Organic Plant Protection with Surround Kaolin Clay

[@RJenksRRR]

I got zucchini this year for the first time in several years by using regular kaolin clay mixed with water. In prior years, the cucumber beetles, squash bugs and vine borers killed every plant. I’ve ordered a 25 lb bag of Surround for next year. I’m a believer!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

That's great to hear! How well did the regular kaolin clay stick to your plants?

[@lyricalwonders1602]

I also did this adding neem oil and essential oils (peppermint and/or rosemary) to the mix. It has been effective for me thus far despite the frequent rain washing away my efforts .

[@wingrider1004]

At last! The Kaolin clay video! Yes, a multilayer approach is the way to go...we started with nets, Neem oil, and BT this year...plus, we planted our squash in late July. So far, so good. When you told of your battle with pop-up showers and other detriments, well, that's the life of a gardener/farmer, isn't it. It makes you appreciate what farmers go through every year to produce our food. Really enjoyed/appreciated this video - as usual...well done!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Agreed 100%-- the multilayered approach is the way to go!

[@emkn1479]

Just a thought about local availability… I’ve been able to order things in the past through local feed/farm stores. Sometimes it’s worth asking if it’s not already available on the shelf. They may have it available from a supplier but don’t have enough demand to stock it.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Yes!! Great advice!

[@cpoco]

Love the DIY milk jug funnel.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

It works for me!

[@bublhed]

I started using this product this year but just applied it using a bulb type of applicator and kind of dusting it on. Your way looks much more thorough. I found this information very helpful! I was able to keep most of the cabbage worms off my kale but aphids still found their way under the leaves. This year I’m growing edamame and research has told me they’re prone to spider mites. I’m using the surround kaolin clay for this and so far it seems to be working 😊.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Mixing with water and coating plants definitely gives you more protection-- but I'm glad you were able to keep the cabbageworms at bay!

[@johnjude2685]

I'm back! I had gotten a new phone and couldn't comment for over a month, Today they switched my comment on the setup so sorry for not being able to say thanks. This season, I've separated my cucumbers and only now loosing one almost Making many of my cucumbers into the Refrigerator pickles as your video taught us and everyone still loves them . This sounds like a good product, and I don't put poisoning on my foods Thanks, Gardener Lady. You are my favorite youtube teacher for many reasons, and I tell others

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I'm glad to hear from you- I was beginning to worry!

[@paulmassad6885]

The kaolin clay she claims that you cannot use in this video seems to work great for me on the tomatoes, cucumbers, cauliflower, eggplant. I haven’t had one issue it doesn’t clog. I mixed it in an HD spray bottle and works great. If you have a small garden it’s a good option to try the other clay.

[@Buttergirla]

So this works to deter hornworm moths?

[@MichaelJosephJr934]

I have this on hand too. I got hit by the plum curculio insect on one of my peach trees but caught it very early and Sevin got rid of them. Got lucky and only lost about 10 peaches. Next season I'll be putting the surround on them in the spring.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I'm terrible about remembering to do any type of sprays on my trees- but I'm going to try to get this on my peaches first thing next spring too!

[@esthersdaughterlong8149]

Thank you Jenna. Great information. My spring garden, on my patio, kept getting leaf miner's. I've used dicotamous Earth and neem oil. Helped some but not enough. I'll try Surround.

[@Alphastarcar]

I love your videos, they are always thorough and answer all of the questions that I’m thinking about as I watch. Thanks for sharing your knowledge. I for one greatly appreciate it. ❤️

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thank you! I’m so glad to hear this!

[@dustyflats3832]

Great info on Surround. My main reason would be vine borer prevention.

[@joanies6778]

They have been prolific this year! I put up a SVB trap and caught 12 adults in the first 24 hours in the trap. I also caught another 2 dozen by hand using a jar in the same time period. They were all hanging out on the milkweed plants, mating, having a big party or something. That's 3 dozen in 24 hours! Then I changed the trap tent and caught 12 more over a week... a few here and there by hand. Scraped off a ton of eggs and missed a few. So I injected the stems with Spinosad where the larvae had eaten through. I swear, this has been the worst I have ever seen them. I think the clay will be worth a try next year... but under the stems will need to be well coated, I would think, where the SVB leaves their eggs. It will be interesting!

[@dustyflats3832]

@@joanies6778 Wow, that is a lot of them. I never set a trap for them, but do Japanese Beetles and we have to change the bag like 5 times it gets so full. Some say the traps attract them to the yard and that may be true, however we can go outside now without being attacked. The grubs are Really bad and I’m using Milky Spore this year to fix that as I know it works. I’ve tried every way to get rid of SVB and the only way is to physically remove them and bury a stem further down to create roots. I’ve seen them burrow further down a stem also. I’ve tried transplants instead of direct sowing to miss their cycle-they are relentless. They are so fast as they zip around and obviously there are many. Moving planting area is crazy as they will still find the plants. Sigh, hope the clay works next year. Wish I could find small amount locally.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

For those darn SVB, I definitely recommend using the Surround in combination with some other tactics- especially if you have high pressure. Trap cropping with their preferred type (Hubbard squash are frequently recommended as trap crops for SVB)- is what I'd go with first if possible. I've gotten lucky so far this year- I've seen the adults flying around the garden- but so far no stem damage.

[@feveredfisherman1727]

@@joanies6778 I have had pretty good success with wrapping the base of the vines with tin foil and spraying the leaves before flowering with Surround. But I know what you're saying about SVB. I skipped cucurbits for two years to try to let the pressure die down. Had Cuke Beetles, SVB, and stink bugs so bad it wasn't worth the tiny yield.

[@martinaparrrish5397]

Jenna,you are good.Thank you so much for explaining so thoroughly what is involved and pointing out the cons.

[@belindadunne4312]

I have been waiting for this information. Thank you so much. My cherry and apples trees are especially going to benefit from this product.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Glad it was helpful!

[@emkn1479]

Great info, thanks. The cucumber beetles have absolutely slaughtered our cucurbits. The amounts of insects is unsettling, honestly. I sowed more and have them covered and might just try hand pollination. But I will definitely look into this if I can quickly and easily get my hands on it this season.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

The populations seem to vary year to year here-- but I've definitely had years like you're describing!

[@emkn1479]

@@GrowfullywithJenna oh my word…it’s maddening! We are considering trashing (not composting) all debris and solarizing beds all winter, once fall crops are done. Do you think that would help? I understand that the beetles overwinter as adults.

[@emkn1479]

@@GrowfullywithJenna Here’s a question for you… can bentonite clay be used in a similar way? I happen to have a small tub of bentonite clay that I purchased for cosmetic use but I know I will never get through it all. I’d love to repurpose it in my battle against the cucurbit pests.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

@@emkn1479 that is a great question-- and I honestly don't know. I suspect because the bentonite has not gone through the calcining process it will likely crack and flake off the plants once it was dry. But might be worth testing a small area?

[@davidaleshire4292]

Had to share this with all my gardening friends. Really hoping to use this next year. I could probably split a bag with a few friends.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Splitting a bag is definitely the way to go for smaller gardens!

[@brianseybert2189]

I will definitely look into this product. Buggiest year since I have been gardening. Powdery mildew showed up for the 1st time this year, plus the normal host of fungal issues. Again, enjoy your videos! Stay Well!!!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

What do you attribute the bugginess and PM to?

[@brianseybert2189]

@@GrowfullywithJenna 57" off snow last winter. We have been averaging less than 30", the heavy snow insulated overwintering insects, preventing them from freeze thaw cycles, or basically freeze drying. The PM was a new one for me. Looked into it a bit, and I guess PM thrives in a hot dry environment, exactly what we have had in WI this summer, actually we are still in a moderate drought. Posted a garden tour (nothing like yours) you might be interested in. Stay Well!!!

[@ndbg46881]

I really wanted to like Surround but I just didn't get out to spray often enough to make a difference. The mixing and clean up was a deterrent for me. That being said I absolutely agree it is a beneficial product!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I can definitely see where the mixing and cleanup would be a deterrent!

[@riverunner9978]

Thank you for the excellent info. I purchased a 25 pound bag because of cucumber beetles showed up in my garden after 50 years of organic gardening here. This year I consider myself armed. I’ve never encountered such a pestilence ! I’m hopeful!

[@kindwords1695]

How’s it working for you?

[@riverunner9978]

@@kindwords1695 ….no sign of any trouble as in the past two years I would be over run with them. We have potato beetles in this area. I’ve used the clay on those and not one beetle . 🙏

[@steverobinson5492]

Thanks Jenna...... most informative. Been curious about Surround and its use for some time now. Very useful vid!!!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Glad it was useful!

[@adarshguptak]

Always wear a mask. Supplement kaolin clay powder with a tbsp of dishwashing soap per 1-2 gallon to make mixing and spraying more effective.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks!

[@JohannesJunkJournalLife]

Doesn’t work.

[@joyhamilton4248]

Oh my gosh I can begin to thank you for this amazing information!! We are in zone 8a near Pinehurst NC. We get some wicked hot summers here and they only seem to be getting worse. We were going to get some shade cloths for some of our tomatoes and peppers (such bad sunscald) but if Surround can help with temps and bug pressure then I’m sold!! We still have a long way to go in our growing season and it’s still crazy hot here. Today it’s 96 with heat index of 100 Oy. Happy Gardening ☺️

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Oy is right!! That is toasty-- try to stay cool!

[@paintitblack9712]

Wow so informative! I live in FL and its been so hot, this could really help... not for my plants but for me😂😉 Cant wait to use, thanks for adding links in description

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Haha! All I could envision here is how some animals will coat themselves in mud to stay cool… kind of the same idea !? 😂

[@ryanbrink6457]

I was a doubter until you said asparagus beetles then said, ok...thanks for all the detailed research!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Happy to share!

[@chrishuber2768]

Now I'm really curious if I can make this myself. I am a hobby potter and I keep kaolin on hand for glaze making and I can also easily calcine it in my kiln. It would certainly be cheaper to use the kaolin from a pottery supply than to buy a branded product.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I actually ran across an article from a potter on how to do this process at home (of course, now I can’t find it)- might be worth a shot!

[@richardneifeld7797]

@@GrowfullywithJenna Generic Kaolin clay has an average particle size that is purportedly much larger than the average particle size of Surround brand Kaolin (around 50 microns versus around 1 micron). If you mix some generic Kaolin clay with water and let it sit, you will notice a layer of settled particles forming, which are the relatively larger particles, as we know from Stokes law. You can decant of the liquid suspension after a period of time, leaving the larger particles on the bottom. And use the decanted liquid with the smaller particles in a sprayer. You could even measure the dry weight of the settled particles versus the weight of generic Kaolin clay you added, if you want some quantitative numbers. I'll probably just eyeball it, and guess when to decant based upon the thickness of the deposited layer at the bottom.

[@richardneifeld7797]

FYI, I got my generic Kaolin Clay from "Bulk Apothecary", a 5 pound bag for $11.80 plus $9.89 shipping plus $0.71 tax. Product name "Kaolin Clay (white)".

[@fabricdragon]

My husband pointed out that this may be helpful in protecting some plants that cannot quite handle full sun when younger (they tend to grow in the understory until they are older) like PawPaws.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

That's a great idea!

[@fokid1]

Seems like this product is sold out everywhere in my country but I saved this for next year because this sounds something my plant will benefit greatly from!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I hope you're able to find it eventually!

[@sgtrickards5683]

If you want a better sprayer, the My 4 Sons battery backpack sprayer is fantastic. It has a very even spray pattern and keeps great spray pressure. It's super easy to clean. I paid $250 for mine and used it for the first time today. I have over 20 different fruit trees and a bunch of other edibles and medicinals. It takes very little time to spray now vs when I was using my two gal pump sprayer.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks for the tip!

[@mmandrac1]

Thanks for this video Jenna! It was so informative and thorough. I look forward to trying it in the garden next year.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You are so welcome!

[@MrToobie22]

Great video! I've had fantastic results on my fruit trees with Surround. (Bug-free organic fruit is a major blessing to have in your own backyard!) This year I'm going to use it in my garden as well so your info and experience is super helpful. I'm also in Ohio. Haven't found any locally to me but I DID find it where some family lives in NE Ohio. So when they come down, they bring me some! It's from Ohio Earth Foods in Hartville (between Akron and Canton). Currently 48.99 for 25lbs.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks for sharing!

[@alishabohnert776]

Great video! I have never heard of this product before.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks!

[@carriewebb5764]

I bought surround last year after seeing this video, but it was too late to use it by the time I got it. I’m really hopeful and excited for this season! I can only ever get a handful of cucumbers before they get bacterial wilt from cucumber beetles. My kids love pickles and I would love nothing more than to grow enough cucumbers to put up pickles for a year. I also try to grow melons every year and the cucumber beetles kill those too. Can’t wait to see if this helps! Thanks for the info!

[@GregWilmoth]

Thanks so much! I’ve watched a lot of your video…gotta try this.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You are most welcome!

[@carolexo7269]

In Canada, Whiffletree Farm & Nursery sells Surround. Thank you for the good information.

[@TinkeringWithTim]

Thanks for the great video I ordered that 25 pound bag and a sprayer. I hope this will help my Apple and Pear tress.

[@namastenurse]

Thank you. Still on a learning curve here with our new place that has an existing orchard. Spray protocols have been so overwhelming and complicated. I’ve decided if it’s not fairly simple and still organic it’s probably not happening. The berries here are thriving with much less fuss. I’m more of a “toss a lot out and see what survives in spite of me” gardener as of late. At any rate, this looks like a great one size fits all tool. I’m down with that. ❤.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I’m completely with you on the spray protocols- it’s just not happening for me if it’s too involved!

[@ramonalvarado9503]

Best video on youtube about Surround WP... thank you

[@emullinsstreams]

I've been meaning to comment this: I had a LOT of luck this year with interplanting radishes with my pumpkins and zucchini to prevent striped cucumber beetles. While there are still 3 other pests to account for (squash lady beetles, squash bugs, and vine borers), that at least got rid of the one that was the most work. I'll look into Surround!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I’m glad to hear it’s working for you!!

[@Leelongostyle]

Thank you. I got the Surround today from Johnnys. I am hoping to get grapes this year. Perfect video.

[@allon33]

In australia I can not get it online, yet I found it in the next town, after being told to give up. I drove 400 miles for my bag Surround. lol

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You’ll have to let me know if it helps in your garden… I certainly hope so after driving 400 miles 😁

[@virginiatibbetts1551]

Awesome video. I shared it around.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks!

[@mikefrench3800]

WOW! I will have to give surround a try.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

If you try it, I'd love to hear your results!

[@brianczuhai8909]

At the 13:00 mark, that's a crazy big garden. Yeah, hit it hard with that stuff. Then move on to maintaining mom and pop's. You have 19' of too many cucumbers. Do pickles instead. Those are yummy. How many cucumbers can you eat? I punt, and do the let "Ma Nature deal with it" option a lot. Lastly, I was wondering if you threw in green dye, to see if it help photosynthesis any. Maybe just being white scares the whatever away.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Not to worry- 2/3 of those are pickling cucumber varieties!

[@brianczuhai8909]

@@GrowfullywithJenna PICKLES! Now we're talking! 🥰You can NEVER have too many pickles! I'm going to ferment a bunch tonight after I visit my garden. I have 5 varieties in myself.

[@bjones8354]

That might help me herer in NC. Very strong sun. I was considering shade cloth. TY

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

It seems like many areas in the South could benefit from it!

[@joanies6778]

Good info. Thanks for doing pros and cons. I think I will try this next year on my apples and peaches, if they don't get hailed to death, again. No peaches made it. I had apples on one side of the tree, but the codling moths have been relentless. I sprayed the tree with Spinosad, put up codling moth traps, and even covered my apples. I made molasses traps that work, but they got a few bees, so I canned that idea. The moths still managed to get through it all. Now the squirrels are eating through the covers to get to the remaining few apples. Ugh! We've had too much rain to use clay effectively this year. I may make a hot pepper spray for now to keep the squirrels off.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Oh no!! Sounds like you are having quite the year- I'm sorry to hear it!

[@richardneifeld7797]

@@GrowfullywithJenna did you put your codling moth traps downwind of the trees? That is recommended.

[@shedigsdirtblog5879]

I used this on my dahlias and it worked great!

[@brianczuhai8909]

Ah, Surround! Thank you! I’ll spread the word with my other Organic community gardeners. It does look like a sun screen. Sort of like zinc oxide on the Snozz. Hopefully, I can use it in my hand bottle sprayers. I get flea beetles on eggplants. Neem oil seems useless. I got a lot of holes on my beet leaves this year. Those cheap dedicated sprayers are a problem. You need brass nozzle fittings, not plastic. And clean up never happens, so it sits in the bootle. 25# bag plus shipping sound like marriage. A commitment. Seems useful though. I can’t use Sevin. We’ll look into that. Thanks for sharing. Knowledge is persuasive. Hey, I got crops coming in. Give us an update. Just a simple harvesting picking tour! What's keeping you busy lately? 👀

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Another viewer found a 2lb bag here: gardenteacompany.com/surround-wp-crop-protection/ Not as much of a commitment!

[@brianczuhai8909]

@@GrowfullywithJenna Hmmm.., I do like to play with NEW gardening things.... and getting fun things in the mail.... Saw some with OMRI stamps on them. I do have new 2nd Planting of PICKLES starting to come in, so the need is there. - OK, stay tuned! 🤓

[@shellisspace]

Once again, another extremely helpful and information packed video. I've never even heard of this. My cucumber crop is getting smaller and smaller every year and I was considering getting a new type but this may solve that problem and keep my cucumber customers happy. Thank you. One question, do you need to avoid flowers? Does it affect pollinators and pollination?

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I don't go out of my way to avoid the blooms and have never had an issue with it affecting pollination ( you can see a bee busily working a flower on my cucumber plants at 08:41 :)

[@erikahuxley]

Might try it next year. All of my cucumber plants died from bacterial wilt which I presume is transmitted by cucumber beetles. Wonder if I can mix neem oil with it too of if that just will clog up the sprayer.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You are right- the cucumber beetles are indeed transmitting bacterial wilt. I'm not sure about neem, but I do know it's compatible with other products. The label says oils can temporarily reduce the whiteness of the film. Here's the full verbiage from the label: Surround WP Agricultural Crop Protectant is not generally affected by most other insecticides, miticides, and fungicides. However, to ensure compatibility, test tank mixes before use. When mixing with other products, make up a small batch and observe slurry and film characteristics. Curdling, precipitation, spray beading and/or excessive run-off leading to lack of film formation, or changes in viscosity are signs of incompatibility. Add tank mix pesticides after the Surround WP Agricultural Crop Protectant has been added. Use of antifoaming agents can interfere with proper coverage. Oil tank mixes can temporarily reduce the whiteness of the film. Use adequate water on oversprays of products that require absorption into the plant to ensure wetting of the Surround WP Agricultural Crop Protectant film. Tank mixing with other white mineral particulate products such as diatomaceous earth, or other sunburn materials, such as those containing wax, latex or polymer based materials can lead to postharvest washoff problems. Applications of Surround WP Agricultural Crop Protectant over such products or oversprays of such products over Surround WP Agricultural Crop Protectant can also impair post harvest wash off.

[@Gardenfnp]

Wow thank you! Will definitely consider it.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You're welcome!

[@brittany5629]

Thank you so much for this video. It was extremely helpful because I had no idea what surround was and I struggle with cucumber beetles. I’m definitely going to give this a try next spring. Do you have any tips for fruit trees? I recently planted fruit trees 2 years ago and I think I understand the pruning, but I’d like to learn more on spraying. I can’t find any good videos. I use all seasons and copper fungicide but I never know how often to use them. The only tip I learned was to use it 3xs during dormant season. I think it was thanksgiving, Christmas, and Valentine’s Day. But when it’s spring and summer I get kind of confused on what I should be spraying and when…. I saw you have fruit trees so I thought I would ask

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I'm SO bad at sticking to any kind of a spray regimen- so with my fruit trees it's just survival of the fittest at this point. I've worked with some amazing fruit growers and hope to put their advice into practice-- but it hasn't happened yet!

[@JV-jh4zi]

Going to try this on flea beetles on seedlings. I wonder if deer would find this distasteful.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

That is a great question… now I’m curious about its effect on deer too!

[@toddblessing9937]

I Dig, your channel, thanks for all the great info..stay cool.cheers

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thank you!

[@sandrawallace1001]

You had me at 'powdery mildew.' It seems that no matter what I do or what variety I plant, I'm always fighting powdery mildew on my cucumbers. It may be worth the cost for me just to avoid the aggravation.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

In addition to the Surround, I highly recommend seeking out cucumber varieties with Powdery Mildew resistance. Cornell has a great database of varieties with disease resistances listed including PM: www.vegetables.cornell.edu/pest-management/disease-factsheets/disease-resistant-vegetable-varieties/disease-resistant-cucurbit-varieties/

[@tnyberg67]

I got out today, a bit late but this was the first year I used Surround. I was able to spay 2 pear trees, 2 apple tress and all my squash and zucchini and cucumbers. I wouldn't have know until this video. I can see all the bug damage on my fruit trees and wish I'd know about this a long time ago. Some ideas for videos might be how to tie up the squash, do you have a fancy tool that puts the nice little tape thing around the plant or do you just train them up some poles etc...

[@bdwon]

Thank you for your thorough video explanation. I never have as much insect pressure as you describe, except for ants! I wonder whether their presence, and the presence of the wasps that I do not disturb helps keep other insects at bay. I remember one year that a neighbor "did me the favor" of removing a nest of wasps under my eaves, and that year I did have some damage! I also remember being stung by wasps several times as I grew up around here. So I understand that with your little kids running around, that safeguarding wasps might not be an appropriate maternal option for you! Thanks again for your info.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Having predatory insects around is definitely a good thing!

[@heatheringram2976]

Jenna, my pole bean arch trellis of blue lake beans is infested with Japanese beetles. Neem isn’t working. Do you think covering the beans in surround would produce a yield next year? I didn’t get any beans this year, from the Beatles and the rabbits got the bush beans Thanks

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I think it would help-- Surround definitely deters them. If it's a very high population you may also need to use an additional control tactic though.

[@dig_grow_cook]

Great video! So much detail, thank you! I bought Surround this year to have on hand for our fruit trees. Then our flowers were killed off 🤪 but definitely will be thinking about the different uses around the garden.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Oh No! Did you get hit with a late freeze?

[@dig_grow_cook]

@@GrowfullywithJenna I’m actually not sure what happened. I chucked a small pile of compost down at the base of my apple trees because I was moving the pile and the trees were close, might have been chicken poop heavy and threw off the balance with too much Nitrogen. We did have weird weather so could have also been that as well. Maybe I pruned too much. I’m just leaving them alone until next year. 😅

[@Sean_neaS]

Most bugs are on the underside of leaves. Do you try to get the underside? Maybe if you spray the stems they won't walk up. My main issue is powdery mildew It would be worth checking out for that.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Yes, I try to coat top & bottom, as well as stems.

[@SunxyzaBcdsun]

❤❤ the info. You are awesome. Thanks😊

[@tomst9417]

I have been reluctant to try Surround due to concerns about it clogging my sprayer and also the need to re-apply after rain. From your video it appears that thorough mixing the product and periodic agitation of the tank should alleviate clogging the sprayer. I might give it a try on my grapes and apple trees. The annual Japanese beetle assault on the grapes is underway. I drape the vines in insect netting which helps but isn't a complete solution as they can still get under the nets. Also may use it on my apple trees. I find the timing of organic insecticides to prevent damage by coddling moth, plum curculio, and apple maggot flies to be daunting. Do you use Surround plus other controls on apples, or is the clay sufficient by itself ?

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I've not had trouble with clogged sprayers yet-- but it's definitely a pain to reapply after every rain! I've used Surround on the peaches & apricots at my home, but all the apple trees are at my parent's, and we don't spray those with anything. The apples do get a little wormy most years, but we just eat around them 😆. My gut is that Surround would help, but I don't think it would be completely sufficient on its own.

[@virginiatibbetts1551]

Jenna, we are having a terrible time fighting the fig beetles here on our fig tree in California. They get on the fig and eat it till its gone. I'm wondering if the Kaolin clay would work on preventing the beetles from eating all my figs. We are going to try it. I cannot find any info on use. We already use it on the coddling moths on our apples. So we have experience with this substance. Thanks.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I don't have any experience with fig beetles, but I think using Surround would be worth a shot!

[@franksinatra1070]

That's one natural product I've never tried. How successful is it with flea beetles on eggplant? I usually dust with DE if they get really bad but not sure how helpful that is. And does it actually work against jap beetles? Those are nearly impossible to stop. Thanks Jenna.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

With both the flea beetles and Japanese beetles I find that it definitely slows them down, but in high pressure years doesn't stop them. Flea beetles seem to find every little spot I've missed, or jump in as soon as some of the coating wears off--plus I didn't start coating the plants immediately, which I should have done. That being said- the plants I've been using Surround on look a LOT better than the ones I haven't. There's been so much flea beetle damage on those that the plants are stunted.

[@Mary.Mercedes]

Excellent info on Surround. It's disturbing the first time you use it. It makes your wonder HOW the heck the plants can still photosensitize at all. I found it effective also. But a few years back you had to buy a huge commercial size bag. Yes, care must be taken to get it mixed properly. Works well on fruit trees but requires diligence in repeating application in heavy, almost daily rains like this year.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I agree- it is quite shocking at first! I'm glad you've found it effective also.

[@angelapressley2399]

When do you water your plants? In the evening? I have an automatic sprinkler so I assume the surround would wash off faster in my case? I have grape vines that get infected with Japanese beetles, Neem oil wasn't effective, so I would like to try Surround.

[@feveredfisherman1727]

I use Surround and very little else on my small garden. I am always worried about getting the clay on flowers because one of my primary hurdles is attracting pollinators. Do you try to spay around flowers? Cuke beetles like to mate inside the flowers but it makes them much easier to find and smoosh.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I don't make a focused effort to avoid the flowers- but I also don't try to coat them with spray. Oddly enough, it doesn't ever seem like there is a coating on the flowers- not sure if the clay doesn't stick to them as well, or if it's because new ones are constantly blooming this time of year... but I can't say I've ever had a problem with pollination interference.

[@mayfly1963]

Great video. :) I'm curious to know if the Surround would protect my tomatoes from stink bugs. I can grow tomatoes (sometimes), but often the damage from the stink bugs is so bad that I can hardly peel them! I've not heard you mention those pests so maybe you don't have to deal with them, but if so, what's your recommendation?

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Surround is labeled for stink bug suppression on pear & apple and tree nuts, but doesn't say anything about tomatoes. However-- it may work on tomatoes too, I think it'd be worth a try. We have stink bugs here, but for some reason they never cause much damage to my garden plants.

[@feveredfisherman1727]

I have used this on my tomatoes this year because I have the same issue with stink bugs. They pierce the skin of the tomatoes as soon as they start first blush. I am in same zone as Jenna. (Go Bucks!) I started getting those same tale tell spots on this year's crop so i sprayed just one time just on the fruits and I haven't had nearly as many issues. I also started picking the fruits a day or two earlier and letting them finish ripening on the counter. I have great success this year finally. Going to spray my next flush of tomatoes soon. Also used it on my cucurbits with good success this year. Love your video Jenna.

[@mayfly1963]

Thanks@@feveredfisherman1727 and @GrowfullywithJenna! I'm going to get a bag of the Surround next year and see if I can FINALLY have some decent tomatoes! I made the mistake of buying the "use this on your face" clay for the very reasons mentioned in the video and didn't have much luck with it. Now I know why!

[@thereseavelis1372]

My 25# bag of Surround WP arrived this week! Have you tried it on June-bearing strawberry plants? Mine finished very early and now the heat (Indiana zone 6A) is blistering! Thank you for the informative video. It is what inspired me to get the Surround. You, cucumber beetles and squash bugs 😉

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I have not-- but I'm certain it couldn't hurt!

[@betsyandall]

Perfect! Thank you Thank you Thank you 😊

[@Justhaveinfun2]

Best ever. Thank you

[@reallmccoy9043]

Does the rain wash it off? If so how often do you reapply it?

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Yes- I address this specifically in the video.

[@reallmccoy9043]

@@GrowfullywithJenna sorry, I saw that after I posted. Thanks

[@ryoncathomas6588]

Do you know (or suppose) that reducing heat stress with a product like Surround will extend the harvest for cool season crops like peas and lettuce and prevent them from shutting down production or bolting? I followed a couple of the links you provided but found no discussion of this specific topic.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I've not personally tested this out, but it does seem like Surround would help with heat stress and potentially extend harvest window/prevent bolting. I can see this being the case especially if used in tandem with shade cloth.

[@hayescrute1078]

Can it be combined with a sulfur spray?

[@TheTrock121]

I haven't used it that much, but Diatomaceous Earth also deters some insects.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I like diatomaceous earth- but tend to find it most useful for soft-bodied insects and larva. It's my go-to for slugs!

[@christopherpope5818]

Looks awesome! Dying to get this stuff up in Canada but can't find any online anywhere. Anybody have any ideas or leads?

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I hope someone can provide some info here! I've not been able to determine if it's available anywhere in Canada- sorry, I'm no help!

[@getvibrant7994]

Would it be worth using Surround if you have sprinklers watering the plants at night?

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I don't think it would be. You'd be reapplying it all the time.

[@genettejackson6593]

Do veggies need to be cleaned differently when using surround?

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Nope- it just rinses off with water.

[@samanthahoos9827]

I bought some to use this summer, but it’s been so rainy it would have washed off more often than I can get out there. I’m thinking this might be good to start in August through autumn while the pests are starting to be less trouble than summer.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

That's a great point-- I definitely don't think it's the best option in a very rainy climate!

[@fabricdragon]

for anyone trying to buy "locally" and having no luck... i struck out with all my local sources, until i called a company in my area that has a retail *and wholesale* section. their retail store didnt normally carry Surround, but their wholesale store DID... and they could sell to me as long as we filled out the right forms and i wanted a 25 pound bag. (Rohrer seeds, in Lancaster or Intercourse PA if anyone is interested) so if you have a seed and farm supply store or garden and nursery, ask if they have it in their *wholesale* section as well!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thank you so much for sharing this tip!

[@LovelyDreams-rb7ov]

What's the silver ruffled leaf plant @0:40?

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

It's just zucchini- but it's coated with Surround.

[@justsomeguy6133]

It works well! Any tips on washing it off though? I find it hard to wash off peaches!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Oh-- I bet it is difficult to remove from peach fuzz. I've only used it on smooth-skinned fruit/veg. I'm sorry I don't have any tips for peaches!

[@Raul28153]

with the 98 F heat this summer and spring I've tried Surround on my Broccoli. Getting it to stick to the leaves is - - well I'm failing. I tried Yucca Wet nope it doesn't help even multiplying the dosage of the surfactant doesn't help. Are you getting it to stay on your brassicas?

[@missthang4770]

Great info! Thank you so much.

[@YayoLife]

I have a problem with roly-polies/pillbug/sowbugs eating my seedlings. I wonder if this will help...

[@carmeni.robles8333]

Can I try it to keep white flies away from my garden plants? Thanks. ( Zone 7b - Virginia)

[@BriansGreenGarden]

Great video! Very informative and thorough. Subscribed!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks and welcome!

[@SSAMGS]

do you only have to cover to top of the leaves and not the underside?

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

It depends on the goal. To protect from heat/sunscald coating the tops will suffice. For best insect and disease protection, all leaf surfaces should be covered... but that's sometimes tricky to do with large, vining plants.

[@Mr_APeezy]

Hmmm I wonder where that kaolin comes from. My hometown of Washington County, GA has (not sure if it still does) / had the biggest supply of kaolin deposits in the world. Kaolin has so many uses. I worked in ‘chalk’ plant down there a couple of summers when I was home from college. 😅 *edit* also, great video as always!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Now that is a good question! It may well be from your hometown!

[@kricketkitty]

I'm confused. Just bought a big bag of this and trying to figure out the pollinator question before I apply it. How are pollinators supposed to reach pollen if its covered by clay? I have pickle worms living inside my cantaloupe flowers so they have to be sprayed. What to do?!

[@1stofAllHaHaHeeHee]

Are you spraying under all the leaves or just covering the top portion of the leaves?

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I’m trying to coat the tops and bottoms… but I don’t always get everything 100% covered

[@1stofAllHaHaHeeHee]

@@GrowfullywithJennathanks! seems a little difficult to get it to stick to the undersides.

[@mommybear8672]

Curious if it would have any impact on slugs?🤔 They have been so extreme this year that it's almost worth a try.😬

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

That is a great question! It's not labeled for slugs, but it seems like that clay texture would be very unappealing for them. I've used diatomaceous earth for slugs with good results, but have never tried Surround!

[@sofiamiliaressis5403]

Hi Jenna. Awesome stuff that Surround! I haven’t purchased some yet as l have some BT still here however Surround is the next product l will be looking at purchasing after the BT is all gone 🐛 🪲 🐜 Cheers Sofia

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Hi Sofia! If you use it, I hope you like it as much as I do! Also- adding this tidbit for anyone who might be reading this comment: BT only works on members of the lepidoptera family (caterpillars)- and while it's awesome for those pests (including the squash vine borer, if you can catch it before the caterpillar before it does too much damage), it won't do anything to stop things like beetles, aphids or many other common garden pests.

[@sofiamiliaressis5403]

@@GrowfullywithJenna Thanks Jenna! I water jet spray aphids off my plants and the BT is for caterpillars on my brassicas. Cheers Sofia

[@808quake]

I wonder if the Kaolin spray won't suffocate plants or block photosynthesis ?? Thank you

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

It will not if applied correctly

[@808quake]

@@GrowfullywithJenna Thank you, correctly means not apply thick? or just follow the instruction?

[@denisequinones8215]

New subscriber 👋🏻 I’m learning sooo much❤

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I'm so glad! Welcome to the channel!

[@AccountingwithChris]

Does this work against leaf foot bugs

[@richardsibley7374]

Can you compare to diatemosis?

[@dorimartz2223]

Do you use a wetting agent with it?

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

No

[@Carladet1]

AWESOME info. I'm posting a link.

[@optomm]

So nice hat Happy women’s day 🎉

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks!

[@fuzzytale]

Garden Tea company carries in in 2lb bags for $14 and $12 shipping (estimated on 2 bags), which isn't as good per unit, but better than spending over $100 , at least for me.... **ETA** Better yet, Peaceful Valley Farm Supply has the 25lb bags for $46.99 and $14 shipping (I'm local and can pick it up for free)

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Good find!! Thanks for sharing this!

[@happybuddyperson]

is this stuff for sale anywhere in Canada? can't seem to find it

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Hoping someone can chime in on this! I don't know the answer, unfortunately.