Billbugs Cause Major Damage to Lawns (Turf) in the Treasure Valley

Billbugs are small, snouted beetles that belong to the family Curculionidae and are considered to be major pests to lawns in the Treasure Valley. These pests are known for causing significant damage to turf grass and lawns, leading to unsightly brown patches and reduced aesthetic appeal. In this blog, we will discuss what billbugs are, their impact on turf grass, and how to control them using integrated pest management (IPM) methods.

What Are Billbugs?
Billbugs are cylindrical beetles that range in size from 3 to 10 millimeters in length, depending upon life stage. As adults, they have a hard exoskeleton and are usually brown or black in color. Their snout, which is often longer than their body, is used for boring into plant stems. Billbugs undergo a complete metamorphosis, passing through the egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages, with a one-year life cycle (Oregon State University Extension, 2018). The majority of damage from billbugs occurs during the larval stage, as they feed on stems, rhizomes, and crowns, typically just below the soil surface. Damage from billbugs is typically visible in late June or early July each year.

In the Treasure Valley of Idaho, billbugs are particularly abundant in lawns, parks, and golf courses. They feed on the stems and roots of turf grass, causing significant damage to the plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients. This feeding can lead to large areas of grass dying, creating unsightly brown patches that are not only aesthetically unpleasing but also difficult to repair (Idaho State University Extension, 2017).

Impact of Billbugs

The impact of billbugs on turf grass can be significant. In addition to the unsightly brown patches, Billbugs can reduce the health of the grass, leading to reduced aesthetic appeal and causing economic losses for lawn owners (Idaho State University Extension, 2017).

Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Integrated pest management (IPM) is a comprehensive approach to managing billbug infestations that involves multiple control methods. This strategy utilizes cultural, biological, and chemical control methods to promote the health of the turf and prevent billbug damage. Cultural control methods involve selecting the proper grass varieties that exhibit resistance to billbug feeding. Several cultivars of Kentucky bluegrass, such as ‘Park’, ‘Arista’, and ‘NuDwarf’, have been proven to exhibit resistance to billbug feeding. Additionally, endophyte-enhanced ryegrasses and fescues display high resistance to billbug feeding (University of Utah). IPM of Billbugs also includes implementing proper irrigation, fertilization, and mowing practices to maintain healthy turf. Biological control methods may involve releasing beneficial insects that feed on billbugs to control their population. Several nonchemical bio-pesticides exist, including purchasing and applying predatory nematodes (Stinernema & Heterorhabditis spp.), as well as a fungal organism (Beauveria bassiana) that are listed and registered for control of billbug larvae in lawns. When necessary, insecticides can be used to control billbugs, but should be used with caution to avoid harming beneficial insects and creating insecticide-resistant billbug populations (The University of Idaho Extension, 2017). 

Properly implemented IPM practices can effectively manage billbugs and maintain healthy turf. 

Is Square Foot Gardening Right for You?

Square Foot Gardening (SFG), a high-density garden method invented by Mel Bartholomew in the late 1970s, gives gardening a new look from plants being planted in the traditional long rows to plants strategically planted within a square foot. This gardening method reduces the size of a garden’s footprint while increasing its productivity and offers a simple and accessible garden layout for the new gardener no matter the age or physical ability, allowing anyone to be able to grow their own food.

SFG requires less space and uses less water than conventional gardening while producing more in a comparable space. Planted in raised beds, thus no tilling or heavy digging, the garden beds can be in any shape from the classic 4 x 4-foot bed to a narrower 3 x 7-foot bed or anywhere in between to take advantage of your available space. The bed size flexibility makes SFG an excellent gardening method for urban gardeners with limited space, while the higher density planting will allow community gardens to grow more produce. Also, the garden beds can be raised up on legs, instead of being placed on the ground, to create an elevated bed making it more accessible for seniors and individuals in wheelchairs.

Beds are divided into one-foot squares for planting with the number of plants per square foot depending on the plant. In SFG vegetables are divided into four classes: Extra-large (ex. cucumbers) are generally planted only one per square or sometimes one plant for two squares; Large (ex. head lettuce) are planted four per square; Medium (ex. spinach) are planted nine per square; and Small (ex. radishes) are planted sixteen per square.

For the extra-large plants, trellises can be added to the side of the raised bed, allowing a vining plant to climb or placed in a cage to support plants like tomatoes to keep the produce off the dirt and control the foliage by keeping it within the one or two square feet allotted for the plant.

There are several online resources available to assist the new gardener as well as a seasoned one with additional research of the square foot gardening method and apps to help plan out the garden. There are online courses you can enroll in. This Square Foot Gardening article covers the basics and special techniques involved with this gardening method. 

So, is Square Foot Gardening right for you? Has your interest in this gardening method been piqued? This method of gardening can help just about anyone, no matter where they live, or their experience level to be able to enjoy growing their own food. Happy Gardening!

It's Almost Time to fertilize your houseplants!

Plants require seventeen essential nutrients with the three main nutrients being Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium. Fertilizers are available in a variety of forms including organic, liquid, as well as slow release granular, and spikes. The faster a plant grows, the more it will need to be fertilized. 

Here's a short video about easy fertilizing of indoor plants.

Fertilizers come in a variety of formulations and ratios. Liquid fertilizers for house plants are often lower in concentrations, and will require more regular application. Time release fertilizers are available as a spike or pellets and only need applying once every few months.  Whatever type of fertilizing routine you choose to use, be sure to carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

philodendron, pothos

This link will show you the best ways to fertilize, how to select the best ratios to look for in a product, and the best time of year to fertilize your house plants for the best results.

If you are still struggling with your houseplants after that then, contact your local University of Idaho Extension Office.

The Best Time to Prune Grapevines in Southwest Idaho

Pruning grapevines is an essential practice for ensuring healthy growth and a productive harvest. However, in regions like Southwest Idaho, timing is everything. Pruning too early in the season can expose vines to late winter freezes, potentially damaging buds and reducing fruit production. To maximize your grape yield and maintain vine health, it’s crucial to understand the best time and method for pruning in our local climate.

Why Timing Matters

Grapevines go dormant in the winter, making it a prime time for pruning. However, Southwest Idaho's climate presents unique challenges. While some gardeners may be tempted to start pruning in January or February, doing so can leave the vines vulnerable to unexpected cold snaps. If a sudden freeze occurs after pruning, exposed cuts and early bud development may be damaged, leading to reduced fruit production in the coming season.

The best time to prune grapes in Southwest Idaho is typically in late winter to early spring, around March, when the risk of deep freezes has diminished. By waiting until temperatures stabilize, you help protect your vines from cold damage while still pruning before the growing season begins.

How to Prune Your Grapes

1. Assess Your Vine – Begin by evaluating the structure of your vine. Identify dead, diseased, or weak wood that should be removed.

2. Choose a Pruning Method – The two most common methods are cane pruning and spur pruning.

   

   • Cane Pruning: Best for varieties that produce fruit on one-year-old wood. Select one or two healthy canes from last year’s growth and remove the rest.

   • Spur Pruning: Suitable for varieties that bear fruit on short spurs. Keep several short, two- to three-node spurs along the main cordon.

3. Make Clean Cuts – Always use sharp pruning shears to make precise cuts. Cut just above a bud to encourage healthy new growth.

4. Train the Vine – As you prune, shape the vine to ensure proper airflow and sun exposure, which help prevent disease and improve fruit quality.

5. Monitor Weather Conditions – Keep an eye on the forecast. If a hard freeze is expected after pruning, consider providing some protection, such as mulching around the base of the plant.

Growing Grapes in Southwest Idaho

In addition to proper pruning techniques, successful grape growing in Southwest Idaho requires careful selection of grape varieties suited to the climate, well-draining soil, and adequate sunlight exposure. Proper trellising, irrigation, and pest management also play key roles in maintaining healthy vines and producing quality fruit. For further guidance on growing grapes in this region, including best practices beyond pruning, check out extension publications from the University of Idaho, Utah State University, and Oregon State University.

Final Thoughts

Proper pruning is key to successful grape growing in Southwest Idaho. By waiting until late winter or early spring to prune, you help safeguard your vines against freeze damage and set the stage for a bountiful harvest. Whether you’re growing table grapes or wine grapes, careful pruning will encourage healthy growth and improve fruit quality for seasons to come.

Vertical Gardening: Grow Up, Not Out

If you’ve ever felt limited by a small yard or patio but want to grow your own plants, vertical gardening is the perfect solution. Utilizing vertical space instead of ground space, a vertical garden allows you to grow flowers, fruits, and vegetables in a compact and efficient way. Also known as green walls, living walls, or eco walls, vertical gardens are now even being used in farming for crops like lettuce, tomatoes, and strawberries. With all the advantages of vertical gardening, why grow out when you can grow up? 

Vertical gardens can thrive in a variety of settings. Whether you have a sunny balcony, a shaded patio, or a compact backyard, there’s a setup that will work for you. Some great places for a vertical garden include decks, porches, patios, small backyards, and even indoor living spaces with proper lighting.

Choosing Your Containers and Structures
A vertical garden can be built using many different materials, making it a fun and customizable project. Stacking containers are ideal for strawberries and herbs, while pallets work well for growing lettuce, herbs, and small flowers. Trellis fencing is a great choice for supporting squash, cucumbers, and baby butternut squash. Tripods or teepee shapes are perfect for supporting peas and beans. Upcycled materials, such as old fencing, blank walls, and repurposed containers, can be transformed into a unique and sustainable vertical garden.

How to Start Your Vertical Garden
To begin, choose a suitable container based on the plants you want to grow. Use a high-quality, well-draining soil mix to ensure proper plant growth. Decide whether you want to grow flowers, fruits, vegetables, or a combination of all three. Set up a watering system, such as a timed drip system for efficiency or manual watering for hands-on care. Position plants based on their light requirements to ensure proper growth, and plan for shade by strategically placing taller plants to protect lower-growing ones. Different plants require different fertilization schedules, so be sure to research your choices before applying nutrients.

Maintaining Your Vertical Garden
To keep your vertical garden thriving, regular maintenance is key. Fertilize plants as needed to ensure they receive the proper nutrients. Monitor the function of your watering system and adjust it as necessary. Regularly prune and trim plants to keep them healthy and encourage new growth. Train climbing plants by using ties or trellises to guide them upwards. Keep an eye out for pests and take preventive measures to protect your plants. Make sure your plants get enough sunlight and are shielded from strong winds to prevent damage.

A vertical garden opens endless possibilities for growing a lush, thriving green space in even the smallest areas. With a variety of containers, structures, and plant choices, you can customize your vertical garden to be just right for you. Plus, repurposing materials and containers makes it a sustainable and cost-effective gardening option. At the end of the growing season, you can reuse many of the materials for the next year, making it an investment in both beauty and practicality. So why limit yourself to traditional gardening when you can take your garden to new heights? Start your vertical garden today and enjoy the benefits of growing up, not out!

10 Winter Garden Activities to Help Pass the Off-Season

Photo credit: iStock/Alex Raths

10 Winter Gardening Activities to Help Pass the Off-Season  

Posted on January 27, 2025 by Nancy DeVault to Garden, Lifestyle
https://farmflavor.com/lifestyle/garden/winter-gardening-activities-to-help-pass-the-off-season/

Winter oftentimes brings a lull to lush gardens, but that doesn’t mean gardeners have to freeze all gardening activities during the season. From planning and maintenance to creative projects and skill-building, there are countless ways to keep plant passions in full bloom. Here’s a round-up of winter gardening activities to keep you busy until springtime.  

1. Evaluate Your Garden

Winter can be the ideal time to evaluate your garden’s performance over the past few seasons. Ponder 
what worked well and identify areas for improvement. Were there particular plants that thrived or unexpected issues with pests? Did you notice that you harvested an abundance of one type of vegetable and not enough of another?

Design (or redesign with lessons learned) a garden layout for the upcoming season. Whether you map out a plan via pen and paper or an app, strive to optimize your garden space.

 2. Start a Gardening Journal

Photo credit: iStock/CentralITAlliance

You know the common philosophy of “write what you’re passionate about?” Well, if you’re passionate about plants, start a gardening journal. The act of journaling in and of itself is beneficial, especially for one’s mental health, but a gardening journal can also serve as an action-oriented chronicle. Document planting dates, harvest yields and potential challenges, as well as your gardening goals for the future.

3. Start an Indoor Garden

 Photo credit: iStock/Yin Yang

Your happy place may be your outdoor garden during warmer months, but growing plants indoors can help ward off winter blues. Perhaps you’d benefit from an indoor herb garden conveniently placed on the windowsill of your kitchen. Go-to herbs like basil, thyme, parsley and mint can add a fresh element to seasonal stews and soups. Check out a few of the best herbs to grow in your windowsill and our indoor gardening guide for ideas. You can also maximize indoor gardening with microgreens. Experiment with nutrient-packed greens such as arugula, pea and radish microgreens, which grow quickly and can be harvested in just a few weeks.

4. Grow Houseplants

Photo credit: iStock/Christian Steinsworth

From hanging greenery to potted succulents, many garden enthusiasts incorporate houseplants into home décor, especially during wintertime. In addition to infusing natural, calming pops of color, research suggests this decorating choice boasts significant wellness benefits because houseplants can remove harmful air toxins to achieve a healthier environment.

Common houseplants include anthurium, peace lily, pothos neon, rubber plant, snake plant, tufted air plant, yucca cane and others. However, it’s important for pet owners to note that some plants are poisonous to pets, so do your research beforehand. See more: How to Care for Air Plants: A Complete Guide 

5. Do a Maintenance Check

 Photo credit: iStock/HT-Pix

Garden tools are a worthwhile investment and properly maintaining them is important. Winter may be the time to show your tools a little TLC. A few tasks to consider:

• Clean and sharpen blades. Remove dirt and sap from pruners, shears and shovels. A sharp blade makes gardening more efficient and protects plants from damage.

• Oil metal parts. This prevents rusting and prolongs the life of your tools.

• Organize your garden shed. Take inventory of your supplies and make a list of items to replace or restock.

• Repair fences and trellises. Strengthen support or repaint them to prevent weather damage.

6. Level Up Your Garden

Photo credit: iStock/Mkovalevskaya

Use winter months to work on improving garden infrastructure, such as building raised beds. Construct
new beds, then fill them with soil and compost come early spring and get growing. You can also spend the off season making plans for expanding your garden next season, such as ordering seeds you’ve never tried growing or learning how to grow a cut-flower bed.

See more: How to Compost

7. Focus on Soil Health

Winter is the perfect time to work on improving the health of your soil. Consider the following tasks:

• Test your soil. Winter is a great time to send a soil sample to a lab or use a DIY soil test kit. Understanding your soil’s pH and nutrient levels helps you prepare for spring planting.

Photo credit: iStock/tortoon

• Maintain your compost pile. Insulate it with straw or leaves to keep it active. If freezing temperatures halt decomposition, continue adding organic material, which will break down once the weather warms.

• Start a worm bin indoors. Vermicomposting is an efficient way to recycle kitchen scraps into rich, fertile compost for your garden.

See more: Soil 101: Why Is Your Garden’s Soil Health So Important?

 8. Prune Perennials

Photo credit: iStock/Olga Seifutdinova

Winter pruning improves the health of many plants and prepares them for vigorous growth in spring.

• Prune deciduous trees and shrubs. With the leaves gone, the structure of the plant is visible, making it easier to identify dead or crossing branches.

• Cut back perennials. Trim spent stems and foliage to tidy up the garden and reduce hiding spots for pests. Leave plants with seed heads, like coneflowers, for birds to enjoy.

• Protect tender plants. Mulch heavily or wrap sensitive plants, like roses, in burlap to shield them from harsh winter conditions.

See more: 11 Things You Can Grow in Your Winter Garden

9. Grow Your Gardening Knowledge

Photo credit: iStock/Mercedes Rancaño Otero

Winter offers extra time to dive into gardening education. Consider reading gardening books, magazines or blogs. Learn about new techniques or dive deeper into topics like organic pest control, native plants and more. Many gardening groups and organizations also host virtual events during winter. Look for local classes, online workshops or webinars to join. Or simply ask the experts. Pop into a garden shop and pick the brain of the nursery’s horticulturist. You never know what will bloom from a friendly conversation with a fellow garden devotee.

10. Get Creative

Photo credit: iStock/Oksana Aksenova

Winter is a good time for creative gardening-related crafts. When inspiration strikes:

• Make plant markers. Paint or engrave markers for spring planting.

• Create birdhouses or bee hotels. These can be installed in your garden to encourage pollinators and other beneficial wildlife.

• Repurpose old materials. Turn pallets into vertical planters or use jars for seed storage.

• Step up your stepping stones. A fun and functional creation can be a step in the right direction for gardeners.

By tackling these winter gardening activities and more, you can prepare for a thriving spring garden while enjoying this season’s unique opportunities. Happy gardening! 

Dormant Oil - Timing and Uses

Dormant oils are an effective treatment for pests on plants, particularly during the dormant season. These oils are applied in late fall or early spring, before bud swelling and bud break. This timing is crucial for controlling overwintering insects and insect eggs on fruit trees and woody ornamentals while minimizing risks to plants and beneficial insects.

Using dormant oils can help manage harmful pests and reduce the need for pesticides during the growing season. However, a single treatment may not ensure complete control, so consistent monitoring is essential to prevent further infestations. Dormant oils are effective only when they make direct contact with pests at the correct life stage.

Why Timing Matters 

Applying dormant oil at the right stage in a pest’s life cycle is critical for success. For some pests, the oil works by blocking the spiracles—the air holes they use to breathe. In other cases, it acts as a poison by interacting with fatty acids and disrupting metabolism.

Correct application targets specific pests and their life stages. Avoid indiscriminate spraying, as blanket applications may not be effective and are environmentally irresponsible. As with any pesticide, remember: “A prescription without diagnosis is malpractice.”

Application Guidelines

Avoid using dormant oil in combination with sulfur or sulfur-containing pesticides, as this can cause phytotoxicity, negatively impacting plant health.

Do not apply dormant oil on sensitive plants such as junipers, cedars, Japanese and red maples, smoke trees, and spruce, especially dwarf Alberta spruce.

Apply when temperatures remain above 40°F for at least 24 hours. If applied just before freezing, the oil’s emulsion can break down, causing it to adhere improperly to bark or leaves instead of targeting pests.

Benefits and Considerations

Monitoring trees is vital. Symptoms from pests like autumn mites may only become evident in spring or summer. Fall applications can prevent such damage by suppressing mite adults, immatures, and eggs. The physical mode of action of oils, causing suffocation, requires thorough coverage to be effective.

Various oils are available for garden use, including spray oil and highly refined supreme oil. While older oils were unsuitable for use after dormancy, modern lightweight oils are safer for foliage. These advancements make it easier for gardeners to apply dormant oils with confidence.