Today we are going to talk about Beneficial Nematodes and Diatomaceous Earth. Both can be purchased at the Natural Garden or Barton Springs Nursery in and around Austin as well as on many online sources.
Parasitic Nematodes need to be applied in the evening and watered in well. These are living creatures who eat the harmful bugs in your soil. There are also harmful nematodes in your soil already like the Golden Root Knot Nematode, but the one you will be applying is friendly. The nematode will control fleas and Fire Ants as well. Nematodes need to be applied when the soil is about 60-65 degrees, so get busy as soon as the weather allows.
Here are a few Organic tips you can use to control pests in your yard. Organic gardening is the responsible choice for many reasons. Most importantly is that you aren’t poisoning the Earth while killing a few weeds, or harmful insects. Additionally, you are killing the good bugs with the bad when you are broadcast spraying. I suggest you get yourself a bug guide so you really know who the bad guys are. Remember, the good bugs are free labor 😉
Another option for dealing with pests in your soil is Diatomaceous Earth. This is ground remains of a freshwater algae called Diatoms. These are spread out in a dry powder form and used to control Snails, Slugs, Earwigs, Thrips and Aphids. You can use this on plants and the ground and it is suggested that it be applied in the morning hours. It kills by piercing the body parts of the passers by, or by ingestion, which punctures the internal organs of the pests.
Very important when handling this product that you wear gloves and a face mask at all times and be sure to apply on a still morning with no wind and when you aren’t expecting rain or irrigation to be an issue. Unlike the Nematodes, this is most effective when left dry for a bit..
Begin to educate yourself on the benefits of Organic Gardening and you will soon find that the reward is great, not only for body, but for mind as well.
Here is some more great information on how to apply Beneficial Nematodes from John Dromgoole of The Natural Gardener.
Here is some helpful information on how to use Diatomaceous Earth,.
Happy Gardening
Lisa LaPaso
Lisa’s Landscape & Design
“Saving the Planet One Yard at a Time”
Quote of the day: “The garden is a mirror of the heart.” -Unknown
Plant of the Day: Society Garlic – This is an evergreen grass that grows about 2×2 that does well in full sun or filtered light. It has a strong garlic scent and produces tall spikes with clusters of Lavender flowers. Very hardy, low water plant.