I sometimes have the chance to peruse the comments on my articles (and, when I can figure out the controls on the #&*@ing content management system, even manage to respond to a few). As it happens, I was going over the comments on my last posting and noticed a potential confusion between bagworms, and Eastern Tent Caterpillars. Its a common mistake, and one I made myself … [Read more...] about Decamping Tent Caterpillars
Pests
Bagworm Banditry
Notice a large section of your plant-life getting torn apart by sticky sacks of worms, year after year? You likely have a bagworm infestation, but this is the year to put an end to the tree-borne plant-bandits. Read on for some tips on how to remove these pests from sight and mind. Seasonal Skirmish The trick with bagworms is when to start targeting them. Good news for … [Read more...] about Bagworm Banditry
Driving You Batty
Much like snakes, spiders and everything else that creeps and crawls around at night, bats have quite a few humans spooked. Whether due to an association with Transylvania, or getting dive-bombed during a late-night swim in the pond, anti-bat prejudice tends to run deep. As it turns out however, while there are certainly some negatives, having bats around can offer a whole host … [Read more...] about Driving You Batty
Beetlemania
Do you wake up to skeletonized plants, wondering what could possibly be chewing your leaves down to their literal veins? Notice odd brown patches in your lawn, that no fertilizer can seem to clear? If so, chances are you’ve been beset by the Japanese Beetle. Read on for some tips on identifying and handling these crop-destroying pests. Identification As mentioned, this … [Read more...] about Beetlemania
Snakehandling 101
No, this isn’t the introductory paragraph to a turn-of-the-century, “snakehandling” cult brochure. Nor will it teach you how to go into the outback and become Crocodile Dundee. If you encounter a snake on your homestead you need to relocate, however, here are a few ideas on how to wrangle the slithery little bugger. ENSURE THE SNAKE IS NOT VENOMOUS!!! This is the primary … [Read more...] about Snakehandling 101
