How to naturally deter pests from your garden

As gardeners, we all want to nurture our plants while keeping them healthy and thriving. But dealing with pests can be a challenge. The good news is that you don’t have to reach for harsh chemicals to protect your garden. Natural pest control methods not only safeguard your plants, but also benefit the environment. In this post, we look at some non-toxic materials and techniques you can use to keep pests at bay.

Companion planting

One of the oldest and most effective natural pest control methods is companion planting. This is when certain plants can deter pests when grown alongside others. For example, marigolds repel nematodes and various insects. The fragrancy of basil wards off flies when planted near tomatoes. Nasturtiums attract aphids, drawing them away from your vegetables. All of these plants would also be attractive and nice smelling additions to your garden.

Essential oils

Essential oils are useful allies in the battle against garden pests. Many oils have natural insect-repelling properties. Some popular choices include:

• Peppermint oil is effective against ants, spiders, and other insects.
• Lavender oil repels moths and fleas while adding a pleasant aroma.
• Tea tree oil works against various insects and has antifungal properties.

Mix a few drops of your chosen essential oil with water in a spray bottle and apply it to your plants (making sure to test on a small area first to check your plants are not sensitive).

Physical barriers

Sometimes, the best option is to fortify your garden. Using physical barriers can prevent pests from reaching your plants. Consider things like copper tape around beds and pots, which is super effective against slugs and snails.

Encourage beneficial wildlife

Not all insects are in fact pests. By attracting beneficial insects, you can create a natural balance in your garden. For example, ladybirds are good for eating up aphids. 

You can also make your garden more attractive to other wildlife that might help clear up some pests for you. Hedgehogs like to eat slugs, so encouraging them in your garden can be very helpful. You can do this by providing a water source for them, as well as providing cosy spaces for them to shelter. 

Implementing natural pest control methods in your garden not only helps protect your plants, but also encourages  a more sustainable gardening practice. So next time you spot a pesky invader, reach for one of these eco-friendly solutions and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with gardening sustainably.