IF THEY MAKE THE PRODUCT YOU WILL COME

Find your plants full of holes and don't know what is causing it? Or maybe that tree in the yard is languishing and you can't figure out the problem. Of course, I would prefer you call a professional, but I realize sometimes that can be expensive. Also, in today's world, everyone likes to have a little hands on experience - no problem, break out the Ortho Problem Solver.

Now the one we use at work is huge, approximately 800 pages and runs about $300, but you can pick the homeowners edition in paperback up for a reasonable price and it carries a lot of the same information.

While the Ortho is fairly complete with full color pictures, it does have its' drawbacks. If Ortho does not make the product, they do not cover the problem - simple enough. Probably one of the biggest complaints we field every day is GRUBS. Is there anyone out there not familiar with this lovely creature? At last check Ortho did not make a Grub control product, therefore, no grub reference in the guide.

They have a comprehensive index listing the plant and under the plant all the problems that can occur with it, then the reference page. At the back of the book are listings of all their products and the disease, insect, fungus or whatever, they cover.

Another nice feature, once you have located (a) your plant and then (b) your problem, they include things to look for so you can be sure that is what you are dealing with and then how to solve the problem. All language is user friendly - the average joe can understand each step they take you through.

Ortho products are available darn near everywhere - most garden stores, hardware stores, and full service stores like Home Depot, etc. As with all chemicals, I hope you follow all instructions posted on the product and use restraint. Please be a healthy user and protect yourself at all times when using chemicals.

Keep in mind, doubling the quantity does not double the quality. In fact, in most cases, it works in the reverse.