Cucumber beetles can cause major disruptions in flowering and fruit development by feeding on seedlings and mature plants alike, interfering with flowering and fruit formation as well as spreading bacteria that infect numerous vegetables and fruits. Prevention is key when it comes to gardening success, and plants that attract ladybugs and green lacewings that feed …
Vanilla is one of the world’s most widely used flavoring agents, yet its history remains mysterious. Vanilla does not come from beaver anal glands alone (although these do exist). Instead, its true source lies in a delicate orchid species which cannot survive outside of an narrow belt around the equator. The Vanilla Orchid Vanilla is …
Meyer lemon trees are voracious feeders and require ample nutrients. A slow-releasing fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium and sulfur/magnesium could be ideal if your soil’s PH levels are of concern. Jack’s Classic Citrus Feed is one such product which won’t lead to soil burning and should be applied every 2-3 months for maximum benefit. Ammonium …
If your plant appears to be infested by pests, first isolate it before washing its leaves (including undersides) using room temperature water in a sink or tub according to Planet Natural’s advice. Spray the plant with insecticidal soapy water or try an alcohol-based solution such as isopropyl rubbing alcohol diluted to the recommended concentration (1 …
Aloe vera plants produce smaller offshoots called pups which grow from the base of mature plants and can be easily propagated as new plants. Plant your aloe in soil designed specifically for succulents and cacti, such as one composed of sand, rock powder and broken expanded clay particles. A potting mix such as this works …
Seeds are porous structures, capable of absorbing moisture to balance with their surrounding air environment and absorb excess food stored within their kernels to produce heat through chemical reactions with oxygen molecules. Moisture, temperature and light are three key elements that reduce seed’s shelf life in storage. But provided they’re stored optimally they should still …
Thrips is one of the most tenacious plant pests, and due to their miniscule size can be difficult to detect due to being hidden under leaves or fruit. They appear as tiny lobster-like structures. Adult thrips insects range in color from pale to brown or black with fringed wings and are generally slender and thin …
There is nothing better than harvesting veggies right from your own garden. Hardy potatoes, snappy green beans and juicy tomatoes are just a few vegetables you can grow in your garden throughout the year. You don’t need a huge yard to produce your own vegetables, as most veggies can also be planted in containers on …
Rats can be an unsightly sight in urban environments. Thankfully, there are humane solutions for dealing with their presence – trapping is among the most efficient means of controlling these pests. For maximum effectiveness, bait that attracts rodents and forces them to step onto the pressure pad is crucial to make your trap effective. These …
Scale insects can weaken plants by decreasing vigor, decreasing vigor and leading to chlorotic leaves on woody shade trees, conifers and indoor houseplants that are susceptible to scale infestation. Before spraying, isolate infested plants to limit their spread and clean twigs and leaves regularly with alcohol or neem oil to eliminate pests from spreading further. …
