March 27, 1998
Spring Care of an Established Asparagus Bed
An asparagus planting may be productive for 15 to 20 years when good cultural practices are followed.
Carpet Beetles
Legend has it that Dr. Harold "Tiny" Gunderson, the popular and well-known ISU Extension Entomologist between 1936 and 1971, had a standing bet that he could find carpet beetles in any house in Iowa. He probably wasn't taking much of a risk with that wager, based on what we know about this very common and widespread insect.
Crop Rotation in the Vegetable Garden
Crop rotation is an important factor when planning the vegetable garden. Many disease organisms are soil-borne and may persist in the soil for several years. Disease problems often increase when the same crop is planted in the same area in successive years. Annually rotating your vegetables in the garden can help reduce the severity of diseases. Rotation may also help curb insect infestations. Insect populations and plant damage may increase when the same crop is planted in the same area over several years.