How to Pest-Proof Your Garden Ahead of Spring

The sun is beginning to set a little later, the days will start to feel warmer soon enough, and that means it’s time for our gardens to come alive. Unfortunately, it’s not only plants that will be thriving in our green spaces.

A variety of pests are eager to invade our gardens, eat our beautiful plants, and take over our relaxing spaces.

Thankfully, there are some ways to pest-proof your garden before spring, ensuring that you can enjoy the space without worrying about uninvited guests.

Common pests to watch out for

Spring invited a host of unwelcome guests to our gardens. Here’s a lineup of the usual suspects we can expect to see creeping in:

Slugs and snails: These slimy intruders relish munching on tender leaves and seedlings, leaving a trail of destruction behind them.
Aphids: Tiny but mighty, aphids suck sap from plants, which can lead to distorted growth as well as a sticky residue that attracts other pests.
Ants: While they may aerate the soil, ants can farm aphids for their honeydew, which can make your aphid problem worse.
Mice and rats: These rodents nibble on produce, gnaw their way through garden buildings, and spread diseases.
Wasps and bees: Although beneficial as pollinators, wasps have a nasty sting; plus, if they form nests, you’ve got an even bigger problem on your hands.
Moles: Their tunnelling can disrupt root systems and create unsightly mounds in your lawn.
Vine weevils: These pests feed on leaves, while their larvae attack plant roots underground.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars will quickly munch their way through leaves, especially in vegetable patches.

Steps to pest-proof your garden

1. Keep your garden tidy

A clutter-free garden is less inviting to pests as there are fewer places for them to burrow or nest. Clear away fallen leaves, dead plants and debris that offers hiding spots.

Regularly prune plants and remove weeds.
Keep compost bins securely covered to deter rodents.
Store firewood and garden equipment off the ground where possible.

2. Choose pest-resistant plants

There are various plants that you can grow in your garden that act as natural pest deterrents; they include:

Marigolds: Their scent repels aphids and other insects.
Lavender: Helps to deter flies, fleas and mosquitoes.
Basil: Works effectively against flies and mosquitoes.
Rosemary: Repels cabbage moths and carrot flies.
Mint: Deters ants and aphids.
Chives: Can ward off Japanese beetles and carrot flies.

3. Seal entry points

Help to prevent unwelcome visitors by inspecting sheds, greenhouses, and fences for small openings.

Use wire mesh to block potential access points.
Check under your decking and around garden structures for gaps.
Install door sweeps and sealant around greenhouse frames.

4. Try natural pest control methods

Rather than instantly going down the chemical route, you could try some natural methods of pest control, like:

Use crushed eggshells to deter slugs.
Ground coffee to repel ants.
Use insect-proof netting over vulnerable plants.
Attract beneficial predators like birds and hedgehogs by providing shelter or nesting boxes.

5. Avoid stagnant water

Control moisture by avoiding standing water in pots, trays and birdbaths, as this will attract mosquitoes.

Clean out birdbaths and water features regularly.
Ensure proper drainage in plant pots and garden beds.
Check gutters and drain pipes for any blockages.

6. Store garden supplies securely

Avoid attracting pests by keeping bags of soil, fertiliser, and pet food in sealed containers.

Use sturdy plastic or metal bins with tight-fitting lids.
Store supplies in a dry, elevated location.
Regularly inspect your outdoor furniture and any woodpiles for signs of infestation.

Common mistakes that attract pests

Even the most well-kept gardens can become pest hotspots if common mistakes go unnoticed. Here are some things you want to avoid:

Overwatering: Excess water will attract pests like slugs and fungus gnats.
Leaving food sources out: Compost, pet food and even fallen fruit will lure in rodents and pests.
Ignoring early warning signs: Wilting leaves, holes in plants, or small mounds of soul are all early indications of a growing pest problem.

When to seek professional pest control

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, infestations can get a little too much. Knowing when to call in the professionals to get pest problems under control is important. Signs to call in the experts include:

Persistent pest activity despite the use of preventative measures.
Structural damage to your furniture, features or plants.
Health risks posed by certain pests.

The important thing to remember when it comes to enjoying a pest-free spring in your garden, you need to regularly check the garden for signs of pests, keep your garden clean and clutter-free, and the use of natural pest control methods can go a long way in maintaining a healthy ecosystem.

If you’d like tailored assistance keeping your garden pest-free this year, contact us. Premier Pest Control is happy to help and give you peace of mind so that you can enjoy your outdoor area without worrying about unwanted guests.