Gardening can be a very fulfilling and rewarding hobby. Unfortunately, gardens are also a prime target for pests and vermin – especially fruit and vegetable gardens. It’s important to include pest control measures when planning your garden, ideally before plants are in the ground. However, it’s equally important to ensure your pest control methods are safe and environmentally friendly.

Here are some guidelines for safe pest control in your garden:

Use Physical Barriers

Physical barriers such as bird netting, insect screens, and fences can effectively keep all manner of pests out of your garden. You can also use coffee grounds, diatomaceous earth, and eggshells around the base of plants to prevent snails and slugs from climbing up and eating the leaves.

Use Organic Pesticides

If physical barriers and natural predators aren’t enough to control pests, try using organic pesticides. Neem oil is a popular, natural insecticide that is safe for humans, pets, and beneficial insects. It disrupts hormonal signals in certain species, like ants, so it is safe for most plants.

Avoid Chemical Pesticides

Chemical pesticides can be harmful to humans, pets, and the environment. Rat poison is one of the most dangerous kinds of chemical pesticide. How does rat poison work? Most types prevent a rat’s blood from clotting and they die from internal bleeding. The issue is that this poison can also affect humans and other animals, so it’s best to avoid using it whenever possible. If you must use it, use the smallest amount possible.

Introduce Beneficial Insects

Beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, feed on other pests and can help keep their populations in check. This is a fantastic treatment for many insect pests like aphids, ants, and mealybugs. You can buy beneficial insects online or from most garden centers.

Encourage Biodiversity

A diverse garden with a variety of plants and flows can attract an array of beneficial insects and birds. This can help keep pest populations under control and can also support pollinators, which will help your garden flourish.

Practice Good Garden Hygiene

Good garden hygiene can help prevent pests from taking over your garden. Remove dead leaves, stems, and plants promptly, as they are an ideal home for many pests. Dispose of them in the trash or compost pile rather than leaving them in the garden.

Monitor Regularly

Regular monitoring of your garden is essential to identifying pest problems early and taking action to control them. Check your plants and vegetables regularly for signs of damage, and keep an eye out for any pests that may be present.

Remember, protecting your garden from pests doesn’t have to involve the use of harmful chemicals. By using physical barriers, leveraging biodiversity and beneficial insects, practicing good garden hygiene, and monitoring your garden regularly, you can keep your garden healthy and beautiful while being kind to the environment. If you have to use chemical pest control, be sure to always follow the instructions and use as little as possible.