There are several natural ways to get rid of garden pests without using harmful chemicals:
Handpicking: You can manually remove pests from your garden by handpicking them and squishing them. This method is especially effective for larger pests like caterpillars and slugs.
Beneficial insects: Introduce beneficial insects to your garden, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which feed on pests like aphids and spider mites.
Neem oil: Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can be used to control a wide variety of garden pests. It works by disrupting the pest's hormonal balance, making it difficult for them to reproduce and feed.
Garlic and chili spray: Garlic and chili sprays are effective against a range of pests, including aphids and caterpillars. Mix crushed garlic and chili peppers with water and spray the mixture directly on the affected plants.
Companion planting: Planting certain types of plants together can help deter pests. For example, planting marigolds next to your vegetables can help repel nematodes and other pests.
Diatomaceous earth: Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder made from the fossilized remains of diatoms. It works by puncturing the exoskeletons of insects, causing them to dehydrate and die.
Sticky traps: Sticky traps are a non-toxic way to catch and kill flying insects like whiteflies and fruit flies. They work by attracting the insects to a sticky surface, where they become stuck and are unable to escape.
