AZ IPM Tip of the Week

Monday, April 23, 2012

Watering Done Right

Living in a desert, we need to be cognizant of how much water we use and do our best to only use what we need.

"There are a number of ways to save water in your landscape, and there are some very good reasons to do so. Over half of household water (in some cases as much as three-quarters) goes into your landscapes. That means watering your landscape efficiently is one of the best and easiest ways to save water. Proper watering will also keep your landscape healthy and beautiful through the year"

There are 3 parts to sensible landscape watering:
1. Know how much water your plants need
2. Know how much water each part of your watering system applies
3. Match your system's output to your plants' needs

Understandably, trying to figure out how much water your landscape truly needs to be healthy and functional may seem daunting. However, there are resources available to help you dial in your irrigation system, saving you time, money, and water.

Landscape Watering Guide

Other resources

http://ag.arizona.edu/cochise/mg/wateringplants.htm

http://ag.arizona.edu/pubs/water/az1298/

http://www.wateruseitwisely.com/region/arizona/100-ways-to-conserve/outdoor-tips/landscape-watering-guide.php

Monday, April 16, 2012

That "Rotten" Mosquito

Culex tarsalis: Dale Parker

There are over 40 different species of mosquitoes in Arizona. Most are just nuisance pests and do not transmit any disease, other species do not impact humans in any way. However, like most things in life, there are a few “rotten apples” that ruin it for the whole bunch.

Mosquitoes in Arizona: (the “rotten” ones)

Culex tarsalis: Western Nile Virus

This mosquito is a vector for several types of encephalitis causing viruses including West Nile Virus. The adults hide in vegetation, burrows, barns, and culverts. They feed on birds and mammals.

Aedes aegypti: Dog Heartworm

Not a native of Arizona but like many non-natives has taken up residence. This mosquito can transmits dog heartworm. Prefers small amounts of water for egg laying like water in old tires, clogged gutters, pet dishes, and birdbaths. In other parts of the world this mosquito transmits viruses that cause yellow fever and dengue fever.

Anopheles freeborni: Malaria

This mosquito will feed on rabbits, cattle, horses, dogs, and aggressively bite humans. It is the most important vector of malaria in Arizona.

Culex quinquefasciatus: Dog Heartworm, Encephalitis

This mosquito readily enters our homes and can be heard buzzing around our heads. It will utilize small pools of water for egg laying. This mosquito is a vector for several types of encephalitis causing viruses including West Nile Virus.

Using IPM to protect us around our homes

Integrated Pest Management aims to manage pests such as insects, diseases, weeds and animals by combining physical, biological, and chemical tactics that are safe and environmentally compatible.

For mosquito prevention:

Eliminate standing water by removing old tires, buckets, toys, and other water holding objects
Drain excess water from flowerpots
Keep rain gutters and drains clean and free of obstruction
Turn over wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use
Change water in birdbaths by flushing with a hose at least once a week
Keep swimming pools covered when not in use
Clear aquatic vegetation from around the edges of ponds to allow fish to feed on mosquito larvae and pupae
Keep windows, doors and porches tightly screened
Try to avoid peak mosquito feeding time, which is usually dusk to dawn
If you need to use a mosquito repellent be sure to read and follow the label
Be aware of abandoned homes in your neighborhood, they may be a hotspot for mosquito breeding