Sow small seeds in containers for better results
plants. Often they can be put under foot or dropped in a container of rubbing alcohol. But sometimes the insects are too numerous to even count and a spray is needed.
Fortunately, two natural insecticides are available for caterpillar control in the home garden. Select either Thuricide or a spinosadcontaining product and apply as instructed on the label. Spinosad is commonly found at independent garden centers under the Bonide, Ferti-lome and Southern Ag product labels as an active ingredient for caterpillar control.
A large tree was removed from our yard, and we have lots of sawdust and chips available. Can this be used as a mulch in our flower beds?
It is a big temptation to scatter the wood chips and sawdust among landscape plantings, but it is probably not a good idea. Raw chips and sawdust compete with plantings for nutrients in the soil and fertilizers during decomposition. They can be used as a mulch for pathways and maybe a very light covering over bare soils. But, chips and sawdust are best added to compost piles until they decompose, and then they are ready for the gardens.
I planted corn three weeks ago and not one seed sprouted. In fact, when I dig in the ground, I cannot find a seed. Did something eat my seeds?
Some sneaky critters may have thought you were setting out seeds for their enjoyment, but it is not likely all would have been consumed. Normally insects and animals get some of the seeds but also miss others that still germinate. Most likely your seeds were not viable or rotted after planting. During our wet summer weather, seeds often rot in the ground, especially older, less vigorous seeds. Don’t give up. Till the ground again and replant as we head into the drier fall months.
I will be moving shortly and would like to take some of my amaryllis bulbs with me. Can I dig them now?
Fall is a good time to lift and replant your amaryllis bulbs. University of Florida studies suggest digging amaryllis bulbs during early fall gives them a rest and encourages future flowering.
Dig your bulbs and remove the top portions but leave the roots. Allow them to dry in a shady rain-free spot and then replant in four to six weeks. If necessary, they can rest for even longer until the planting sites are ready at your new home.
I understand Christmas cactus should be left to dry during the fall. What other care is needed?
Maybe Christmas cactus, also called holiday and Thanksgiving cactus, should not be left to become completely dry, but it is best to wait until the surface soil feels dry to the touch starting this month and until spring. Too much water at this time of the year, as growth slows, can encourage root rot problems.
Feedings are also discontinued through the fall and winter months. Make sure your plant has no nighttime light starting in midOctober to have it in bloom for the holidays. Also, find a good spot for your plant and try to leave it there during the holidays. Christmas and other holiday cactus do not like change and often drop their buds and flowers if given too different a spot as they come into bloom.
It was last spring when I fertilized my azaleas. Can I feed them now, and what should I use?
Azaleas need regular feedings to stay healthy and produce their spring blooms. Normally they are fertilized once in March, June and October. You only missed one feeding, so why not apply a slow release fertilizer now? These products supply nutrient needs for several months allowing you to skip this year’s October feeding.