The black and yellow orb weaver spider is one of the most colorful in California gardens. The female is large (body often over an inch long) with the signature black abdomen with broad yellow bars. Hanging in the middle of their intricate web, they’ll patiently sit and wait for the vibrations of a flying insect […]
Look for this gorgeous spider in the garden Read More »
Summer is here and so are yellowjackets – those one-half to one-inch-long bright yellow wasps with black strips and their signature “narrow” waist. Yellowjackets prey on other insects and scavenge on human food and garbage. They will fiercely defend their nests – in holes in the ground, inside wall cavities or hanging gray paper-looking ones,
Watch Out for Yellowjackets! Read More »
National Mushroom Month is an annual observance highlighting the culinary versatility, nutritional value, and ecological importance of mushrooms. Traditionally celebrated in September, it was created to promote fungi appreciation and consumption. It’s a perfect time to appreciate these fascinating organisms that play essential roles in both our gardens and our kitchens. Although we often think
September is National Mushroom Month Read More »
Predators are one of the primary groups used in the biological control of insects and mite pests. These include some of the larger insects and spiders along with amphibians, birds, mammals, and reptiles. Spiders are major predators in the garden. Most common garden spiders are observed in the open during the day are not likely
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The ethereal green lacewing is one of the more recognizable garden “good guys.” With its slender pale green body, delicate gossamer wings, and immense golden eyes, it gives the appearance of a fairy prancing on garden leaves rather than the aggressive predator that it is. Lacewings, also called aphid lions, are natural enemies of several
Pretty Garden Helpers Read More »
Here in Marin, we’re fortunate to have ready access to wonderful, healthy produce. And it’s even better if you can step into the garden and pick your own! Before harvesting, check out those leafy greens, or your apple, pear, lemon or lime trees, and look for the telltale signs of leafminers, the twisting trails (or mines)
Did you eat your fruits and vegetables today? Read More »
June 22 – 28 this year is National Pollinator Week, an annual event celebrated internationally in support of pollinator health. It’s a time to celebrate pollinators and spread the word about what we can do to protect them. Pollinator Week was initiated and is managed by Pollinator Partnership, and more than fifteen years ago the
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Gorgeous roses are a wonderful addition to any garden. But throw in a few days of spring rain and voila, you might end up with nearly naked plants. This dramatic effect is likely a result of infection by either blackspot or rust, the gardener’s plague of wet spring or fall months. Effectively managing these invaders
A Dastardly Duo of Diseases that can Plague your Roses Read More »
Vinegar is an effective household cleaning solution for windows, counter tops, cutting boards and much more. But how about as a weed killer? Acetic acid, also known as vinegar, is used in products for weed control. Many people choose it because it is natural. However, acetic acid can damage skin and eyes, especially at concentrations
Is Vinegar Safe to use on Weeds? Read More »
Have you ever seen these critters in your rose garden? Or worse yet, do you have any of these symptoms that they’ve been there? Roses with petals that resemble Swiss cheese? Young buds and stems that have holes or are broken just below the bud? Meet the really bad guys of the rose garden –
These are Nasty Rose Pests Read More »
