-Mike Weeks- We are entering the time of the growing season where it becomes especially important to protect your outdoor plants from all sorts of incoming pressure from insects, bacteria, and fungi. The moisture and heat of summer create perfect conditions for these pathogens to grab hold of your plants if left unchecked. This post will focus on organic fungicides, specifically the living, bacteria-based ones, that can help you keep your garden healthy and productive. For many years … [Read more...] about Bacteria-Based Fungicides for the Organic Garden
Organic Pest Control
Some Helpful Tips for Growing Squash
-Pam Scott- Spring is in full swing. Most of us have our seeds and seedlings tucked safely in the ground as we head full speed towards summer. On these 80-90 degree days it's hard to imagine that it was only weeks ago that we were hit with a heavy frost. Summer vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, okra, beans, squash, and cucumbers are growing quickly due to warm sunny days and rainy nights. One of the most frequently asked questions we hear these days is “How do I keep bugs and mildew from … [Read more...] about Some Helpful Tips for Growing Squash
Dealing with Pests in the Garden
-Chris Amaya- It’s mid year and the garden is blooming, the sun is ablaze, and the pests are rampant. I get several questions every week in the shop about infestations and what to do about them. The term “pest” can range anywhere from your neighborhood deer to tiny little specs in the dirt that are too small for the naked eye to see. For many people, the damage has taken a huge toll already that can set back the due date for fruits and vegetables. In this blog I specifically want to cover … [Read more...] about Dealing with Pests in the Garden
Houseplant Care Series Pt. 6: Common Houseplant Pests
With houseplants, most pest problems stem from a separate issue: water, light, relative environment, and/or nutrients. Healthy plants are much more capable of resisting pests than plants under environmental stresses. So a good start to combat pests is to provide favorable conditions to start with, but there are also some methods to handle outbreaks after they happen. By taking preventative measures and considering environmental conditions, problems can be avoided before they manifest. While … [Read more...] about Houseplant Care Series Pt. 6: Common Houseplant Pests
Defending your garden against disease and pests
I'm guessing that, like me, most of you have started putting out your seeds and seedlings for the season, and will continue to do so over the next couple of months, at least. Congratulations... you have just provided the first feast of the season for the fungi, bacteria, bugs, and beetles that will soon arrive in your garden! As they say, "plant it, and they will come," or something like that. Now what are you going to do to protect your little plant babies? Sure, you can break out the … [Read more...] about Defending your garden against disease and pests
Organic Pest Control
Organic Pest Control Pests. It's summer and they're out wreaking havoc. Let's talk common pests and organic pest control: Neem Oil is a great product for any gardener's arsenal. It's a broad spectrum insecticide that does not affect beneficial insects (bees included!). Neem is a hormone inhibitor that prevents growth and reproduction when the treated plant is consumed by the pest. Excellent for use against aphids, spider mites, mealy bugs, certain beetles and certain worms. Spray … [Read more...] about Organic Pest Control
