Guides / Spend less
Pest control on a budget, without harsh chemicals
Check often, catch problems early, use barriers.
Most pest problems are cheapest to handle when they're small. A few minutes a day of looking at your plants is the best pest control there is.
Simple methods
- Pick off caterpillars and beetles by hand
- Spray aphids off with a strong jet of water
- Cover young plants with lightweight row cover fabric
- Plant flowers like marigolds, alyssum and dill to attract helpful insects
- Rotate where you plant each crop every year
If you use any product
Identify the pest first, choose the least toxic option, and follow the label exactly, including how long to wait before harvesting. Your Cooperative Extension office can help identify pests and suggest options.
General educational information. Growing conditions vary; check with your local Cooperative Extension office. Nickel Harvest isn't paid by any seed company, garden brand or store.