Top Garden Pests and How to Combat Them

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Created: Wednesday, 26 May 2021 09:32

Midwestern periods of hot weather and little rain in the summer can cause drought stress, and stressed plants are an invitation to insects. Pests like spider mites, flea beetles, Japanese beetles, squash borers, aphids, several types of caterpillars and other flying and crawling critters can chew leaves and cause serious damage in your garden. Luckily, there are many ways you can prevent these pests this summer.

• Choose Resistant Varieties – Planning ahead and picking plant varieties that are known for resistance is one simple way to minimize pest activity.
• Plant in the Right Place – Make sure that your plants’ needs are being met. Ensure that they are in an appropriate location based on their sun and moisture needs to prevent putting extra stress on them.
• Attract Beneficial Insects – Beneficial insects, like ladybugs, lacewings, ground beetles, praying mantis and predatory flies will help control your pest population. Attract them by planting flowers like calendula, coriander, sunflowers, yarrow, and sweet alyssum.
• Repel Pests – Strong-scented herbs can deter pests when planted among or near the vegetables. Try calendula, coriander, garlic, chives or thyme.
• Be Proactive – It is important to be proactive rather than reactive. It is easier to prevent pests than to deal with an outbreak.

Visit your local Joe’s Market Basket for all of your pest and garden-related needs. Our experts would be happy to help find the right solution to any pest problems you have, or create a plan to prevent any problems down the road.