OLLI - Garden Bugs

Description

Q. How can I keep "bad bugs" out of my garden? Q. How can I attract "good bugs" to my garden? Q. How can I control slugs and other soil insect pests? Q. What insect pests are common to Alabama? Q. How can I control insect pests without insecticides? The best way to manage insect pest in the home vegetable garden is to use a combination of strategies, including cultural, mechanical, and biological controls. Organic gardeners rely totally on nonchemical methods. Most home gardeners can tolerate some insect damage on their vegetables; consequently, they are able to use many nonchemical control strategies that can reduce, but not always eliminate, insect damage. Home gardeners not opposed to using chemicals may use chemical controls when nonchemical methods do not provide sufficient levels of control. Modern pest management relies on "planning before planting" rather than responding to a pest problem after it has occurred. For example, you can prevent many insect pest problems by using what you know about the pest to make the vegetable planting less suitable for pest development. This could mean planting early to avoid high pest numbers that occur late in the season. Correct identification of insect pests infesting the vegetable garden is critical, so you can develop a management plan. Equally important is recognition of beneficial insects. Osher Lifelong Learning Institute will be offering Vestavia Membership, Bonuses and four courses for the summer at an amazing price of $20. Register today by calling 205-348-3000!