Is there a feeding frenzy going on in your garden? At this time of year, most gardeners are grappling with how to get rid of these uninvited guests. Start by identifying the pest. There are as many types of pests as there are plantssome so small they're almost impossible to see. Look at the evidence left behind. More common pests in Colorado include flea beetles (voracious chewers that make gun shot' holes in leaves); hornworms (tomato-lovers that have been known to strip a plant bare in three days); spider mites (spinners of webs); and, probably the most common, aphids (famous for leaving sticky honeydew behind).
Before you reach for killer pesticides, reconsider more environmentally-friendly options.
- The first line of defense is to turn your back on the problem. Watch to see if Mother Nature intervenes. Plants send out their own distress signal by producing pheromones that can attract beneficial and predatory insects.
- Pick insects off your plants. A similar method is to attack them with water. Most insects won't survive a strong spray with a garden hose. Strong winds can also send pests flying.
- Naturally repel plants or predatory insects. Use companion plants like marigolds, garlic and nasturtiums to ward off unwanted insects.
- Ladybugs are effective in gobbling up certain common insects (like aphids). Buy in quantity and release them in the garden.
- Consider an organic control product rather than a chemical pesticide. One of the safest and effective is horticultural oil. It works by blocking the air holes (spiracles) through which insects breathe, causing them to die from asphyxiation. Horticultural oil can also be effective on some plant diseases such as powdery mildew.
Prevention is the best medicine when it comes to pests. Plants stressed by lack of water or poor nutrition are most susceptible.
Thanks to Urban Roots for this great information! Urban Roots is located in the Golden Triangle at 10th & Acoma, and provides horticultural solutions for small spaces. Serving close in neighborhoods with city gardeners who have limited space but unlimited desire. Open Mon-Sat 10-5, Sun 11-5. urbanrootsdenver.com
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