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& Departments: Rutgers
Cooperative Extension |
Frequently
Asked Questions:
When can I plant my annuals and vegetables?
Mid-May is generally accepted as the time to plant annuals and vegetables
in home garden in South Jersey. Vegetables are classified as hardy
(e.g., cabbage, peas), semi-hardy (carrots, lettuce)and tender (e.g.,
tomatoes, peppers). Hardy and semi-hardy crops can be planted in early
spring, but the tender vegetables should be put out in mid-May.
What can I spray my trees and shrubs with
to prevent insect pests?
Rutgers Cooperative Extension does not recommend that homeowners spray
preventatively. If you notice an insect pest or suspect that your
tree or shrub has a disease, you are welcome to submit a plant sample
to the office (152 Ohio Ave., Clementon, NJ, (856)566-2900) for identification
and, if necessary, a recommendation for controlling the problem. Bringing
a good sample is important for accurate diagnosis; cut one or more
branches (10"-12" in length) with leaves attached. The sample
should show both symptoms of the problem and healthy foliage. Most
insects in the landscape are not harmful to plants or people.
What are these big bees flying around my house
in April and May? Sometimes I see sawdust coming from a hole under
the eaves of my house.
Carpenter bees (a member of the order Hymenoptera) overwinter in wood
as young adults and mate from April to June. The are approximately
1" long and have a shiny, dark, hairless abdomen. The male buzzes
loudly and flies quickly, but cannot sting. Female carpenter bees
may sting if handled. The bees will tunnel into wood in order to create
a nest, creating galleries. Keeping wood painted or varnished,
or covering it with materials such as fiberglass or metal screening
can prevent further damage. Commercially available wasp and hornet
spray will kill bees and can be sprayed into the nest openings. Seal
existing holes with steel wool; caulks may be used, but may be too
soft. The best time to seal the holes is in spring after they have
emerged. Carpenter bees are valuable pollinators and should not be
removed.
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