Now that temperatures are warming and humidity is rising, many cool season plants begin to decline. Plants like pansies, petunias, peas and leafy vegetables have reached their peak and are now yellowing and starting to die. Now that temperatures are warming and humidity is rising, many cool season plants begin to decline. Plants like pansies, petunias, peas and leafy vegetables have reached their peak and are now yellowing and starting to die. Most people hate to discard a plant that still has life in it.
Sickly plants are more susceptible to infection than healthy vigorous ones.
Just as we throw leftover food away, we should pull up and throw away seasonal plants that are in decline. By leaving them we allow pests a place to set up house and begin an infestation. Once pests find a host plant they often use that plant during their dormant cycle, too. Diseases and insects harbor in decaying organic matter during their dormant cycle. Sanitation is a simple way to eliminate pest problems.