Systemic insecticides may soon drastically change our present pest-control practices. These chemicals are absorbed either through the roots or leaves of actively growing plants in sufficient amounts to kill insects and related pests feeding on or breeding in them. They are effective even at considerable distances from the point where they are applied. They also … Read more
Last winter, I brought one of the frothy egg masses of the praying mantis into the greenhouse. Within three weeks, 100 wee mantes emerged from foam, each with an appetite larger than its body. One tackled a sowbug 20 times its size the day it was born. The brawl was intense, but the mantis won. … Read more
The development of systemic pesticides for commercial use is progressing rapidly. These are chemicals that can be absorbed by a plant and transported throughout its tissues in an active form. They are non-harmful to the plant and can provide long-lasting protection against invading organisms. This dream has become a reality, as a select few of … Read more
As our cities expand, more and more of us in suburban areas come face to face with moles, ground squirrels, pocket gophers, mice, and even rats. All of these animals may burrow in our lawns or gardens. All of them are annoying pests. Common Mole In Garden Let’s look at the mole first. He’s about … Read more
A “HARDY PERENNIAL” question in gardening circles is, “Should I dust or spray my plants?” The only logical answer to this question is, “It all depends.” It depends upon what you want to accomplish, how many plants you have, how tight your budget is, and how much time and interest you give your plantings. If … Read more
Our scarlet tanager is no exception to the rule. It is one of the gorgeous birds in eastern North America. Its bright scarlet hood and sable wings and tail stand out in strong relief against the greenery of foliage. The female scarlet tanager is an entirely different hue—olive green above and yellow below. The male … Read more
Despite headlines of the past year detailing misuse of pesticides, most gardeners realize that some chemical control of plant pests is still necessary for plant health. If the headlines scare us into: … that is all to the good. But suppose the headlines scare us into giving up all garden use of chemicals and cause … Read more
Efficient spray equipment and power-packed pest controls are ours for the asking, yet despite them, we spend more effort protecting our plants from pests than our forefathers ever did. Many of our pest problems have been solved thanks to technical knowledge and skill. But there are many reasons why we can’t wipe out all pests … Read more
Whether you apply insecticides and fungicides as sprays, dust, mists, or aerosols, all parts of the plant must be covered for effective control. Fine Cone-Shaped Spray A fine cone-shaped spray under constant pressure is best, and a tong spray gun with an adjustable nozzle that can be turned up enables you to wet the undersides … Read more
Malnutrition in human beings is considered a disease. But, for some reason, we do not think in the same terms as plants. Most gardeners feel that if a plant lacks some element, such as nitrogen, all that is needed is to supply the missing dement. Although partially true, this is only partially accurate. For example, … Read more