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By C.Z. GUEST
Diseases, insects and weeds are the major problems found in the home vegetable garden. Insects are part of any garden; many are beneficial. It is important to distinguish the beneficial insects from the destructive ones.
Diseases may or may not be a problem in the garden, depending on weather, variety or cultural practices.
Plants weakened by drought, starvation, competition and mechanical or insect damage are more susceptible to infection by disease-causing agents. It is important to prevent disease because infected plants seldom are brought back to good, healthy, productive growth.
Weeds compete with garden plants for moisture and nutrients and also may serve as alternate hosts for insect and disease problems. The use of mulch will suppress weed growth and conserve moisture.
There are a number of ways to reduce pests in the garden.
• Sanitation: Maintain a “cleanliness” program in the garden. Remove and destroy all badly diseased plants, trash, weeds and dying plant parts. Many insects overwinter in weeds and debris. Spade them under as soon as harvest is completed.
Incorporate compost. Look under mulch material regularly for a buildup of slugs, snails and millipedes. Check transplants before buying or planting. Do not
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