As a gardener or farmer, there's nothing more disheartening than watching your crops wither and die. It's a frustrating and often heartbreaking experience, especially when you've invested time, effort, and resources into nurturing them. At Botanic Beam, we understand the importance of healthy crops and want to help you identify the causes, recognize the signs, and find solutions to this common problem.
Table of Contents
Causes of Dying Crops
Before we dive into the signs and solutions, it's essential to understand the underlying causes of dying crops. Some of the most common reasons include:
Overwatering: Too much water can be detrimental to crops, causing roots to rot and leading to nutrient deficiencies. Underwatering, on the other hand, can cause crops to wither and die from dehydration.
Pests and diseases: Pests like aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites can suck the sap from crops, while diseases like fungal infections and bacterial spot can cause widespread damage.
Nutrient deficiencies: Crops require a balanced diet of nutrients to thrive. Lack of essential micronutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can lead to stunted growth and death.
Soil quality: Poor soil structure, pH imbalances, and lack of organic matter can all contribute to dying crops.
Weather extremes: Drought, flooding, and extreme temperatures can all cause crops to struggle and die.
Signs of Dying Crops
Recognizing the signs of dying crops early on can help you take prompt action to prevent further damage. Some common signs include:
Wilting or yellowing leaves: If your crops are consistently wilting or turning yellow, it may be a sign of underwatering, overwatering, or nutrient deficiencies.
Slow growth: If your crops are growing at a slower rate than expected, it could be a sign of nutrient deficiencies or pest infestations.
Black or brown spots: Fungal infections and bacterial spot can cause black or brown spots to appear on leaves and stems.
White powdery patches: Powdery mildew can cause white, powdery patches to appear on leaves.
Stunted roots: If your crops are struggling to grow, it may be a sign of root bound or poor soil quality.
Identifying the Type of Crop Damage
Not all crop damage is created equal. It's essential to identify the type of damage to determine the best course of action. Some common types of crop damage include:
Physical damage: Physical damage can occur due to weather extremes, pests, or accidental damage.
Chemical damage: Chemical damage can occur due to exposure to pesticides, herbicides, or other toxic substances.
Biological damage: Biological damage can occur due to pest infestations, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies.
Solutions for Dying Crops
Once you've identified the cause and type of crop damage, it's time to take action. Some solutions include:
Adjusting watering schedules: Make sure to water your crops appropriately, taking into account weather conditions and soil type.
Applying pest control: Use organic or chemical pest control methods to eliminate pests and prevent further damage.
Fertilizing: Provide your crops with a balanced diet of nutrients to promote healthy growth.
Pruning: Prune damaged areas to prevent the spread of disease and encourage healthy growth.
Soil amendments: Add organic matter to improve soil structure and pH balance.
Preventing Future Crop Damage
Prevention is always better than cure. To prevent future crop damage, consider the following strategies:
Monitor weather conditions: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and be prepared for extreme weather conditions.
Use crop rotation: Rotate crops to prevent pest and disease buildup.
Practice good sanitation: Keep your garden or farm clean and free of debris to prevent pest infestations.
Use physical barriers: Use physical barriers like row covers to prevent pests from reaching your crops.
Common Crops Affected by Dying
Some crops are more susceptible to dying than others. Some common crops affected by dying include:
Tomatoes: Tomatoes are prone to fungal infections, bacterial spot, and nutrient deficiencies.
Peppers: Peppers are susceptible to pests like aphids and spider mites, as well as fungal infections.
Cucumbers: Cucumbers are prone to powdery mildew and fungal infections.
Carrots: Carrots are susceptible to pests like carrot rust flies and fungal infections.
Conclusion
Dying crops can be a frustrating and heartbreaking experience, but by understanding the causes, recognizing the signs, and taking prompt action, you can prevent further damage and promote healthy growth. Remember to monitor your crops regularly, adjust your care routine as needed, and take preventative measures to ensure a bountiful harvest.
Additional Resources
For more information on dying crops and how to prevent them, check out the following resources:
The USDA's Guide to Crop Damage: A comprehensive guide to identifying and addressing crop damage.
The National Gardening Association's Guide to Pest Management: A detailed guide to managing pests and preventing crop damage.
Botanic Beam's Guide to Soil Health: A comprehensive guide to improving soil health and preventing crop damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common signs of dying crops?
Some of the most common signs of dying crops include yellowing or browning leaves, wilted or droopy stems, black or mushy roots, and a lack of growth or productivity. If you notice any of these signs, it's essential to investigate the cause and take corrective action as soon as possible.
What are the main causes of dying crops?
Dying crops can be caused by a variety of factors, including overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiencies, pests, diseases, extreme weather conditions, and soil quality issues. It's often a combination of these factors that leads to crop failure, rather than a single cause.
How can I prevent overwatering my crops?
To prevent overwatering, make sure to check the soil moisture regularly by inserting your finger into the soil up to the knuckle. If the soil feels damp, wait a day or two before watering again. It's also essential to avoid watering in the hottest part of the day to minimize evaporation and ensure the plants absorb the water effectively.
What are the signs of underwatering my crops?
The signs of underwatering include wilting or droopy leaves, slow growth, and a lack of fruiting or flowering. If you notice any of these signs, increase the frequency of watering, but make sure not to overwater, as this can cause more harm than good.
How can I identify nutrient deficiencies in my crops?
Nutrient deficiencies can cause a range of symptoms, including yellowing or distorted leaves, stunted growth, and a lack of fruiting or flowering. To identify nutrient deficiencies, look for specific signs, such as yellowing leaves with green veins (magnesium deficiency), purple leaves (phosphorus deficiency), or yellowing leaves with brown tips (nitrogen deficiency).
What are the most common pests that affect crops?
Some of the most common pests that affect crops include aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, and caterpillars. These pests can cause significant damage to crops, leading to reduced yields and lower quality produce.
How can I control pests naturally?
There are several natural methods to control pests, including introducing beneficial insects, such as ladybugs or lacewings, using neem oil or pyrethrin sprays, and practicing good garden hygiene, such as removing weeds and debris that can harbor pests.
What are the most common diseases that affect crops?
Some of the most common diseases that affect crops include powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. These diseases can be caused by fungal, bacterial, or viral pathogens and can be spread through contaminated soil, water, or air.
How can I prevent diseases in my crops?
To prevent diseases, make sure to practice good garden hygiene, including removing infected plants, disinfecting tools and equipment, and avoiding overhead watering, which can spread disease-causing pathogens. Also, ensure good air circulation, remove weeds, and provide optimal growing conditions for your crops.
What is the impact of extreme weather conditions on crops?
Extreme weather conditions, such as drought, flooding, or temperature fluctuations, can have a devastating impact on crops, leading to reduced yields, lower quality produce, and even crop failure. It's essential to take measures to mitigate the effects of extreme weather, such as using irrigation systems or providing windbreaks.
How can I improve soil quality to prevent dying crops?
To improve soil quality, add organic matter, such as compost or manure, to increase the soil's water-holding capacity, structure, and fertility. Also, test your soil regularly to determine its pH and nutrient levels, and adjust accordingly.
What are the benefits of crop rotation?
Crop rotation can help prevent dying crops by breaking disease and pest cycles, improving soil fertility and structure, and increasing biodiversity. It's essential to rotate crops that have different growth habits, nutrient requirements, and pest susceptibility to maximize the benefits.
How can I identify dying crops in their early stages?
To identify dying crops in their early stages, monitor your plants regularly, looking for signs such as yellowing or droopy leaves, slow growth, or a lack of fruiting or flowering. Take action immediately if you notice any of these signs to prevent further damage.
What are the consequences of ignoring dying crops?
Ignoring dying crops can lead to reduced yields, lower quality produce, and even crop failure. It can also spread disease and pests to other plants, causing a larger problem in your garden. Additionally, ignoring dying crops can lead to a loss of time, money, and resources.
How can I revive dying crops?
To revive dying crops, identify the underlying cause and take corrective action. This may involve adjusting watering schedules, providing additional nutrients, controlling pests and diseases, or improving soil quality. In some cases, it may be necessary to prune or remove infected plants to prevent further damage.
What are the benefits of using organic gardening methods?
Organic gardening methods can help prevent dying crops by promoting healthy soil, reducing the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers, and increasing biodiversity. Organic methods also tend to be more environmentally friendly and can produce higher quality, more nutritious produce.
How can I prevent dying crops in containers?
To prevent dying crops in containers, ensure good drainage, use a well-draining potting mix, and avoid overwatering. Also, provide adequate light, nutrients, and pruning to promote healthy growth.
What are the signs of root bound crops?
The signs of root bound crops include slow growth, yellowing leaves, and a lack of fruiting or flowering. If you notice any of these signs, consider transplanting the crop into a larger container or directly into the ground.
How can I prevent dying crops in greenhouses?
To prevent dying crops in greenhouses, ensure good ventilation, temperature control, and humidity management. Also, monitor for pests and diseases, and take corrective action promptly.
What are the benefits of using mulch in crop production?
Mulch can help prevent dying crops by retaining moisture, suppressing weeds, and regulating soil temperature. It can also improve soil fertility and structure over time.
How can I prevent dying crops in areas with poor soil?
To prevent dying crops in areas with poor soil, consider using raised beds or containers with a high-quality potting mix. Also, add organic matter, such as compost or manure, to improve soil fertility and structure.
What are the signs of nutrient toxicity in crops?
The signs of nutrient toxicity in crops include yellowing or distorted leaves, stunted growth, and a lack of fruiting or flowering. If you notice any of these signs, reduce the frequency or amount of fertilization.
How can I prevent dying crops in areas with high winds?
To prevent dying crops in areas with high winds, provide windbreaks, such as trellises or wind screens, to reduce wind damage. Also, stake or tie plants to prevent them from being uprooted or damaged.
What are the benefits of using cover crops?
Cover crops can help prevent dying crops by improving soil fertility and structure, suppressing weeds and pests, and increasing biodiversity. They can also provide habitat for beneficial insects and microorganisms.
Indoor Plant Care A-Z
Adiantum Fragrans
Aechmea Blue Rain
Aechmea Fasciata
Aeschynanthus Marmoratus
Aeschynanthus Radicans Gesneriad
African Mask
African Spear
African Violet
Air Plant
Alocasia Amazonica
Alocasia Araceae
Aloe
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera Barbadensis
Angel Wings Cactus
Anthurium Andraeanum
Anthurium Crystallinum
Arabian Coffee
Areca Palm
Aroid Palm
Arrowhead Ivy
Arum Lily
Asparagus Densiflorus 'Sprengeri'
Asparagus fern
Asparagus Setaceus
Aspidistra Elatior
Asplenium Antiquum
Asplenium Nidus
Athyrium Filix-Femina
Austrailian Ivy Tree
Austrocephalocereus Dybowskii
Austrocylindropuntia subulata
Azalea Plant
Baby Doll Ti
Baby Rose
Baby Tears
Baby Toes
Baby's Tears
Bamboo Palm
Banana Palm
Banana Plant
Banana Tree
Barbados Aloe
Begoniaceae Maculata
Bengal Fig
Benjamin Tree
Benjamin's Fig
Beringin
Bilbo Cactus
Bird Of Paradise
Bird's Nest Fern
Bird's Tongue Flower
Birds Nest Fern
Blue Pothos
Blue Rain Bromeliad
Blue Rain Plant
Blue Sansevieria
Blue Torch Cactus
Bonsai Ficus
Boston Fern
Boston Fern
Boy Flower
Brighamia insignis
Bromeliad
Buddha's Hand
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Burrageara Orchid X Oncidium
Burro's Tail
Butterfly Palm
Cabbage on a Stick
Cabeça-branca
Cactus
Caladium Lindenii
Caladium Magnificum
Calathea
Calathea Marantaceae
Calla Lily
Cambria
Cambria Orchid
Canna Leaved Strelitzia
Cape Jasmine
Cape Primrose
Cast Iron Plant
Cathedral Cactus
Cathedral Plant
Cereus Peruvianus
Ceropegia Woodii
Ceropegia Woodii 'Marlies'
Chain of Hearts
Chain of Pearls
Chamaedorea Elegans
Chinese Ape
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Chinese PLant
Chinese Taro
Chlorophytum Comosum
Christmas Cactus
Christmas Kalanchoe
Cladophora
Cladophora Ball
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Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum
Coffea Rubiaceae Arabica
Coffee Bean
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Common Purslane
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Cordyline Fruticosa
Corn Plant
Crab Cactus
Crane Flower
Crassula Arborescens
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Croton
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Ctenanthe
Ctenanthe Pilosa Golden Mosaic
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Curtain Fig
Cycas Revoluta
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Date Palm
Day Flower
Delicious Monster
Devil's Ivy
Devil's Tongue
Devils Backbone
Dieffenbachia Araceae
Donkey's Tail
Dracaena
Dracaena Fragrans
Dracaena Fragrans Golden Coast
Dracaena Fragrans Janet Craig
Dracaena Fragrans Steudneri
Dracaena Magenta
Dracaena Marginata
Dracaena Sanderiana
Dragon Plant
Dragon Scale Alocasia
Dragon Tree
Dumb Cane
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Dypsis Lutescens Chrysalidocarpus
Easter Cactus
Elephant Bush
Elephant Ear
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Emerald Palm
English Ivy
Entangled Hearts
Epiphyllum Anguliger
Epiphyllum guatemalensis
Epipremnum Aureum
Epipremnum Aureum Neon
Epipremnum Pinnatum
Epipremnum Pinnatum Aureum
Eternity Plant
Euphorbia Enopla
Euphorbia Trigona
Euphorbia Trigona Rubra
Eves Pin Cactus
False African Violet
False Shamrock
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Fiddle Leaf Fig
First Aid Plant
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Guzmania
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Hardy Elephant's Ear
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Haworthia
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Heart Leaf
Hedera Helix
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Heptapleurum Actinopyllum
Hobbit Jade
Horrida Plant
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House Plant Cuttings For Propagation
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Hurricane Plant
Hylotelephium Sieboldii
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Inch Plant
Irish Ivy
Jade Plant
Jade Plant
Java Fig
Java Tree
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Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana
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Kleinia stapeliiformis
Korean Rock Fern
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Laceleaf
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Lake Ball
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Leopard Lily
Lipstick Plant
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Love Plant
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Maidenhair Fern
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Mason Congo Sansevieria
Measles Plant
Medicinal Aloe
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Money Plant
Money Tree
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Monstera
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Moss Ball
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Mother In Law's Tongue
Mother Of Thousands
Musa
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N'Joy Pothos
Nemantanthus Gregarius
Nematanthus gregarious
Neon Devil's Ivy
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Nepenthes Alata
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Never Never Plant
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Octopus Tree
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Oilcloth Flower
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Oncidium Orchid
Opuntia Microdaisy Albata
Orchidaceae Phalaenopsis
Oxalis Triangularis
Pachira Aquatica
Pancake Plant
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Parasol Plant
Parlor Palm
Parlour Palm
Pass-it-along Plant
Passiflora Caerulea
Passionflower
Patio Rose
Peace Lily
Peace Lily
Peacock Plant
Pearl and Star Plant
Pelargonium Zonal
Peperomia Deppeana × Quadrifolia | Peperomia Tetraphylla
Peperomia Polybotrya
Peperomia Prostrata
Peruvian Apple Cactus
Philodendron
Philodendron 'Monkey Mask'
Philodendron Hederaceum
Philodendron Minima
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Phoenix Canariensis
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Pitcher Plant
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Polka Dot Plant
Polyscias Fruticosa
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Portulaca Umbraticolata
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Pot Belly Fig
Pothos
Prayer Plant
Provision Tree
Purple Rain Plant
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Rabbit Ears Cactus
Rabbit's Foot
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Radiator Plant
Raindrop Money Plant
Raindrop Pilea
Rattlesnake Plant
Red Rhipsalis Cactus
Red Rubber Plant
Rhapidophora Tetrasperma
Rhipsalis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Heteroclada
Rhipsalis Horrida
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Rhododendron Inga
Ric Rac Orchid Cactus
Ric-Rac Cactus
Rosa
Rosary Plant
Rosary Vine
Rough Fern
Rubber Plant
Saba Nut
Sago Palm
Saint Barbara's Sword
Saint Paulia
Saint Paulia
Sansevieria Ehrenbergii
Sansevieria Trifascia
Sansevieria Trifasciata
Sarracenia
Satin Pothos
Savannah Geranium
Schefflera Arboricola
Schlumbergera Bridgesii
Scindapsus Pictum Argyraeus
Scindapsus Pictus
Sedum Morganianum
Sedum Rubrotinctum Variegata
Senecio
Senecio Herrianus
Senecio Rowleyanus
Senecio Stapeliiformis
Shark Fin Plant
Shark's Tooth Philodendron
Silver Dollar Plant
Silver Jade Plant
Silver Pothos
Silver Vase
Small-Leaved Fig
Small-Leaved Rubber Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Tongue
Spanish Moss
Spathiphyllum
Spathiphyllum wallisii
Spear Sansevieria
Spider Plant
Spider Plant
Spiderwort
Spineless Yucca
Split-leaf Philodendron
Spotted Begonia
Star Plant
Stephanotis Floribunda
Stick Yucca
Stranging Fig
Strelitzia Alba
Strelitzia Nicolai
Strelitzia Reginae
Streptocarpus Saxorum
String of Beads
String of Hearts
String of Pearls
String of Tears
String of Turtles
Strings
Surprise Miltoniopsis
Sweetheart Plant
Sweetheart Plant Brazil
Swiss Cheese Plant
Swiss Cheese Vine
Sword Fern
Syngonium Erythrophyllum
Syngonium Nephphytis
Tailflower
Tears Pilea
Thanksgiving Cactus
Ti Leaf
Tiger Tooth Philodendron
Tillandsia
Tillandsia Ionantha
Tradescantia Albiflora
Tradescantia Commelinaceae Multiflora
Trailing Jade
Tropical Laurel
Tropicana Palm
Trout Begonia
True Aloe
Trumpet Lily
Trumpet Pitcher Plant
Trumpet Plant
Turtle Strings
UFO Plant
Umbrella Tree
Urn Plant
Variegated Chain of Hearts
Variegated Entangled Hearts
Variegated Laurel
Variegated Rosary Plant
Variegated Rosary Vine
Variegated Rubber Plant
Variegated String of Hearts
Vriesea splendens
Vuylstekeara Orchid
Wandering Dude
Wandering Jew
Wax Plant
Weeping Fig
Weeping Laurel
Whale Fin Plant
White Bird Of Paradise
White Crane Flower
White Flowered Wild Banana
Wild Banana
Wild Cape Banana
Yellow Palm
Yucca Elephantipes
Zamioculcas Zamiifolia
Zantedeschia
Zanzibar Gem
Zebra Basket Vine
Zebra Cactus
Zebra Lipstick Plant
Zebra Plant
Zebrina Pendula
Zigzag Cactus
Zuzu Plant
ZZ Plant
ZZ Plant
Harley Jennings
Harley Jennings is a renowned indoor plant expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience working with some of the UK's top botany and garden centers. Harley's passion for indoor plants blossomed early in his career, leading him to become a trusted authority in the field. He has spent years nurturing plants, researching the best care practices, and sharing his extensive knowledge with fellow plant enthusiasts.
Harley is the author of the comprehensive guide "The Complete Guide to Indoor Plant Care," where he combines his wealth of experience with a deep love for greenery. This guide provides readers with everything they need to know about indoor plants, from selection and placement to watering, feeding, and troubleshooting common issues.
In addition to his writing, Harley plays a pivotal role in the development of the Botanic Beam app, a revolutionary tool that offers plant lovers a wealth of information in one convenient place. The app simplifies plant care, providing tailored advice, reminders, and expert tips to help users create thriving indoor gardens.
Outside of his professional life, Harley enjoys urban beekeeping, finding a unique connection between nurturing plants and supporting local ecosystems. His relatable, down-to-earth approach makes him a favorite among both novice and experienced indoor gardeners. Whether through his guide or the Botanic Beam app, Harley Jennings continues to inspire and educate, helping people transform their homes into green sanctuaries.