The Garden In August

​This summer, while enjoying your garden and yard, keep vigilant about some serious pests; not just those eating your plants. Ticks are on the increase, both in the length of their active season and their numbers. While many in this area are familiar with Lyme Disease, recent research has revealed more illnesses associated with tick bites, as well as mosquitoes. The best way to protect yourself is to use an insect repellent containing Deet on any exposed skin. Used as directed, this is a safe and effective tick/ mosquito deterrent. Clothing treated with Permethrin is also a good defense. It is still highly advisable to do a thorough "tick check" after being outdoors. Check everywhere, including ears, underarms, and scalp. If any are found, remove promptly, but don't panic. Most tick-borne illnesses take many hours to transmit once a tick has bitten a host. Admittedly, this isn't the fun part of gardening, but knowledge and good practices can keep you out there safely. 

Flower of the month: gladiolus

photo by Carol Nicholas