Can I use newspaper as a weed barrier in my vegetable garden?

At one time, there were concerns about the use of newspaper as a weed barrier in the garden and landscape because of the inks used. U Staple Pins

However, nearly all the black-and-white sections of newspapers are now printed using soy-based inks, so the threat of heavy metal contamination no longer exists. Avoid use of slick advertising inserts, however.

Newspaper works great as a weed barrier. Make sure soil is moist before putting down newspaper. Lay several sheets (or a small section) down on your garden paths, and apply a thick layer of mulch on top. In windy locations, use landscaping staples to anchor the paper in place. The newspaper will prevent weeds from sprouting and will slowly break down to add organic matter to the soil.

I have noticed some bronzing on the leaves of my tomato plants. What is causing this and how do I correct it?

It appears there may be spider mites in your garden. Hot, dry weather favors the development and rapid reproduction of spider mites. These mites can infest many trees, shrub and bedding plants. Beans, melons and tomatoes are just a few susceptible vegetable garden crops.

Mites damage plants by sucking contents from leaf tissue. The initial damage appears as a stippling of light dots on the leaves. As feeding continues, the leaves turn yellow or bronze in color and drop off.

Because spider mites are tiny, they can be difficult to see. Check their presence by holding a piece of white paper underneath a branch and shake or tap the branch sharply. If mites are present, some will be dislodged from the leaves and fall on the paper, where they will be seen as tiny moving specks.

Predator insects often take care of spider mites. If you apply certain types of insecticides, such as carbaryl or pyrethrins, it can increase spider mite populations, because the insecticides kill the predatory insects but do not affect the mites.

Spider mites flourish on plants under stress. Keeping plants well watered and fertilized can help minimize stress. Mite populations can also be reduced by forcefully spraying plants with water, especially on the undersides of leaves, to break up the webs and wash the mites off.

For miticide recommenda-tions, contact your local Extension office. Be sure the crop you wish to spray is listed on the pesticide label, and follow all instructions for application.

Plastic Barbed Weed Fabric Fixing Pegs Tom Bruton is a master gardener with the Duval County Extension Service and the University of Florida/IFAS.