Organic Gardens/Pole bean pests

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Expert: Frank and Vicky Giannangelo - 9/9/2009


Question
I had a fully grown row of scarlet runner beans. Then whole stems stated dying. I found that the stems had been severed anywhere from 12 in. above ground to about 36in. What could be doing this.

Thanks Peter

Answer
Some kind of chewing insect - you could try BT, an organic worm and caterpillar biologic control, or at dusk you could use Rotonone (a powder) which is an all purpose organic insect killer...but wash it off early in the morning because it will also kill bees and other beneficial insects.

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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.

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