Insects

Quick Tips

• Select plants that bugs don't like. Try native plants, they're survivors.
• Plant varieties that are suited to your region and soil condition.
• Keep your soil rich and fertile, with a proper pH.
• Rotate plants to disrupt the life cycle of pests.
• Plant and harvest vegetables early. This will keep the plants strong and avoid peak insect activity.
• Remove pest-infected plants in the fall.
• Most vegetable plants need lots of sun and water to help control pest problems.
• Put out the doormat for natural enemies (such as lady beetles, ground beetles, bats and birds)
• Hand-picking a few large insects takes little time, no money and doesn't harm the environment.
• Try insecticidal soaps and horticultural oils.