KEEPING your garden free from pests can be tricky if you’re not sure what you’re looking for.
That’s why Morris Hankinson, Director of Hopes Groves Nurseries, has shared his top tricks to keep your space clear and plants happy.
The gardening whizz shared some must-know tips and tricks[/caption]
Keeping your garden happy this summer doesn’t have to be such a chore[/caption]
According to the pro, there are certain pests you should be on the lookout for all summer long, these include aphids, red lily beetles, carrot root flies, slugs, snails and vine weevils.
But here are some others you might not know can harm your garden.
Cabbage white butterfly
“First thing I remind myself if I find munched brassica leaves is that without caterpillars there would be no butterflies and wouldn’t that be such a shame!
“So as with all ‘pests’ the best way to limit damage to plants is to create a biodiverse space meaning natural predators will do what they do best,” the pro explained.
He suggested covering brassicas with butterfly netting, which will allow insects to fly in and out but keep butterflies out.
Powdery mildew
“Many plants get powdery mildew at this time of year, especially if there is wet weather and overcrowded plants,” the pro said.
“Plants such as squash, cucumber, melon, calendula and many more are susceptible and I get this on something most years!
“If you keep a check regularly you will be able to simply cut off any affected foliage to stop the spread. You will notice white patches on foliage that look powdery.”
Blackfly
Black fly, is usually found on the tips of plants like broad beans.
The gardening whizz suggested encouraging ladybirds into your garden as they’ll help out by feeding on the aphids.
“Usually heavy rainfall will knock them off your plants, or if you really want to – use a hose to spray them,” he noted.
Blight
“Black and brown spots, often on lower and older foliage to begin with but that will soon spread to stems and will kill off all of the foliage really quickly!
“If the potatoes haven’t developed yet, that’ll be the end of that! But if the tubers have developed, they can be harvested straight away and fine to eat,” the pro said.
You should remove the foliage as soon as you spot blight and dispose of it.
“That way the spores will not be able to travel and the heat used at council waste is high enough to kill them off,” he explained.
Ants
“If ants are a problem, mix some peppermint oil with water in a spray bottle and spray around the boundary edges which can work.
“Keeping your soil moist is also helpful because they tend to prefer dryer soils and don’t forget the best way to help is to create a biodiverse garden so natural predators do the job of controlling ants for you,” the pro explained.
Keep pests out all summer
IF you want to ensure that your home is pest free this summer, here’s what you need to know.
Hornets and wasps – hate the smell of peppermint oil so spraying this liberally around your patio or balcony can help to keep them at bay.
Moths – acidic household white vinegar is effective for deterring moths. Soak some kitchen roll in vinegar and leave it in your wardrobe as a deterrent.
Flying ants – herbs and spices, such as cinnamon, mint, chilli pepper, black pepper, cayenne pepper, cloves, or garlic act as deterrents.
Mosquitoes – plants, herbs and essential oil fragrances can help deter mozzies inside and out. Try eucalyptus, lavender and lemongrass.
