RCC Community Garden & Other Bugs!

On April 24, 2014 (my b-day) I have attended a workshop at the Riverside Community Garden, when we had two talented speakers from UCR Etymology department. The speakers said that in our gardens we attract a huge quantity of pests, but these pests can be kill by natural predators. For example, lady bugs and black aphids can help us with the pests. We have learned about pest integrated management. But what is a IPM? According to EPA:

"Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of common-sense practices. IPM programs use current, comprehensive information on the life cycles of pests and their interaction with the environment. This information, in combination with available pest control methods, is used to manage pest damage by the most economical means, and with the least possible hazard to people, property, and the environment.
The IPM approach can be applied to both agricultural and non-agricultural settings, such as the home, garden, and workplace. IPM takes advantage of all appropriate pest management options including, but not limited to, the judicious use of pesticides. In contrast, organic food production applies many of the same concepts as IPM but limits the use of pesticides to those that are produced from natural sources, as opposed to synthetic chemicals". (http://www.epa.gov/opp00001/factsheets/ipm.htm). 
The principal goal of the workshop was to show how to grow food in a sustainable manner, working with nature, by using natural pest predators, to benefit both the garden and the environment. Recognizing bugs that benefits garden, and those who may cause harm it, is a good alternative to farm or gardening without pesticide use. 




Many kind of fruits & vegetables can be appreciated at the garden






Cherry tomatoes harvest from RCC Community Garden.