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Stop pestering us Ladybugs released into community greenhouse to solve aphid problemDanielle Sachs Northern News Services Published Thursday, Aug 2, 2012
An aphid infestation was starting in the greenhouse, threatening the plants lovingly grown by members of the group that use the facility. Because there are no pesticides used in the greenhouse, a more creative solution was found. Keeping with an environmentally friendly theme, the Inuvik Community Greenhouse released ladybugs on Saturday. Aphids suck sap from the stems and leaves of plants. This can weaken the plant and spread disease. There are other ways to get rid of the pests, but for a garden the size of a hockey rink, introducing the ladybugs was the best option. While giving a tour Monday evening, volunteer Amanda Joynt said ladybugs are voracious eaters, but they leave the plants alone. "We tried to make it a fun event," said Joynt. "That's why kids were invited to come watch the release and there was live music." This wasn't the first ladybug release in the greenhouse, but Joynt couldn't remember when the last one was scheduled. "We had at least a dozen kids who helped me open the bags and let the ladybugs loose in the garden," said board member Amie Hay. She taught them how to identify ladybug larvae, which have shown up since the last release. "The kids had a great time exploring the greenhouse," said Hay. "They fed the worms too." Up next for the greenhouse is participation in the 33rd annual American Community Garden Conference in San Francisco. Sheena Adams, executive director of the Inuvik Community Greenhouse, and board member Sara Raeburn are attending. "We will be speaking about how we support and are supported by our community," said Adams. Adams wants to find out more about volunteer promotion, safety, board governance and marketing at the event. "We plan to host a night upon our return to share our findings," she said.
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