Worried about garden pests?
Protecting your plants doesn’t have to be hard.
Discover 10 genius ways to keep pests away and enjoy a thriving garden.
Ready for some smart tips?
Let’s dive in!
1. Tidy Up Your Garden
Maintain a tidy garden. Regularly clean under bird feeders. Ensure garbage lids are securely closed. Remove fallen nuts and fruit to prevent attracting squirrels, deer, and rabbits. Keeping these areas clean will help protect the fruits of your hard work from unwanted visitors.
2. Reduce Hiding Spots
- Cut down tall grass
- Remove brush piles
- Get rid of nests
Benefits
Pests find fewer hiding spots, reducing their presence in your garden.
3. Use Repellent Scents
Tailor scents to repel pests. Use hot peppers and castor bean if unsure of the pest. Moth balls can be effective but watch out for toxicity around kids and pets.
4. Put Up a Sturdy Fence
Construct a taller fence to safeguard your flowers and vegetables from larger and medium-sized pests. Ensure the fence is buried deep into the ground to prevent animals from digging underneath. For deer, consider extending the height or adding extra barriers, as shorter fences may not be effective.
5. Mix in Tin Foil
Mix strips of tin foil into the soil to deter insects. The reflective surface of the foil bounces light onto the plants, and many bugs will avoid these bright areas. This simple method helps protect your plants without needing chemical pesticides.
6. Plant Scented Herbs
Aromatic plants like basil, sage, mint, dill, and thyme emit natural scents that repel pests. Place these herbs near your vegetables to act as a deterrent against insects. This simple strategy helps keep your garden healthy and productive.
7. Cover Rows of Plants
A row cover can shield several plants while allowing light and air to pass through. This protective layer keeps out most insects and some smaller animals like rabbits and deer. It’s important to remove the cover once your plants reach maturity.
8. Get Chickens
Purchasing a chicken can serve a dual purpose. A laying hen not only helps in controlling pests by eating bugs but also provides fresh eggs. This approach is rewarding if you have the space and resources to manage the bird. It contributes both to pest control and fresh food supply.
9. Change Watering Schedule
Watering your garden in the morning can help reduce the presence of bugs and insects. Morning watering allows the soil to dry by nightfall, which makes it less appealing to pests. By adjusting your watering routine, you can create a less hospitable environment for these unwanted visitors.
10. Install Nets
To safeguard your crops from animal intrusions, consider placing a net or cage around vulnerable plants like tomatoes, carrots, and lettuce. Chicken wire or bird netting are effective options for shielding individual fruits or entire plants. This method ensures that your garden remains protected.
Remember to share these gardening tips with your friends on social media to help them maintain pest-free gardens as well.