Insects, bugs, and animals have come out of hibernation and now pose a risk to the beautiful landscaping work you spent days or even weeks on digging in the dirt. Consider changing up your pest control strategy to make the best of these warmer months and fight off troublesome animals, bugs, and insects like mosquitoes, flies, aphids, slugs, and moths. You may be tempted to turn to harsh chemical pesticides to do the job, but there are plenty of natural, eco-friendly methods to try first. Check out our recommended methods below to see how you can control pests…not the other way around.
Flowers.
Flowers are a beautiful addition to any outdoor area. But did you know that they can defend against pests? Combat bugs by planting petunias, marigolds, geraniums, and chrysanthemums. These flowers repel pests while making your yard colorful. In fact, pyrethrin is a compound in chrysanthemums that is also an active ingredient in many insect repellent products.
But did you know that your garden can serve as a defense against these pests?
Herbs.
Here are a few herbs that are natural pest deterrents:
- Mint
- Basil
- Lavender
- Rosemary
- Lemongrass
- Lemon thyme
- Sage
- Catnip
- Chives
- Fennel
Neem oil.
Neem oil works by counteracting the hormones that cause insects to want to munch on your plants. In other words, it takes away their “munchies”. You can spray this on your plants’ leaves.
Birds.
Birds eat bugs and can help your pest problem immensely. Attract birds by providing food, nesting boxes, and brush piles in the corner of your yard.
Diatomaceous Earth.
This organic powder is made out of crushed up bodies of prehistoric fossils. The pieces of the fossils are sharp when ground up and can kill many small bugs when they breathe it in. It’s effective against many different types of bugs and insects ranging from spiders, slugs, beetles, and mites.
Remove standing water.
Still water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes, termites, ants, pillbugs, and cockroaches. Don’t give them the opportunity to make a new home.
Need Help with Pest Control? We Offer Plantscaping Services in Louisville, KY.
Don’t let pests invade your garden or yard ruin your plants—simply follow these tips to ensure you can enjoy your landscape for many days to come. If you’d rather an expert come and do the job for you, count on the experienced plant specialists at Anything Groes.