Prepare for Hot Weather and Spider Mites in 2024

Many new miticides for strawberries and vegetables Hot and dry are ideal conditions for spider mite outbreaks. Along the East Coast, growers reported spider mite infestations in beans, cucurbits, eggplant, tomatoes, sweet corn, and even potatoes. Mites are not true insects but are classed as a type of arachnid closely related to insects, spiders, ticks, … Read more

7 Destructive Garden Insect Pests – 2024 Guide

7 Destructive Garden Insect Pests

Is your garden looking rough or like it’s wilting? Chances are you’ve got an insect infestation happening that if not addressed will kill your plants. There are a variety of pests that damage your garden and plants, but effective DIY pesticides to treat these insects at valpak.com To learn more about the appearance, feeding habits, … Read more

Critter Control: Aphids – 2024 Guide

Aphids: Look out for those sucking mouthparts and large numbers of insects In late summer, just-planted produce can look pretty good in the field but don’t be fooled. Small aphids may be just a few plants away. And there usually aren’t just a few. It can be hundreds to thousands, so when you rub your … Read more

What do you know about Bee Safe Pesticides?

What do you know about Bee Safe Pesticides?

“Pesticide” is the general term used for chemicals that target and kill pests like insects (insecticide), mites (miticide), weeds (herbicide), bacteria (bactericide) and fungi (fungicide). However, many of these are also toxic to bees. Each year, a lot of honeybee colonies are damaged or destroyed by these chemicals. This is a devastating impact on beekeepers, who might even have to relocate damaged hives. Some can also go out of business. Growers of insect-pollinated crops may experience lower yields, which in turn raises food prices.

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ADVANCES AND CONTROVERSY

Genetically engineered fruits and vegetables One thing is certain about genetically engineered foods: They stir emotional discourse. On one side, opponents fear insufficient testing and distrust the science and the companies. On the other side, supporters feel genetic engineering is a long-term solution to the problem of feeding the world. Surveys have shown that a … Read more