Organic Garden Pest Management: Accept, Prevent, Act Fast

Pests are inevitable. Panic is optional. A calm, layered strategy keeps damage minimal.

Philosophy

Total eradication is impossible and undesirable. Beneficial insects need prey. Aim for balance.

First Line: Plant Selection

• Choose pest-resistant varieties.
• Interplant to confuse pests.
• Attract beneficials (yarrow, alyssum, dill for ladybugs, lacewings, parasitic wasps).

Second Line: Dormant Sprays

Apply in late winter (Feb in North). Follow labels exactly. Overuse kills allies.

Third Line: Rapid Response

• Scout daily.
• At first sign: remove by hand, blast water, apply targeted organic control.
• Destroy breeding sites (eggs, larvae, overwintering debris).
• Coordinate with neighbors for area-wide suppression.

Preparedness + speed = a garden that feeds you, not the bugs.