Organic Alternatives to Commercial Spraying

By JACK E. CHRISTENSEN

Dec. 4, 1994 12 AM PT

SPECIAL TO THE TIMES

QUESTION: I hate to use chemical sprays in my garden, because I fear they may kill birds or other good creatures or damage the environment. Can you at least mention organic alternatives?

ANSWER: I resort to sprays in my garden only when it is absolutely necessary, and that amounts to about once or twice a year. At times I’ve tried various concoctions recommended by organic gardening enthusiasts, but I must admit my success rate is rather low with them.

However, here is a recipe sent in by Jane Haines of Hacienda Heights, which she says a gardening friend gave to her--and she reports that it really works, particularly on caterpillars and aphids.

In a one-quart spray bottle combine water, one teaspoon of liquid dish soap and one teaspoon of vegetable oil; shake to mix well. Spray each worm individually; they are dead by the next day. A light misting of the entire plant “does in” the aphids. And Jane happily says that this year she was rewarded with lady bugs--the first she’s seen in a long time.

It sounds like a good alternative to me, and I’ll probably even try it myself the next time aphids or caterpillars invade my garden. Thanks, Jane, for sharing your success with us.

Snake-Proofing Yard in Mountain Area

Q: Our home in the Santa Monica mountains is surrounded by denuded land. Being elderly we no longer have pets, but all kinds of wildlife now keep us company--including snakes. We only kill the rattlesnakes, but we just killed the fourth one on our patio. One huge one got away a few weeks ago. There must be a nest of them near here. How do we get rid of them?

A: This is a bit out of my realm of expertise, but you can order booklet number 2996, “California Rattlesnakes,” from ANR Publications, University of California, 6701 San Pablo Avenue, Oakland, Calif. 94608-1239. The cost is $1.50, and a check should be made out to “UC Regents.” This booklet describes species and their habitats; how to snake-proof buildings and yards; plus first aid for snakebites.

Note to all gardeners: From this same address you can order the “UC Farm and Garden Publications Catalog” at no charge. This lists a number of very useful garden-related books and booklets available at nominal cost through the California Cooperative Extension Service.

Is the Fruit From a ‘Tree Tomato’ Edible?

Q: What do you call a “tree tomato” (its scientific and local name, please)? I’ve seen it advertised, and a friend of ours has one. It’s one of the most attractive plants I’ve ever seen. It’s laden with deep red fruits; are they edible?

A: Tree tomatoes are commonly called by that name; their scientific name is Cyphomandra botacea. Fast-growing shrubs, they are evergreen or partially evergreen, if protected from frost. Their leaves are large and attractive. The red fruits are about the size and shape of a large egg, and they ripen in winter. Yes, they are edible, with an acid, slightly tomato-like flavor. The raw fruits have a “different” sort of taste, but they are good when stewed with a little sugar, and there are other recipes for their use. Seeds may be planted from March through May. The plants require sun or part shade, average water and protection from aphids.

Rose Video on Pruning

Readers: I’ve had so many requests for information on rose care over the years that I decided to make a new 30-minute video called “The Care and Pruning of Your Roses,” which demonstrates simple, yet successful techniques for the easy growing of beautiful in your home garden.

To order for yourself, or as a gift, please send a check for $18.99 per video (which covers the prices of the video, plus shipping, handling and sales tax) to Jack Christensen-Video, P.O. Box 1231-B, Ontario, Calif. 91762. Please specify name and address of any gift recipients. Allow three to four weeks for delivery. Available for the holidays and in plenty of time for January pruning.

Organic Alternatives to Commercial Spraying

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