Winter-flowering cherry (Prunus × subhirtella)

Caterpillars are the larval stage of moths and butterflies that feed voraciously on plant foliage, stems, flowers, and fruits. Common species include cabbage loopers, tomato hornworms, armyworms, and cutworms. These pests can cause extensive damage by consuming large amounts of plant tissue in a short time. They vary in size from small (1/4 inch) to large (5 inches), with colors ranging from green to brown, often featuring stripes or spots. Caterpillars are highly mobile and can quickly spread throughout gardens, making them one of the most destructive common pests.

Leafminers are the larvae of various insects including flies, moths, sawflies, and beetles that tunnel between leaf surfaces, creating distinctive serpentine trails or blotchy patches. While primarily cosmetic, severe infestations can weaken plants by reducing photosynthesis capacity and making them susceptible to secondary infections.

Taphrina deformans is a fungal disease that primarily affects peaches and nectarines (commonly known as peach leaf curl). The fungus overwinters on twigs and in bud scales, infecting young leaves during damp, cool weather in early spring. It is characterized by thickened, puckered, red-to-yellow discolored, and severely curled leaves. Shoots may become distorted and leaves may drop prematurely; fruits can also develop spots or deformities. Apricots and almonds can occasionally be affected, though less frequently.

Serious bacterial disease affecting stone fruits and tomatoes caused by Pseudomonas syringae or Clavibacter michiganensis. Creates sunken lesions that ooze sap.