I’m the head gardener at a castle – my tips keep away pests without chemicals, you’re better off letting ladybugs in
THE head gardener at Raby Castle has revealed getting rid of specific pests could be doing more harm than good for your plants.
He shared the pest control methods he swears by that don’t involve spraying toxic chemicals.
Spring has brought brighter and warmer days but also an increase in insects ready to feast on crops.
As well as eating foods before they can be harvested, critters that bite and sting can make sitting outside less appealing.
Tim Marshall is the head gardener at one of the most impressive intact castles in the North East of the UK.
He revealed the tricks he uses at Raby Castle which can be used by green-fingered homeowners to banish pests.
He said it’s important to use natural approaches that safeguard your plants and uphold the ecological balance in your garden.
NATURAL PREDATORS
The gardening expert recommended encouraging beneficial insects and animals to enter your garden as a sustainable approach to controlling pests.
“Predatory insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps feed on common garden pests such as aphids, caterpillars, and mites,” Marshall told The U.S. Sun.
“By planting native flowers and providing habitats for these beneficial predators, you can establish a natural balance that keeps pest populations in check.”
According to Grow Veg, ladybirds are attracted to pollen-rich blooms such as yarrow, angelica, fennel, and dill.
DIVERSITY IN PLANTING
Marshall said embracing different planting techniques is one of the “most effective” ways to prevent pest infestations.
“Cultivating a variety of plants in your garden helps deter pests from targeting a specific species,” he said.
“Additionally, companion planting techniques, where beneficial plants are grown alongside susceptible ones, can help repel pests and encourage biodiversity in your garden.”
The tip reiterates BBC Gardeners’ World presenter Mark Lane's recommendation of planting marigolds to attract pests and using lettuce as a sacrificial plant.
The belief is that critters will be drawn to these instead of prized plants.
You can create a balanced ecosystem that thrives in harmony with nature.
Tim Marshall
HEALTHY SOIL MANAGEMENT
Marshall said steering clear of chemical pesticides can create a thriving and sustainable environment for your plants to flourish.
“Maintaining healthy soil is crucial for fostering strong and resilient plants that are better equipped to withstand pest attacks,” he said.
“Focus on improving soil fertility through organic amendments such as compost, manure, and mulch.
“Healthy soil promotes vigorous plant growth, enabling them to naturally resist pests and diseases.”
TRAP CROPS AND BARRIERS
“Strategically planting trap crops that attract pests away from your main crop can be an effective method of pest control,” Marshall said.
“For instance, planting marigolds to lure aphids or planting radishes to deter cucumber beetles can help protect your valuable plants.
“Physical barriers such as row covers, netting, and sticky traps can also be used to prevent pests from accessing vulnerable plants.”
Floating row covers are available for $29.99 at Walmart.
Customers have given it a whopping 4.8-star rating and written rave reviews about how it protected their plants.
“My plants are still alive, so this fabric cover must be working,” one shopper said.
“Easy to use and very durable,’ another said.
ORGANIC SPRAYS
Marshall recommended using homemade repellants rather than chemical pesticides to target infestations without damaging plants.
“Organic insecticidal soaps, neem oil, garlic sprays, and peppermint oil solutions are alternative remedies to chemical pesticides for tackling specific pest problems," he said.
“These natural substances target pests while minimizing harm to beneficial insects and the environment.
“Regular monitoring of your garden for pest populations and early intervention with organic sprays can effectively manage pest outbreaks.”
Tips for keeping pests from your garden
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- Plant companion plants such as peppermint to repel rats.
- Place Garden Netting Pest Barrier, $8, Amazon, over your flowerbeds.
- Fill open-top containers with beer and place in soil to repel slugs.
- Spray plants with Neem Oil, $9, Target, to repel ants, flies, and spiders.
- Dust your flowerbeds with Diatomaceous Earth, $8.26, Amazon.
- Mix 1 tablespoon dish soap, 10 drops peppermint oil, and 4 cups water and spray on flowerbeds.
- Place eggshells around your plants to protect from slugs and snails.
MANUAL CONTROL
“Implementing a crop rotation plan can help disrupt the lifecycle of pests and prevent the buildup of pest populations in your garden,” Marshall said.
“By rotating plant families each season, you can reduce the risk of continuous pest infestations and soil-borne diseases.
“Furthermore, practicing crop rotation enhances soil health and nutrient availability for different plant species.”
“Engaging in regular garden maintenance practices such as handpicking pests, pruning infested plant parts, and removing weed hosts can significantly reduce pest pressure in your garden,” he added.
“Routinely inspecting your plants for signs of pest damage and taking swift action to remove pests by hand can prevent infestations from escalating.
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“By adopting sustainable practices, promoting biodiversity, and utilizing natural remedies, you can create a balanced ecosystem that thrives in harmony with nature.
“Embrace these organic approaches to protect your garden from pests and foster a vibrant and resilient landscape for years to come.”
