THE MAIN theology of organic horticulture is ‘ feed the soil and the soil will feed the plants .’”
tips & tricks
Beneficial bacteria have been a part of horticulture since the beginning of time , though our understanding of how they work and how to use them continues to develop . Many gardeners today are familiar with beneficial microorganism products that inoculate a soil or medium . Some of these products have specific strains of beneficial microorganisms that create synergistic relationships with the roots . These relationships aid in the breakdown of organic materials and speeds up nutrient uptake . There are other bacteria strains used in horticulture to protect plants from pest insects and pathogenic diseases . Once used only by organic and natural horticulturists , some of these beneficial bacteria products for pest insect and disease control are now being embraced by large commercial operations . This is due to their effectiveness and the minimal negative impact most of these products have on the environment . In many cases , these beneficial bacteria products are safer and more effective than their chemical counterparts . After all , many of the chemical pesticides and fungicides damage much more than just the pest insects or diseases they were designed to treat .
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THE MAIN theology of organic horticulture is ‘ feed the soil and the soil will feed the plants .’”
BACTERIA FOR INSECT CONTROL
Few things are more devastating to a garden than a pest infestation . Insects can quickly destroy an otherwise healthy crop , which is why a grower must take immediate action whenever a problem is identified . Depending on the particular pest problem a grower faces , he or she may be able to implement a treatment with a beneficial bacteria strain .
Bacillus Thuringiensis
Bacillus thuringiensis ( Bt .) is a naturally occurring , soil-dwelling bacterium that is used as a biological pesticide . It is most commonly used to treat caterpillars and is very effective at controlling cabbage loopers . While there are many different strains of Bt . found throughout the world , some strains produce crystal proteins that have insecticidal properties . When ingested , these special crystal proteins disturb the insect ’ s digestive system . This causes the insect to stop eating entirely , so it will eventually starve to death . Many biological insecticidal sprays and powders contain Bt . Application instructions vary , but it is imperative that the insects consume the Bt . or the treatment will not work . In most cases , crops should be treated with Bt . on hot , dry days when the insects are most actively feeding . This will ensure a high consumption rate among the pest insect population . It is also important to remember that a reapplication may be necessary as rain or wind can remove the active ingredient from the plants .
80 grow cycle