True confessions: early in my career I used harmful chemicals to rid plants of pests. But in the mid 8o’s I was educated on the powerful benefits of biological control. This process uses what nature intended instead of polluting the environment with damaging chemicals.
One basic and simple method of ridding plants of bothersome pests is to keep your plants clean and properly fertilized. Periodically hose down the top and under side of your plants. If you are able to place your plant in a sink, tub or shower to wash, this is a manageable way to clean and dry without much effort.
If a plant is infected (depending on the pest) another suggestion is to use biodegradable dish soap. You can spray or sponge on, wipe the leaves and wash off. Home Depot or Lowes carries a soap that remains on the plant and no additional washing is necessary called “Safer Insecticidal Soap” http://saferbrand.com. Always be sure to properly protect your skin and read the instructions. These are simple controls that will make a difference and your plants will thrive.
The following sources can assist you to combat your pests with a beneficial insect you will need to eradicate the harmful bugs.
Ralph Zingaro from Bio Scape is a horticulturist/pest control advisor in San Francisco. (877) 246.7227.
Email your questions to Ask the Bugman, Richard Fagerlund from SF Gate. http://www.sfgate.com/columns/askthebugman
To be successful controlling insects, do your homework, check websites and ask questions.
More next month,
Matthew Schoenwald
