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BUG OFF
My 4 methods will prevent pests from invading your garden without sprays or pesticides – a pretty ‘predator’ can help
Plus the best solution for vulnerable plants
A PREDATORY insect could help get rid of pests in your garden without using harsh chemicals, according to a sustainability expert.
The expert revealed tricks that can prevent critters from damaging plants and what to do if they continue to invade your garden.
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Many homeowners have seen more garden pests since spring brought warmer and brighter days.
Creatures such as slugs and snails can feast on crops before they are harvested while flying pests can be a health risk to humans.
Rinkesh Kukreja is a sustainability expert and founder of the green living website Conserve Energy Future.
He told The U.S. Sun gardeners always worry about the damage pests can do to their plants.
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However, they should opt for organic ways to protect their gardens rather than using harsh chemicals.
ROTATE CROPS
“A key part of sustainable gardening is prevention, not treatment,” Kukreja said.
“Doing things like rotating crops, planting different plants together, and improving soil health naturally can make plants more resistant to pests.”
The advice reiterates BBC presenter Mark Lane’s tip to plant lettuce in the hopes that pests will eat them rather than “prized” plants.
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He also said companion plants such as marigolds may deter bugs.
I’m an organic farmer and my no-chemical tips will repel pests from your garden - there's a boozy way to catch slugs
BRILLIANT BUGS
“You can also attract helpful insects and predators like ladybugs, praying mantises, or birds,” Kukreja said.
“They will keep harmful pests under control.”
Ladybugs are attracted to gardens with “pollen-rich blooms,” according to Grow Veg.
Yarrow, angelica, fennel, and dill are among the flat-topped flowers they are drawn to as well as companion plants such as marigolds and calendula.
DIY REPELLANTS
“If prevention is not enough, some organic pest control works well,” Kukreja said.
“Homemade mixtures with garlic, chili peppers, or soap can deter many common pests.”
It is important to remember a few pests will not ruin the whole garden.
Rinkesh Kukreja
Mark Lane previously shared a DIY spray recipe that he learned from a gold-medal-award-winning hosta grower at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
He recommended placing two garlic bulbs in a saucepan filled with two liters of water and then bringing them to a boil.
“Crush the bulbs against the side of the saucepan with the back of a fork to release the juices,” he said.
Remove any floating skins and wait for the water to turn cloudy.
He said to then add two tablespoons of the garlic concentrate to a 4.5-liter watering can.
Tips for keeping pests from your garden
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- Plant companion plants such as peppermint to repel rats.
- Place Garden Netting Pest Barrier, $8, Amazon, over your flowerbeds.
- Fill open-top containers with beer and place in soil to repel slugs.
- Spray plants with Neem Oil, $9, Target, to repel ants, flies, and spiders.
- Dust your flowerbeds with Diatomaceous Earth, $8.26, Amazon.
- Mix 1 tablespoon dish soap, 10 drops peppermint oil, and 4 cups water and spray on flowerbeds.
- Place eggshells around your plants to protect from slugs and snails.
CROP COVERS
“Physical barriers like row covers or sticky traps can also protect vulnerable plants,” Kukreja said.
“It is important to remember a few pests will not ruin the whole garden.
“Focusing on organic approaches encourages natural predator-prey relationships.
“These help balance pest numbers while protecting the environment.”
READ MORE SUN STORIES
Plant row covers are available for $11.99 at Walmart.
According to the manufacturer, they protect against insects, birds, and harsh weather conditions.
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