Garden Pest Control Buying Guide: Everything you need to know

Gardeners know that pests can be an issue in the garden, whether it's pesky insects devouring tender plants or birds stealing your fruit and vegetables. To keep your garden healthy and flourishing, pest control is essential. However, with so many products available for controlling pests it’s hard to know what’s best for your garden. In this guide we cover everything you need to know about purchasing pest control for your garden.

1) What type of pesticide should I use?

The type of pesticide you choose should depend on the specific pests present in your garden. Many different active ingredients are available in a variety of forms such as liquid sprays, granules, dusts and baits. If you have an insect infestation, an insecticide can be used to target the specific pest. For larger pests such as rodents or birds, a rodenticide or bird repellent is more appropriate. There are also non-chemical options available for those who prefer to use organic methods of pest control, such as pheromone traps and natural predators.

2) How much pesticide do I need?

The amount of pesticide you need will depend on the size of your garden, the type of pests present and their population density. Generally speaking, if you have a smaller garden with lower pest populations then you may only require one or two applications per season. Conversely, if you have a large area to cover or high levels of pest activity then multiple applications may be necessary. It is important to read the label on the pesticide container for exact dosage and application instructions.

3) What safety precautions should I take when using pesticides?

Using pesticides can be dangerous, so it is important to always follow the manufacturer’s directions and take all necessary safety precautions when applying any type of pest control product. Wear protective clothing such as gloves, long sleeves, trousers and eye protection. Avoid breathing in fumes or dust particles by working in a well ventilated area or wearing a respirator mask if necessary. Always store pesticides securely out of reach of children or pets, and ensure you dispose of any empty containers safely.

4) Are there any environmentally friendly options available?

Yes, there are plenty of environmentally friendly options available for those looking for an alternative to traditional chemical pesticides. These include pheromone traps, natural predators such as ladybugs and parasitic nematodes, and organic products such as garlic or insecticidal soap. Organic gardening methods are becoming increasingly popular among gardeners due to their minimal environmental impact and lack of harmful chemicals.

5) When is the best time to apply pest control?

The best time to apply pest control will depend on what type of pests you’re trying to target. For insects, it’s best to apply treatments early in the season before they have a chance to lay eggs and cause further damage. For larger pests such as rodents or birds, mid-spring is usually the optimal time as this is when they are most active. However, it’s always best to read the label of any pest control product and follow the manufacturer’s directions for application.

6) How often should I apply pest control?

The frequency of applications will depend on your particular situation and the type of pests present in your garden. As a general rule, insecticides should be applied every two weeks during peak activity periods until there is no further evidence of infestation. For larger pests such as rodents or birds, monthly applications are usually sufficient. Again, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions on the label before applying any pesticide or other pest control product.

7) Are there any natural deterrents I can use to keep pests away?

There are a few natural deterrents that you can use to keep pests away from your garden. Planting strong smelling herbs such as rosemary or mint around the perimeter of the garden can help repel insects, while putting up bird feeders and perches can encourage birds like robins and blue jays to visit instead of larger, more destructive birds. You can also set out pheromone traps which attract male moths and prevent them from laying eggs on plants.

8) What is integrated pest management (IPM)?

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an approach to insect control that emphasizes prevention by monitoring for insect activity, understanding pest lifecycles and using cultural, physical, biological and chemical methods to reduce pest populations. IPM is an effective way to protect crops without relying solely on potentially harmful pesticides. It also helps conserve natural enemies of pests that help keep their numbers in check.

9) What steps do I need to take before applying a pesticide?

Before you apply any type of pesticide, it’s important to first assess the situation and choose the most appropriate product for your needs. Read the label for proper application procedures and safety precautions as well as what kind of pests the product will target. If possible, try non-chemical alternatives such as pheromone traps or natural predators first. Finally, be sure to wear protective clothing when applying any type of pesticide.

10) What safety precautions should I take when using pesticides?

When using any type of pesticide, it’s important to take certain safety measures. Always wear protective clothing such as long sleeved shirts, pants and gloves as well as a respirator mask if necessary. Make sure you are in a well-ventilated area with no open flames or sparks, and store all pesticides securely out of reach of children or pets. Finally, be sure to dispose of any empty containers safely.

Pest control is an important part of gardening that helps keep plants and crops healthy and free from damage caused by insects and other pests. There are many different pest control methods available ranging from chemical pesticides to more environmentally friendly options such as pheromone traps and natural predators. It’s important to understand the type of pests present in your garden, assess the situation and choose the most appropriate pest control product for your needs. Always read the label before applying any pesticide or other pest control product and take safety precautions when using them.