Gentle Pest Controls: Earth-Friendly Solutions for Common Garden Problems

Spring brings pests and diseases. Before chemicals, check growing conditions—healthy, vigorous plants resist better.

• Right conditions? Adequate space, correct light, good air circulation.
• Healthy soil? Flowers/veggies need amended soil with compost. Trees/shrubs: organic mulch (bark chips) for cool roots and beneficial organisms.
• Proper water/nutrients? Water early morning. Water-stressed plants are vulnerable.

If good care isn't enough, identify the problem and choose the least-toxic control from the chart below. Give it time to work before escalating.

Attract Beneficial Insects

Ladybugs, green lacewings control aphids, scales. Plant long-blooming annuals/perennials: coreopsis, corn cockle, cosmos, sweet alyssum, yarrow. Avoid indiscriminate spraying. Can also order beneficials from Harmony Farm Supply, Natural Pest Controls, Peaceful Valley Farm Supply.

Earth-Friendly Solutions Chart