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July Landscaping Tips

Beautiful garden

Written by Emily Vogler

July 10, 2022

July has plenty of challenges; protecting landscapes from intense heat, severe weather, and annoying pests – it’s not always an easy task! Here are some landscaping tips to keep in mind during July so that you can keep your yard thriving even during the most intense and unpredictable summer months:
  • Spot spray any weeds, mow and water the lawn as needed; continue through the summer.
  • Pay attention to the water needs of lawns, ornamental plants and vegetables, and especially new plants with undeveloped root systems and to outdoor potted plants, which can dry out quickly. Water in the early morning hours to minimize evaporation.
  • Pay attention to the water needs of lawns, ornamental plants and vegetables, and especially new plants with undeveloped root systems and to outdoor potted plants, which can dry out quickly. Water in the early morning hours to minimize evaporation.
  • Prune dead or broken branches of trees and shrubs; avoid major pruning during the heat of summer.
  • Continue to check ornamentals, flowers, and vegetables for aphids and spider mites.
  • Inspect broadleaf evergreen shrubs for scale insects, and treat as necessary.
  • Watch for lace bugs on azaleas, pyracantha and lantana.
  • Fertilize hanging baskets and other container plants regularly.
  • To reduce mosquito pests, check house gutters and any containers for standing water.

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2 Comments
  1. Avatar

    Do you have a recommendation for treating bagworms? We are currently picking them off and disposing them, but we could use a suitable spraying method!!
    Thanks very much.

    Reply
    • Avatar

      Hello, John. Thanks for reaching out. Sorry to hear about your issue with bagworms. Bagworms are pests that can cause damage to trees and shrubs by defoliating them if left untreated. Here are some steps to hopefully get this issue more under control!

      Identification: Confirm that the pest causing damage to your trees and shrubs is indeed bagworms. Bagworms are caterpillars that construct protective bags made of silk and foliage around themselves.

      Manual removal: For small infestations or individual bagworms, you can manually remove the bags by hand. Wear gloves and carefully pick off the bags, ensuring you remove both the bag and the caterpillar inside. Dispose of the bags away from the affected plants to prevent re-infestation – but sounds like you are already doing this correctly!

      Pruning: If the infestation is more extensive, consider pruning heavily infested branches or sections of the tree. Bagworms often attach their bags to branches, so removing these branches can help reduce the population. Dispose of the pruned material properly to prevent the spread of bagworms.

      Insecticides: In cases of larger infestations or when manual removal and pruning are not feasible, you can use insecticides specifically labeled for bagworm control. Look for products containing active ingredients such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or spinosad, as they are effective against bagworm caterpillars while being relatively safe for beneficial insects and the environment. Follow the instructions on the product label carefully and apply the insecticide during the appropriate time of the year, typically when the bagworms are actively feeding. Gardens of Babylon carries both of these products (Thuricide Bt) and Captain Jacks Dead Bug (spinosad) at our retail location.

      Repeat treatments: Bagworms are persistent pests, and it may be necessary to repeat the treatments over several seasons to effectively control the infestation. Monitor your trees and shrubs regularly for signs of bagworm activity and take action promptly.

      Cultural practices: Implementing good cultural practices can also help prevent and control bagworm infestations. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of bagworms, especially during the late spring and early summer when they are most active. Prune and dispose of any bags you find to prevent the caterpillars from maturing and reproducing.

      Thanks for reaching out and we look forward to seeing you at the Garden Center. Please ask for an associate to help you find the products you will need.

      Reply

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