Blog Archives

Blossom End Rot

7/31/2024

Blossom end rot is a common plant disorder that affects fruits and vegetables

Getting a soiBlossom end rot isn't limited to tomatoes and also affects peppers, squash, eggplant, pumpkins, cucumbers, and melons.

It shows up as dark, sunken spots at the blossom end (bottom) of the fruit, often leading to the fruit's decay. This condition is primarily caused by a calcium deficiency in the plant, which disrupts the normal development of the fruit.

Calcium deficiency results from:

irregular watering
poor soil drainage
imbalanced soil nutrients

Watering
When plants experience inconsistent watering, they may have difficulty absorbing calcium from the soil, even if it is present.

To manage blossom end rot, ensure consistent soil moisture by watering on a "water deeply but less-frequent schedule". Avoid overhead watering.

Avoid over-fertilizing
Excessive nitrogen (found in most garden fertilizers) can promote rapid foliage growth at the expense of fruit development and calcium uptake. Use balanced fertilizers (i.e. 10-10-10 - the three numbers are the same) and avoid high nitrogen fertilizers during fruiting (i.e. 30-10-10 with 30 being the Nitrogen part).

Add calcium or lime

First - soil test to learn what supplementation your soil needs. Obtain a quality soil test here or available at a local nursery or stores where plants are sold. It is important to soil test to learn what your soil needs so the plants can then absorb the calcium you apply. Getting your soil tested is worth it!

Calcium
Add a calcium-rich fertilizer or DIY your own. There are many options for purchase, (a local plant nursery recommends a product called Tomato-tone) but first read this great article with instructions on how best to add calcium to the soil.

Calcium improves soil structure by enhancing aeration and water movement. This leads to better root penetration and growth. Calcium improves pH which aids in nutrient uptake for stronger and healthier plants.

Lime
By enhancing soil structure, lime promotes better water infiltration and root penetration, leading to healthier plants and improved crop yields. It creates a more favorable pH level for nutrient uptake and supplies calcium and also magnesium, vital for photosynthesis.

How to apply calcium or lime
For home gardens, calcium concentrations should be adjusted based on soil test results and the specific needs of your plants. Here are some general guidelines:

Soil Test: Start with a soil test to determine the current calcium levels and pH of your garden soil. This will help you understand how much calcium is needed.
Using Lime: If your soil is acidic (low pH) and needs calcium, you can apply garden lime (calcium carbonate). A common recommendation is to apply 5 to 10 pounds (2.3 to 4.5 kilograms) of lime per 100 square feet (9.3 square meters) of garden area. Adjust the amount based on soil test results and the target pH.
Using Gypsum: If you need to add calcium without affecting soil pH, you can use gypsum (calcium sulfate). Apply 2 to 3 pounds (0.9 to 1.4 kilograms) of gypsum per 100 square feet (9.3 square meters) of garden area.
Foliar Sprays: For a quicker calcium boost, use a foliar spray containing calcium nitrate or calcium chloride. Mix at a concentration of about 0.1% to 0.3% (1 to 3 grams per liter) and spray the foliage, ensuring even coverage.

Always follow the instructions on any commercial products you use and consider the specific needs of your plants and soil conditions. Regular soil testing and monitoring can help ensure optimal calcium levels for a healthy home garden.

The most popular botanic baby names

7/31/2024

Is she a Rose, or perhaps Lily? He might be a Forrest, or Briar...

When it comes to modern baby names, the sky's the limit (or so it would seem). From Apple to Blue Ivy, creative and unusual names are in vogue.

Botanic baby names, inspired by the natural world, offer a way for parents-to-be to connect with nature and its beauty. Names like Lily, Rose, and Ivy evoke the delicate elegance of flowers, while names such as Cedar, Sage, and Olive (or Oliver) draw from trees and herbs, reflecting qualities like resilience and wisdom.

These names often carry subtle meanings related to growth, renewal, and tranquility, making them a poetic choice for parents who cherish the outdoors or wish to instill a sense of harmony with nature in their child.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, botanic names can also be deeply symbolic. For instance, names like Hazel and Juniper are not only visually evocative of their respective plants but also imbued with traditional associations; hazel trees are often linked to wisdom and protection, while junipers are seen as symbols of purification.

Choosing a botanic name can serve as a nod to personal values, family heritage, or a love for the natural environment, making it a meaningful choice that can carry both personal and cultural significance.

The top botanic names for girls, according to this article by Mental Floss are:

Olivia
Chloe
Violet
Hazel
Lily
Willow
Ivy
Lillian
Savannah
Iris

And the top boy botanical names are:

Oliver
Rowan (named after the Rowan tree, also known as mountain ash)
Amir (prince, ruler, treetop)
Ashton (from the Ash tree)
Bentley (coarse grass meadow, Moorish)
Lennox (Scottish origin meaning elm trees or elm grove)
Sage
Oakley
Forrest
Lawrence (Latin, from Laurentum, meaning laurel)

How to help plants handle the heat

7/26/2024

Suggestions for established plants in hot weather

These suggestions are from the late David Salman of High Country Gardens, where they know a thing or three about growing in the hot and air southwest.

Our irrigation mantra is "don't water more often, water more deeply." If you use irrigation on your garden/landscape, don't increase frequency, increase the duration of the watering cycle. You want to make sure the water goes down at least 10" to 12" into the soil. Why? Water that stays only in the top few inches of the soil will quickly evaporate, due to the drying effects of sun and wind. As mentioned above, to water thoroughly, water twice. If you water by hand, soak the plant twice (about 5 to 10 minutes apart) to make sure the soil is thoroughly saturated. If you're using a drip system, program it to come on twice, twenty minutes apart. Dry soil will often shed water the first time, leaving dry pockets that can kill tender young roots.
Mulch! In dry heat climates (not the Gulf Coast and other regions with high humidity), shading the soil with at least an inch or two of mulch will greatly reduce soil heat, prevent evaporation of moisture from the soil, and reduce the need for increased irrigation.
Adjust your expectations. When it's exceptionally hot and dry, it's not reasonable to expect your plants will look their best. A don't panic if plants wilt during the heat of the day. Plants wilt to conserve water. But if they don't perk up at night and the wilting becomes permanent, that's a sign that they need water. If you see permanent wilt, they may die.
Remember, some plants go dormant in summer as a coping strategy. Most spring-blooming bulbs and some perennials may appear to die in summer, but wait before replanting their spot. They may very well re-emerge later in the summer/early fall when the temperatures drop and it starts to rain again. Oriental poppies, Prairie Skullcap and Astragalus, and many California-native herbaceous plants are examples of this response to extended hot, dry weather.
DON'T fertilize your lawn with chemical fertilizers. If you have not converted to natural/organic lawn care and are still using these chemical salts, ignore what the instructions may say. Summer fertilization promotes thirsty hyper-growth that requires more frequent mowing, a lot more water, and will stress your turf, often leading to insect problems.
DON'T fertilizer your trees, shrubs, or perennials with chemical fertilizers. The same is true as above, with hyper-growth that can stress the plants and require even more water.
DO feed (fertilize) your soil organically in the fall. Top dress your landscape with compost, granular molasses, and organic fertilizers after a hard frost in fall. After a long, hot summer, the microorganisms in the soil need a boost. Healthy living soils have a much higher capacity for holding water, plus better water percolation, compared to compacted soils and those that have been damaged by prolonged use of chemical fertilizers. Granted, this is a longer-term approach, but each year you do it, the less you'll need to irrigate during the heat of summer and the more resilient your plants will be!
In hot, humid climates, avoid planting plants with fuzzy leaves. Perennials like Lamb's Ear (Stachys) and Partridge Feather (Tanacetum) will rot above ground when their foliar fuzz is damp and hot.
Plant late-summer and fall-blooming perennials. These will bring color back to your yard and feed hungry pollinators after the worst of the summer heat has passed. There's no reason your post-summer landscape should be without color and pollinators!

Why tomato leaves curl

7/26/2024

Tomato leaves can curl for several reasons, each pointing to different potential issues affecting the plant's health.

A common cause of tomato leaf curl is environmental stress, such as high temperatures or strong winds (or smoke pollution).

When tomatoes experience excessive heat, they may curl their leaves to reduce surface area and minimize water loss through transpiration. Similarly, intense sunlight or sudden temperature fluctuations can trigger leaf curling as the plant attempts to protect itself from harsh conditions.

Addressing environmental stress often involves providing light shade, ensuring consistent, deep watering, and protecting plants from extreme weather.

Another frequent cause of leaf curling is pest infestations or nutrient deficiencies. Aphids, whiteflies, and other pests can cause leaves to curl as they feed on plant sap and introduce harmful substances.

Deficiencies in essential nutrients, particularly potassium and calcium, can lead to symptoms like leaf curling and distortion. See quote box below.

Resource
Guide to fertilizing tomatoes: how and when to do it and what to use

Nutrient deficiencies or imbalances in the soil can also cause tomato leaves to curl. A lack of potassium, for example, can lead to leaf curling and edge scorching, while calcium deficiency can cause leaf curling along with blossom end rot. Over-fertilization or imbalanced nutrient levels can disrupt the plant’s normal growth processes, leading to various symptoms, including leaf curl.

Farmer's Almanac Summer Tips & Ideas

7/26/2024

Advice and folklore for mid-summer

Hollyhocks grow from from 6 to 8 feet tall and are among our tallest flowering garden plants. Their edible flowers make an attractive garnish and can be used as serving cups for dips.
Make your own hummingbird food: dissolve 1 part sugar in 4 parts boiling water. Cool the solution completely and then fill your feeder. Clean feeder often to keep the hummers healthy.
New potatoes can be dug and enjoyed 3 weeks after flowers appear.
If Japanese beetles attack your roses, gently remove them from the bushes with a small, portable vacuum (or with a gloved hand and soapy water).
Mosquito plant doesn't repel mosquitoes at all (but looks nice). Citronella grass and catnip do repel mosquitoes, but only if you rub or crush the leaves near where you are. Just planting them won't do the trick.
Divide irises, lilies, and poppies after blooms fade. Replant with compost and bonemeal.
Fruits and vegetables, with their range of colors, sizes, shapes, and scents, can transform a bouquet into something extraordinary. Hidden under blooms, tiny fruit like raspberries or tomatoes add extra texture and a pop of color, and vibrant vegetable green tie elements together.
Many vegetables are perfect for pickling now - carrots, onions, green tomatoes, and turnips to name a few. Cucumbers will be ready for pickling soon!
A plant that is termed "self-cleaning" has blossoms that fall off on their own and do not require deadheading.
Lavender cotton is a 1-3 foot tall Mediterranean evergreen shrub with aromatic, silvery green foliage and golden, button shape flowers in summer. The plant's oils and aroma (likened to that of oregano or woody camphor) deter rabbits and deer. It thrives in almost any space from borders and beds to rock and knot gardens, but is hardy in Zone 5. Drought tolerant and appreciates hot, dry summers and full sun. Likes consistent irrigation.

The mid-summer slump

7/26/2024

Are your plants looking a bit less than stellar right now?

Heat, wind, and smoke pollution are all contributing to the mid-summer plant slump in our gardens. Our perennials and veggies aren't looking their best and don't seem to be growing as fast or blooming as often.

Showing stress this time of year is common for outdoor plants. Several factors contribute to plant stress:

Heat Stress/High Temperatures and/or Sunburn
Excessive heat causes plants to lose water through transpiration, leading to dehydration and reduced growth. Intense sunlight can damage leaves, causing scorching or sunburn.

Poor Watering Habits
Inconsistent watering or prolonged drought can lead to dry soil and stress plants, impacting their health and growth. Conversely, overwatering can lead to root rot and poor oxygenation, stressing plants as well. Check the soil moisture at least 6 inches down with a moisture meter before giving the plant more water.

Nutrient Depletion
By mid-summer, plants may have depleted the nutrients in the soil, leading to deficiencies that can affect their growth and appearance. Regular feeding may help to replenish nutrients and support continued plant health (see tip box below regarding fertilization).

Pest and Disease Pressure
Summer often brings an increase in pests and diseases (hello grasshoppers and blister beetles, aphids and hornworms), which further stresses plants and causes visible damage.

Physical Stress
As plants grow, they may become overcrowded, leading to competition for light, water, and nutrients. Some plants may become top-heavy or structurally weak, leading to drooping or other physical issues.

Natural Growth Cycles
Some plants naturally have a slower growth phase during the hottest part of the year, as they might slow down growth to conserve resources.

What to do

Watering: Ensure consistent and adequate watering, but avoid overwatering. Water deeply but less frequently, and spread mulch to retain moisture.
Shade: Provide shade during the hottest part of the day if possible, to protect plants from excessive heat and sun exposure. This could be as simple as placing a shade cloth lightly over plants in a particularly hot area of your garden.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost to replenish soil nutrients.
Pest Control: Monitor for pests and diseases regularly and address any issues promptly.
Pruning: Remove any dead or diseased foliage to improve air circulation and plant health.

Important note about fertilizing: Veggies and other annual plants in the garden and pots will benefit from fertilizer late into summer. According to CSU Extension, fertilizer is best used on plants at their peak growing cycle, just before flowering or leafing out. With plenty of moisture, plants can continue to take up fertilizer during their growing season, but discontinue by Fall.

Resources

Should you put rocks in bottom of a pot before planting?

7/26/2024

This is a topic with mixed opinions...

Putting rocks at the bottom of a planter is a common habit of many gardeners, especially those who do a lot of container gardening.

It is thought that the rocks add drainage - the water pools down in amongst the rocks to prevent soggy soil and potential root rot.

If your planter already has adequate drainage and you're using a good quality potting mix, you might not need rocks. For a horticulturist's expert take on the subject, click here.

Pros:

Improved Drainage: Rocks can help prevent soil from clogging drainage holes and allow excess water to escape more freely.
Prevents Soil Loss: They can act as a barrier to keep soil from washing out of the drainage holes.

Cons:

Drainage Myth: Some studies suggest that adding rocks doesn’t significantly improve drainage. Instead, it can create a perched water table where water sits above the rocks and doesn’t drain properly.
Reduced Soil Volume: Using rocks reduces the amount of soil available to plant roots, which could potentially limit growth if the planter is small.

Alternatives:

Landscape Fabric or Mesh: Use a piece of landscape fabric or mesh over the drainage hole to keep soil in place while still allowing for proper drainage.
Proper Soil Mix: Use a well-draining potting mix designed for container plants, which can be more effective for managing moisture.

Expert tip: placing small rocks on top of your potting mix may prevent fungus gnats from breeding there.

Flowers you can plant in July and still get late season color

7/19/2024

If you missed the opportunity to start flower seeds earlier in the year, you can still sow these varieties for late season bloom.

Zinnias take about 8 weeks to flower. They'll even survive a first frost if you cover/protect them. Sow in a bed with full sun, keep the soil moist, and thin seedlings per seed packet instructions.Deadhead regularly to promote more blooms.

Calendula takes just 6-8 weeks to grow from seed and the flowers are fairly cold-hardy. Thrives on minimal care. Grow in part-sun to full sun environments, and don't mind poor soil. Deadhead spent flowers.

Sweet Alyssum are fast growing (in as little as four weeks you could have blooms)! Plant in a sheltered spot that gets sun but not high summer heat (instead, a little afternoon shade is welcomed by these pretty flowers). Require regular watering.

Nasturtium is an old-fashioned fave because it's so easy to grow (and all parts of the plant are fully edible). Take it from seed to full bloom in just 4 - 6 weeks. Plants are often trailing and climbing.

Black-Eyed Susan (also called rudbekia) has a bright yellow daily-like bloom with a dark center. Takes 2-3 months to grow. Likes full sun to light shade and is heat tolerant, drought resistant, and self-seeding. Deadhead to keep blooms coming and prevent plant from going to seed.

Marigolds are those wonderful garden flowers that add a cheerfulness to any area of the garden. They germinate quickly and bloom in about 8 weeks. Sow seeds 1 inch apart and water thoroughly after planting (same goes for all the flowers listed here).

Photos show flowers from top left clockwise in the order written.

What are the 'dog days of summer'?

7/19/2024

The phrase's origins are in ancient astronomy and mythology and relate to the star Sirius, known as the Dog Star.

The term "dog days of summer" refers to the hottest and most oppressive period of the summer season.

Historical and Astronomical Origins
The "dog days" historically refer to the time of year when Sirius, the brightest star in the constellation Canis Major (Latin for "Greater Dog"), rises and sets with the sun. In ancient Greek and Roman times, this period typically occurred from around July 3 to August 11. The ancient Greeks and Romans believed that the combination of the bright star Sirius and the sun's heat resulted in the hottest days of the year.

Cultural and Seasonal Meaning
The phrase "dog days of summer" has evolved to signify the peak of summer heat. In contemporary usage, it represents the stretch of particularly sweltering days, often characterized by lethargy, discomfort, and a slowing down of activity. This period is typically associated with high temperatures, droughts, and a general sense of sluggishness, where both humans and animals seek refuge from the heat.

Modern Interpretations
In modern times, the "dog days" do not correspond exactly to the rising of Sirius, but the term has retained its significance in describing the hottest days of summer. It's a time when people might experience heatwaves, increased air conditioning use, and often, a more laid-back, slower pace of life as people try to cope with the extreme weather.

Tips for nurturing tomatoes grown in containers

7/18/2024

Common mistakes can hinder success when growing tomatoes in pots/containers.

Tomatoes will surprise you - they do well in pots if the conditions are adequate. Some points to keep in mind:

Inadequate Container Size
One of the most frequent mistakes is using containers that are too small. Tomatoes need plenty of space for their root systems to develop. Use a container that's at least 18 inches in diameter and depth. Smaller containers restrict root growth, leading to stunted plants and poor fruit production, and dry out quickly, requiring more frequent watering and increasing the risk of root stress.

Poor Soil Quality
Using garden soil or substandard potting mix can impede the growth of tomato plants. Tomatoes thrive in loose, well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. Garden soil can be too heavy and compact in containers, leading to poor drainage and root problems. It's essential to use a high-quality potting mix designed for container gardening, often supplemented with compost or organic matter to ensure adequate nutrients and proper soil structure.

Inconsistent Watering
Tomatoes in containers are more susceptible to fluctuations in moisture levels compared to those grown in the ground. Both overwatering and underwatering can cause significant problems. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal issues, while underwatering can stress the plant, leading to blossom end rot and reduced fruit quality. It's important to maintain consistent soil moisture. Checking the soil daily and watering when the top inch feels dry can help achieve the right balance.

Insufficient Support
Tomatoes need support to grow properly and produce healthy fruit. Failing to provide adequate support can result in plants that sprawl and break under their own weight. Using stakes, cages, or trellises can help keep the plants upright and support the weight of the fruit, ensuring better air circulation and reducing the risk of disease.

A note about support: tomatoes can be grown in hanging containers. This method of growing requires little to no support - let them trail from the containers and they'll produce early.

Lack of Fertilization
Tomatoes are heavy feeders and require regular fertilization to produce a good yield. Container-grown tomatoes deplete soil nutrients more quickly than those in the ground. Neglecting to fertilize can lead to nutrient deficiencies, resulting in poor growth and fruit development. Using a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic options like compost tea can provide the necessary nutrients. Fertilizing every 2-4 weeks during the growing season can help maintain plant health and productivity.

Insufficient Sunlight
Tomatoes require full sun, at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Placing the containers in a location that doesn't receive enough light can lead to weak, leggy plants with poor fruit production. It's important to position the containers in the sunniest spot available and to move them if necessary to ensure they get adequate light throughout the day.

Varieties
Dwarf varieties do well in containers. Consider growing a cherry patio tomato if growing in a container. Early Girl, Sun Gold, and Betterbush are other good options.

Tip: Never attempt to grow two tomato plants in one pot, unless the pot is unusually large. Stick to one plant per pot for best results.

Nutrient-rich Compost Tea Recipe

7/18/2024

Effectively delivers nutrients and beneficial microbes to your plants

Compost tea is a nutrient-rich liquid made from steeping compost in water. It provides a quick and effective way to deliver nutrients and beneficial microbes to your plants, enhancing soil health and plant growth. Here's how to make your own compost tea:

Materials Needed

High-quality compost (preferably homemade or organic)
Water (non-chlorinated is best, so let tap water sit for 24 hours if needed)
A large bucket or container (5 gallons is a common size)
A stirring stick or aeration device (optional but helps with the brewing process)
A mesh bag or old pillowcase (optional, for easy straining)
An aquarium pump and air stone (optional, for active aeration)

Instructions

Select high-quality, well-aged compost. It should be rich, dark, and crumbly. Avoid compost that is not fully decomposed or smells unpleasant.
Fill your bucket about one-third to one-half full with compost. If using a mesh bag or pillowcase, place the compost inside the bag and tie it securely. This makes straining easier later on.
Fill the rest of the bucket with water. Aim for a 5:1 ratio of water to compost (e.g., 5 gallons of water to 1 gallon of compost). Make sure to use non-chlorinated water, as chlorine can kill beneficial microbes in the compost.
Stir the mixture well to combine the compost and water. For better results, use an aquarium pump and air stone to continuously aerate the mixture. Aeration helps to increase the population of beneficial microbes and prevents anaerobic bacteria (which can produce harmful compounds) from thriving.
Let the mixture steep for 24-48 hours. Stir the tea several times a day if you're not using an aeration device. The tea should develop a rich, earthy smell. If it smells bad or rotten, discard it and start over, as this indicates the presence of harmful anaerobic bacteria.
After brewing, strain the compost tea to remove solid particles. Use a fine mesh strainer, cheesecloth, or the mesh bag/pillowcase method. The liquid you have left is your compost tea.
Use the compost tea immediately for the best results. You can apply it directly to the soil around plants, or as a foliar spray on leaves. Avoid using it during the heat of the day to prevent leaf burn; early morning or late afternoon is ideal.

Tips for Success

Compost tea is most effective when used fresh, within a few hours of brewing.
Apply compost tea every 2-4 weeks during the growing season to boost plant health.
If you must store compost tea, keep it in a cool, dark place and use it within a day or two to ensure it remains effective.

By making and using your own compost tea, you can provide your garden with a natural, nutrient-dense boost that promotes healthy soil and vibrant plants.

This feature-rich garden hose will make you want to replace your old hose asap

7/18/2024

Heavy duty, lightweight, drinking water safe

Garden hoses aren't the most sexy thing to write about in the world of gardening, but this hose is so loved by so many we just had to give it a mention.

With over 84,000 reviews (74% of the reviews are 5-star), this "Flexzilla Garden Hose" has all the features you could ever want in a garden hose, including:

HGTV Editor's Pick for 2024
All weather flexibility
Durable and abrasion resistant
Won't kink under pressure
Lightweight and easy to handle
Premium materials and construction
Leak-free connections
Anodized aircraft aluminum ends

Available lengths range from 3ft to 100 ft. and comes in five different colors. The price is nice too - the 50ft. version is on sale for $39.98 right now.

Purchase here.

Neem oil mixture to deter pests in your garden

7/11/2024

Here is a Neem oil mixture recipe to use as a food safe insecticide

Neem oil mixtures can be highly effective when sprayed directly on insects or on plant leaves to deter insects. It is food safe, so vegetable gardeners often use this to deter or treat affected plants in the garden.

About Neem Oil
Neem oil, extracted from the seeds of the neem tree, is a versatile and natural pesticide widely used in gardening and agriculture. Renowned for its broad-spectrum efficacy, Neem oil combats various pests such as aphids, mites, and whiteflies, as well as fungal issues like powdery mildew.

Its active compound, azadirachtin, disrupts the feeding, reproduction, and growth of insects, making it an effective and environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic chemicals. Additionally, Neem oil is biodegradable and safe for use around beneficial insects, pets, and humans when applied correctly, making it a popular choice for organic gardening and integrated pest management.

Neem Oil Recipe
Mix two quarts of warm water with a 1/2 teaspoon Castile or other mild liquid soap. While stirring, slowly add 3 teaspoons of pure Neem oil to the mixture. Combine the Neem oil, soap, and water then pour into a spray bottle and shake well to create an emulsified solution. It's important to shake the solution thoroughly before each use to ensure the oil is well mixed. This is a food safe mixture.

How to Apply
How to apply: Spray the Neem oil solution directly on affected plants, making sure to cover all parts of the plant, including the leaves, stems, and undersides of leaves where pests often hide. Spray in the very early morning or evening.

Repeat Applications: Neem oil is not an instant-kill insecticide. It works by disrupting the feeding, growth, and reproduction of insects. For best results, reapply the Neem oil mixture spray every 7 - 14 days or as needed, depending on the severity of the pest infestation. Be consistent with your applications to break the pest's life cycle.

Use as a Preventive Measure: Neem oil can also be used as a preventive measure to deter pests from infesting your plants. Applying it regularly before pest problems arise can help protect your plants from future infestations.

Storage: Store your Neem oil solution in a cool, dark place. Neem oil can degrade if exposed to sunlight or extreme temperatures, so proper storage is important to maintain its effectiveness.

After grasshoppers, the blister beetles

7/11/2024

Blister beetles are voracious feeders of grasshopper eggs and larvae (the good news). And now for the bad news...

When there is a grasshopper outbreak, blister beetles may not be far behind. This is because they feed on grasshoppers eggs and larvae. Blister beetles are starting to show up in some gardens further afield from Parker, but they are very mobile so you need to be aware, and prepared, should they show up in your garden/landscape.

If you thought grasshoppers were destructive, hold on tight. Blister beetles can wipe out a plants in a day.

What to know

The larvae of the common blister beetles are beneficial in that they destroy grasshopper egg pods. Heavy infestations often occur during or just following a grasshopper outbreak. But they are also highly destructive.

They lay their eggs in masses in soil where grasshoppers normally deposit eggs, and then the newly hatched larva searches for a grasshopper egg pod and gets to work feeding on it.
The blister beetles recently found in Elbert County and in some area gardens are the ash-gray blister beetles, which feed primarily on the flowers and leaves of "high protein" plants. They are most troublesome to ranchers and farmers, as they contaminate baled hay and when ingested can be fatal to livestock.
Adult blister beetles are attracted to blooming plants, especially alfalfa and weeds like dandelions. They also eat vegetable crops like tomatoes, corn, beans, cabbage, peas, corns, kale, potatoes, eggplants, and peppers.

Blister beetles have an oily substance, cantharidin, in their body fluid that causes large blisters to form when a beetle is crushed on a person's skin. It is an extremely unpleasant condition and unless properly cared for, these blisters can become infected.
The beetles may not affect everything in a garden. They can be quite selective in choosing one or two plants to go after and leave others alone (the good news). Treat the affected plant(s) only (see below), and be vigilant in observing whether they have moved to another, different plant before spraying your entire garden.

What to do if you see blister beetles in your garden/landscape
The good news is that blister beetles, should they show up in our area's fields, gardens, and landscapes, don't stay for long (two to three weeks before they move on or complete their life cycle).

In a garden setting you can knock the beetles off of plants and into a into a bucket of soapy water (be sure to use gloves). Never touch or squash a blister beetle without protection!

Neem oil mixtures (click here for our recipe) have been shown to work, but make sure that if you are you are spraying a plant that is flowering you only apply at night after pollinators are inactive.

If you are using an insecticidal soap spray, you must hit the beetles with it directly.

"Contact" insecticides such as Sevin also work but again, apply only at night when pollinators are inactive. If you are using Sevin, it is important to cut the flowers off the affected plant (includes vegetables) before applying and when bees are not actively visiting (nighttime). Then cover the plant with a fine netting for a few days to exclude any additional beetles from getting to the affected plant.

Important note regarding use of Sevin
Read the label carefully and apply the product according to the instructions on the label. Avoid using product in windy conditions and do not apply to bodies of water and watch for runoff or drift into the same. Do not spray when bees are present or active. Keep children and pets out of sprayed area until product dries.

Before applying, consider the potential effects on non-target insects.

If you have livestock, consult with CSU Extension and your veterinarian about best methods of keeping your animals safe.

Photo credit: Colorado Horse Forum

Why letting your grass turn brown in summer is ok

7/3/2024

Many grass species enter a state of dormancy during periods of extreme heat.

Letting your lawn turn brown in summer is not only acceptable but also a responsible and sustainable approach to lawn care, particularly in regions prone to drought or where water conservation is a priority.

One of the primary reasons for allowing your lawn to go dormant during the summer is to conserve water. Lawns, especially those made up of cool-season grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass, require significant amounts of water to maintain their lush, green appearance in hot weather. By letting your lawn turn brown, you reduce water usage, which is crucial in times of water scarcity and helps protect valuable water resources for other essential uses.
Letting your lawn go dormant during the hottest months can actually be beneficial for the grass itself.

Many grass species naturally enter a state of dormancy during periods of extreme heat and low moisture as a survival mechanism. In this dormant state, the grass stops growing and conserves its energy, allowing it to withstand the stress of high temperatures and reduced water availability.

When cooler, wetter weather returns in the fall, the grass will typically green up and resume active growth. This natural cycle helps maintain the health of the grass without the need for excessive watering or chemical interventions, promoting a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to lawn care.

Read this article from Better Homes & Gardens for additional information.

Unique plants to add beauty and interest to your landscape

7/3/2024

If you haven't perused High Country Gardens' website in a while (or ever), you're in for a treat. Prepare to fall down the most enticing rabbit hole...

High Country Gardens in Santa Fe, New Mexico is a renowned nursery and garden center specializing in waterwise and native plants suited for the arid climate of the American Southwest.

The nursery is renowned for its extensive selection of drought-tolerant perennials, ornamental grasses, and native plants. They are a go-to destination for both amateur and professional gardeners looking to create beautiful, resilient landscapes in challenging climates.

In addition to its retail nursery, High Country Gardens offers a robust online store, providing gardeners nationwide with access to their carefully curated plant collections and expert gardening advice.

HCG's educational resources are vast, including robust website information:

Perennials
Flower Bulbs
Plant Finder
Lawns
Wildflower Seeds
Pre-planned Gardens
Waterwise
How-To's

The website is currently having an excellent sale on a huge variety of unique plants - varieties you've likely not heard of or seen before.

Perfection in the garden

7/3/2024

Perfection is overrated.

Gardening reminds us that perfection doesn't exist. Most plants are forgiving and handle a little neglect.

Plants remind us that we don't have to be perfect ourselves.

The important thing is to keep showing up, learning, and doing our best to work in and with nature.

Blossom End Rot

Blossom end rot is a common plant disorder that affects fruits and vegetables

The most popular botanic baby names

Is she a Rose, or perhaps Lily? He might be a Forrest, or Briar...

How to help plants handle the heat

Suggestions for established plants in hot weather

Why tomato leaves curl

Tomato leaves can curl for several reasons, each pointing to different potential issues affecting the plant's health.

Farmer's Almanac Summer Tips & Ideas

Advice and folklore for mid-summer

The mid-summer slump

Are your plants looking a bit less than stellar right now?

Should you put rocks in bottom of a pot before planting?

This is a topic with mixed opinions...

Flowers you can plant in July and still get late season color

If you missed the opportunity to start flower seeds earlier in the year, you can still sow these varieties for late season bloom.

What are the 'dog days of summer'?

The phrase's origins are in ancient astronomy and mythology and relate to the star Sirius, known as the Dog Star.

Tips for nurturing tomatoes grown in containers

Common mistakes can hinder success when growing tomatoes in pots/containers.

Nutrient-rich Compost Tea Recipe

Effectively delivers nutrients and beneficial microbes to your plants

This feature-rich garden hose will make you want to replace your old hose asap

Heavy duty, lightweight, drinking water safe

Neem oil mixture to deter pests in your garden

Here is a Neem oil mixture recipe to use as a food safe insecticide

After grasshoppers, the blister beetles

Blister beetles are voracious feeders of grasshopper eggs and larvae (the good news). And now for the bad news...

Why letting your grass turn brown in summer is ok

Many grass species enter a state of dormancy during periods of extreme heat.

Unique plants to add beauty and interest to your landscape

If you haven't perused High Country Gardens' website in a while (or ever), you're in for a treat. Prepare to fall down the most enticing rabbit hole...

Perfection in the garden

Perfection is overrated.

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