Spring is finally here, and it’s time to start planning your garden. But before you get too excited, there’s one thing to consider—pests! Uninvited guests like aphids and caterpillars can wreak havoc on your hard-earned plantings. Don’t let pests crash your party – read on to discover tips on using landscape maintenance as good pest control.
Tip 1: Pest Proof Your Garden
The best way to keep pests away from your garden is to create an environment that does not attract them in the first place. Start by removing any debris, such as fallen leaves or branches, from your planting beds and the adjacent areas. These are prime spots for pests to hide and thrive. You should also make sure that any mulch you use is fresh and free of weeds so that it doesn’t attract bugs. Finally, keep a close eye on the pH level of your soil – many pests prefer acidic soil, so maintaining a neutral pH level can help prevent infestations.
Tip 2: Encourage Beneficial Predators
Another way to protect your plants from pests is to introduce beneficial predators, such as ladybugs or spiders, into the area. These predators feed on pests, helping to keep their population down naturally. To attract beneficial predators, try planting flowers that they like in nearby areas of your garden or using homemade traps with things like beer or maple syrup (just make sure they are far enough away from where you will be working!). You can also purchase commercially available beneficial predator traps. You can also consult with a trusted landscape company about their landscape maintenance services, which may include plans to keep pests at bay.
Tip 3: Use Organic Repellents
In addition to natural methods for pest prevention, there are also organic repellents available on the market if you need a bit more help keeping those pesky critters away from your plants. Most organic repellents are made with natural ingredients like garlic or peppermint oil and come in liquid spray form or granules that can be sprinkled around the perimeter of your garden bed. Just make sure that whatever product you use is labeled as safe for use in gardens – some products may have adverse effects on certain types of plants or soil types, so it’s important to do research before applying anything!
Keeping pests out of your spring plantings doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task! With some simple steps such as pest-proofing the area, attracting beneficial predators, and using organic repellents when necessary, you can stop those uninvited guests from crashing your garden party this season!
Bonus Tip: Consider Professional Landscape Maintenance
You may also consider hiring a landscape company, such as The Narrow Lane, to help with your landscape maintenance. Our team of professionals has years of experience in keeping gardens and planting beds thriving throughout the growing season, resulting in a lush and verdant oasis (and freeing up your time, too!) Contact us to schedule a free consultation.