After you’ve put the time and effort in growing a bountiful herb, vegetable, or flower garden, the last thing you’d want to do is leave it vulnerable to pests. Problem insects like beetles and caterpillars can quickly turn your hard work into their personal source for easy meals. Fortunately, preventing pests from destroying your garden is simpler than trying to control an outbreak after it’s already occurred. Here are some simple and practical pest control strategies for maintaining a thriving garden.

3 Pest Control Tips for Gardeners

1. Attract Beneficial Bugs

One way you can prevent pest species is by using certain plants to attract the good species that control them. Ladybugs, lacewings, and damsel bugs can patrol your garden, going after the pests that might otherwise destroy your garden.

Draw these protective critters in and enforce all-natural pest control by planting annual flowers that provide nectar, such as calendula or coriander. You can also incorporate taller flowers, such as sunflowers, around your garden’s perimeter to offer shelter and pollen for beneficial insects.

2. Support Healthy Soil

Healthy plants are better able to resist infestations. Pests typically target weaker plants, so give your blooms and veggies a fighting chance by starting them off right. Plant them in rich, healthy soil, and consider using fertilizers with natural agents such as seaweed, which can kickstart beneficial microbes. Tackle any weeds promptly as they develop. 

3. Consider Physical Barriers

Certain plants are particularly delicious to pests. Basil, chives, chrysanthemums, and lavender always seem to draw problem species. If other pest control tactics haven’t worked for you in the past, consider protecting vulnerable plants with physical barriers.

Lightweight row covers can keep insects out while still allowing for ample airflow, for instance. These can be used for young plants, but be sure to remove them once they reach maturity to allow for pollination. 

While you may be able to control pests in your garden, problem species that make their way into your home are a different story. To promptly and thoroughly address pests in your home, turn to Safeguard Pest Control. Specializing in addressing termites, wasps, spiders, and rodents, these pest control experts have helped homeowners keep their properties free of unwanted critters since 1979. See their full list of services online or call (209) 267-1200 to request a free onsite estimate.