Insect Pests

Blog Posts

Reduce insect conflicts with a naturalistic approach

September 3, 2026

While enjoying the outdoors, we often come into contact with insects, for better or worse. From buzzing mosquitoes to wasps interrupting outdoor...

many small cream colored larva feeding on the inside of a plant stem

Swede midge

October 2, 2026

Swede midge is an invasive pest of brassicas introduced to North America in 2000 where it was detected in Canada. Since then, it has been detected in...

cracks in bare soil inside and between raised beds inside high tunnel

From Dixon Springs Ag Center: Insects were thriving in the heat of September

October 2, 2026

The relentless heat and humidity of September are finally over. Lack of soil moisture and continued high temperatures created many noticeable cracks...

Mimosa Webworm: The pest behind this year’s Honeylocust damage

September 30, 2026

Every growing season brings a few plant issues that stand out and prompt attention from inquiring plant people. Whether it is something...

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News Releases

Portrait of the researchers standing in front of a map of Illinois with tick species indicated on the map.

July 14, 2026

New study reinforces the need for year-round tick awareness in Illinois
URBANA, Ill — A new study has reported a “dramatic growth” in the number of human cases of tick-borne disease between 2004 and 2022. The University of Illinois study also found that tick-borne diseases were reported in every month of the year and in every Illinois county, underscoring the...

June 30, 2026

Tick concerns are growing: What Illinois residents need to know
URBANA, Ill. — For some residents, a walk through a park or an afternoon in the backyard brings a new level of anxiety thanks to growing concerns about ticks and the diseases they carry. This fear can lead people to limit outdoor activity out of concern that they may be bitten. As reports of...

April 8, 2026

U of I Extension to Host Educational Programs on Illinois Ticks and Small Ruminant Management on Monday, May 4
Lake and McHenry Counties- University of Illinois Extension in Lake and McHenry Counties will host two educational programs on Monday, May 4, offering Illinois residents timely information on the movement of invasive ticks and small ruminant health and management. Dr....

Green corn leaves and stalks growing in a field on a sunny, blue sky day

February 3, 2026

Illinois Extension Crop Management Conference equips agriculturalists for upcoming growing season
URBANA, Ill. — How individuals strategize their next farming season can differ from one farmer, landowner, producer, or industry professional to the next. University of Illinois Extension’s online-only Crop...

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Videos

All About Bed Bugs

The resurgence of bed bugs are making headlines globally. Join Good Growing as they delve into the pressing issue of bed bugs seemingly spiraling out of control. Are these tiny pests staging a global takeover once again? Our special guest, entomologist Dr. Kacie Athey, joins the conversation to...