What pests are most commonly linked to landscape failures according to FNGLA?

The pests most commonly linked to landscape failures according to FNGLA are aphids, whiteflies, and scale insects. These specific insects are notorious for causing significant damage to plants in landscape settings. Aphids are sap-sucking insects that can weaken plants, transmit viruses, and lead to secondary infections through their feeding activities. Whiteflies also feed on the sap of plants and can produce honeydew, which fosters the growth of sooty mold, further harming plant health. Scale insects, which can be challenging to detect, attach themselves to plants and feed on their sap, ultimately leading to stress, decline, and potential death of the host plants.

These pests are particularly concerning in landscapes because they can proliferate quickly, spreading rapidly to multiple plants and overwhelming them. Their association with disease transmission and other pest problems makes them critical targets for pest management strategies in maintaining healthy landscapes. Understanding the impact of these pests helps landscape professionals implement timely and effective control measures to protect plant health.