In this fall-themed episode, Sarah and Hanna are joined by Community Forester Sarah Browning to talk about the insects (and a few not-quite-insects) that become more noticeable this time of year. From spiders in the basement to mosquitoes that won’t quit, the conversation covers who these critters are, what they’re doing in the fall, and how to live with—or without—them.
Learn why wolf spiders seem extra big in autumn, what oak itch mites are really up to in your red oaks, and why minute pirate bugs have such a misleadingly cute name. The team also shares practical advice for dealing with fruit flies, fungus gnats, whiteflies on houseplants, and nuisance insects like Asian lady beetles and boxelder bugs. And of course, they wrap up with their Plants of the Week.
Topics:
- Why spiders are more visible in the fall and which ones to watch for
- Pest prevention without perimeter sprays—sealing, light control, and moisture management
- Praying mantis species in Nebraska and their role in the garden
- Mosquito control strategies that work (and don’t)
- Oak itch mites and minute pirate bugs explained
- Managing nuisance insects in the home (lady beetles, boxelder bugs, crickets, millipedes)
- Fruit flies vs. fungus gnats vs. whiteflies—how to tell them apart
- Seasonal transition tips for bringing houseplants indoors
Plants Mentioned:
- Asters (October Skies)
- Tall garden sedum (Hylotelephium telephium, cultivars incl. ‘Autumn Joy’)
- Wild plum (Prunus americana)
- Coleus
- Geraniums
- Poinsettia (holiday reminder, whitefly prone)
Links Mentioned
Announcements
- Plants & Pints – SOLD OUT a full month in advance! Be sure to mark your calendars early for next year’s October event.
- Awards Season – Watch for announcements and celebrations of Arboretum award winners.
- Plant Talks (Winter Webinar Series) – Send in your topic suggestions now! What do you want a deep dive on? The team is building the schedule.
Links
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