In India, organic farming has been practiced since ancient times and is not a recent development. This farming system’s main goal is to cultivate the land and raise crops in a way that keeps the soil alive and healthy. It does this by using biological materials and organic wastes (crop, animal, and farm wastes, and aquatic wastes) in conjunction with beneficial microbes (biofertilizers) to release nutrients to crops, increasing sustainable production in a pollution-free, environmentally friendly environment.
You can think of the five strategies below as steps, except you’re constantly going to be cycling through them as part of your garden tending tasks. Here’s how to deal with pests naturally:
- Prune away visible damage on the plant
- Clear the area
- Nourish the plant with compost
- Invite the pest’s natural predators into the garden
- Monitor the plant daily for the next two weeks before taking further action
The easiest way to prevent insect damage in your garden is to discourage them from coming in the first place. A healthy garden is the best defense.
Instead of using harmful pesticides in your garden to control pests, consider incorporating beneficial plants that naturally deter them.
These beneficial plants offer natural pest control and add beauty and diversity to your garden.
There are several varieties available, ranging from mint to marigolds. By using these natural pest control methods, you can contribute to environmental sustainability and enjoy a healthier garden.
Mint
Many pests, including mice, fleas, and ants, are repelled by the potent aroma of mint. To stave against pests, put mint in containers by entrances or throughout your garden. As an alternative, you can crush fresh mint leaves and combine them with water to create a natural bug repellent. Just keep in mind that mint may be invasive, so it’s best to plant it in a container or another section of your garden to keep it from taking over.
Aphids and caterpillars can be managed with the help of helpful insects like parasitic wasps and ladybugs, who are drawn to these happy blossoms.
Marigolds
Nematodes, whiteflies, and other pests can be managed with these lovely, vibrant blossoms, which also act as a natural insect repellant. They contain pyrethrin, a naturally occurring pesticide chemical.
Lemongrass
The grass known as lemongrass is indigenous to Asia. Because of its powerful lemony aroma, which mosquitoes and other insects find repulsive, it is frequently used in cooking and insect repellents.
Basil
Aphids, spider mites, and other pests can be repelled by the culinary herb basil, which also works well to keep mosquitoes, flies, and other insects away. It contains linalool, a substance with insecticidal effects.
A pest-free garden is pretty much an impossibility. Pests are essentially just waiting at the ready for some food to appear. In fact, the only way to avoid having any kind of bug or unwelcome critter in your garden would be to garden in a hermetically sealed environment.