How to Protect Your Garden from Common Pests
Gardens attract a variety of pests that can quickly damage plants if not managed. Implementing a pest prevention strategy can save your plants and flowers from being eaten, while maintaining a healthy garden ecosystem. Here are key ways to protect your garden from pests:
Companion Planting
Certain plants, like marigolds, basil, and chives, naturally repel pests. Planting these around vegetables or flowers helps deter insects such as aphids, mosquitoes, and flies, while attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Introduce Beneficial Insects
Ladybugs, lacewings, and praying mantises are beneficial insects that help control pest populations by feeding on aphids, caterpillars, and other harmful insects. You can order these insects online and release them in your garden to reduce pest populations naturally.
Use Physical Barriers
For larger pests like rabbits or deer, consider placing mesh, netting, or fencing around vulnerable plants. Smaller mesh netting can also protect plants from insects while allowing sunlight and water to pass through.
Apply Organic Pest Repellents
Use organic insecticides, such as neem oil, that are safe for your plants, pets, and humans. Neem oil works well for controlling aphids, caterpillars, and spider mites.
Proper Garden Maintenance
Regularly remove dead leaves and weeds, as these can attract pests and harbor eggs or larvae. Water in the morning to allow soil to dry by night, as damp soil can attract slugs and snails.
By implementing these strategies, you can maintain a thriving garden that’s safe from common pests while supporting a balanced ecosystem.