Landscaping with sustainable practices in mind can help eliminate toxic pesticides that are harmful to the environment. There’s a learning curve involved, but the benefits far outweigh any inconveniences. In addition to polluting the air, soil and water, pesticides also wipe out huge populations of beneficial insects that help eliminate harmful garden pests that can damage your plants.
Take a moment to learn about some of the natural pest control solutions you can use to eradicate the pests you don’t want, while keeping beneficial insects and critters alive and active.
Use birdhouses and bird baths. Talk about a two-fer; birds who prey on garden pests want nothing to do with your fruits and veggies. We’re fortunate to have a whole host of insect-loving birds here in Colorado, such as bluebirds, nuthatches, grosbeaks, chickadee, swallows and more. Providing a habitat for them near your garden gives them ample access to the creepy crawly things they love to feed their hatchlings. Plus, you get to watch the interesting and playful behaviors displayed by these intriguing members of the animal kingdom.
Raise chickens. Even a hen or two will do their part in eating predatory garden insects. They also like greens and veggies so it’s usually best to feed chickens hand-picked garden pests, and then let them have free reign of the beds in between crops to eliminate pests and fertilize the soil.
Identify good guys. It’s worth your while to identify beneficial insects so you know who to keep and who to pick off. Some of Colorado’s native insects are your best ally in eliminating harmful pests. Examples include:
- Spiders
- Assassin Bugs
- Lady Bugs
- Green Lacewings
- Syrphid Flies
- Ground Beetles
- Preying Mantids
- And so many more!
You can consult this fantastic guide from CSU to learn more.
Organic insecticides. There are plenty of organic pesticide options as well, including diatomaceous earth (DE), horticulture oils and Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis). Make sure you discuss them with your landscape designer to learn more about how to use these insecticides.
Lifescape Colorado is committed to helping you design and maintain the most sustainable landscape possible, so make sure you contact us today for more information about our services.