-
Calvin Finch
Q. I grow my tomatoes in large containers in an old vegetable garden in full sun. How important is it to control the weeds growing at the base of the containers in the garden soil? Last year the wildflowers I planted on the site were beautiful but for the first time I had spider mites. Do you think they are related?
A. Unfortunately, I do. It is not automatic but the more weed (even wildflower) growth you have in contact with the tomatoes, the more likely that you will have spider mites. It is not just container grown tomatoes of course, plants surrounded by weeds in the garden soil are also more likely to be infested by spider mites. Keep the weeds pulled.
Q. Last week you wrote that it was easy to prevent bedstraw and other winter weeds with a preemergent herbicide applied before March 1. I take it that the application of the preemergent would also prevent beggar’s lice? It is the one that looks like a large carrot blooming! Our poor dogs are more bothered by the beggar’s lice.
A. It is great if you can prevent both with a preemergent herbicide for broadleaf weeds. If you use Dimension or Crew, you could even prevent the grassy winter weeds along with the broadleafs. Follow the label instructions.
Q. What is okra that grows relatively short and has a longer period before the pods get too stiff to use. Where can it be found?
A. I believe you are discussing the “Oscar Okra”. It is sold at a number of nurseries in the region. You will have to start with your favorite nursery and call around to find it. If your closest Master Gardener or Garden Club are accessible, they may also know a source of the Oscar Seed. You are right, it is a good choice.
COLUMNIST
Q. Remind me of some of those subtropical plants that bloom through the summer. Which are deer proof?
A. Firebush, Poinciana, Thyrallis, Duranta, and Gold Star Esperanza are three to consider. The deer eat Firebush. I am not sure about Duranta, but they do not eat the other three. Salvia and Lantana are 2 other deer proof plants with lots of bloom. Salvia greggii is especially a good choice because it is evergreen and has some shade tolerance. All are drought tolerant.