Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
or move it to another spot, it will be back! If you are squeamish
about killing them, place them in a garbage bin and make sure they
are not left on site. If the insect is too small to pick off and kill by
hand, a good sharp spray of water can do the job. Spray infested
leaves with an insecticidal soap or make your own insect spray to kill
or deter harmful insects.
Smoothie Garden Solution
You can buy insect sprays at your local garden center, but it's
cheaper to make your own. Think of it as a smoothie for your
garden's consumption. Place the following ingredients in a blender:
1 garlic bulb, 1 small onion, 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper, and 1
quart water. Blend together and let the mixture steep for a few
minutes. Mix in 1 teaspoon liquid nondetergent soap. Use immedi-
ately or keep up to a week refrigerated.
When harvesting, make sure all the fruit is removed from the
garden. If there are any moldy fruits, place them into the compost
rather than leaving them on the ground. When a plant is matured
and no longer producing, pull it out and place it into your compost.
Debris that is left in your garden beds or in the pathways can easily
become a home for many pests and diseases.
Always have clean, sharp tools. Take the time at the end of each
day to clean your tools. Scrape off any mud or dirt from each tool
and give it a good spray of water to clean it. This will remove any
pests. This is especially important if you have been working with dis-
eased plants or in an area infested by pests. Every few weeks, take a
little more care and wash the blades thoroughly with soap and water,
and then sharpen and oil them. A clean, sharp tool will make your
