Monday, March 11, 2013

Notes: Some Tips and Tricks for Basil

Marigold to control nematodes, yellow sticky trap to trap white flies, and soapy solution to remove aphids
Problems with Basil 

Color Loss
- root rot caused by fungi
- do not over-water
- water only when soil is dry
- provide good drainage

Spots
- leaf spot
- remove spotted leaves
- water in the morning, don't wet foliage

Distorted/Withered
- caused by aphids

Sooty Black Substance
- honeydew from aphids

Holes 
- caused by beetles

Tiny White Insects
- whitefly

Wilted, Lost Color
- caused by nematodes; move plant

Chewed Foliage/Silvery Streaks
- slugs and snails

Getting Rid of Basil Pests

Aphids
- 2 tbsp liquid dish washing detergent (or Perla) for every gallon of water; spray on infected plants
- wash the soap after treatment

Leafhopper
- neem tree sprays

Root-Knot Nematode
- symptoms: wilting, low yield, discoloration, nutrient deficiency, swelling roots
- plant marigolds
- add organic matter; perform soil solarization (cover soil with clear plastic tarp for several weeks, raise temperature to 140 degrees Fahrenheit  

White Fly
- causes plants to turn yellow, found under leaves
- spray soap solution
- install yellow pest strips

Companion Herbs for Tomato Gardens 

Basil - enhances flavor
Borage - improves taste
Chives - improves taste
Marigold - nematode control
Mint - contain in pots beside tomato
Sage - improves taste
Thyme - improves taste
Catnip - plant in a pot beside tomato
Anise - attracts beneficial insects
Dill - attracts beneficial insects

Perfect Companions for Tomato

Carrots - good space to share
Chives, Onions, Garlic - deter insect pests
Borage - deter tomato hornworm
Asparagus - tomatoes repel asparagus beetle
Nasturtium - deter white fly and aphids
Spinach, lettuce, arugula - good to share space

What Not to Plant

Brassicas - repels each other
Corn - tomato fruit worm and corn ear worm are too similar
Fennel - inhibits growth
Kohlrabi - inhibits growth
Potatoes - susceptible to potato blight



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