Outsmart Ontario’s Garden Bandits: Top Tips to Foil Pests and Keep Your Garden Thriving!
Hello, fellow garden enthusiasts! Today, we’re going to tackle an all-too-familiar issue for gardeners in Ontario: pesky garden pests. From Japanese beetles to slugs, these critters can wreak havoc on our beloved plants. But fear not! I’ve got you covered with some handy prevention and control tips that’ll keep your garden flourishing.
Aphids
These tiny green or black insects can be a real nuisance, especially when they form large colonies on your plants. To prevent aphids from settling in, try interplanting garlic or chives, which naturally repel these pests. If you find an infestation, spray your plants with a mixture of water and a few drops of dish soap. This will suffocate the aphids without harming your plants.
Japanese Beetles
These metallic-looking beetles can decimate a garden in no time. To prevent them, introduce beneficial nematodes to your soil. These microscopic worms attack beetle larvae and prevent their development. If you spot adult beetles, handpick them off your plants and drop them into a bucket of soapy water.
Slugs and Snails
These slimy garden invaders love munching on your tender plants. To deter slugs and snails, spread crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth around your plants. Both materials have sharp edges that will discourage these pests from crossing over. If they’re already in your garden, set up a simple beer trap to attract and drown them. Just place a shallow dish filled with beer near the affected plants, and they’ll come running.
Spider Mites
Tiny but mighty, spider mites can cause significant damage to your plants. To prevent them, keep your plants well-watered and dust-free. Introducing predatory insects like ladybugs or lacewings can help keep spider mite populations under control. If you spot an infestation, try spraying your plants with a mixture of water, a few drops of dish soap, and a teaspoon of neem oil to kill the mites.
Cabbage Worms
If you’re growing members of the Brassica family, like cabbage, kale, or broccoli, you’re likely familiar with these green caterpillars. To prevent cabbage worms, cover your plants with floating row covers or use companion planting with thyme or sage. If you spot them, handpick and dispose of them or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a natural bacteria that targets caterpillars, to control their population.
Cutworms
These sneaky pests feed on the stems of young plants, cutting them down at the base. To protect your seedlings, create a barrier by placing a cardboard collar around each plant’s base, pushing it a few centimeters into the soil. If you spot cutworms, handpick them off and dispose of them in soapy water.
There you have it, my fellow green-thumbed friends! With these prevention and control tips, you’ll be well-equipped to keep Ontario’s peskiest garden pests at bay. Don’t forget to share your gardening adventures and successes with us in the comments below. Happy gardening!