Find out how to stop pests in their tracks with these organic prevention techniques
There’s nothing more infuriating than spending days, weeks, even months, sowing, raising and nurturing plants, just for them to be wiped out overnight by pests. However, it can be even more frustrating when it feels like it is impossible to stop them. But, equipped with the correct controls and approach, it shouldn’t have to be a time-consuming or even expensive road to rooting out unwanted garden critters. And you can keep it eco-friendly! Here’s how to stop pests helping themselves to your fruits and veggies before you get the chance to.
Biological controls
The idea of introducing more bugs to a growing space that is already overrun with pests might seem counterproductive. But as the natural predators of pests such as aphids, vine weevils, red spider mite and whitefly, setting these insects free will reduce the overall unwanted pest population, so you don’t have to do a thing. Unlike some other solutions, pests can’t build up a resistance to biological controls, so they can be re-introduced whenever a re-infestation occurs. Great for organic growers, these bugs won’t leave behind any undesirable chemicals or nasty residues, so they won’t compromise the health of your plants or the surrounding environment.
Run for cover
A good place for growers to start, who might not be ready for biological controls, are pest protecting covers such as hoops, netting, fruit cages, cloches and self-contained raised beds. These products are very effective at keeping off larger animals like birds, deer, foxes, and every gardener’s arch nemesis – slugs and snails! Of course, there are things to be wary of when using these methods, especially netting. It’s important to pull netting taut and to not use material that has holes larger than 1cm. This is because the larger the holes, the easier it is for birds to get a wing, beak or a leg stuck in it. It is also important to regularly check netting for rips and snags.
Tonics, solutions and sprays
Gone are the days when toxic pest control products were the answer to a pest problem. Now, companies have developed products that are able to stop pests in their tracks but contain no toxic chemicals and some even have plant-boosting nutrients, too. This isn’t just good news for your plants, but also for wildlife, who might’ve also been harmed when feasting on critters lower down the food chain, and it makes them safe to use around pets and children.
There are lots
