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Garden myths are just about everywhere. You’ve probably heard them from your well-intentioned neighbor or family members. Television and radio shows all offer a wealth of anecdotal advice — and not all of it is trustworthy. Start a conversation about gardening with just about anyone and you’ll likely walk away with a “tip” or two.
The Internet has also provided excellent means to propagate (yes, pun intended) bogus gardening tips based on little valid scientific research.
This article will attempt to help you separate the facts from the fiction in some of the garden lore that has been handed down for years. Countdown style, and in no particular order, here are a dozen popular ones:
Garlic repels insects
This is true. Are you repulsed by getting too close to someone who has eaten too much garlic? Well, insects find the odor of garlic to be just as offensive. In the ’90s, a group of researchers concocted a recipe that was effective in repelling insects. The recipe is 5 ounces of garlic extract, several drops of liquid soap and one quart of water. Blend well and strain through two layers of cheesecloth. Dilute this solution to 10 percent of the original concentration before spraying on affected plants. This mixture will not kill any insects, it will only repel them. While the spray has been shown to be especially effective on whiteflies, aphids and most beetles, the downside is your plants will smell like garlic for up to two weeks. If you are absolutely against commercial insecticides, this may be a “solution” for you. Which brings me to …
Organic pesticides are less toxic than synthetic ones
This is purely fiction. Misused pesticides are harmful, regardless of whether they are considered natural, organic, chemical or synthetic. Whenever possible, select the least toxic control option available. Even without being lethal, many pesticides can cause serious health complications if improperly used. Store these products properly to prevent harmful accidents, read and follow all label directions, and remember that these products are tools, not miracle workers. Pesticides will not correct mistakes made in plant selection, installation or maintenance. Speaking of plant installation…
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