Connecticut plant and pest information

 

Plant health and pest resources

Connecticut offers reliable plant and pest information to help keep plants healthy. These resources come from research at The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES). They reflect many years of scientific study.

Find information on:

  • Common signs of plant damage or stress
  • Insects and other pests that can damage plants
  • Plant diseases that affect crops, gardens, trees, and houseplants
  • Ways to manage pests and keep plants healthy
 

Spotted lanternfly: What you need to know

The spotted lanternfly (SLF) is an invasive insect that can damage trees, and other plants in Connecticut.

Learn how to identify it, where it has been found, and why it is a concern. You can also find guidance on how to report sightings, help prevent its spread, and access management and control resources.

Learn more about spotted lanternfly  

Plant and outdoor pest care

 

Insect information

Find fact sheets for insect pests, ticks, and pollinators. Learn how to identify species, understand their impact, and prevent common problems.
 

Plant growth and care

Learn about plants, fruits, vegetables, flowers, and house plants. Find information about plant care, common problems, and healthy growth.
 

Lawn and landscape

Explore fact sheets about composting, lawns, mulch, and landscape plants. Learn how to improve soil health, maintain lawns, and care for outdoor spaces.

Common Connecticut lawn and garden problems

Topsoil for home landscapes

Topsoil is not always needed for home landscapes. Using the wrong soil can cause problems. Soil testing and proper use can help keep plants healthy.

Common pests of ornamental plants

Ornamental plants in home landscapes can be affected by a range of pests. Insects and other organisms can harm leaves, stems, or flowers.

Lawn health challenges

Lawn problems are common in home landscapes. Pests, diseases, and other issues can affect turf health. Understanding the cause is key to managing lawn damage.

Pests and diseases by plant type

Find pest and disease information by plant type. Learn about common issues that can affect plant health.


Find maple disease information 

Common maple diseases are leaf spots, tar spots, and wilt. They harm leaves, branches, and overall tree health.

Learn about tomato plant health problems 

Tomato plants can develop diseases such as damping‑off, root rot, and wilt. These can damage roots, slow growth, and weaken plant health.

Explore peach pests and diseases 

Peach trees can get diseases such as brown rot and leaf curl. These problems affect blossoms, fruit, and tree growth.

Check rose pests and diseases 

Some rose diseases include leaf spots, mildew, and rust. These can harm leaves, slow growth, and weaken the plant over time.

Lawn setup and preparation

How to improve lawn soil and site conditions 

Plan ahead when starting a new lawn. A strong start helps lawns grow evenly, develop deep roots, and stay healthy over time.

Starting a new lawn (PDF) 

Soil testing and site prep help find problems before planting. This helps lawns grow strong and healthy over time.
 

Office of Aquatic Invasive Species

The office tracks invasive aquatic plant species and how they impact waterbodies. We also test new ways to control aquatic plants to protect lakes, ponds, and rivers for public use and for the environment.

Learn about aquatic invasive species in Connecticut