Agriculture & Horticulture
Gardening in Los Alamos County can present challenges to even the most experienced horticulturists. Los Alamos newcomers often have trouble getting plants to thrive or even survive. More often than not, they previously gardened where "you stick a plant in the ground and it grows." Plant survival in Los Alamos and White Rock is not only determined by temperature, for rarely is extreme cold the limiting plant growth factor. Combinations of low humidity, drying winds and physical properties of the soil compounded by the innumerable microclimates throughout the county influence how well plants perform here.
Los Alamos Horticulture 101
Climate
Soil Preperation
Turf
Composting
Pruning
The Home Orchard
The Home Vegetable Garden
Plant Selection
Miscellaneous Publications
Common Pest Problems in Los Alamos County
Integrated pest management (IPM) is a way of managing pests in a garden that is socially acceptable, environmentally responsible and economically viable. IPM promotes minimized pesticide use, enhanced environmental stewardship and sustainable landscapes. IPM is a process, defined by each particular situation. The key to success has been developing new ways to understand and make decisions about pest management. Since there is no magic bullet – no simple and specific schedule of pesticides or fertilizers or plowing and planting techniques – that defines IPM, it can mean different things for different people. Always, though, it refers to a way of gardening that aims to protect and conserve our natural resources, while responsibly responding to the needs of the homeowner. And usually, because IPM embraces new and unproven techniques and materials, it requires gardeners to "think outside the box".
Note: Because pesticide labels can change rapidly, you should read the label directions carefully before buying and using any pesticides. Regardless of the information provided here, you should always follow the latest product label information when using any pesticide.
If you have any doubt, please contact the Cooperative Extension Service at (505) 662-2656 or email us at Pesticide Questions?