Pests and Diseases

Invasive insects and pests have multiplied in the benign environment of Hawai`i Island, threatening agricultural industries and native plant species. Examples are coqui frogs, cycad scales, Erythrina gall wasps, little fire ants, stinging caterpillars, and Varoa mites. If you are a commercial grower and would like more information on the Insects and Pests program in Hawai`i County, please contact the appropriate Extension Agent or Specialist. If you are a backyard gardener, please contact the Master Gardeners.

The plant pathology program for Hawai`i County has research and extension projects for important diseases of a wide range of plants, including tropical fruits and vegetables, medicinal plants, ornamental and landscape plants, nurseries, and forests. Research is focused on plant disease etiology and sustainable management. Extension projects deliver information and crop management recommendations to agricultural clientele via websites, newsletters, extension publications, workshops and seminars, articles in the popular press, plant doctor clinics and by diagnostic visits to farms, nurseries, landscapes, residences and forests.

For more information on how to identify and treat your sick plant, please contact Dr. Scot Nelson at the plant doctor web site.

For more information on free publications available on plant diseases, please go to the CTAHR publications web site.