With respect to hurricanes and high winds along the North Carolina coast, you never know how the hurricane season will turn out. This year we were blessed by Hurricane Irene. Although this storm boasted winds that were not that severe, the Outer Banks NC tree damage and clean up cost a bundle.

Add to that the worst part, the deluge, and the coast got beat up pretty bad. As the waters receded, we thankfully received help from inland and from other states with our Outer Banks NC tree damage and clean up. Without this extra manpower and equipment, we would still be digging.

Outsiders may think that these out of area companies are only out for a quick buck and will gouge those in need. I refute that. Almost all of the assistance we received was from reputable tree service companies that charged only market rate. With conditions as they were, some of these crews brought tents and used campgrounds. We didn’t see to many tree service company owners drive up in luxury cars.

When we once again need (and we will) extra man power to help with Outer Banks NC tree damage and clean up, I feel blessed to have the extra outside assistance.

Pest control must be done with utmost consideration to safety; safety in terms of the plants, animals and humans. This holds especially true for those with vegetable and organic gardens.

The main purpose of growing vegetables organically will be defeated if they become tainted with pest control chemicals.

Encourage predatory insects such as green lacewings, dragonflies to feed on aphids and Praying Mantises to feed on other pests that attack your plants. You can do this by placing a shallow bowl of water in the garden. Dragonflies especially will hover around water. Bacterial insecticides such as B. thuringiensis could also be used against caterpillars.

Consider the use of safer pest control substitutes such as Praying Mantises. Get the Praying Mantis Facts on how they can be one of the most effective ways to safeguard your garden against pesky insects. Praying Mantises can easily be added to your garden simply by purchasing a couple of Praying Mantis Egg sacs.