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Early-season pests, what to watch for, and how to stay ahead of problems naturally Spring is a transition season—plants are tender, growth is rapid, and pests are just waking up. In my experience gardening in Northern California, the pests that show up first are the ones that matter most. If you manage them early, you…
Even in winter, pests can threaten your crops. From my experience gardening in Iowa’s Zone 5 winters to winter gardening in Sonoma, I’ve found that aphids, cabbage worms, and rodents can still damage leafy greens, root crops, and perennial herbs. Effective pest management in low tunnels, cold frames, and row-covered beds keeps crops healthy and…
With watermelons sprawling across my raised beds in Sonoma Valley each summer, I’ve faced every pest and pathogen—from aphid infestations that stunt young vines to devastating outbreaks of fusarium wilt. Over three decades, I’ve combined hands-on trial-and-error with insights from university extension research and integrated pest management studies to develop a holistic approach to protecting…
As someone who grows basil year-round in raised beds and containers, I’ve seen just about every pest and disease that can affect this beloved herb. While basil is generally easy to grow, it’s not immune to trouble—especially in warm, humid weather or if planted too densely. Below are the most common problems I’ve encountered and…
Growing pumpkins is incredibly rewarding, but it does come with a few challenges—especially when it comes to pests and diseases. After years of raising pumpkins in both backyard beds and containers, I’ve learned that staying ahead of these problems is essential for a healthy, abundant harvest. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the most…
Growing strawberries is one of the most rewarding parts of my garden, but it doesn’t come without challenges. Over the years, I’ve battled gray mold, slugs, crown borers, and more—and learned some hard lessons along the way. If you’re looking to protect your strawberry patch and keep your plants productive, here’s a detailed guide to…
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