Is Your Garden Under Attack From Summer Pests?

Florida is one of the most beautiful states in the county in the summertime, but also one of the most difficult places to manage a summer garden. The intense summer heat can make grass dry out and flowers wilt if not properly cared for. However, one of the most persistent issues Florida gardeners run into is pests. 

Aphids, squash bugs, whiteflies, and other garden pests thrive in the warm Florida summer, and can be very difficult to contain without using harmful pesticides that interfere with the rest of your garden ecosystem. In addition to bugs, Florida wildlife including rabbits, deer, and even neighborhood stray pets may come into your garden at night to eat your delicious fruits and veggies. If you want to prevent them without compromising your garden’s health, here’s what you can do: 

Use organic pest repellants. 

Some herbs and insecticides will naturally deter insects without killing them, while others can be made from organic matter to only kill insects when ingested. These insecticides can be sprayed on plants to ensure that the only bugs you kill are the ones that are actively disrupting your garden. 

Introduce new wildlife. 

Some bugs in your garden may be a good thing, especially if they will eat the ones that ruin your beautiful plants. Lady beetles, grasshoppers, and assassin bugs will all eat smaller insects without disrupting your garden, so if they are not invasive to your area you can introduce them into your garden for better results. 

Rotate crops. 

If you notice that one of your plants is getting attacked more frequently than others, you may have to grow it elsewhere or exchange it for a different bloom to ensure your garden thrives. Some plants are more susceptible to insect damage than others, and if your yard is teeming with problem pests you may have to make adjustments. 

These simple tips can help you avoid insect damage and the introduction of harmful chemicals into your garden, but for bigger issues, you may need a more permanent solution. If you find your plants are being eaten by deer, squirrels, or other larger pests, talk to FloriFence about installing a garden fence. This simple solution can keep your garden thriving at an affordable cost.