Most Common Pea Plant Pests:
Identification and Treatment Guide

Peas are one of the most popular vegetables grown in home gardens. They are easy to grow and provide a delicious addition to any meal. However, like any plant, peas are susceptible to pests that can damage or even kill the plants if not properly managed. In this article, we will discuss the most common pea plant pests, how to identify them, and the best treatments to keep your pea plants healthy and thriving.

Aphids

Aphids are tiny insects that feed on the sap of pea plants. They are usually green or black in color and can be found on the leaves, stems, and buds of the plants. Aphids reproduce rapidly, so it’s important to catch an infestation early before it gets out of control.

To identify aphids on your pea plants, look for clusters of small insects on the undersides of leaves or curled leaves. You may also notice sticky honeydew on the leaves, which is a byproduct of aphid feeding.

To treat an aphid infestation, start by removing any heavily infested leaves or stems. Then, spray the plants with a strong stream of water to knock off any remaining aphids. If the infestation persists, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to further control the population. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label and reapply as necessary.

Pea Moth

The pea moth is a common pest that specifically targets pea pods. The adult moths lay their eggs on young pods, and when the larvae hatch, they tunnel into the pods and feed on the developing peas. This can cause significant damage to your crop if left unchecked.

To identify pea moth infestation, look for small holes in the pods or discolored areas where the larvae have been feeding. You may also see small green caterpillars inside the pods.

To prevent and treat pea moth infestation, start by practicing good garden hygiene. Remove any infested pods and destroy them to prevent the larvae from spreading. You can also use sticky traps or pheromone traps to catch the adult moths before they have a chance to lay eggs on your plants. If the infestation is severe, you may need to use an insecticide specifically labeled for pea moths.

Slugs and Snails

Slugs and snails are common garden pests that can cause significant damage to pea plants. They feed on the leaves and stems, leaving behind large irregular holes and slimy trails.

To identify slug or snail damage, look for irregularly shaped holes in the leaves or slime trails on the ground or plant surfaces.

To control slugs and snails, start by removing any hiding places in your garden, such as boards or rocks. You can also create barriers around your pea plants using copper tape or diatomaceous earth to deter these pests. Another effective method is handpicking them off the plants and disposing of them. If these methods are not sufficient, you can use organic slug pellets or beer traps to attract and kill them.

Thrips

Thrips are tiny insects that feed on the sap of pea plants. They are difficult to see with the naked eye but can cause significant damage if left unchecked. Thrips cause silvering or bronzing of the leaves and may also leave behind dark fecal matter.

To identify thrip damage, look for silvering or bronzing of the leaves, especially on the undersides. You may also notice dark specks of fecal matter on the leaves.

To treat thrips, start by removing any heavily infested leaves or stems. Then, spray the plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil spray, making sure to cover both sides of the leaves. Repeat the treatment every 7-10 days until the infestation is under control.

Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects many plants, including peas. It appears as a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and pods of the plants. If left untreated, powdery mildew can cause stunted growth and reduced yield.

To identify powdery mildew, look for the characteristic white or gray powdery coating on the plant surfaces. You may also notice distorted or yellowing leaves.

To treat powdery mildew, start by removing any heavily infected plant material and disposing of it in the trash. Then, spray the plants with a fungicide specifically labeled for powdery mildew control. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label and reapply as necessary. Additionally, proper spacing between plants to encourage good air circulation can help prevent powdery mildew.

In conclusion, while pea plants are relatively easy to grow, they are not immune to pests. By learning to identify common pests and implementing appropriate treatment methods, you can keep your pea plants healthy and productive throughout the growing season. Regular monitoring and early intervention are key to preventing severe damage and ensuring a successful harvest.