The Dirt Gardener's Column for June 5

Q. Last year I removed a huge, ugly Juniper from the front of our home. In it’s place, I planted a flower garden that some have called spectacular. I also think so but something is now eating the flowers. I have noticed that there are a lot of Sowbugs in the area. I’ve always thought of them as being harmless but now I’m not so sure. Could they be my problem and if not what is?

A. Your thoughts about Sowbugs are correct. It is very unlikely that they’re the primary cause of the problem in your flower garden. First off, Sowbugs are not an insect but a soil-dwelling crustacean, more closely related to a crayfish than to an insect. By definition, insects have six-legs while Sowbugs has many more. It would be very unusual to find Sowbugs climbing on plants and eating the flowers. They’re shy and reside on the ground under some type of debris where it’s dark and moist. They feed on dead or decaying organic matter. It is this activity that makes them a ‘garden good guy’ or a composting machine as they break down the decaying organic matter into nutrients that plants can use. Sowbugs are problematical when edibles like strawberries, pumpkins, or melons come to rest on moist soil. The moisture causes a wet spot that never dries out so decay begins and provides an entry point for the Sowbugs. They’re not a problem with cucumbers or any other edible with a waxy coating. The problem is easily resolved by lifting the fruits or vegetables up off the ground allowing the air to circulate around them. This dries out the moist spot(s). With strawberries, a drip irrigation clip is a perfect answer while a layer of straw works with the others. So what is the problem? I believe the holes are the work of snails, slugs and/or earwigs. They have been very active this year over a wide area because of the moist conditions and below normal temperatures. I’d bait that the area with Sluggo Plus, not to be confused with Sluggo. It is an effective control for snails, slugs and earwigs. It is granular bait so it’s easy to apply and is not harmful to pets or kids. It should be reapplied monthly through October.

Q. I’m confused by the conflicting stories I’ve read about amending soil when planting trees and shrubs. What should I be doing?

A. Yes, there is differing opinions on the subject of amending soil when planting. Most of these articles do come from out of state sources. I believe it is advantageous to amend the native soil or back fill when planting in clay. Ornamental trees and shrubs have been successfully established here using soil amendments for decades. Our vegetative landscape looks pretty darn good. So, if it’s not broken why vary from a successful and proven planting method. I’d dig nice large holes and generously amend the back fill with a fifty-fifty ratio of native soil mixed with, homemade compost, soil conditioner or a blend of organic materials.

by Buzz Bertolero, CCNP