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Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?

A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.

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Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

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Please forgive us, but Mr. Smarty Plants has been overwhelmed by a flood of mail and must take a break for awhile to catch up. We hope to be accepting new questions again soon. Thank you!

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Tuesday - July 26, 2011

From: Bastrop, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Diseases and Disorders, Pests
Title: Need help with powdery mildew and mites in Bastrop, TX
Answered by: Jimmy Mills

QUESTION:

I tend to flower beds for the city. I have noticed a powdery mildew in 2 beds. It is on the Pavonia and Turks caps. I now notice mites. What should I do?

ANSWER:

Mr. Smarty Plants has found several web sites with information about treating these aggravating pests.
Good luck

Powdery mildew:

  University of California at Davis

  Colorado State University

  Ohio State University

Spider mites

  University of Kentucky

  Colorado State University

  evergreengardenworks.com

  getridofthings.com

 

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