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Worried about pests ruining your garden?
No need to stress!
There are easy ways to keep those critters away. Discover 6 simple pest control methods that really work.
Keep your harvest safe and healthy. Let’s get started!
1. Keep Your Garden Clean
One of the first steps to keeping pests away is to maintain a clean garden. Remove dead leaves, old plants, and debris regularly.
Pests love to hide in these places and can quickly multiply if left unchecked. By keeping things tidy, you reduce the risk of an infestation.
Plus, your garden will look prettier! Win-win.
2. Use Natural Predators
Invite the good guys into your garden! Ladybugs, spiders, and birds can help keep pests in check.
You can buy ladybugs online or at your local nursery. Encourage birds with feeders and bird baths.
Let nature do its thing, and you’ll have fewer pests munching on your precious plants.
3. Plant Companion Plants
Some plants work together to keep pests at bay. For example, marigolds can repel nematodes, and basil can ward off flies and mosquitoes.
Do a little research on which plants can be buddies in your garden. Not only will this method reduce pests, but it can also improve the growth and flavor of certain plants!
4. Make Homemade Sprays
Skip the harsh chemicals and whip up your own pest control sprays at home. A simple mix of water, dish soap, and a bit of garlic or hot pepper can work wonders.
Spray it on the leaves and stems of your plants to deter pests without harming them or the environment.
5. Rotate Your Crops
Pests tend to stick around if you plant the same crops in the same spot year after year. Crop rotation can confuse pests and reduce their numbers over time.
Plan your garden layout so different plant families occupy different spaces each year. Your soil will thank you, and so will your plants!
6. Use Physical Barriers
Sometimes, you need to block pests out physically. Mesh nets, row covers, and even simple cardboard collars around the base of plants can make it tough for pests to reach your crops.
These barriers are easy to set up and can be an effective line of defense without any chemicals.