Organic Gardens/bush bean bugs

Advertisement

Expert: Frank and Vicky Giannangelo - 6/24/2009


Question
A tiny, triangular-shaped green bug with 6 legs that hops is eating my 3 inch
high bush bean plants, making lace out of them so fast that I won't have beans if
they continue.  I have a recipe for garlic/oil/jalapeno/vinegar spray.  Will this
work?  I'm in southern middle Tennessee.  I also saw a skinny flying bug on the
beans.  It was hard to catch these bugs in the act at 7:00AM.  None were on the
leaves then; but some were on the stems.

Answer
You could try that.  I personally would use Rotonone, a fast acting light sensitive organic pesticide that will kill just about anything.  So don't put it on in the early morning because it is toxic to bees and other beneficial day time insects.  Put it on before it gets too dark to see and wash it off in the morning.  You can get it at nurseries or online at Planet Natural.....

Organic Gardens

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Frank and Vicky Giannangelo

Expertise

We will research and answer all questions about organic gardening, soil building, square foot gardening, composting, mulching, planting techniques, sustainable gardening, sustainability, garden design, and how to create a simple reflection pool to attract birds and wildlife. Over the years we have learned that plants respond to the garden's aesthetics, soil conditions, and the attitude of the gardener. The healthier the soil and soul, the healthier the plants become, and are therefore more able to resist insect attacks.

Experience

40 years experience in private and professional organic gardening, creating formal gardens, giving organic gardening workshops, and sharing our insights, both in the Southwest and the Northwest.

Publications
"Growing with the Seasons" a book by Frank and Vicky Giannangelo about their adventures in organic gardening, community, sustainability, and personal growth. Avant-Gardening Tid-Bytes, an online newsletter we published monthly from 2001-2008. The articles are archived on our website.

Education/Credentials
We both have BA degrees. Vicky from the University of Washington, and Frank from the University of Arizona. We have learned by experience, the best teacher...!

Awards and Honors
NM Book Awards. Second place for "Growing with the Seasons" a book by Frank and Vicky Giannangelo about their adventures in organic gardening, community, sustainability, and personal growth.

Past/Present Clients
We are now back in WA state, creating organic display gardens on San Juan Island, WA and will be open to the public for produce, cut flowers, and culinary herbs. Seasonal.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.