Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Quick Tips for Controlling Pests and Disease in Your Organic Garden


Most people's gardens have been planted and are in full swing by now, but as the weather warms up...the pests are coming out in full force! And with all of the rain we have been receiving, it brings mildew and spreads the spores of disease infected plants. We thought it would be appropriate to give everyone some simple, cheap and natural tips for protecting your organic vegetables and flowers.
  • Epsom Salt Spray - two ounces of salt per two gallons of water will help with black spots, mildew, wilt and rust.
  • Beer - stale or mixed with molasses will help control slugs.
  • Tomato Leaf Spray - crush tomato leaves and soak them in water for several days, starin and use as a spray to control grasshoppers and white flies.
  • Soap Spray - two tablespoons of soap flakes dissolved in water will help control aphids *Do not use detergents.
  • Basil - planting basil repels flies and mosquitoes
  • Rosemary, Mint and Thyme - plant near cabbage to repel cabbage worms
  • Nasturtiums - plant near cucumbers, melons and squash to repel squash bugs.
  • Summer Savory - plant near beans to repel bean bugs
  • Radishes - plant near cucumbers to repel cucumber beetles.
  • Cayenne - add two cups of boiling water to four tablespoons of cayenne powder, allow to cool to room temperature and add a couple of drops of dishwashing liquid to help the spray stick to the plants to control all kinds of pests.
  • Baking soda - add one tables spoon of baking soda to four cups of water and add a couple of drops of dishwashing liquid to help with fungus/mildew.
  • Cinnamon - sprinkle on the top of your soil to fend off fungus/mildew.

We hope these tips are helpful and that your plants flourish! There's nothing like enjoying fresh vegetables straight out of your own garden or sitting on the porch appreciating the beauty and fragrance of your own blooming flowers.

Visit any one of our three locations to purchase seeds or individual ingredients. Happy gardening!

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