balance

[rainbowgardener]

Out harvesting herbs and tomatoes today (made up about 20 servings of pesto, froze most of it, had company for fresh pesto dinner tonight).

Two different things I picked came with a pair each of squash bugs on them, in the throes of insect passion. They were so occupied that I was able to drop them on the ground and step on them. I looked around and didn't see any more. That doesn't mean there aren't more, but it does suggest there's not a huge infestation of them.

And some of the basil had round holes in the leaves, that probably were done by slugs. But well less than 10% of the leaves had holes.

So, I'm not running for the Neem or DE or anything, I'm just figuring it's all part of the balance of nature. If something I grow (other than say the wild grape vine that is a trap crop for Japanese beetles) were getting totally wiped out, I'd probably figure I had to do something (or else quit growing it, as I have quit trying to grow zucchini because of the SVB's). But as long as the damage isn't major, I think it helps keep everything in balance not to try to eradicate the pests.

[shadylane]

Tomatoes must be coming in, I've made three batches of Bruschetta delicious!
I also have had the battles with the squash bugs, started squishing and then felt bad after spotting a toad near by. Didn't want to take away his meal.. I also agree with the infestations of them no need to keep them growing in numbers. Not for certain, but I think I have baby squash bugs, they are teeny tiny, with a yellow/greenish body, black legs and move quickly. Either them or spiders.
Speaking of balance of nature I'm so thankful I don't use chemicals. The sky was full of swallows this weekend.
Sorry for being so chatty