Aphids and squirrels and corn(oh my ;-) )

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Hey Jim,

1) Put a fence around the corn!  Be sure that you use posts that a squirrel can't climb, and situate the corn patch at least 15-20 feet from other trees and fences.  Even chicken wire will work(and is pretty cheap).  Fence should be at least 5 ft. tall-- most squirrels can't jump up from the ground, but who knows, they might MUTATE to get to that corn;-) .

2) Aphids are easily controlled if you get to them RIGHT AWAY when you first see them.  In the following order:
       a)  sharp spray of H20 from the hose-it knocks them off the plant and they don't fly and have trouble climbing--although the ants that tend them might CARRY them back--aphids are known as "ant's cows"; the ants literally "milk" them for the honeydew.
       b)  1 teaspoon dish detergent per quart of water in high pressure sprayer-THIS WORKS!
       c)  Insecticidal soap(available at garden centers) according to directions.

Get more information on IPM(integrated pest management) from your local University Ag. Extension, they're a goldmine of info.  And most of them are STARTING to realize that pesticides are POISON!

Diane in St. Paul MN