SteveD - 10-13-2009 at 07:36 PM
We use to use Vapam to prepare our garden beds, especially for tomatoes. It would kill off all of the nematodes and soil diseases that attacked the
tomatoes. We don’t have a big enough garden for “crop rotation” that would reduce the problem. There are lots of disease resistant tomato varieties
out there but they don’t have any flavor. The “Heirloom” tomatoes we now try to grow are especially susceptible to the diseases. It its infinite
wisdom, the US banned Vapam.
Is Vapam still available in Mexico, or more specifically, in the Tijuana/Rosarito area? I’ve checked the Home Depot in Rosarito with no luck. If
anyone knows where to get it, I and my tomato plants would really be appreciative!
BajaNuts - 10-13-2009 at 08:00 PM
Not an answer to your direct question, but maybe an option for your small garden situation-
http://www.squarefootgardening.com/
I think I have an extra copy of the original "SquareFoot Gardening" book- u2u me if you want it-
Other than that... pots with fresh soil each year for the 'maters?
'Nuts
PS- I agree about the heirloom tomatoes being the BEST for fresh flavor.
wessongroup - 11-21-2009 at 08:30 AM
A newer product, which has received conditional registration Iodomethange (Methyl Iodidie)
It's been a number of years since I've been around Ag chemicals... but most of the old ones have been phased out and newer less negative impact one
have replaced..
If you can find a place that still has a supply of non-leaking one-pound cans of methyl bromide.. Tarp the area in plastic, stick a plastic feeder
tube from the can under the plastic tarp and let it go.. Tri-Cal still does methyl bromide on the Strawberry ground in the Irvine area..
http://www.epa.gov/opp00001/factsheets/iodomethane_fs.htm
I would go with BajaNuts suggestion. The square foot method... and unless you are growing tomatoes for production, this is more than adequate for
individuals and/or a small family.. It really does not take up that much room to grow food if it doesn't feel like work, as it does to me.
The benefits are huge as you reduce everything by very large degree. Time spend turning dirt, (replace with your own from compost, or Home Depot),
also what BajaNuts said, and put all on inline fertilization, timed, and with drip, (all pvc a little 3/4" and 1/2", a bag of emitters and your off,
and put a filter in there too)
I'm handicapped and if I can do it, most anyone can "get er done".. So just about anyone can grow.. It’s just that you always end up with some many
new friends that like to eat in your little garden..
I like the heirloom too.. But I like it all coming out fresh, making breakfast and going out and picking a little cilantro, a couple of tomatoes,
using some onions, and peppers (jalapeno, Anaheim and just part of a Habanero for flavor) for salsa to go with my eggs and tamales.
Now about the only thing I need is a goat and some chicken and I'll be just fine... want a pig, but it would be for a pet.. Always like the one in
"Lonesome Dove" that went from Texas to MT
