Re: Hi
- Subject: Re: Hi
- From: I*@aol.com
- Date: Wed, 6 Mar 96 05:00:21 MST
In a message dated 96-03-05 20:38:05 EST, you write:
>
>I received a letter from Terry Aitken (editor of AIS Bulletin) asking if I'd
>seen anything about organic gardening with irises. He's investigating using
>parasitic wasps (for purchase) to control borers, use of beneficial
>nematodes,
>getting rid of harmful nematodes without chemicals, and using coffee grounds
>as
>compost. Terry plans a future article incorporating these organic gardening
>items and is looking for anyone with direct experience. Thought I'd bring
>this
>to the attention of our group and see what info I can glean for him.
>
>
Bill: Hi! Glad you decided to jump on ... I wondered why we hadn't heard
from you up till now since you were actually one of the principals who made
this whole thing possible (clap, clap, clap).
Re: organic gardening: I personally have no scruples when it comes to
irisborers...Cygon is the chemical of choice and we use it prophylactically.
BUT.. I have been interested to read about beneficial nematodes and would be
interested to learn if anyone has any firsthand experience.
My compost pile is made up almost exclusively of grass clippings, leaves and
coffee grounds. I believe that the grounds help keep the soil on the acid
side, as well as make it more friable. Since I grow many beardless iris,
this is important to me. I've thought of asking a restaurant for THEIR
coffee grounds, but I'm afraid that's just too weird.
One message about composting...many municipalities are now offering a
composting program....which I think is wonderful. For awhile I was down
there pretty regular with my plastic recycle bins (great for gardening
chores), but then I got to thinking.... the only thing I put out from my
garden is the stuff I DON'T want in my compost...diseased leaves, butternut
leaves/nuts.... and although I try to keep away from chemicals in my yard due
to compromised lungs, most folks are regular Chemlawn customers... and all
THAT stuff gets hauled away. I don't take a chance anymore.
Bill... are you going to Sacramento? We're planning a geek rendezvous.
Kathy Guest
in the Winter Wonderland
