Project Portfolio https://www.rockawayinc.com/agronomics/ Full Service Landscaper Sun, 21 Jul 2024 12:46:11 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2 https://www.rockawayinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/cropped-Rockaway-logo-32x32.jpg Project Portfolio https://www.rockawayinc.com/agronomics/ 32 32 Summer Lawn Fungus Threats and Prevention https://www.rockawayinc.com/summer-lawn-fungus/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=summer-lawn-fungus Sun, 21 Jul 2024 12:46:11 +0000 https://www.rockawayinc.com/?p=12846 Florida’s intense summer heat and humidity create ideal conditions for a variety of lawn fungi to thrive. These microscopic organisms can rapidly transform a lush lawn into an unsightly eyesore. To safeguard your lawn, it’s crucial to understand these fungal threats and implement preventive measures. Florida lawns are particularly vulnerable to several fungal diseases, including: […]

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Florida’s intense summer heat and humidity create ideal conditions for a variety of lawn fungi to thrive. These microscopic organisms can rapidly transform a lush lawn into an unsightly eyesore. To safeguard your lawn, it’s crucial to understand these fungal threats and implement preventive measures.

Florida lawns are particularly vulnerable to several fungal diseases, including:

  • Brown patch: Characterized by large, brown patches, this disease is caused by the Rhizoctonia solani fungus and flourishes in warm, humid conditions.
  • Dollar spot: Featuring small, circular brown spots, this fungal disease is caused by Clarireedia jacksonii.
  • Grey leaf spot: Primarily affecting cool-season grasses, this disease results in gray or brown leaf blades.
  • Pythium blight: A destructive fungus capable of rapidly killing turfgrass, especially in hot, wet weather.
  • Rust: Identified by orange or brown spots on grass blades, rust thrives in warm, humid conditions.
  • Fairy rings: Caused by various fungi including Chlorophyllum spp., and other basidiomycete fungi, fairy rings often appear as circular or arc-shaped patches of dark green or yellow grass. They can also cause areas of dead grass due to competition with turf.

By understanding these fungal threats and implementing the following preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of fungal infections and maintain a vibrant, green lawn throughout the summer:

Preventive Measures

  • Proper Lawn Maintenance: Mow at the correct height for your grass type and use sharp mower blades to promote healthy growth and reduce fungal entry points.
  • Water Wisely: While summer heat demands adequate watering, avoid overwatering. Deep, infrequent watering encourages strong root growth and reduces moisture on the grass blades.
  • Improve Air Circulation: Trim overhanging branches and remove debris to enhance airflow and hasten grass drying.
  • Fertilize Carefully: Excessive nitrogen can promote lush growth, which is more susceptible to fungal diseases. Use balanced fertilizers and follow recommended application rates.
  • Monitor for Signs: Regularly inspect your lawn for signs of fungal diseases, such as discolored patches or unusual spots. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.
  • Consider Fungicides: In severe cases or as a preventive measure, apply a fungicide specifically designed for lawn diseases. Always follow label instructions carefully.

Additional Tip: Avoid walking on your lawn when it’s wet to prevent the spread of fungal spores.

Remember, Summer lawn fungus prevention is often more effective than treatment. By adopting these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of summer lawn fungus and enjoy a healthier, greener lawn. For professional lawn care advice and treatment options, contact Rockaway today.

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Palm Drench Treatment Program Protects Against Weevils https://www.rockawayinc.com/palm-drench-program/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=palm-drench-program Sat, 13 Apr 2024 16:10:56 +0000 https://www.rockawayinc.com/?p=11981 Florida's palm trees are under attack! The problem?  Invasive weevils are silently destroying these beauties from the inside out. Act Now Before It's Too Late. Save the Palms from weevils with Rockaway Landscaping's drench treatment. 

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Florida’s beloved palm trees face a silent threat: invasive weevils that burrow inside, causing devastation. Don’t wait for wilting or discoloration – these are often late signs. Act Now Before It’s Too Late. Protect palms from weevils with Rockaway Agronomic’s palm drench treatment program, which isn’t a one-time fix – it’s a comprehensive strategy to safeguard your palm trees throughout the year. Here’s why it’s superior:

The Danger:

  • Weevil Onslaught: Spring and summer bring peak weevil activity. These destructive insects can infest and kill your palms, ruining your landscape’s beauty and value.
  • Multiple Threats: Our treatment targets not just the palmetto weevil, but also the highly destructive red palm weevil and South American palm weevil – all major threats to Florida’s palms.

Our Solution:

Rockaway Landscaping’s neonicotinoid insecticide palm drench program offers a powerful preventative and curative solution:

  • Early Detection, Early Eradication: Our systemic treatment reaches hidden larvae, stopping them before they cause irreversible harm to your vulnerable palms, including Canary Island date, Bismarck, Queen, Coconut, Fishtail, Chinese fan, and Sabal palms.

Why Your Palms Might Be at Risk:

  • Weevil Magnets: Stressed palms emit distress signals (palm esters) that attract weevils.
  • Weevil Communication: Once a weevil finds a stressed palm, it leaves a pheromone trail, attracting others and creating a breeding ground.

Protect Your Palms Today!

Don’t let your palms become a weevil buffet! Our proactive approach safeguards your trees against infestations caused by:

  • Over-Pruning: We strengthen your palm’s defenses, allowing it to recover from pruning without attracting pests.
  • Physical Damage: Our drench application fortifies your tree from the inside out, helping it resist weevil attacks.
  • Stress: We promote overall palm health, giving your tree the natural resilience to fight off weevils caused by nutrient deficiencies, harsh weather, or improper watering.

Rockaway’s Proven Protection:

  • Systematic Defense: Our drench soaks the palm heart, root zone and trunk, delivering insecticide throughout the palm’s vascular system for continuous protection.
  • Broad Spectrum Control: Our treatment combats multiple weevil threats.
  • Long-lasting Results: Quarterly treatments ensure consistent protection during peak weevil activity.

Don’t gamble with their health and take steps to protect palms from weevils today! Contact us for a quote and let’s get you on the Palm Drench Treatment Program to ensure your palms continue to grace your property for years to come.

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A Bitter Surprise: Aphids Threaten Monarch Butterfly Lifeline https://www.rockawayinc.com/aphids-threaten-monarchs/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=aphids-threaten-monarchs Sat, 16 Mar 2024 15:10:34 +0000 https://www.rockawayinc.com/?p=11838 The study found that tropical milkweed infested with oleander aphids became significantly less hospitable to monarchs. Butterflies laid far fewer eggs on aphid-ridden plants, and the caterpillars that did hatch faced a tough battle. They munched on less milkweed, grew at a slower pace, and many never reached adulthood.

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Monarch butterflies, with their vibrant wings and epic migrations, have captivated hearts for generations. Sadly, their populations have plummeted in recent decades due largely to habitat loss. In response, many people have turned to planting milkweed, the monarch’s exclusive food source, in their gardens.

One readily available option is tropical milkweed (Asclepias curassavica). This hardy Central and South American variety boasts several advantages: it’s fast-growing, easy to cultivate compared to native milkweed, and thrives in the winter nesting grounds of Mexico. No wonder it’s the most commonly available milkweed sold in the United States. However, a recent study from the University of Florida throws a wrench into this seemingly perfect solution. It reveals a hidden danger lurking on these tropical beauties: oleander aphids. These tiny sap-sucking insects may seem insignificant, but for monarchs that rely on tropical milkweed, they can spell disaster.

The study found that tropical milkweed infested with oleander aphids became significantly less hospitable to monarchs. Butterflies laid far fewer eggs on aphid-ridden plants, and the caterpillars that did hatch faced a tough battle. They munched on less milkweed, grew at a slower pace, and many never reached adulthood.

This is a double whammy for monarch conservation. While tropical milkweed provides a convenient option for gardeners, it seems aphids find it particularly tasty. The study suggests that native milkweed species, which are less susceptible to aphid-induced problems, might be a better choice for those who truly want to help monarchs.

A Bitter Defense: Here’s the twist: when tropical milkweed is under attack by aphids, it fights back by producing higher levels of chemicals called cardenolides. These cardenolides are a natural defense mechanism, making the plant less appetizing to insects. The monarchs likewise benefit from the cardenoides that reduces their tastiness to predators.

However, there’s a catch-22 for monarchs. While they rely on cardenolides from milkweed for their own protection against predators, too much of a good thing can be bad. The study suggests that the elevated cardenolide levels in aphid-infested tropical milkweed may deter monarch butterflies from laying eggs and make the milkweed less nutritious for the caterpillars that do hatch. This can lead to slower growth and even death for the young monarchs.

Alternatives: The researchers found that monarchs did much better when feeding on native swamp milkweed with its lower levels of cardenolides even when heavily infested with aphids. But don’t despair if your heart is set on tropical milkweed! The researchers offer a glimmer of hope. For smaller gardens, insecticidal soap can be used to control aphid populations, making the milkweed more welcoming to monarchs. So if you are set on the Tropical milkweed and your favorite garden center supply is infested with aphids share this information with them and encourage them to minimize their aphid population.

The study’s authors are exploring alternative pest management solutions that target aphids but leave monarchs unharmed. This research reminds us that even well-intentioned efforts can have unintended consequences. Also be sure to cut back your tropical milkweed in the Fall to encourage monarchs to migrate back to Mexico and avoid the Ophryocystis elektroscirrha (OE) protozoan infestation that ravages the health of over wintering monarch populations. By understanding the complex interactions between plants, insects, and butterflies, we can make informed choices to create a healthier future for these magnificent creatures. So next time you plant milkweed for monarchs, consider the potential aphid threat and choose the best option for your garden and these winged wonders.

From our office in Atlantic Beach and satellites throughout Northeast Florida, Rockaway Inc proudly serves both commercial and residential sustainable landscape design, maintenance, lawn care, irrigation, and outdoor living carpentry client needs in Jacksonville, St Augustine, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, St. Johns, and Fernandina Beach.

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Why Healthy Roots are Essential for a Thriving Lawn & Garden https://www.rockawayinc.com/healthy-roots/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=healthy-roots Thu, 14 Mar 2024 13:11:22 +0000 https://www.rockawayinc.com/?p=11825 Have you ever stopped to consider the unseen heroes of your garden? While vibrant flowers and plump vegetables tend to steal the show, the real magic happens underground. Healthy roots are the foundation of a thriving lawn and garden, playing a critical role in plant growth and overall health.

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Have you ever stopped to consider the unseen heroes of your garden? While vibrant flowers and plump vegetables tend to steal the show, the real magic happens underground. Healthy roots are the foundation of a thriving lawn and garden, playing a critical role in plant growth and overall health.

The Mighty Multitaskers

Plant roots are more than just anchors. They act as a lifeline, performing several essential functions:

Absorption: Roots take up water and nutrients dissolved in the soil, delivering them to the plant for growth and development.

Support: A strong root system provides stability, anchoring the plant and preventing it from toppling over in wind or heavy rain.

Communication: Roots interact with beneficial microbes in the soil, forming partnerships that enhance nutrient uptake and protect against disease. Recent research suggests roots even secrete compounds that influence these microbes, creating a complex and vital communication network.

Healthy Roots, Happy Plants

Just like the saying goes, “you are what you eat,” healthy roots translate to healthy plants. Here’s how:

Increased Growth: Proper water and nutrient uptake fuels vigorous growth, leading to larger plants with more flowers, fruits, or vegetables.

Improved Resilience: Strong roots allow plants to better withstand environmental stresses like drought, heat, and disease. Deeper root systems can access water reserves during dry periods, and a healthy root microbiome can offer protection against pathogens.

Enhanced Beauty: Healthy roots contribute to vibrant foliage, beautiful blooms, and a flourishing garden overall.

The Science of Super Roots

Scientists are constantly unlocking the secrets of healthy roots. Here are some exciting new breakthroughs:

Deeper Roots, Stronger Plants: Researchers are exploring ways to engineer plants with deeper root systems. This could be achieved by manipulating the ethylene hormone pathway, leading to crops more resistant to drought and better equipped to capture excess nitrogen, reducing pollution. (See: [A host of agricultural challenges])

Protein Power: The discovery of a specific protein in plant roots sheds light on how they regulate water and nutrient uptake. Understanding this protein could pave the way for developing climate-proof crops requiring less water and fertilizer.

Cultivating a Thriving Root System

Now that you understand the importance of healthy roots, here are some tips to nurture them:

Choose the Right Soil: Ensure your soil is well-draining and aerated, allowing for proper root respiration and growth.

Water Wisely: Deep watering encourages roots to grow deep into the soil, searching for moisture. Avoid frequent shallow watering, which promotes root shallowness.

Amend with Care: Organic matter like compost improves soil structure and provides nutrients for beneficial microbes that aid root health. Consider adding mycorrhizal fungi, which form symbiotic partnerships with plant roots, enhancing nutrient uptake and plant health.

Select Appropriate Plants: Choose plants suited to your local climate and soil conditions. Plants with naturally deep root systems can better tolerate drought and nutrient deficiencies.

Building a Foundation for Success: The Importance of Professional Care

Just like the human body, keeping your landscape healthy often requires a comprehensive approach. A well-developed agronomics program that considers the specific needs of your soil and plants can significantly benefit your landscape’s root health. This program may include services like:

Soil testing and amendments: Identifying nutrient deficiencies and imbalances in your soil and addressing them with targeted amendments promotes healthy root growth.

Deep root watering: Ensuring water reaches deeper root zones encourages root development and helps plants access vital moisture reserves during dry periods.

Organic matter amendments: Adding compost and other organic materials improves soil structure, aeration, and water retention, creating a healthy environment for roots to thrive.

For residential homeowners, HOAs, CDDs, and commercial property managers, partnering with a professional landscaping company that offers a comprehensive agronomics program can be an excellent way to ensure the long-term health and beauty of your landscape. Here at Rockaway Sustainable Landscaping, we are committed to providing science-backed solutions to nurture healthy root systems and cultivate vibrant landscapes. Contact us today to learn more about our agronomics services and how we can help your landscape thrive.

By prioritizing healthy roots, you’re laying the groundwork for a vibrant and flourishing garden. Remember, what happens below the surface has a profound impact on what thrives above!

From our office in Atlantic Beach and satellites throughout Northeast Florida, Rockaway Inc proudly serves both commercial and residential sustainable landscape design, maintenance, lawn care, irrigation, and outdoor living carpentry client needs in Jacksonville, St Augustine, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, St. Johns, and Fernandina Beach.

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NPK Organic vs. Inorganic Fertilizer Choices https://www.rockawayinc.com/npk-fertilizer-choices/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=npk-fertilizer-choices Tue, 12 Mar 2024 13:53:22 +0000 https://www.rockawayinc.com/?p=11809 This guide will focus on understanding NPK and the key differences between organic and inorganic fertilizer choices to empower you to create a flourishing lawn and garden.

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Ever wondered what those cryptic numbers on fertilizer bags mean? Look closer, and you’ll see a three-number code like 10-10-10. This code represents the fertilizer’s content of the three most important plant nutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). But while NPK forms the foundation of plant nutrition, it’s not the whole story. Micronutrients also play a vital role, and we’ll delve deeper into their importance in a separate article. This guide will focus on understanding NPK and the key differences between organic and inorganic fertilizer choices to empower you to create a flourishing lawn and garden.

NPK Organic Fertilizers: A Sustainable Choice for a Thriving Lawn

NPK organic fertilizers, derived from natural sources like compost, manure, and bone meal, provide your lawn and garden with a balanced supply of essential nutrients while promoting soil health. Here’s how they benefit your outdoor space:

Balanced Nutrition: Organic fertilizers offer a slow-release source of nutrients, ensuring your lawn receives a steady supply without the risk of nutrient overload. This leads to consistent growth and a vibrant green appearance.

Healthy Soil: These fertilizers contribute to a thriving soil ecosystem by feeding beneficial microbes and improving soil structure, drainage, and water retention. This translates to a healthier lawn that’s better equipped to resist pests and diseases.

Environmentally Friendly: By minimizing reliance on chemical inputs, organic fertilizers reduce environmental impact and promote sustainable gardening practices. You can feel good about creating a beautiful lawn while protecting the environment.

Inorganic Fertilizers: A Quick Boost

Inorganic fertilizers, also known as chemical fertilizers, offer a readily available source of nutrients for plants. They are particularly helpful when a specific nutrient deficiency needs to be addressed quickly. However, there are some considerations:

Rapid Release: While convenient, the quick release of nutrients in inorganic fertilizers can lead to waste through leaching or runoff if not managed carefully.

Potential for Soil Damage: Excessive use of inorganic fertilizers can harm soil health in the long run.

Choosing the Right Fertilizer and Lawn Care for Your Needs

Both organic and inorganic fertilizers have their advantages. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

For long-term soil health, a sustainable approach, and a consistently beautiful lawn, choose NPK organic fertilizers.

If your lawn needs a quick nutrient boost to address a deficiency, a balanced inorganic fertilizer can be helpful under the guidance of a lawn care professional.

Rockaway Sustainable Landscaping: Your Partner in Creating a Thriving Lawn

By understanding NPK and the different types of fertilizers available, you can create a thriving lawn and garden that flourishes with balanced nutrition and sustainable practices. Rockaway Sustainable Landscaping is here to partner with you in achieving that beautiful, healthy outdoor space you deserve.

Taking care of your lawn can be a time-consuming endeavor, especially when it comes to fertilizer applications and ongoing maintenance. If you’d like a beautiful, healthy lawn and garden but don’t have the time or desire to tackle these tasks yourself, Rockaway Sustainable Landscaping can help. Our team of experts can assess your lawn’s needs, develop a customized fertilization plan using organic or inorganic options based on your preferences, and handle all aspects of lawn care.

Relax and enjoy your beautiful outdoor space, while Rockaway Sustainable Landscaping ensures your lawn receives the perfect balance of nutrients and care to thrive.

From our office in Atlantic Beach and satellites throughout Northeast Florida, Rockaway Inc proudly serves both commercial and residential sustainable landscape design, maintenance, lawn care, irrigation, and outdoor living carpentry client needs in Jacksonville, St Augustine, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, St. Johns, and Fernandina Beach.

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Tiny Terror: Prevent Chilli Thrips in Your Garden! https://www.rockawayinc.com/chilli-thrips-landscaping/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=chilli-thrips-landscaping Sun, 10 Mar 2024 14:32:37 +0000 https://www.rockawayinc.com/?p=11790 Here at Rockaway Landscaping, we know you love keeping your garden beautiful. But there's a new invasive pest on the block - the chilli thrips! These tiny insects, about the size of a pen tip, can wreak havoc on your ornamental plants, fruits, and vegetables.

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Here at Rockaway Landscaping, we know you love keeping your garden beautiful. But there’s a new invasive pest on the block – the chilli thrips! These tiny insects, about the size of a pen tip, can wreak havoc on your ornamental plants, fruits, and vegetables.

What are chilli thrips?chilli thrip

  • Scientific name: Scirtothrips dorsalis Hood
  • Also known as yellow tea thrips, castor thrips, or strawberry thrips
  • Native to Southeast Asia with worldwide distribution including establishment in warm Sothern states including Florida and spreading
  • Thrive in warm weather and can reproduce quickly

What agricultural threats do chilli thrips pose? 

  • Devastating crop losses: Up to 80% of strawberry yields can be lost to chilli thrips infestations! They also damage other important crops like peppers, tomatoes, eggplants, and beans.
  • Economic impact: The potential annual losses across the U.S. are estimated to be in the billions of dollars.
  • Spreading rapidly: Chilli thrips are not picky eaters and attack a wide range of plants. This makes it difficult to control their spread and poses a threat to a variety of agricultural industries.

What plants do they attack?

  • Roses, Citrus trees, Many vegetables (peppers, tomatoes, eggplant, etc.), Strawberries, and more than 225 other plant species!

How can you spot them?

  • Look for tiny, black specks on the undersides of leaves. These are thrips themselves or their droppings.
  • Leaves may have a silvery or bronzed appearance on the upper surface.
  • Look for distorted or discolored flower buds and fruits.
  • Use sticky traps (ideally blue) to monitor for thrips.

How can you protect your plants?

  • Enroll in our Landscape Maintenance, which includes Integrated Pest Management! Our experts will regularly inspect your plants for signs of chilli thrips and other pests, allowing for early detection and intervention. This can significantly reduce the damage thrips cause and protect your valuable plants.
  • In addition to our program, you can also:
    • Prune away any damaged plant parts and dispose of them properly.
    • Consider using horticultural soap, oils, or other organic controls for light infestations.
    • Biological controls include the beneficial insect pirate bugs and entomopathogenic nematodes.
    • Insecticidal sprays may be necessary including imidacloprid, acetamiprid, spinetoram, or pyrethroids, but should be should be applied by a professional as they can develop resistance.

Shield your landscape from tiny terrors! Enroll in Rockaway’s Landscape Maintenance program with Integrated Pest Management included Our experts include Agronomics Manager Ryan Mobley, and Associate Certified Entomologist Neal McCullough.

From our office in Atlantic Beach and satellites throughout Northeast Florida, Rockaway Inc proudly serves both commercial and residential sustainable landscape design, maintenance, lawn care, irrigation, and outdoor living carpentry client needs in Jacksonville, St Augustine, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, St. Johns, and Fernandina Beach.

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The Safe & Buzz-Free Benefits of Bti Mosquito Control https://www.rockawayinc.com/mosquito-free-benefits-of-bti/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=mosquito-free-benefits-of-bti Thu, 29 Feb 2024 13:16:02 +0000 https://www.rockawayinc.com/?p=11690 Are you imagining enjoying tranquil evenings on your porch with gentle breezes, the smell of fresh bloom, and the sounds are the harmonious chirps of birds free of the nuisance and health risks of mosquitoes? This is achievable through proper landscape maintenance and the application of Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti).

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Are you imagining enjoying tranquil evenings on your porch with gentle breezes, the smell of fresh bloom, and the sounds are the harmonious chirps of birds free of the nuisance and health risks of mosquitoes? This is achievable through proper landscape maintenance and the application of Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti).

Bti is a naturally occurring bacterium found in soil that acts as a powerful and targeted weapon against mosquito larvae. Unlike harmful chemical insecticides, Bti doesn’t harm the environment, your friends and family or beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. Instead, it specifically targets mosquito larvae, effectively stopping them in their tracks before they can become adult mosquitoes.

This targeted approach is crucial for reclaiming your outdoor spaces. By reducing mosquito populations, Bti helps you:

  • Enjoy your evenings outdoors: Relax on your porch swing, have a barbecue with friends, or simply soak up the sunset without the constant threat of mosquito bites.
  • Protect your family: Bti helps safeguard your loved ones, especially children, from the dangers of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and Zika.
  • Create a haven for wildlife: With fewer mosquitoes around, birds, bats, and other beneficial creatures can thrive in your yard.

But how does Bti work? It’s simple! Bti contains spores that produce proteins that are toxic only to mosquito larvae. When these larvae ingest Bti, the proteins bind to BTi dunkstheir gut, causing them to stop feeding and ultimately die.

One of the most important parts is that Bti is safe for humans and animals. Extensive research has shown that Bti poses no harm to people, pets, or wildlife, making it a responsible and eco-friendly solution for mosquito control. Bti is registered with the EPA for residential, commercial, and agricultural application and it’s used in organic gardening. However, it’s important to apply it correctly to maximize its benefits. Thankfully, using Bti is easy to apply.

For smaller areas like birdbaths or flower pots, Bti comes in convenient forms like dunks or granules. Simply toss the recommended amount into the water, and the Bti spores will do their job. For larger areas, various application methods like spraying or fogging might be necessary. If you’re unsure about the best approach for your specific situation, consult local mosquito control authorities or professionals. They can provide guidance on selecting the right Bti product and applying it safely and effectively to create a mosquito-free haven in your backyard.

While Bti offers a powerful tool for controlling mosquito larvae, a multi-pronged approach is most effective in creating a mosquito-free haven in your backyard. Here are some additional strategies you can incorporate:

  • Eliminate mosquito breeding grounds: Mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water. Regularly check and empty any containers that can hold water, such as tires, birdbaths, flower pots, and clogged gutters.
  • Maintain your yard: Keep your grass mowed and trim overgrown vegetation around your property. This reduces shady areas where adult mosquitoes like to rest.
  • Wear protective clothing: When spending time outdoors in untreated areas that mosquitoes frequent, wear long sleeves and pants, particularly during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

By combining these methods with the targeted application of Bti, you can significantly reduce mosquito populations and reclaim your outdoor space for enjoyable evenings and relaxing afternoons.

So, the next time you hear about Bti being used in your community, remember that it’s not something to fear. It’s a powerful tool that along with proper landscape maintenance helps us reclaim our outdoor spaces, enjoy nature’s beauty, and protect ourselves and our loved ones from the dangers of mosquito-borne diseases, all while safeguarding the environment we share.

From our office in Atlantic Beach and satellites throughout Northeast Florida, Rockaway Inc proudly serves both commercial and residential sustainable landscape design, maintenance, lawn care, irrigation, and outdoor living carpentry client needs in Jacksonville, St Augustine, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, St. Johns, and Fernandina Beach.

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Steps to Sustainable Microbe-Powered Landscaping Success! https://www.rockawayinc.com/microbe-agronomics/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=microbe-agronomics Thu, 15 Feb 2024 11:07:46 +0000 https://www.rockawayinc.com/?p=11534 Imagine a world where your garden flourishes with vibrant blooms and delicious vegetables, yet remains virtually untouched by harmful chemicals. The weeds seem to mysteriously disappear, your plants thrive with newfound vigor, and the soil itself teems with unseen life. This isn't a utopian vision, but a potential reality thanks to the remarkable power of rhizobacteria, microscopic marvels residing within your soil.

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Imagine a world where your garden flourishes with vibrant blooms and delicious vegetables, yet remains virtually untouched by harmful chemicals. The weeds seem to mysteriously disappear, your plants thrive with newfound vigor, and the soil itself teems with unseen life. This isn’t a utopian vision, but a potential reality thanks to the remarkable power of rhizobacteria, microscopic marvels residing within your soil. These tiny allies, invisible to the naked eye, hold the key to unlocking sustainable nicrobe-oowered landscaping and gardening success. A new study in the Soil Ecology Letters journal points the way. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of rhizobacteria and discover how they can transform your garden into a thriving ecosystem, bursting with life and bounty.

Think of your garden as a mini-ecosystem. Just like our bodies have good and bad bacteria, so does your soil. Rhizobacteria are the “good guys,” helping plants in amazing ways:

  • Natural weed warriors: These tiny microbes can suppress the growth of pesky weeds, reducing the need for herbicides.
  • Boosting plant power: Rhizobacteria act like tiny cheerleaders for your plants, helping them fix nitrogen, fight off diseases, and absorb nutrients more efficiently. This translates to healthier plants and improved growth and vigor!
  • Soil superheroes: By encouraging beneficial microbes, you create a thriving soil ecosystem that’s naturally more resilient and fertile. This means less reliance on chemical fertilizers and a healthier environment for everyone.

So, how can you harness the power of these amazing microbes in your own garden?

  • Reduce or eliminate chemical herbicides: Give rhizobacteria a chance to show their weed-fighting skills!
  • Consider adding compost or organic matter: This encourages a diverse and healthy soil microbiome, including beneficial bacteria.
  • Plant a variety of cover crops: This promotes biodiversity and provides a constant food source for beneficial microbes.
  • Explore using biofertilizers: These products contain beneficial bacteria that can further enhance your soil health.

“Not only that, but curbing the application of chemicals could also help to tackle the global challenge of herbicide resistance that increasingly plagues global agriculture: over 160 herbicide products worldwide have been rendered useless by this problem,” according to Anthropocene magazine. By embracing these sustainable microbe-powered landscaping practices, you’re not just creating a beautiful garden, you’re contributing to a healthier ecosystems and the planet. Remember, it’s all about working with nature, not against it. Let’s nurture the amazing life teeming beneath our feet and reap the rewards of a thriving, sustainable landscape. Rockaway Sustainable Landscaping offers a variety of Agronomics services that include the responsible use of herbicides. Learn more about our Agronomic Services here.

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How Plants Talk to Each Other https://www.rockawayinc.com/how-plants-talk-to-each-other/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-plants-talk-to-each-other Sat, 03 Feb 2024 12:27:55 +0000 https://www.rockawayinc.com/?p=11446 New Discoveries and Benefits for Your Garden! Imagine your tomato plants sending out an alert when hungry pests approach, or your rose bushes warning their neighbors about a hidden disease. Sounds fantastical, right? Recent research has revealed that plants actually do communicate with each other, and this exciting discovery has significant implications for agriculture, landscaping, […]

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New Discoveries and Benefits for Your Garden!

Imagine your tomato plants sending out an alert when hungry pests approach, or your rose bushes warning their neighbors about a hidden disease. Sounds fantastical, right? Recent research has revealed that plants actually do communicate with each other, and this exciting discovery has significant implications for agriculture, landscaping, and even your home garden!

How do plants talk?

Plants don’t use sound waves like animals, but instead release chemical signals called volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. When a plant gets attacked by insects or suffers damage, these VOCs act like an alarm system, alerting nearby healthy plants to the danger.

What did the researchers discover?

Scientists at Saitama University in Japan used clever techniques to “see” what happens inside plants when they receive these warnings. They found that the message triggers a calcium signal within the plant cells, similar to how animals use calcium to communicate. This calcium signal then activates various defense mechanisms to help the plant prepare for potential threats.

What are the benefits for agriculture, landscaping, and gardening?

This research opens up exciting possibilities for improving plant health and resilience:

  • Earlier pest and disease detection: By understanding the VOCs released by stressed plants, we could develop tools to identify problems sooner, leading to more targeted and effective pest and disease control.
  • Enhanced plant defenses: Understanding how plants use VOCs to activate their defenses could lead to new strategies for boosting their natural resistance to pests and diseases, potentially reducing reliance on harmful chemicals.
  • Improved crop yields: By mimicking or manipulating the plant’s communication system, we could potentially enhance plant growth and productivity.
  • More sustainable practices: Understanding plant communication could inform the development of more sustainable farming and gardening practices that work with nature, rather than against it.

What can you do as a gardener?

While further research is needed to translate these findings into practical applications, you can still benefit from this knowledge:

  • Observe your plants closely: Pay attention to signs of stress or damage, and consider potential sources nearby.
  • Promote a healthy ecosystem: Encourage beneficial insects and diverse plant varieties in your garden to create a supportive environment for all plants.
  • Stay informed: Keep up with new research on plant communication and explore how it can be applied to your gardening practices.

By understanding how plants talk to each other and respecting the hidden language of plants, we can become better gardeners and create thriving, healthy gardens for everyone!

From our office in Atlantic Beach and satellites throughout Northeast Florida, Rockaway Inc proudly serves both commercial and residential landscape design,maintenance, lawn care, irrigation, and outdoor living carpentry client needs in Jacksonville, St Augustine, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra, Nocatee, St. Johns, and Fernandina Beach.

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