Flatworms don't help our gardens

Question: I have seen two types of land planarians in my neighborhood. Some are medium-brown and have two dark stripes and a hammer-shaped head. Another variety is dark brown with a pointy head. This type also seems to be thinner than the first type. Are the more abundant, darker, pointy-headed planarians beneficial? Incidentally, the planarians don't like being sprayed with the vinegar-orange-oil-soap solution that I use to kill weeds.J.S., Dallas

Answer: Both types of land planarians, or flatworms, are destructive to earthworms so neither is beneficial. These flatworms are native to Asia but have been transported to other parts of the world in the soil of greenhouse plants. The vinegar formula you mentioned probably will kill them, but I always use a strong spray of orange oil. Melting flatworms completely is important because if they are chopped up, every piece will regenerate into a separate worm.

Question: We planted a few American lotus (Nelumbo lutea) in a 1-acre pond two years ago, and the plants took over the pond. How can we control them? N.T., Lewisville

Answer: Physical removal is the most practical method. Lotus will make a good ingredient for the compost pile. Hydrogen peroxide in a 10 percent concentration will work as a   herbicide.  Unfortunately,  it is not available commercially in that concentration. You will have to purchase an even-more-concentrated form of hydrogen peroxide and then dilute it to 10 percent. Be careful because concentrated hydrogen peroxide can burn your eyes and skin.

Question: Are all cedar mulches created equal?   The main thing I want to do is repel roaches and other bugs from around my foundation. L.M., Dallas

Answer: The fresher the better with cedar mulch. All cedar trees make excellent mulch, but I prefer mulch made from our native cedars over mulch imported from Western states. Freshly cut cedar mulch has more oil in the wood, which provides fragrance and repels insects. Repelling insects is a nice side benefit, but the primary purposes of mulch are to protect the soil and help build humus.

Question: Can grass cuttings be used as mulch, or will this result in excessive weeds? S.B., Palestine, Texas

Answer: Grass clippings can be used as mulch unless they are applied in a layer that is too thick. When clippings are piled too thick, they do not get enough air circulation while decomposing and will smell terrible. They also won't form humus or help plants well. When grass clippings are used as mulch, the thickness should be barely enough to cover the soil. The best way to use grass clippings is to leave them on the turf as you mow. They break down well there, especially if you follow an organic landscape program, and they feed soil microbes. The net result is better-looking turf while using less water and fertilizer.

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