Last Updated on June 6, 2024 by Veronica Sparks
When you’re growing food by maintaining a healthy and thriving garden, it often means dealing with unwanted pests. While chemical pesticides are commonly used, they can have awful adverse effects. Fortunately, there are effective natural alternatives for pest control that are safe and eco-friendly. Let’s explore five natural garden pest control methods that can help you protect your plants without causing harm.
6 Natural Garden Pest Control Methods
Now let’s explore five effective natural methods to control common garden pests without harming beneficial insects and pollinators!
1. Neem Oil (Japanese Beetles)
Neem oil, derived from the neem tree, is a natural pesticide that repels and disrupts the life cycle of many harmful insects, including the super-destructive Japanese beetle. It is safe to use around beneficial insects and does not harm pollinators, but it kills harmful insects at all stages — from egg to adult.
To use neem oil in your garden, simply dilute it according to the instructions on the product and apply the mixture to the affected plants.
2. Copper Strips (Snails & Slugs)
Snails and slugs can wreak havoc feeding on your garden, but using copper strips can help deter them. These pests dislike the electric charge created when they come into contact with copper.
Simply place copper strips around your garden beds or pots to create a barrier that prevents snails and slugs from reaching your plants.
3. Baking Soda (Non-Flying Pests)
A simple and effective solution for eliminating non-flying pests like slugs, snails, aphids, ants, and spider mites is using baking soda.
Mix equal parts of baking soda and water to create a spray. Directly apply the solution to the affected areas of the plants or use it as a barrier around the plants. The best part? Baking soda is non-toxic to beneficial insects and pollinators.
For quick application to a large area of your garden, consider using a garden pump sprayer to apply the solution.
4. Bar Soap (Deer)
If deer are frequent visitors to your garden and pose a threat to your plants, you can use bar soap like Irish Spring as a deterrent. Hang small pieces of strongly scented soap near vulnerable plants or create a perimeter around the garden. The strong odor helps repel deer, keeping them away from your precious plants.
5. Hot Pepper Spray (Squirrels and Rabbits)
Squirrels and rabbits can cause damage to your garden by nibbling on plants and vegetables or digging up bulbs. You can make a natural deterrent spray by combining hot peppers, water, and a small amount of dish soap.
Blend the hot peppers with the water and strain the mixture. Add a few drops of dish soap to help the solution adhere to the plants and then spray the mixture on vulnerable plants to keep squirrels and rabbits at bay.
Related Article: Which Seasoning Pepper Plants Should You Grow in Your Garden? Our 4 Favorites!
6. Companion Planting (Various Pests)
Using herbs, flowers, and companion planting can also effectively deter garden pests. Here are some examples:
- Marigolds repel parasites like nematodes.
- Basil keeps mosquitoes and flies at bay.
- Nasturtiums actually attract aphids so you can plant them away from your other plants to keep aphids contained.
- Chives deter Japanese beetles.
- Planting garlic alongside roses helps repel aphids and beetles.
- Celery and Thyme deter cabbage worms.
Companion planting not only reduces pests but also enhances plant growth, creating a thriving, pest-resistant garden ecosystem.
Beneficial Insects vs. Garden Pests
Common garden pests aren’t the only insects that creep around your garden. There are some bugs whose presence you definitely want to encourage.
Pollinators and other beneficial insects play a crucial role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem and promoting plant growth. These insects help control pest populations by feeding on harmful bugs and also aid in pollination, which is vital for the reproduction of many flowering plants.
Some common beneficial insects include ladybugs, lacewings, hoverflies, wasps, and bees.
Fast Facts: The Dangers of Chemical Pesticides
Using chemical pesticides in your garden poses several risks to the environment and even your own health. Here are some fast facts to consider:
- Pesticides can contaminate soil, water sources, and air, causing harm to wildlife and disrupting ecosystems.
- Exposure to pesticides has been linked to various health problems in humans, including respiratory issues, neurological disorders, and even cancer.
- Chemical pesticides (and even some natural pesticides) often harm or kill beneficial insects and pollinators, leading to a decline in biodiversity and reduced crop pollination.
Related Article: Backyard Beekeeping: What You Need to Know Before Following the Buzz
Benefits of Natural Garden Pest Control
Keeps Chemicals Out of Your Edibles
By using natural pest control methods, you can ensure that the vegetables you grow are free from harmful chemical residues. This promotes healthier eating and reduces the risk of pesticide-related health issues.
Environmental Benefits
Natural pest control methods are environmentally friendly. They minimize the negative impact on ecosystems, water sources, and wildlife, helping to preserve a balanced and sustainable environment.
Related Article: 7 Reasonable Ways to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint (And Save Money!)
Keeps Beneficial Insects Around
Unlike chemical pesticides, natural pest control methods do not harm beneficial insects. By choosing natural alternatives, you can maintain a diverse population of beneficial insects that contribute to a healthy garden ecosystem.
Keep Your Garden, Your Body, and the Environment in Good Health!
Maintaining a healthy and pest-free garden doesn’t have to involve harmful chemical pesticides. By adopting natural pest control methods, you can protect your plants while preserving the health of beneficial insects and pollinators. These effective alternatives offer safe and eco-friendly solutions for common garden pests.
Embracing these methods not only promotes a thriving garden but also contributes to a sustainable and balanced environment.