Prevent Blossom End Rot Blossom end rot shows up as dark, sunken
spots on the blossom end of tomatoes, peppers, and squash. It's
caused by a calcium imbalance in the plant -- the soil may have
adequate calcium, but the plant isn't able to take up enough to
supply the rapidly developing fruit. To minimize the problem,
keep soil evenly moist, apply a layer of mulch to conserve
moisture, don't overfertilize (especially avoid high-nitrogen
fertilizer), and avoid damaging plant roots while cultivating.
Dispose of Moldy Strawberries If you have a strawberry bed,
harvest frequently and remove any berries that show signs of
grey mold or rot diseases. These berries not only are inedible,
they quickly spread the diseases to other ripening fruits. Pick
and remove the rotten berries and mulch under plants with straw
to reduce contact with the ground where the disease spores
reside. Foil Japanese Beetles Japanese beetles will soon be out
in full force, feeding on roses, grapes, beans, and many other
plants. Control them b