Caryota mitis - Fishtail palm What is the correct way to trim a fishtail? Do I use pinking shears or just cut straight across? The answer to this question is of course neither... if you are needing to trim tips, it’s because you are doing something terribly wrong in caring for the plant. Many [...]
Many insects affect plant health About 10,000 years ago, the last of the Pleistocene glaciers had retreated and it was the dawn of a new age for humans. Someone picked some seeds from a favorite grain plant and saved them. Then, in a favorable place where game was plentiful, this person planted these seeds. [...]
Use pesticides responsibly Sometimes it's necessary to treat the plants in your care with pesticides. Their health is important and yours is, as well. Always be sure to apply these 10 safety tips the next you use pesticides. Always read the label and follow the instructions exactly. Never eat, drink or smoke while using [...]
Successful integrated pest management (IPM) programs tailor a series of pest control strategies to the specific pest damaging the plant. The first step in any IPM program is to correctly identify the pest to be controlled. Insects vs mites Insects and mites are animals belonging to the Phyla Arthropoda and have similar basic characteristics such [...]
Always read the label and follow the instructions exactly. Never eat, drink or smoke while using a pesticide. Keep all pesticides in original containers with their labels clearly visible. You should store the containers in an airtight box to prevent breathing of the fumes. Wear long sleeves, long pants, socks, rubber shoes, goggles and gloves. Gloves [...]
Check Schefflera for cyclamen mites Cyclamen mites! Where did they come from? In the past, infestations of these tiny pests were rare and most commonly found on African Violets. The easiest solution was to remove the infected plant to prevent the spread of these mites. Recently, there has been an increase in cyclamen mite [...]
Best Tools for Cleaning Plants Remember to clean your plants with the proper tools Which tools are best to clean plants? Dusters work well to remove dust from leaves, but without proper cleaning, they can help pest infestations spread. What about sponges, cloths and spray bottles? Which method is best for your plants? Let’s [...]
7 Pesticide Safety Tips Learn more about pesticide safety When used correctly, low toxicity pesticides are an effective part of any Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program. Improperly handled pesticides pose a danger to both the applicator and the surrounding environment. Are you a safe applicator? Do a mental review and evaluate... Do you read [...]
Pesky aphids damage plants Welcome to bug season. With the warmer weather comes the sudden rise in insect populations. A plant that has been “pest-free” in the cooler months is unexpectedly overcome with spider mites. The pothos is suddenly infested with mealybugs. Aphids are feasting on the new growth of your Schefflera arboricola. What [...]
Catch mealybug infestations early to protect the health of your plants There is nothing harder than getting rid of a mealybug infestation. Well, maybe scale. When you spot those telltale white cottony blobs on the Aglaonema in the planter at the mall you just have to moan ‘cause you know you’re in for a [...]
