Of the approximately 100 different species of ants found in Iowa, the most destructive are carpenter ants. Most carpenter ants are large and shiny black, although some species are dark brown or reddish and medium-sized. These ants can cause major structural damage when they tunnel in wood to construct their nests.

This publication covers identification, life cycle and habits, management and prevention of carpenter ants.

Previously known as IC 0411

Crabgrass, sometimes called watergrass, is a warm-season annual grassy weed that is prevalent in Iowa. Crabgrass germinates in the spring once soil temperatures hit 55°F for four straight days and nights, and will die with the cooler weather and frost in the fall. Iowa has both Digitaria ischaemum (smooth crabgrass, smooth hairless stems with hairs where the stem and leaf meet) as well as Digitaria sanguinalis (large crabgrass, the stems and leaves contain hairs).

Black medic (Medicago lupulina) is a summer-annual broadleaf weed commonly found in Iowa. Due to its similar appearance to members of the clover family (Trifolium ssp.), and yellow woodsorrel (Oxalis stricta), this weed can be easily misidentified. In Iowa, black medic is known to be problematic on both high- and low-maintenance turf and is tolerant of a wide range of mowing heights.

Homeowners and commercial pesticide applicators will find control measures to consider in preventing and treating the infestation of ash trees by the emerald ash borer. Includes product recommendations and evaluation of insecticide effectiveness.

Previously known as PM 2084.

Galls are distinctive swellings or abnormal growths of plant tissue caused by an attack of a living organism. This publication discusses tree and shrub galls caused by insects and mites. It talks about the damage galls create and how they can be controlled. It also provides a detailed list of common galls and gallmarkers that includes color photos.

Previously known as IC 0417.

Find out about disease-resistant elms to combat Dutch Elm Disease.

Scale insects are tiny insects that can cause large problems for landscape plants. Despite their small size they can weaken and even kill ornamental plants. This publication provides information on identifying these insects and steps that can be taken to remove them from plants through biological, mechanical and chemical means.

Previously known as IC 0415

Strip-tillage is when a crop is planted into narrow, tilled strips and the non-tilled area between the strips might contain residue from the previous season's main crop or a living or dead cover crop.

Combining strip-tillage and cover crops offers various benefits including minimal soil erosion, maintains soil moisture and weed suppression. This publication provides basic information on using a strip-tillage system with rolled cover crops as a conservation best management practice in vegetable production systems such broccoli, peppers, pumpkins, squash and tomatoes.

Identify common spiders, find information about spider behavior and bites, and learn how to manage spiders indoors and around your home. Find full color, up close photos of specimens to aid identification.

Many ash tree problems can be mistaken for emerald ash borer infestation. Before removal or needlessly treating with pesticides, use this diagnostic guide to distinguish emerald ash borer injury from other common problems of ash.

Describes three methods of weed control for the home gardener; includes tips for using mulches effectively.

Prevention is the first step in controlling houseplant insects. This guide provides descriptions and photos of nine common houseplant pests plus suggestions for treatment.

If you suspect your house is infested with termites or if other property in your neighborhood has termites, consult this publication for information on how to make a decision for a termite service contract. Termite prevention is also discussed.

Easily identify common diseases and pests and how to manage them effectively.