Organic herb garden

Discussion in 'Garden Pest Management and Identification' started by jcdesigns146, Mar 27, 2007.

  1. jcdesigns146

    jcdesigns146 Member

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    Location:
    Central Valley, California, USA
    I have a small herb garden tucked under my kitchen window. It is a north facing spot which receives a lot of shade and about 3-4 hours of sun at the end of the day. Surprisingly, My herbs - basil, sage, oregano, cilantro, mint, and rosemary grow really well. I do have some bug problems, mostly aphids and my basil was eaten up last year. Can you tell me what plants, bugs, or natural sprays I can introduce to maintain a healthy crop? I have a praying mantis, about 3 years old that returns every year. I introduced lady bugs last year and a few stayed.

    Thanks!
     
  2. smivies

    smivies Active Member

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    Location:
    Kingston, Ontario, Canada
    Soapy water will kill the aphids. You have to use a potassium based soap rather than a modern liquid detergent. I think 1 tsp/quart will do it. Spray onto the plant & after 10 minutes or so, rinse with fresh water.

    Simon
     
  3. jcdesigns146

    jcdesigns146 Member

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    Location:
    Central Valley, California, USA
    Thanks for the tip. I was using soapy water, but it wasn't working. It must have been the potassium free detergent.

    Victoria
     

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