We’re back again with installment 2 of our organic pest control guide, so we’ll continue by explaining more about “Cultural Measures” today.
One of the most important things to bear in mind is that strong plants are able to resist diseases and pests more effectively and for a greater length of time.
For whoever missed our previous article, please feel free to take a look at it here: Organic Warfare, more on organic pest control : 1
This will give you more time to do something about them before they spread and ruin your whole harvest. Make sure your plants are living in soil they like, their watering and nutrition needs are fulfilled. Remember to check for problems when you’re taking care of your plants, and be especially careful with the symptoms of local pests and diseases. As the idiom goes: “Forewarned is forearmed”.
Watering and drainage are very important for the fight against some of the pests. While watering might prevent some of the problems, sometimes it’s the reason for them. For instance, zones that hold water are heaven for soil-based diseases. Because of this, drainage and ventilation are crucial for vegetable and fruit production. If the soil-based diseases are causing problems in the region, drip irrigation must be used as the pests usually rush to fresh watered soil as well. With correct watering, the soil will be moist enough for plants but not for some of the insect larvae. It can be said that too much watering will cause more problems than not enough of it, although this also depens on the kind of plant.
Putting more distance between the plants will let them get more nutrition from around them and they will grow stronger roots. Also the moisture will not accumulate as the ventilation will be much better. Many pests love moisture, and the distance between plants makes it harder for them to spread as well.
For fruit trees, trimming for rejuvenation makes them grow stronger and resilient. Also trimming the diseased and infested branches is a cultural measure effective in lowering the pest population.
Planting some trap plants which the pests prefer among the production plants will make the bugs concentrate on the traps and you can destroy them more effectively this way while keeping most of your loved ones safe.
Part 2 of the guide is hereby concluded. We’ll see you again with part 3 very soon. Let us know what you think — your perspective is greatly appreciated !
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Land is so generous that it makes up for every piece of hard work. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk
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Great tips. On a residential note for natural pest control, lady bugs are great to keep a garden pest free without using any type of chemicals.
We talk a lot about natural pest control and ladybugs on our blog if you are interested at: none