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Our warm and wet summer months are ideal for the propagation of many very hungry insects. Remember, the best friend your plants have is your shadow. You need to visit your plants often, if not daily then several times a week. And by "visit", we mean getting up close and personal – really look them over. Early discovery of the infestation of some critter or another can prevent the spread of a big headache. Do not assume that the bi-weekly spraying, which we have discussed previously, of some thing like Isotox, which contains Orthene(Acephate), will solve all possible insect problems.
The issue of droopy foliage, due to the very hot afternoon sun will continue to be a problem in August as we discussed in the July section. Heck, the same problem will be around in September too. No matter how much it rains or you water, if the afternoon sun is not tempered by thunderstorm clouds, your plants in the sun will experience foliage droop and that translates into bud drop. An afternoon shower with a hose end spray wand will help your plants over the period of "wilts". Using a wand allows the upward spraying of a relatively forceful stream under the plant leaves, cooling them and washing off various critters.
July September
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