It can be very frustrating to put time and energy into growing your own vegetables only to have your garden become overridden by pests. Wondering how to avoid this? Here are a few natural techniques you can try to fight back against pest infestations in your vegetable garden!
1. Minimize Insect Habitats & Dispose Of Weak Or Dying Plants
Clear away debris and weeds from your garden regularly, and pull out weak or dying plants that may be dying or have already been affected by pests. This will help prevent pests in your vegetable garden.
2. Avoid Wet Foliage
Try to water your garden in the early morning so that your plants will be dry for most of the day. Excessive moisture attracts fungus and pests, so avoid watering at night, if at all possible, and make sure you’re not overwatering your plants.
3. Create Healthy Soil For Your Plants
If your plants are healthy and strong, they’re going to be able to resist pest infestations more effectively, so make sure that you’re using natural compost and mulch to provide your plants with the natural chemicals and minerals they need to grow strong.
4. Spray Your Garden With Neem Oil
Neem oil is derived from the seeds of shrubby trees that are native to India. It’s been used as a natural insecticide for centuries, and it’s a great option if you want to avoid using chemical pest control products. It helps with fungus, aphids, mites, and a number of other common pests. You can buy a commercially-available product or make your own by mixing neem oil with water at a ratio of 2 tbsp per gallon.
5. Use Soap To Repel Pests
Soap spray can be made by mixing 1.5 teaspoons of liquid soap (we recommend castile soap) with 1 quart of water. The soap dehydrates and helps control mites, beetles, whiteflies, aphids and other common pests. It’s best to apply it in the early morning or evening, since the hot sun can cause it to evaporate too quickly to have any effect.
Try These Techniques For A Pest-Free Garden (Without Pesticides)
With a little planning and preparation, and a few natural, home-made pesticides, you easily prevent pests in your vegetable garden. Need more tips and advice, or products to improve your garden?
Shop for pest control products on our website, visit The Soil King Garden Center at 320 Santana Dr, Cloverdale, CA 95425, or contact us online