Mealybugs, aphids, caterpillars, and red spiders are just a few of the unwanted pests that infiltrate your garden and invade your plants. These pests can ravage your garden, causing significant damage. However, you can protect your plants and overcome these predators by using natural methods. Discover how to eliminate garden pests effectively and prevent them from returning.
How to Eliminate Garden Pests?
How to Get Rid of Aphids on Garden Plants
Aphids are notorious pests, particularly for rose bushes. To detect their presence, observe the foliage of your plants. Infested leaves may be deformed or rolled up, and aphids secrete a sweet, sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts ants and causes sooty mold.
To eliminate aphids, mix 3 tablespoons of black soap with a liter of water in a spray bottle. Spray the foliage, paying special attention to the underside of the leaves, where aphids tend to hide. Repeat this process for several days. Another natural repellent is coffee grounds. Sprinkle dry grounds at the base of infested plants and change them regularly, especially if they become wet. Other natural products such as Marseille soap, garlic, or neem oil can also be effective.
How to Get Rid of Scale Insects in the Garden
Scale insects are piercing-sucking insects that feed on plant sap and secrete honeydew, leading to the growth of sooty mold. Common plants affected by scale insects include orchids, succulents, and rose bushes. To eliminate them, mix 1 cup of white vinegar with 1 liter of water in a spray bottle and apply it to the infested areas. Repeat the treatment until the parasites are gone. Alternatively, use nettle manure, a natural insecticide, by spraying it directly onto the foliage.
How to Get Rid of Red Spider Mites in the Garden
Red spider mites, also called spider mites, are common pests that damage plants during hot and dry conditions. These pests thrive in poor soil and when plants are over-fertilized with nitrogen. Plants like cyclamens, hydrangeas, and dahlias are particularly susceptible. Signs of infestation include yellowing and drying of the leaves.
To eliminate red spider mites, mix 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper powder, a few drops of dishwashing liquid, and 1 liter of warm water. Let the mixture sit overnight and strain it. Transfer the solution to a spray bottle and apply it to the foliage of the infected plants.
How to Prevent the Appearance of These Parasites in the Garden?
Removing Weeds from the Garden
Weeds not only compete with your plants for nutrients and light, but they also harbor pests. To remove weeds without chemicals, use baking soda as a natural weedkiller. Sprinkle it on the affected areas and water the soil. Alternatively, you can use salt. Dissolve 200g of salt in 1 liter of water and apply it to your weeds.
Maintaining the Garden
It’s important to regularly remove dead flowers and leaves from your garden to prevent decomposition, which can attract pests, fungi, and other diseases.
Adding Beneficial Insects to Your Garden
Not all insects are harmful to your plants. Some, like ladybugs, are beneficial because they feed on pests such as aphids, mites, and the larvae of other garden insects. Adding these natural predators to your garden will help keep pest populations in check.
With these simple tips, you can effectively protect your garden from pests and keep your plants healthy and thriving!
