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We’re nearing the official start of summer.
With the warm weather already underway, you’ve likely already started your garden. It’s possible that you’ve struggled in these early days, dealing with pesky pests looming over your green thumbs.
Orkin Canada wants to help gardeners in preventing these intruders, so they’re sharing tips to keep gardens pest-proof:
- Start with Garden Sanitation: Prep and inspect the soil after winter, removing pest-attracting materials like dead twigs, old plant roots, and leaves from the previous season. Turning over the soil or mulch will expose overwintering plant-feeding insects, encouraging them to relocate.
- Prepare the Soil: Lay the foundation for healthy plant growth and disease prevention by opting for nutrient-rich soil and maintaining optimal moisture levels without overwatering. Thwart potential pest habitats by promptly removing weeds throughout the gardening seasons. Adding mulch can aid in moisture retention and weed control, but be sure to choose a variety that doesn’t retain excess water, so there is less risk of creating a breeding ground for pests.
- Select Your Plants Wisely: Conduct thorough research when selecting plants for your garden. Understanding the environmental preferences of your chosen plants, such as sunlight requirements, is essential for fostering their growth and resilience against potential pests. effectively.
- Monitor and Manage: Employ insect monitors available at garden centers to monitor pest activity closely, maintaining detailed records of pest numbers and seasonal trends. For minor pest infestations, removing and destroying infested plant parts will often be enough. For heavier infestations, consider plant-friendly pest control products. While a balanced presence of pests is natural, diligent monitoring is crucial to prevent significant damage to your plants.
To learn more about protecting your garden against pests, click here.
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