Show Date: 12 Jun 09

If you see small, uniformly shaped round spots that almost look like bb shots on leaves, it could be this critter:

4-Lined plant bug and damage.

This info is from our very own Jeff Hahn from the University of Minnesota:

• Yard & Garden Brief: 4-Lined Plant Bugs [U of M Extension]

When they’re small they are bright red. If you can get at them early, then pick them off and destroy! I personally favor squishing them. If it’s too late and you need chemical, then permethrin is an option.

Be sure to identify the bug properly, read the label so you know it will kill this specific bug and use exactly as directed. If you’re unsure, take pictures of the damage and who you think the culprit is and take them into your local nursery, look over the U of M diagnostics link or email me at .

Show Date: 03 Jun 09

This is a naturally occurring soil bacteria that acts as stomach poison for some pests. Colorado State University has the rest of the story:

• Bacillus thuringiensis [University of Colorado Extension]

The most pet/kid/earth friendly way to take out the bad bugs is by planting a diverse group of trees, shrubs, perennials and annuals that attract the good guys. Diversify your landscape to attract those beneficial bugs! Below are just a few suggestions; there are many more.

Adding flowering shrubs and trees will also attract those good bugs! Pussy Willows, Fothergilla, Dogwoods, Viburnums, and Crabapple.

Show Date: 02 Jun 09

The European Pine Sawfly is another critter creeping around to munch on your plants, specifically seeking out your Mugo pines:

European pine sawfly

As you can see, these guys are tough to see until the damage is being done. The good news is they won’t kill your pine but those needles they eat won’t grow back. If you see them, grab some gloves and pick them off. Try insecticidal soap or, as a last resort try permethrin. Ohio State University offers more information:

• European Pine Sawfly [University of Ohio Extension]

With the upsurge in vegetable gardening folks are rethinking the flower bed. I highly recommend unless you’re used to spraying the heck out of your flower garden to fight off all varied forms of pests, then I suggest you skip planting veggies there! OR skip the chemicals!

Cilantro is a wonderful herb that tastes great and repels aphids. Strong scented herbs have a tendency to keep out some pests. I love Kale in the flower bed. It’s a pretty ornamental itself and tastes wonderful. I lightly steam mine and stuff my potatoes with it. YUM! Click here for a chicken & sausage skewer recipe using rosemary! FYI: You can toss fresh Rosemary sprigs on bbq coals to add flavor to grilled foods.