An Almost Insect-Free Rose Garden

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You can concoct a homegrown insect discourager by mixing ground onions, garlic, and hot peppers—in just about any proportion you have on hand—in a gallon of water. Let the smelly solution steep overnight . . . strain the liquid . . . and spray the brew over your rosebushes. And forceful streams of just plain water will help to break up invasions of spider mites. For serious insect infestations, however, you may need to apply a product whose sole active ingredient is natural pyrethrum (an insecticide made from the dried flowers of Chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium).

Of course, both scientists and flower hobbyists are continuously working to make the rose problems of the future less thorny. For example, the recently developed milky spore disease shows great promise in combating damaging Japanese beetles. And, as of this writing, researchers have successfully begun to isolate specific fatty acids (such as those contained in soap) that are toxic to harmful insects but have little or no effect on beneficial ladybugs and bees.

One such product is Safer Agro-Chem Insecticidal Soap, which is said to be effective against spider mites, aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs, soft scale, and other pests. This soap is now available at many large department stores and gardening centers . . . or you can order an eight-ounce bottle for $4.50 postpaid, from Safer Agro-Chem, Dept. TMEN, 13910 Lyons Valley Road, Jamul, California 92035. (EDITOR'S NOTE: MOTHER has not tested this product, and-although reports do seem promising-we advise that it be used with the same care that you'd employ when applying any other (organic or artificial) insecticide.]

Scientists are also investigating groups of fatty acids that may be effective against root rot and fungi.

THE REWARD

At this point many would-be rosarians may well be wondering whether a flower garden can be worth the time and effort that must be spent in its upkeep. Well, let me assure you that there is always a potential crisis or tragedy lurking in the rose garden! Rose fanciers who persevere rather than throw up their hands in despair, however, find the struggle to produce beautiful blooms both exciting and challenging.

And if you exercise care in bed preparation, in choosing your varieties, in tending your garden, and in employing safe and natural insect deterrents . . . the magnificent "Queen of Flowers" will reward you beyond your imagining.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Folks who doubt the effectiveness of natural insect control measures for ornamentals will be interested to learn that—although she's not a professional grower—author Lynn Smith's organically raised roses garnered two trophies and more than 45 ribbons in flower shows (including an award in the American Rose Society's prestigious national show in Washington, D. C.) during the fall of 1981 alone.

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