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Pest Control

Armyworms: A Common Garden Pest – How to Identify and Control Them

by Gregory May 24, 2020

written by Gregory 8 minutes read

Armyworms: A Common Garden Pest

Armyworms are the larvae of moths that can cause significant damage to gardens. They are typically 1 ½-inches long and have a smooth, green or brown body with stripes along their sides. Armyworms feed on the leaves of plants, and they can quickly defoliate a plant if left unchecked.

How to Identify Armyworms

Armyworms are most easily identified by their appearance. They are long, slender caterpillars with a smooth body. The head is usually black or brown, and the body is green or brown with stripes along the sides. The stripes can be white, black, or yellow.

How to Control Armyworms

There are a number of ways to control armyworms in the garden.

Hand-picking: Hand-picking is the most effective way to control armyworms. Simply pick the caterpillars off the plants and drop them into a bucket of soapy water.
Bacillus thuringiensis: Bacillus thuringiensis is a bacterium that is harmful to armyworms but not to other insects. It can be applied to plants as a spray or dust.
Spinosad: Spinosad is a natural insecticide that is effective against armyworms. It can be applied to plants as a spray or drench.
Chemical control: Chemical insecticides can be used to control armyworms, but they should be used as a last resort. Chemical insecticides can harm beneficial insects, and they can also contaminate the environment.

How to Prevent Armyworms

There are a number of things you can do to prevent armyworms from entering your garden.

Keep your lawn mowed: Armyworm moths lay their eggs in tall grass, so keeping your lawn mowed will help to reduce the number of armyworms in your garden.
Remove weeds: Weeds provide a hiding place for armyworms, so removing weeds from your garden will help to reduce the risk of infestation.
Inspect plants regularly: Inspect your plants regularly for signs of armyworms. If you see any armyworms, hand-pick them off the plants and drop them into a bucket of soapy water.

Additional Tips for Controlling Armyworms

Be patient: It may take some time to get rid of armyworms from your garden. Be patient and persistent, and you will eventually succeed.
Don’t give up: If you see armyworms in your garden, don’t give up. There are a number of effective ways to control armyworms, and you will eventually be able to get rid of them.
Ask for help: If you are having trouble controlling armyworms, ask for help from a local nursery or garden center. They can provide you with advice and assistance.

How to Get Rid of Armyworms That Won’t Go Away

If you have tried all of the above methods and you are still having trouble controlling armyworms, you may need to use a chemical insecticide. Chemical insecticides should be used as a last resort, but they can be effective in getting rid of armyworms that are resistant to other methods.

How to Stop Armyworms From Eating My Plants

The best way to stop armyworms from eating your plants is to prevent them from entering your garden in the first place. Keep your lawn mowed, remove weeds, and inspect your plants regularly for signs of armyworms. If you do find armyworms, hand-pick them off the plants and drop them into a bucket of soapy water.

How to Control Armyworms in a Large Garden

Controlling armyworms in a large garden can be a challenge. However, there are a number of things you can do to make the task easier.

Divide your garden into smaller sections: Dividing your garden into smaller sections will make it easier to inspect your plants for armyworms.
Use a backpack sprayer: A backpack sprayer will make it easier to apply Bacillus thuringiensis or spinosad to your plants.
Be patient: It may take some time to get rid of armyworms from a large garden. Be patient and persistent, and you will eventually succeed.

How to Prevent Armyworms From Infesting My Lawn

The best way to prevent armyworms from infesting your lawn is to keep it mowed. Armyworm moths lay their eggs in tall grass, so keeping your lawn mowed will help to reduce the number of armyworms in your yard.

How to Identify Armyworms That Are Hiding in the Soil

Armyworms can sometimes hide in the soil, making them difficult to find. To identify armyworms that are hiding in the soil, look for small, brown or black pellets. These pellets are the droppings of armyworms.

How to Hand-Pick Armyworms That Are High Up in the Plants

Armyworms can sometimes climb up high into plants, making them difficult to hand-pick. To hand-pick armyworms that are high up in the plants, use a long stick or a pair of tweezers.

How to Use Bacillus Thuringiensis to Control Armyworms That Are Resistant to Other Methods

Bacillus thuringiensis is a bacterium that is harmful to armyworms but not to other insects. It can be applied to plants as a spray or dust. If you are having trouble controlling armyworms with other methods, you may want to try using Bacillus thuringiensis.

How to Use Spinosad to Control Armyworms That Have Become Immune to Bacillus Thuringiensis

Spinosad is a natural insecticide that is effective against armyworms. It can be applied to plants as a spray or drench. If you are having trouble controlling armyworms with Bacillus thuringiensis, you may want to try using spinosad.

How to Use Chemical Control to Control Armyworms That Are Causing Severe Damage

Chemical insecticides can be used to control armyworms, but they should be used as a last resort. Chemical insecticides can harm beneficial insects, and they can also contaminate the environment. If you are having trouble controlling armyworms with other methods, you may want to try using a chemical insecticide.

How to Keep Moths and Butterflies From Laying Eggs in My Garden That Is Full of Flowers

There are a number of things you can do to keep moths and butterflies from laying eggs in your garden.

Plant flowers that are not attractive to moths and butterflies. Some flowers, such as marigolds and lavender, are not attractive to moths and butterflies. Planting these flowers in your garden will help to reduce the number of moths and butterflies that visit your garden.
Use a butterfly net. A butterfly net can be used to catch moths and butterflies before they have a chance to lay eggs in your garden.
Spray your plants with a repellent. There are a number of natural repellents that can be used to keep moths and butterflies away from your plants. These repellents can be made with ingredients such as vinegar, garlic, and peppermint oil.

How to Create a Healthy Lawn That Is Less Attractive to Armyworms That Are Common in My Area

There are a number of things you can do to create a healthy lawn that is less attractive to armyworms.

Mow your lawn regularly. Armyworm moths lay their eggs in tall grass, so keeping your lawn mowed will help to reduce the number of armyworms in your yard.
**Water your lawn deeply and

Tree Health

Kermes Scale: Identification, Treatment, and Prevention for Oak Tree Owners

by Donna May 15, 2020

written by Donna 4 minutes read

Kermes Scale: A Guide for Oak Tree Owners

What are Kermes Scale Pests?

Kermes scale insects are tiny, sap-sucking pests that can infest oak trees. They feed on the tree’s sap, causing damage to the leaves, twigs, and branches. Kermes scale infestations can weaken trees and make them more susceptible to other pests and diseases.

Kermes Scale Life Cycle

Kermes scale insects have a complex life cycle that varies depending on the species. In general, female scales lay eggs in the fall or winter. The eggs hatch in the spring, and the crawlers emerge to find a suitable host plant. The crawlers feed on the tree’s sap and molt several times as they grow. Adult female scales are wingless and remain attached to the tree for their entire lives. Adult male scales have wings and fly to mate with the females.

Treating Kermes Scale

There are a variety of methods for treating kermes scale infestations. The best approach will depend on the severity of the infestation and the specific species of scale involved.

Preventing Kermes Scale Infestations

The best way to prevent kermes scale infestations is to keep your oak trees healthy and vigorous. This means providing them with adequate water and fertilizer, and pruning away any dead or diseased branches. You should also encourage beneficial insects in your garden, as they can help to keep kermes scale populations in check.

Identifying Kermes Scale

There are several different species of kermes scale that can infest oak trees. The most common species in North America is the oak kermes scale (Kermes quercus). This species produces a reddish-brown, waxy covering that is visible on the bark of infested trees.

Other species of kermes scale that may infest oak trees include:

Globose scale (Kermes globosus)
Mediterranean oak scale (Kermes mediterraneus)
Laurel scale (Kermes ilicis)

These species produce different colored coverings, so it is important to identify the specific species of scale infesting your trees before selecting a treatment method.

Chemical Control

Chemical insecticides can be effective in controlling kermes scale infestations. However, it is important to use insecticides only when necessary, as they can also kill beneficial insects. If you decide to use chemical insecticides, be sure to follow the label directions carefully.

Non-Chemical Control

There are a number of non-chemical methods that can be used to control kermes scale infestations. These methods include:

Biological control: Encouraging beneficial insects, such as parasitic wasps and ladybugs, to prey on kermes scale.
Horticultural oil: Spraying trees with horticultural oil in late winter or early spring can smother the scale insects.
Insecticidal soap: Insecticidal soap sprays can be effective in controlling small infestations of kermes scale.

Integrated Pest Management

The most effective approach to kermes scale management is to use a combination of chemical and non-chemical methods. This approach, known as integrated pest management (IPM), can help to reduce the risk of resistance and minimize the impact on beneficial insects.

Additional Tips

Monitor your trees regularly for signs of kermes scale infestation.
Take action early if you发现 any signs of infestation.
Be patient, as it may take several treatments to control a kermes scale infestation.
Contact a professional arborist if you have a large or severe infestation.

Vegetable Gardening

Asparagus Beetles: A Comprehensive Guide for Young Gardeners

by Gregory May 12, 2020

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Asparagus Beetles: A Guide for Young Gardeners

Asparagus beetles are a common pest that can damage asparagus plants. There are two main types of asparagus beetle: the common asparagus beetle and the spotted asparagus beetle. Both types are primarily orange, but the common asparagus beetle has black wings dotted with white, while the spotted asparagus beetle is entirely orange dotted with black.

Asparagus beetles are most common and damaging on asparagus plants. Both adults and larvae feed on the spears and tips, scarring them. Spears become unappetizing when frass (insect droppings) stains them and eggs are deposited in the tips. In addition, the larvae of the spotted asparagus beetle will feed inside developing berries and consume foliage.

How to Identify Asparagus Beetles

Look for orange beetles with black or white spots.
Check the spears and tips of asparagus plants for feeding damage and eggs.
Examine the foliage for larvae.

How to Control Asparagus Beetles Organically

Hand picking: Hand pick asparagus beetles daily and drop them into a bucket of soapy water.
Neem oil: Apply neem oil to asparagus plants, especially in years when harvesting is not recommended. Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can help to control asparagus beetles.
Cutting asparagus shoots: Cut asparagus shoots as they appear and leave no more than two days between harvests. This can help to prevent eggs from hatching.
Collecting berries: Collect berries at the end of the season to help keep spotted asparagus beetles at bay.

How to Get Rid of Asparagus Beetles Chemically

Pyrethrin: Pyrethrin is a natural insecticide that can be used to control asparagus beetles. It is short-acting and will not harm beneficial insects.
Malathion: Malathion is a synthetic insecticide that can be used to control asparagus beetles. It is more potent than pyrethrin, but it can also harm beneficial insects.
Permethrin: Permethrin is a synthetic insecticide that can be used to control asparagus beetles. It has a longer duration than pyrethrin and malathion, and it will kill most insects that contact it.

Tips for Preventing Asparagus Beetles

Keep your garden clean and free of debris.
Plant asparagus in a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Water asparagus plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Fertilize asparagus plants according to the directions on the fertilizer package.
Rotate asparagus plants every few years to help prevent the buildup of pests and diseases.

Conclusion

Asparagus beetles can be a nuisance, but they can be controlled with a variety of organic and chemical methods. By following the tips in this article, you can keep your asparagus plants healthy and productive.

Vegetable Gardening

April Allotment Gardening: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

by Gregory March 30, 2020

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Allotment Gardening in April

Spring is in full swing in April, and there’s plenty to do on the allotment to prepare for the growing season ahead. Here’s a guide to some of the key jobs to tackle this month:

Planting

Seed Potatoes

Aim to get all your seed potatoes planted by the end of April. Plant chitted second early potatoes in the first two weeks of the month and maincrop potatoes in the second two weeks.

Sowing Seeds

This is the last chance to sow aubergines, chillies, and tomatoes, which need a long growing season. Sow them under cover. Other crops that can be sown under cover include celeriac, courgettes, squashes, pumpkins, marrows, and leeks.

Beetroot and carrots can be sown directly outside. So can peas, but they are a favorite snack for mice – if these are a problem, sow them indoors and plant the plants outside when they are 15cm tall.

Planting and Transplanting

Continue Planting

This is the last month for planting asparagus crowns and Jerusalem artichokes. You should also plant out shallots and onion sets.

Transplant Seedlings

Transplant the seedlings of broad beans sown in pots last month, and plant them in their final positions. Cover with fleece if cold weather is forecast.

Thinning and Weeding

Thin Seedlings

Thin out seedlings of crops sown last month, according to the spacings on the packets.

Carry on Weeding

Continue weeding – especially perennial weeds which will be starting to appear now – if you get on top of them now, they’ll be easier to control for the rest of the year. Hoe regularly to prevent annual weed seedlings from growing.

Pest Control

Check for Pests

You might start seeing aphids on your crops now – blast them off with water or spray with a horticultural soft soap.

Tips for Success

Keep an eye on the weather forecast and wait a few days to sow and plant if necessary.
Protect early outdoor sowings with fleece.
Water your plants regularly, especially during dry spells.
Fertilize your plants regularly to give them the nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy.
Rotate your crops each year to prevent soil-borne diseases.
Companion planting can help to deter pests and diseases.
Keep a garden journal to track your progress and learn from your experiences.

With a little planning and effort, you can have a thriving allotment garden that will provide you with fresh, homegrown produce all year round.

Gardening

Organic Gardening: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing Healthy, Delicious Food

by Gregory February 16, 2020

written by Gregory 5 minutes read

Organic Gardening: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing Healthy, Delicious Food

What is Organic Gardening?

Organic gardening is a way of growing fruits and vegetables without using chemical fertilizers or pesticides. This makes it a healthier and more sustainable way to grow food. Organic gardens are also better for the environment because they don’t pollute the soil or water.

Benefits of Organic Gardening

There are many benefits to organic gardening, including:

Healthier food: Organic fruits and vegetables are higher in nutrients and antioxidants than conventionally grown produce.
Better taste: Organic produce often tastes better than conventionally grown produce because it is grown in healthier soil and without the use of chemicals.
Environmental sustainability: Organic gardening helps to protect the environment by reducing pollution and conserving water.

How to Start an Organic Garden

Starting an organic garden is easy. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Choose a sunny spot in your yard.
Prepare the soil by adding compost or manure.
Choose organic seeds or plants.
Water your plants regularly.
Fertilize your plants with organic fertilizers, such as compost tea or fish emulsion.
Protect your plants from pests and diseases using natural methods, such as companion planting or neem oil.

Organic Gardening Tips

Here are a few additional tips for organic gardening:

Use companion planting to deter pests and attract beneficial insects.
Mulch your plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Rotate your crops each year to prevent soil depletion and disease buildup.
Harvest your vegetables when they are ripe for the best flavor and nutritional value.

Troubleshooting Common Problems in Organic Gardens

Even experienced organic gardeners sometimes encounter problems. Here are a few common problems and how to solve them:

Pests: Pests can be a problem in any garden, but they can be especially damaging in organic gardens because you can’t use chemical pesticides. There are a number of natural ways to control pests, such as using insecticidal soap or planting companion plants that deter pests.
Diseases: Diseases can also be a problem in organic gardens, but there are a number of natural ways to prevent and treat them. For example, you can use neem oil to prevent fungal diseases or baking soda to treat powdery mildew.
Nutrient deficiencies: Nutrient deficiencies can occur in organic gardens if the soil is not properly prepared or if the plants are not fertilized regularly. You can correct nutrient deficiencies by adding compost or manure to the soil or by using organic fertilizers.

Growing Organic Vegetables

You can grow a wide variety of vegetables in an organic garden, including tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, beans, and lettuce. Here are a few tips for growing some of the most popular organic vegetables:

Tomatoes: Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables to grow in an organic garden. They are easy to grow and produce a bountiful harvest. To grow tomatoes organically, start by choosing a sunny spot in your garden and preparing the soil with compost or manure. Then, transplant tomato seedlings into the garden and water them regularly. Fertilize your tomato plants every few weeks with an organic fertilizer, such as compost tea or fish emulsion.
Peppers: Peppers are another popular vegetable to grow in an organic garden. They are available in a variety of shapes and colors, and they are easy to grow. To grow peppers organically, start by choosing a sunny spot in your garden and preparing the soil with compost or manure. Then, transplant pepper seedlings into the garden and water them regularly. Fertilize your pepper plants every few weeks with an organic fertilizer, such as compost tea or fish emulsion.
Cucumbers: Cucumbers are a refreshing and healthy vegetable to grow in an organic garden. They are easy to grow and produce a bountiful harvest. To grow cucumbers organically, start by choosing a sunny spot in your garden and preparing the soil with compost or manure. Then, plant cucumber seeds directly into the garden and water them regularly. Fertilize your cucumber plants every few weeks with an organic fertilizer, such as compost tea or fish emulsion.

Harvesting and Storing Organic Vegetables

Harvesting and storing organic vegetables is an important part of organic gardening. Here are a few tips:

Harvest your vegetables when they are ripe. This will ensure that they have the best flavor and nutritional value.
Store your vegetables in a cool, dark place. This will help them to stay fresh for longer.
Eat your vegetables fresh or cook them lightly. This will help to preserve their nutrients.

Growing an organic garden is a rewarding experience. It is a great way to grow healthy, delicious food for your family and friends. With a little planning and effort, you can have a thriving organic garden in no time.

Vegetable Gardening

February Gardening: A Comprehensive Guide to Sowing and Growing Success

by Gregory January 27, 2020

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

February Gardening: What to Sow and Grow

Spring is in the Air

The long winter wait is finally over! It’s February, and while the frost and rain may still be lingering, you can almost smell the spring in the air. That means it’s time to start sowing seeds again!

Greenhouse Crops and Bedding Plants

For now, it’s safest to focus on greenhouse crops and bedding plants. These plants need a head start to thrive in the coming season.

Tomatoes: A World of Flavors

Tomatoes are a must-have for any garden. With over 10,000 varieties to choose from, you’re sure to find one that suits your taste. Start with a reliable salad tomato like ‘Ailsa Craig’ and then experiment with something unusual, like a juicy beefsteak or a sweet cherry tomato.

Jerusalem Artichokes: Easy and Nutritious

Jerusalem artichokes are incredibly easy to grow. Plant just one or two tubers now, and they’ll quickly multiply into a clump of tall stems topped with cheerful yellow sunflowers in the summer. Dig up the knobbly, nutty tubers in the winter, leaving some behind to resprout next year.

Sweet Peas: A Fragrant Delight

Sweet peas are known for their gorgeous flowers and intoxicating fragrance. Grow them up hazel wigwams for a stunning display or train them up individual supports for long, straight stems perfect for cutting. Deadhead regularly to encourage continuous flowering.

French Marigolds: Beauty and Pest Control

French marigolds are a cheerful addition to any garden. They’re easy to grow from seed and provide a splash of sunshiney color all summer long. Plant them under tomatoes in the greenhouse to deter whitefly, which hates their distinctive smell.

Tips for Success

Choose a reliable seed supplier to ensure high-quality seeds.
Start seeds indoors in a warm, sunny location.
Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Harden off seedlings gradually before transplanting them outdoors.
Water plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Fertilize plants according to the package directions.

February Gardening Calendar

To Do:

Sow tomatoes, Jerusalem artichokes, sweet peas, and French marigolds indoors.
Start hardening off seedlings.
Prepare garden beds for transplanting.

Don’t Forget:

Check for pests and diseases regularly.
Deadhead flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

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