AboutJames L. Crowder Expertise I can answer questions about soils, soil amendments, drainage and proper planting. I have extensive background in homeowner labeled pesticides (insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, etc.) and their proper use. I can also answer questions about the growing requirements of specific plants
Experience I have 37 years experience in the lawn and garden business split fairly evenly between the retail nursery business and wholesale distribution of consumer lawn and garden products. From 1990 to 2000 I co-hosted a weekly call-in talk radio program in Memphis, TN.
Organizations Garden Writers Association
Horticultural Board of the Mid South Fair
Publications Green Thumb Magazine - out of print
Education/Credentials 37 years of learning everday.
Awards and Honors Past president of the Memphis Horticultural Society.
Past president of the Memphis Bonsai Society.
Memphis Horticultural Society 2008 Horticultural Excellence Award
Question How can we use lime to control pests in or garden and weeds that are out of control? We do not want to hard or existing plants and flowers. We live in Central Florida, Fort Pierce, on the East Coast.
Thank you
PS: We have a dog and several cats, is lime harmful to animals?
Answer Hi Kathryn,
Agricultural lime is not harmful to cats and dogs, nor it it harmful to insects and weeds. Lime is an important tool in successful gardening to amend the soil, but is not going to help you control pests. Hydrated lime is labeled for use around kennels and stables for odor contol, but not as an insecticide. There are a number of organic insecticides available for insect control and a couple of organic herbicides available. Check with your local independent garden center for products that are labeled for use in your area.
A word of caution..."organic" doesn't mean a product is safe for you or the environment. Many organics are extremely toxic to fish, bees, crustaceans or other organisms in our ecosystem. Many times there may be a safer, synthetic alternative. Read and follow all label instructions and never use a product inconsistent with it's labeling.
Jim
