University of Maryland Extension

Vegetable Problems

Common Problems of Vegetables

If you can't find the answer to your plant problem here, Ask Maryland's Garden Experts. You can also include up to 3 digital photos with your question. Get answers to all gardening or pest questions!

Preventing Vegetable Plant Problems

  • Scout (monitor) vegetable crops at least once each week for plant problems. Identify the cause of major problems.
  • Tolerate minor insect feeding and other plant injury. 
  • Pick-off and dispose of insect pests by hand. 
  • Remove and dispose of dead, diseased, and infested plant parts.   
  • Use fencing and row covers to exclude pests.
  • Control weeds with mulches, hand-pulling, hoes and other cultivating tools.
  • Add diversity and beauty in and around your garden with plants that provide pollen and nectar for pollinators and natural enemies.
ambush wasp
Pollinators and Natural Enemies (Garden Helpers!)
radial cracks on tomato
Cultural & Environmental		early blight Diseases
squash bug and eggs
Insects		damping off of lettuce seedlings
Seedlings and Transplants		browsing deer
Wildlife

More resources:

Publications:
(PDF) HG 59 - IPM Series: Eggplant
(PDF) HG 57 - IPM Series: Peppers
(PDF) HG 55 - IPM Series: Potatoes
(PDF) HG 56 - IPM Series: Tomatoes
(PDF) HG 38 - Late Blight of Potato and Tomato

Section: 
Home and Garden Information Center
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