Mid-summer brings an abundance of growth—but it also invites common garden pests. While it may be tempting to reach for chemical solutions, many natural methods can effectively control pests while keeping your garden ecosystem healthy.

Start by encouraging beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and praying mantises, which prey on aphids, caterpillars, and other harmful bugs. Planting flowers such as marigolds, dill, and fennel can attract these helpful predators.

Physical barriers also work well. Floating row covers protect vulnerable plants from beetles and moths, while collars around young seedlings prevent cutworms from destroying stems. Hand-picking larger pests like tomato hornworms can be an effective control method in smaller gardens.

Homemade sprays using garlic, neem oil, or insecticidal soap can deter unwanted insects without harming pollinators. Maintaining plant health through proper spacing, crop rotation, and soil enrichment also reduces vulnerability to infestations. By using these eco-friendly approaches, you’ll keep your garden thriving without disrupting the natural balance.