In July, our landscaping is subjected to high temperatures and direct sun. As a result, many of our plants go into a “summer dormancy” that leaves them in a weakened state and very vulnerable to insect infestation, damage or death!
To guard against insects destroying your landscaping, I recommend a two-step mechanical and chemical approach response.
The mechanical approach requires that you regularly inspect your landscape to see what insects may be present by carefully checking the top and underside of leaves, stems, flowers and branches. The quickest way to remove them is to spray plants with a strong jet of water from your hose.
This will effectively remove many insects such as thrips, aphids and spittle bugs. It is also effective removing cochineal from Opuntia and Cholla cactus.
If a more resistant situation exists, take an empty spray bottle and fill it with ¼ tsp of dishwashing detergent and water. Spray the entire plant with the solution.
Insects that are attacking your plants will fall off like a “one-way waterslide” for insects. This can be done as many times as necessary. For larger insects, such as beetles or caterpillars, use a needle-nosed tweezer to pluck them from your plants and dispose.
Another mechanical approach is to actually plant marigold or chrysanthemums (which contain pyrethrin, a natural insect repellant). This will both beautify as well as protect your flowers and vegetables from attack.
With serious insect infestation, you will need to use a chemical approach. There are two categories of chemicals: Contact, that is sprayed directly on the plant for immediate results, and Systemic that is added directly into the soil allowing the plant roots to absorb the chemicals (very much like a vaccine) and thus become part of its structure. When insects try to eat the plants, they are killed off.
NOTE: Systemics should NOT be used on edible plants such as fruits or vegetables.
During the colder months, trees can be sprayed with dormant oils to smother overwintering insects and/or prevent their eggs from hatching.
Using these methods will help to keep your landscape pest-free!
Have any questions? Contact me at: Theplantwhisperer28@gmail.com.
