Bert Swope
The first and most important tip on using garden pest control products is knowing what is harmful and what is not. There are many chemicals and non-toxic alternatives, but there are also a few natural options to consider. Listed below are some helpful tips to keep pests away from your home and garden. Non-toxic methods include plant selection and using the spray from a garden hose. If you are unsure of which type of product to choose, read on for some helpful information.
Beneficial insects
In order to use beneficial insects for garden pest control, you must follow city codes. You should also discuss the introduction of beneficial insects with your neighbors before you start spraying. It may take several days to weeks before you see results, so be patient. Once the insects have settled in your garden, you must provide a suitable habitat for them. If you don’t want to pay for the insects, you can ask your neighbors for a share of the cost.
Many of these beneficial insects feed on the remains of fallen vegetation in your garden, making it an ideal environment for them. However, it is important to note that pesticides kill beneficial insects. You should therefore apply them only on the areas where there are pest problems. For example, pruning a concentrated infestation may solve the problem. For smaller infestations, you can treat the lawn with a pesticide. Alternatively, use beneficial insects to control pests in your garden.
Non-toxic methods
Natural, non-toxic garden pest control solutions include biological and mechanical means. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of garden pests and can be easily attracted to plants with flowers that contain nectar. If your garden has an aphid problem, you can release predators into your landscape, including parasitic wasps. These predators are highly effective in controlling aphids. In addition, you can plant companion plants with these pest-resistant species in order to control them.
Plants that are healthy and strong will not attract pests and disease. Keep regular inspections of your garden and be vigilant about pest infestations. Regular inspections will help identify and address any issues early. Then you can treat them before they spread. Non-toxic methods of using garden pest control are a great alternative to chemical pesticides. It is a better alternative to chemical pesticides because they are less harmful to pets.
Another natural, non-toxic garden pest control solution is using dish soap. Diluted dish soap can be used as a standalone spray for pests. While dish soap may seem like an odd choice, it is safe for children and the environment, and can even kill ants. Unlike traditional chemical pesticides, this one is also non-toxic. Even more amazing, it won’t harm your plants, pets, or wider food chain!
Planting plants to attract beneficial insects
If you’re looking for an affordable way to keep pests at bay, consider planting beneficial insects. These beneficial insects aren’t harmful to your plants and can even help you out by providing some of the food those pests like to feast on. Planting a variety of different types of plants in your garden will help attract a wider variety of beneficial insects. Plants in the daisy, cabbage, and carrot families also offer a wealth of nectar and pollen to these insects.
Sweet alyssum, calendula, coreopsis, and dill are among the flowers that can attract beneficial insects. Lady beetles are particularly attracted to these plants. Also, plants from the verbena family (such as sweet clover and hair vetch) attract a number of beneficials. Several other plants in this family are useful for garden pest control.
Using a hose’s spray
Using a hose’s spray can kill many types of pests, but you must use the right product for the right purpose. Using an insecticidal soap, such as Sevin ECO Insect Killer, is an easy way to kill insects in your garden. This product works by killing pests on contact, so you won’t hurt plants or your lawn while spraying. It also protects your garden for up to three months.
Aphids: Although aphids are difficult to identify, a water mist can be highly effective against the insects. A mist spray is more effective than a strong jet of water. A mist spray of water will dissuade aphids from entering the plant, so you should aim for an even mist instead of a strong jet of water.
Arthropods: A hose’s spray should be used with care when applying a pesticide to the foliage of a plant. The pressure from the spray should not exceed 90 or 100 pounds per square inch. If you are using a pressure that is higher than this, you may damage nearby plants. Using a hose’s spray to kill garden pests is a simple way to protect your plants from unwanted insects.
Using crushed eggshells
Crushed eggshells are a great way to add nutrients to your soil and make new plants grow stronger. They can also be used as a worm bin or compost pile material, since they aid in worm digestion. Crushed eggshells also improve soil aeration and drainage. They can also be used as a container for seeds, but make sure to sterilize them first! Another gardening tip is to place eggshells in the oven after cooking.
You can crush eggshells by hand or use a rolling pin. You can use the powder to sprinkle directly on the soil, especially around the base of plants. Repeat the process after heavy rain to prevent the eggshells from washing away. This organic material is extremely versatile and can serve as fertilizer for your plants, as well as an effective garden pest control solution. This article will give you more information about the benefits of crushed eggshells and other ways to use them for pest control.
Aside from being a great source of calcium, eggshells can also help prevent blossom end rot in many plants. Similarly, they can help to speed up the process of compost breakdown. In addition, eggshells have multiple uses, and can be used as a first aid product. Crushed eggshells are also helpful in healing cuts and scratches without the use of bandages. They are an excellent DIY first aid tool!
Using Diatomaceous earth
Insecticides such as Diatomaceous Earth are safe to use around your garden. These fine, dry powders have been used as an effective insecticide for years. The primary difference between Diatomaceous Earth and other insecticides is that they do not harm animals, but they do affect pests. Ticks are particularly dangerous if your garden is near woods or where there are many pets. Ticks can transmit illnesses such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Tularemia, Ehrlichiosis, and Lyme disease to your pets and children.
To apply Diatomaceous Earth, simply scatter a few handfuls on the affected area. It works best on larger areas, as the drying action of Diatomaceous Earth only takes effect after the water has vaporized. It is best to use only “food-grade” Diatomaceous Earth for your garden. Other types of Diatomaceous Earth may contain harmful contaminants. However, food-grade Diatomaceous Earth is relatively safe for humans and pets.
Using lemongrass
If you’re interested in using lemongrass as a garden pest control, you should know that this herb is easy to grow. Lemongrass seeds germinate in about 14 days and are ready for harvesting after 90 days. To start a plant, simply put the seed in moistened potting soil, allowing the roots to take hold. Keep the cuttings moist and place them in consistent light and a south-facing window. Once the cuttings have grown, you can plant them.
Lemongrass oil is an effective insect repellent. If you want to make your own, grind the leaves and lower stalks and then rub the oil on your skin. Lemongrass also repels many other insects, including moths, cockroaches, and ants. However, don’t ingest lemongrass essential oil. It may irritate your skin and eyes. Lemongrass plants can be grown in containers in your home and harvested for its culinary benefits.
Using basil
If you want to use basil for garden pest control, you’ll need to use the right product. Check the label to ensure it’s safe and effective. Always follow the label directions. Pesticides may not be effective for all pests and diseases. It’s also important to use distilled water or pure organic vinegar. When using pesticides, avoid spraying them in the sun or ignoring them once they’re applied.
Japanese beetles are particularly troublesome in basil, as their larvae and adults can eat it. You can spray your basil plants with neem oil or cedar oil to kill the insects. You can also spray the basil plants with diatomaceous earth. The chemical in diatomaceous earth helps kill larvae before they develop, so it’s an excellent pesticide for basil. Using basil for garden pest control in this manner will help you grow your favorite herb.
Spider mites are another pest to look out for in basil plants. Their webs protect them from predators, but you can identify a mite infestation by looking for tiny white spots on your basil plants. If you notice any of these signs, remove them as soon as possible. If you’re concerned about an infestation, use a magnifying glass and inspect the basil plants with a sterile glove. If you see spider mite webs, remove them immediately.
