Thank you for stopping by and reading.

I discovered your Agricultural Biodiversity Weblog through Alex Steffan’s recent Worldchanging post. I really admire what you’re doing and look forward to learning a lot from you.

I feel not only responsible for tending the flora and fauna (including beneficial insects) on my small balcony, which is just a little bigger than a handkerchief, but also “the big tent” (as you call it) beyond.

I think I’ve been more lucky than smart with nasturtiums. Usually I am plagued by blackflies and aphids.

My mom’s nasturtiusm succumbed to blackfly a couple of weeks ago and we’re growing our plants under similar conditions. I check mine several times a day. I also ensure they have good air circulation.

I do use the squish method (application of extreme thumb and finger pressure) to rid my plants of bugs. Like you, I don’t use insecticide.

I believe I’ve read some people intentionally grow nasturtiums as pest traps with the hope the bugs will leave the more desirable plants alone.

If I find out any more info on growing healthy, prolific nasturtiums, I’ll post it here.

Thanks for visiting.
Elaine