In 2009 the kudzu bug, also called the globular stinkbug, Megacopta cribraria, was first observed in Georgia, which appears to be when and where it was introduced to the US. These small stinkbugs are native to Southeast Asia and feed primarily on Kudzu. They however also feed on soybeans, one of Georgia’s agricultural crops. I first noticed them when I looked at my fig tree in late March this year and found it literally covered in these tiny bugs. I sent a photo to Marlene at the Extension office as I could not find them in my insect book. Over a period of a few weeks the bugs slowly left my fig tree and probably started feeding on Kudzu as it steadily greened up. They obviously prefer legumes to figs. But, once my string beans and soybean plants started growing the bugs were back. They seem to favor the stems…
Author: Former Members
Ed Saulvester’s work with Habitat for Humanity
Ed Saulvester has been part of the Home Dedication program with Habitat for Humanity for many, many years, teaching each ‘soon-to-be’ homeowner about taking care of their landscape. He also incorporated into his class the subject of how to care and the proper use of their garden equipment since many homeowners he had noticed were single moms who never had a yard to work with before. This course is part of each family’s tutorial that is required for them to take before they can occupy their new homes. He also attends each dedication ceremony for the honored family when they officially receive the keys to their finished house and awards them with the Southern Living Garden Book as a gift from the Gwinnett Master Gardener group. Ed was honored in 2009 with an award representing the Master Gardeners of Gwinnett organization as a “Home Builder Sponsor”. The award is presently…
My First Garden Tour
UGA Trial Gardens and GA Botanical Gardens Field Trip – May 2011 As a new Intern, I decided to make the UGA Trial Gardens and Georgia Botanical Gardens my very first garden tour. Although I did not know what to expect, other than perhaps learning about some interesting plants, I eagerly anticipated the day. The group met at the Extension Office at 8:15am. I volunteered to drive, but when George Nash tried to fit his lanky frame into the back seat, we knew we had to resort to plan B. George offered to drive, so Jeannine Nash, Terry Russell and I navigated. Terry talked about her farm and menagerie, including rescued roosters. Jeannine and George explained how the Hydrangea festival started over 15 years ago when folks wanted to come see their hydrangeas. George and Jeannine decided to make it an official event and hence the birth of the Nash…