- lace wing eggs on sugar snap peas
I was harvesting the wonderful sugar snap peas when I buy cialis online canada noticed the lacewing eggs. I think they are just one of the most interesting quirks of nature! The eggs are on 1/4″ hairlike stalks. The book says it is so that the new born larvae don't eat one another, but I'm not sure how we know that.
I do know that I like to see these in my garden. Their larvae eat aphids, thrips, spider mites, hitefly, mealybugs, leafhoppers, and the eggs and caterpillars of most pest moths. To me it is a sign that the biological system is working. We don't use pesticides. So I love to see evidence that nature can take care of itself.
To me, a large amount of pests simply tells me that my garden is out of balance. It probably needs a soil test th
at includes testing for the trace minerals like boron, manganese, copper, zinc, etc. A good soil test will cost $50.00, but then I know that I have healthier produce. If the minerals are not in the soil, the plant cannot adsorb them.
That is also a good reason to use more complete fertilizers rather that just straight chemical ones. I like adding minerals that come in a form that will not harm the soil life. Use the sulfates ( calcium sulfate, potassium sulfate, ammonium sulfate) instead of the nitrates. I don't understand all the science behind it, but I have read alot about it and have a fair idea of what I should and should not use.
Some heirloom vegetables are more prone to insects and disease, but some are stronger. It seems to depend on your microclimate. Some hybrids are bred for disease resistance. But on the whole, I still like the old heirlooms much better. Remember, they are still around because they performed in many varied conditions, all over the country, and for many, many seasons. If you must, don't feel guilty about growing a few hybrids, but don't forget the beauty of the heirlooms and remember, we do depend on them and their survival for our long term survival.
