Q & A'S
Q & A'S FOR COMMON PROBLEMS IN LAWNS, FRUIT TREES & CITRUS, VEGETABLES & ORNAMENTALS, CAMELLIAS & AZALEAS AND ROSES
Lawns: Managing Pest Problems
Q: How do I deal with black beetles in my lawn?
A: To control black beetles, apply a suitable insecticide during early summer when beetle activity peaks or when signs of activity arise.
A variety of granular and hose-on product options, chemical and Eco-friendly, are available here at Lumpy's.
Regularly aerating the lawn and maintaining healthy grass with adequate fertilization and watering can also reduce beetle infestations.
Q: What can I do about army grubs in my lawn?
A: Army grubs can be treated with specific insecticides targeted at their larvae. It's most effective to apply these treatments in last summer or early autumn, when you first notice signs of grass damage or the presence of grubs.
Fruit Trees: Controlling Pests
Q: How do I manage bronze orange bugs on my fruit trees?
A: Bronze orange bugs can be controlled by spraying with horticultural oils or pyrethrum-based insecticides. Remove any heavily infested branches and dispose of them properly to prevent reinfestation.
Q: What are the best ways to treat citrus leaf miner damage on fruit trees?
A: Use white oil or neem oil to control citrus leaf miner. Applications should be timed in the early stages of leaf growth to prevent the miners from causing significant damage.
Q: How can I deal with scale on my fruit trees?
A: Scale insect can be treated with horticultural oil sprays which suffocate the pests. Regular monitoring and early treatment in the infestation cycle are crucial to prevent spread.
Vegetables and Ornamentals: Pest and Disease Control
Q: What should I do about caterpillars on my tomatoes?
A: Use bacillus thuringiensis (BT) or spinosad-based organic insecticides to control caterpillars effectively. Hand-picking can also be effective if infestation levels are low.
Q: How can I prevent and treat tomato diseases?
A: Prevent tomato diseases by ensuring good air circulation around plants and watering at the base rather than on the leaves. Fungicides can be applied at the first sign of disease to prevent spread.
Q: What are effective treatments for whiteflies, hibiscus flower beetles and two-spotted mites?
A: For whiteflies and two-spotted mites, use insecticidal soaps or neem oil spray. Hibiscus flower beetles can be controlled by picking off an disposing of infested flowers and buds.
Q: How can I manage snails and slugs in my garden?
A: Use environmentally friendly bait like iron phosphate or set up barriers such as copper tape around garden beds. Hand-picking at night can also help reduce populations.
Camellias and Azaleas: Dealing with Pests and Diseases
Q: How do I treat thrips and lacebugs on camellias and azaleas?
A: Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ensuring plants are well-watered and healthy can also reduce the impact of these pests.
Q: What can I do about aphids, soft scale and sooty mould on my camellias and azaleas?
A: Treat aphids and soft scale with horticultural oils or insecticidal soap. Sooty mould, which grows on the excreted substances from these pests, will often clear up once the pests are controlled.
Roses: Pest and Disease Management
Q: How can I control aphids, thrips and two-spotted mites on my roses?
A: Use insecticidal soaps or neem oil for organic control. Regularly checking plants and treating early are key to preventing serious damage.
Q: What are the best treatments for rose scale, black spot, rust and powdery mildew?
A: For rose scale, apply horticultural oil. Treat fungal issues like black spot, rust and powdery mildew with appropriate fungicides and ensure good air circulation around your roses to reduce the conditions these fungi thrive in.
At Lumpy's we can help you effectively address common pest and disease problems, ensuring your plants remain healthy and vibrant.