12-18-2014, 06:38 PM
Try a copper tape surround. Slugs and snail don't want to crawl across it. Sluggo bait also gets slugs and snails. Ok around kids and pets.
For soft bodied insects, insecticidal soap is useful. (This is not quite the same thing formulation as ordinary dish washing soap.)
Of course, pyrethrums are useful.
For worms, bt may or may not work for you. It was the standard of control for many years, but resistance has developed in some areas.
For powdery mildew and root rot, there are several organic methods that can help. If you get root rot started, destroy the infected plants and soil. It's contagious.
Expect to monitor daily and treat often since these have little or no residual activity.
Also, you need to use "clean" soil, ie soil that does not harbor diseases and pets. And this soil must be "sanitized" with each planting, ie, maintained clean.
If you want to be "certified" organic, make sure that any items you use (fertilizer, pest control, etc.) is also certified for organic use.
The very best tasting tomatoes are organically grown with heirloom varieties. It does take know how and vigilance, however. It's not a "free gift of nature".
All the best on this worthy endeavor.
For soft bodied insects, insecticidal soap is useful. (This is not quite the same thing formulation as ordinary dish washing soap.)
Of course, pyrethrums are useful.
For worms, bt may or may not work for you. It was the standard of control for many years, but resistance has developed in some areas.
For powdery mildew and root rot, there are several organic methods that can help. If you get root rot started, destroy the infected plants and soil. It's contagious.
Expect to monitor daily and treat often since these have little or no residual activity.
Also, you need to use "clean" soil, ie soil that does not harbor diseases and pets. And this soil must be "sanitized" with each planting, ie, maintained clean.
If you want to be "certified" organic, make sure that any items you use (fertilizer, pest control, etc.) is also certified for organic use.
The very best tasting tomatoes are organically grown with heirloom varieties. It does take know how and vigilance, however. It's not a "free gift of nature".
All the best on this worthy endeavor.