Bugs can be a real bother
Gardening in Houston comes with its own set of challenges — the long growing season is fantastic, but the pests sure know how to take advantage of it too! Whether you’re growing tomatoes, zinnias, or a little backyard food forest, it’s important to have a few organic pest control methods ready. Chemical sprays aren’t always the best choice, especially when you're working toward a healthy, thriving ecosystem. Fortunately, there are plenty of safe, natural ways to manage garden pests. Read on for a quick guide to some of the best organic pest control techniques.
Inspect Leaves and Handpick Insects
Regularly checking your plants is key to catching problems early. Look closely at the undersides of leaves, where insects like aphids, caterpillars, and beetles often hide. Early in the morning or late in the day when it’s cooler and pests are less active, gently pick them off by hand and drop them into a container of soapy water to kill them. Wearing gloves can make the task easier and more comfortable, especially when dealing with prickly plants or larger bugs.
Neem Oil Spray
Neem oil, derived from the seeds of the neem tree, acts as a natural pesticide by disrupting insects' feeding and reproductive cycles. To use it, mix neem oil with water and a few drops of mild soap to help it stick to plant surfaces. Spray it evenly on all parts of the plant, focusing on leaf undersides where pests often gather. Apply in the early morning or evening to avoid burning plants in the hot sun, and repeat every 7–14 days as needed.
Homemade Soap Spray
Homemade soap spray is a simple and effective way to control soft-bodied pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. Mix a few teaspoons of mild liquid soap (like Castile soap) with a quart of water, and spray directly onto the insects. The soap breaks down their outer protective layer, causing dehydration. Always test the spray on a small part of the plant first to ensure it doesn’t cause damage, and apply in cooler parts of the day to avoid stressing the plants. If you don’t want to mix your own, Bonide brand has Captain Jacks insecticidal soap that works very well.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE)
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a fine powder made from fossilized algae that can be sprinkled on the soil around plants. It works by scratching and dehydrating hard-shelled insects like beetles and ants. Make sure to apply it when the foliage is dry, and reapply after rain. While DE doesn’t contain any chemicals, be careful not to get it on the flowers or tops of your plants because it can kill bees, ladybugs, and other beneficial insects as well.
Bacillus thuringiensis (BT)
Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) is a naturally occurring bacteria that targets specific pests like caterpillars and mosquito larvae. When sprayed on plants, BT is ingested by the pests, disrupting their digestive systems and eventually killing them. Know your caterpillars! BT will also kill butterfly caterpillars if it gets on them. Bonide also has a pre-mixed BT solution that you just spray on a go.
With a little attention and the right organic tools, you can keep your garden healthy and productive without resorting to harsh chemicals. Remember, a few bugs are perfectly normal — it’s all about keeping the balance in your favor. Regular care and natural treatments will go a long way toward building a strong, resilient garden that thrives through every season. Be sure to check our Amazon store front for our favorite pre-mixed pest control products. Happy gardening!
