August 14, 2000

This spring we planted two Curtis Apricot trees in the orchard. They were well dug and fertilized with composted cow manure. Forthwith, they grew several arching branches of new growth that reached a length of around five feet. No sooner had they grown than the Japanese Beetles descended on them in swarms. We took to collecting the beetles in a jar of soapy water, but they kept coming. This proceeded from the thinking that we were defending the trees from the beetles.

Gradually, some facts started dawning on our awareness. First was the realization that the beetles were only on the new growth of the apricot trees and nothing else in the garden. Second was that this new growth was excessive for the habit of the trees and should be trimmed during fall clipping. An experiment was suggested and we trimmed the new growth back to three or four new leaves per branch and left the beetles unmolested. The result was that the beetles ate the rest of the new growth and then vanished from the garden! Their work there being complete.

While we note to the novice gardener that resistance to disease and pests is conferred to plants by proper nutrition and conditions; the more experienced may note this is a proof of the Permaculture concept that these insect agents are not "enemies" of the plants and its gardener, but essential helpers in the dance of balance. Woe to the gardener who's plants are stressed by chemical fertilizers and improper care: for the "decomposing agents" - finding nothing in balance - will eat it to the roots.

On deep reflection, we see this as having lessons relating not only to the practice of organic gardening; but also to other levels of human activity. Thank you for listening.

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