Prepared by the Georgia Department of Agriculture, Office of Public Affairs Tommy Irvin, Commissioner. Call Consumer Q's hotline at 1-800- 282-5852.

Consumer alert/recall: Martin Designs, Inc. recalls SpongeBob SquarePants character address books and journals due to violation of lead paint standard.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, announces a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. Name of product: SpongeBob SquarePants address books and journals; Units: About 250,000; Importer: Martin Designs, Inc., of Ashland, Ohio; Hazard: The paint on the metal spiral bindings of the address books and journals can contain excessive levels of lead, which violates the federal lead paint ban. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects; Incidents/injuries: None; Description: The recall involves address books and journals with SpongeBob SquarePants character on the front cover and a black metal spiral binding. The UPC numbers (80773007505 for the address book and 80773002260, 80773075501 and 80773007551 for the journal) are printed on the back covers; Sold at: Retail stores nationwide from June 2006 through July 2007 for about $2; Manufactured in: China; Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled address books and journals away from children. Consumers should remove the UPC as proof of ownership and contact Martin Designs, Inc., for a full refund; Consumer contact: For additional information, contact Martin Designs, Inc. toll free at 866-898-0261 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's website at www.martindesigns-ltd.com.

Q: What happened to the Bermuda onion? Is the old Bermuda onion, big-round-white-sweet, still being grown? If so, where can I buy them? Can I get the seed anywhere?

A: Bermuda onion is a name used to refer to several different varieties of onions. The name originates from when the onions were grown in Bermuda. The name "Bermuda onion" has pretty much vanished from grocery stores. Consumers today are familiar with Vidalia and Texas Sweet onions, and many no longer remember or have even heard of Bermuda onions. The Bermuda label has practically disappeared from seed catalogs as well. Willhite Seed still carries bunches of "White Bermuda" and the "White Bermuda" (Crystal Wax). Heirloom Seeds carries seed for the Crystal Wax variety as well. The contact information for the companies is as follows:

Willhite Seed, Inc. , P.O. Box 23, Poolville, TX 76487, 800-828-1840, http://www.willhiteseed.com; Heirloom Seeds, P.O. Box 245, W. Elizabeth, PA 15088-0245, 412-384-0852, http://www.heirloomseeds.com.

Q: How can I get rid of scorpions and spiders in my house?

A: Currently, there is no single, universal solution to control these creatures. However, there are a number of options available. Before attempting any control measure, consider all the available methods for achieving the most satisfactory results. Selection of a control option, pesticide, and method of application should be determined by factors such as location, number of insects to be treated, potential for human exposure to the pests, chemicals used, and (obviously) risk of chemical contamination. You may wish to obtain the services of a licensed and reputable pest control operator if an infestation is severe. These professionals, who are licensed by the Georgia Department of Agriculture, can provide complete pest control services both inside and outside homes.

Q: Can white potatoes be grown in a drum or barrel?

A: Yes. Potatoes are a very hardy crop and can be grown under a wide range or environments. By using a container, you can be a potato grower in the smallest yard or on your back porch.

Pecans and persimmons ripening

fall crop now

Keep pecans and persimmons adequately moist to encourage good development of the kernels and fruit. Water stress now can cause fruit and nut drop and poor filling of kernels. In the absence of a good rainstorm, give the trees a deep soaking every week or two.

If you have questions or problems with products or services regulated by the Georgia Department of Agriculture write the Consumer Services office, 19 Martin Luther King Drive, Room 224, Atlanta, Georgia 30334 or call 1-800-282-5852.