How to ID: Bright yellow blobs (Dog Vomit Slime Mold) or phallic-shaped mushrooms (Stinkhorns).
Why avoid? Some release toxic spores or vile odors.
Fix: Scoop with a shovel (bag and trash it).
5. Parasitic Dodder (Strangleweed)
How to ID: Orange, spaghetti-like vines choking plants.
Why avoid? Sap can cause skin blisters.
Fix: Cut infected plants and burn (don’t compost!).
6. Giant Hogweed Sap
How to ID: Towering plant with white umbrella flowers.
Why avoid? Sap + sunlight = 3rd-degree burns & blindness.
What to do: Call pros for removal (NEVER handle yourself!).
7. Brown Recluse Spider Nests
How to ID: Loose, off-white webs in dry leaves/plant debris.
Why avoid? Bites cause necrotizing wounds.
Fix: Spray with peppermint oil (spiders hate it).
First Aid for Accidental Contact
Skin rash: Wash with cold water + dish soap, then apply hydrocortisone.
Sap in eyes: Rinse for 15 mins, seek ER if burning continues.
Caterpillar sting: Use tape to remove spines, then ice pack.
Prevention Tips
Wear gloves + long sleeves when gardening.
Teach kids/pets to avoid fuzzy/colorful bugs.
Regularly inspect plants for early infestations.
