Contrary to what many people might think, spiders are REALLY good for the environment. They are very effective at helping reduce insect pest populations. However, if you see too many spiders, or they are in locations in and around the house that are undesirable, you might elect to reduce their numbers. If you’ve seen ads […]
Prevent Spiders with Orange Oil? Read More »
Here in Marin, you probably have some of nature’s best garden pest managers right outside your door. Many of our common backyard birds eat insects, spiders, caterpillars, snails, and slugs. By providing habitat for them, gardeners can encourage these helpful predators and reduce the need for pesticides. Bushtits are tiny, busy flocking birds that move
Your Backyard Birds: Nature’s Pest-Management Team Read More »
Did you catch the spring spectacle of male turkeys gobbling and strutting their stuff to attract the attention of hen turkeys? Males often court in groups, with the dominant male gobbling, spreading his tail feathers, drumming / booming, and spitting. In my neighborhood there’s a huge flock with a least a half dozen of them
Those Wild Turkeys Read More »
Tuesday, September 22 is the autumnal equinox, astronomically the day when the sun crosses the celestial equator heading south. From this point until the first day of winter, days will get shorter. The time of the year usually ushers in cooler weather, which is a good reminder to start cleaning up the garden. Referred to
End of Season Clean up with the Equinox 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
Protect your Garden Predators! Read More »
It can be frustrating to have the tomato plants you’ve babied for the last couple months start to show signs of potential trouble. Before reaching for a pesticide, identify the cause. Many tomato problems are related to weather, watering, or nutrition – not insects or diseases. Healthy soil, consistent irrigation, and good air circulation are
Tomato Leaves turning Brown? Read More »
In Marin, flies are often a nuisance during summer and fall, and some species enter our homes. Here are the most common: Filth-breeding flies like house flies and blow flies develop in compost, animal waste, dead animals, and garbage. These flies are commonly contaminated with bacteria, including those associated with food poisoning and can spread
Flies can be a Nuisance Read More »
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 »
If you’re looking for an alternative to synthetic herbicides, horticultural vinegar can be an effective option for controlling young weeds. Unlike household vinegar, which contains about 5% acetic acid, horticultural vinegar typically contains 20% or more. This higher concentration makes it much more effective at burning the leaves and stems of small, actively growing weeds.
Horticultural Vinegar: A Natural Tool for Weed Control Read More »
