June 2006, Volume 3 Number 1

  PlanYour Garden
  Taking the right steps to having a beautiful and healthful display
 


One of the rites of spring is planting those first bulbs or seeds in anticipation of a flourishing garden during the warmer months. But backyard pests, who have spent the winter eagerly waiting to ravage your garden, also look forward to blooming flowers and tasty vegetables. Fortunately, with the proper knowledge and techniques, your garden will flourish and be insect-free.

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  Preparing Your Lawn For Spring
  Everybody dreams of having a lush and healthful yard. And if you want the grass to be greener on your side of the fence, pay heed to this advice. As you prepare to dust off the lawn mower, beware of treating your lawn too early in the season...

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  Bug Out!
Homeowners have many things to consider
when choosing an insecticide
  One important decision homeowners have is deciding which type of insecticide to choose when facing off against bugs. The first step should be evaluating plants to determine if any problems are indeed caused by bugs or perhaps by other factors, including weather or cultural practices, like over-watering.

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  Plant Spotlight: Berries
 

Harlan Pepper, the bloodhound-raising character from the film “Best in Show”, had a unique knack for being able to name every type of nut.  “Peanut, chestnut, macadamia nut…”  But could he – or anyone – name every type  of berry?

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  Plant Spotlight: Rose Care
  A gardener's roses are a source of great pride and distinction. Roses and other flowers can take a beating during the warm summer months and bitter winter, so it is smart to take good care of them.

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  Pest Spotlight: Stinging Wasps, Hornets and Carpenter Bees
  Common aerial threats homeowners face are synonymous with varsity sports teams nationwide. But while the Fightin’ Carpenter Bees might not strike fear into the hearts of rival schools, the intimidation factor of using the moniker Hornets or Yellow Jackets is well understood.

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  Pest SpotLight: White Grubs
 
Known as May or June bugs when fully grown, white grubs are common garden pests and can survive in your garden for up to three years. The larval stage of beetles, white grubs are noticeable by their C-shaped body and brown heads. The six-legged critters are often found beneath the soil surface in lawns and near seedling plants. After hibernating deep below the surface during the winter, white grubs materialize in the warm summer months to feed.

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  Welcome to the third volume of What’s Bugging You? Throughout the spring and summer, you will receive information to pass along to homeowners and readers, including pest control tips and spotlights on specific problem insects. If you have questions or comments, please direct them to Alex Parker at 312-787-7249.