It’s going to be a hard pest control year for California growers

Hot temperatures and dry conditions are fueling more pest activity in some growing regions. Along California’s coast, leafy greens growers say they have their hands full.

“Some of the target threats that we’re working on are diamondback moths and western flower thrips. We’re seeing variable results with control options for diamondback moths. And I think that growers can expect that it’s going to be a hard-to-control year with the cool, variable weather that we’ve had and limited options for control,” said Dave Cheetham of Helena Agri-Enterprises.

Cheetham tells aginfo.net that it is important to pay attention to rotation when dealing with these pests, and he warns not to get caught up in solving problems with chemistry.

Related Stories
Experts warn pests could reduce yields and raise costs for producers
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller launches Agricultural Defense Program to combat pests, disease, and predators threatening farmers and ranchers statewide.
Ranchers have a lot going on at the moment, but some ‘friendly’ news could be coming with this month’s Cattle-on-Feed Report from the USDA.
Vive’s Art Graves shared insights on the new Phobos FC 360 foliar fungicide, its advantages for Canadian growers, early performance results, and the company’s ongoing commitment to advanced crop protection solutions.
University of Arkansas’ Allen Szalanski discusses a news study on rice stink bugs, what it could mean for farmers, and pest management strategies for the future.
At Commodity Classic in San Antonio, growers explore new herbicide options, John Deere’s latest 8 Series tractors, and cutting-edge ag technology shaping the 2026 planting season. Here are some of RFD NEWS’ highlights from the event so far.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Jeramy Stephens, with National Land Realty, says that despite today’s economic headwinds, farmland remains a resilient asset — and understanding local conditions is key to making sound decisions.
FarmHER Christina Woerner McInnis joined us to discuss the next episode of “FarmHER + RanchHER” and her decision to run for Alabama Ag Commissioner.
Taiwan’s pledge to expand imports strengthens export prospects for U.S. row crops, livestock products, and specialty commodities, while the USDA’s broader trade push seeks to diversify farm markets globally.
“American soybean farmers—who are already reeling from your sweeping tariffs—deserve better.”
FarmHER Laura Adams raises cattle in Georgia, overcoming family tragedy with the help of Farm Dog of the Year, Skippy.
Agriculture Shows
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.