If you’ve just started a new garden and have invested a lot of time, energy, and resources into your landscaping, you will definitely want to protect it by keeping pests out. Nuisances such as insects and squirrels ruin the health of your plants; however, going after them with chemicals is not a healthy answer. Harsh pesticides can be harmful to your pets, children, and even yourself. A good solution is to go natural.
Know Your Enemy
If you start using pesticides only after you notice damage to your plants and yard, you’ve started too late. Educate yourself about what types of pests may be attracted to the plants in your yard. When you make purchases from your local nursery, ask an expert for advice on how to prevent bugs from ruining your investment. The professional team in the garden center at Southern Homes and Gardens, with locations in Montgomery and Wetumpka, Alabama are very knowledgeable on native plants and how to keep them healthy and thriving. They also sell natural products for fertilizing and pest control. Visit their website or stop in either of their locations.
Preventative Measures
Here are some easy tips:
To prevent squirrels from digging up your plants and bulbs, install mesh over your flower beds; plants will grow through the mesh, but squirrels will be deterred. If this isn’t practical for your landscaping, Natural Liquid Squirrel Repellent is available for purchase online. The product is fully biodegradable and contains no toxins or chemicals.
Cayenne pepper can also be sprinkled around your garden; this will keep furry friends from wanting anything to do with your patches.
A list of common bugs and diseases can be found at Extremely Green, along with a handy reference of organic solutions.
