthropod abundance this summer. Will there be more ticks? What about other insects like mosquitoes and boxelder bugs? Well, the short answer is it depends and remains to be seen for many. In addition, more than just temperature will have an impact on insect populations. Things like precipitation can also be a huge factor.

Iowa Butterfly Forecast for June 2023

News Article

See what butterflies will be taking flight in June in the Iowa Butterfly Forecast. This series will continue monthly throughout the flight season. 

Insects on Stamps - Entomophilately

Encyclopedia Article
USPS Insects & Spiders Stamps

Originally published October 27, 1999

Updated November, 2017

Insects are everywhere.  And in 1999 they were even on our stamps.  In October, 1999 the U.S. Postal Service released a page of 20 commemorative stamps titled “Insects and Spiders” that includes 4 spiders and 16 insects in intricate, lifelike detail.  These spectacular stamps will make it easy to combine two of the all-time favorite hobbies – stamp collecting and insect collecting.  Collect both at the same time!

Winter Activities for Gardeners

News Article

For many gardeners, winter seems to drag on, and on, and on.  Fortunately, there are a number of enjoyable activities to help pass the time. 

Visit An Indoor Garden

A vacation in Florida, Arizona, or other warm weather location is a great way to beat the winter blues.  If a vacation isn't possible, don't despair.  It's still possible to enjoy a tropical reprieve by visiting an indoor garden. 

Tobacco Budworm

Encyclopedia Article

Tobacco budworm, Heliothis virescens (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) also attacks and feeds on a wide variety of garden flowers, especially geraniums. The caterpillars feed on foliage and flower buds of geranium, reducing plant vigor and blooms, respectively. 

How to Care for Flowering Houseplants

Most flowering houseplants require direct or bright, indirect light at levels well above those required for most foliage plants. Many have a limited season of bloom and often need a rest period before re-blooming. Flowering houseplants benefit from moderate fertilization and high humidity. For long-term success of flowering houseplants, supplemental light can be used if sufficient natural light is not available.

Learn more about how to care for your florist's plants below.

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68th Annual Iowa State University Shade Tree Short Course

News Article

From its humble beginnings in the mid-1950’s to its current status as one of the most popular and well-attended tree care conferences of its kind in the country, the ISU Shade Tree Short Course (Ames, IA) is the place to be February 21-22, 2024.

Codling Moth

Encyclopedia Article

The codling moth (CM) is a worldwide pest of apples introduced into the U.S. from Europe by early American settlers.  The CM caterpillar is one of the "worms" found in “wormy apples.”

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