Joe provides an authoritative reference to organic pest control in his Organic Pest Control Guide. You can learn more about organic pest control methods at his website.
What is Integrated Pest Management? You've probably heard the term before. It's one of the most important subjects in the practice of Organic Pest Control, and contains methods that no gardener or landscaper should be without if they intend to stay away from harsh pesticides.
Simply speaking, Organic Pest Control and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) are all about the idea that chemicals should be the very last resort in caring for your lawn or garden. IPM is a multi-faceted approach to doing this effectively. Listed below are some of the various techniques one may use if they intend to use IPM and organic pest control techniques to their fullest:
1. Your soil health is by far one of the most important variables. When a plant is healthy from healthy soil, it's more able to effectively keep bugs and pests away. Think of plants as having immune systems, much as people do. If a person does get essential vitamins and nutrients, his/her health can deteriorate and that person may suffer from diseases and illnesses. Plants are much the same in that respect.
2. Instead of using chemicals, allow the ecosystem to do its own work. Using harsh pesticides often kill the pests' predators, such as spiders and ladybugs.
3. Pruning unhealthy sections of your plants by hand keeps nutrients from the soil going to the healthy parts of the plant, instead of having to spread the nutrients to unhealthy sections. While doing this, make sure to not leave "stubs" hanging out from the plant. Pests find homes in these stubs, so make sure to prune flush with the stalk or stem.
4. Weed as much as possible, preferably by hand. Weeds suck essential nutrients from the soil, which keeps your plants from receiving the nutrients it needs to survive and fight off pests.
5. Start your planting earlier in the year before the bug season starts. This will allow your plants to be better suited for any type of infestation that may occur. A more mature plant would be better able to fend off an attack.
6. The best type of plant is a plant native to your local ecosystem. Don't plant palm trees in Vermont; you'll only disappoint yourself with the results. A native species is better suited to the local environment and pests that naturally occur in that locale.
7. Keep a close eye on your plants as they grow. Stay involved, and don't be afraid to get dirty. You'll be much more aware of any pests that may show up.
Good luck with your organic pest control ventures.
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