Nothing ruins the beauty of a well-kept garden faster than a bunch of pesky critters wreaking havoc. Whether it’s insects nibbling on your plants or larger wildlife like possums causing damage, keeping your outdoor space pest-free is essential for maintaining a healthy, thriving garden.
In Australia, we have our fair share of common garden pests, but the good news is, there are plenty of ways to keep them at bay. In this guide, we’ll show you simple, practical tips to pest-proof your garden and outdoor areas, so you can enjoy your greenery without the unwanted visitors.
Practical Tips to Garden Pest Control
When it comes to maintaining a thriving, healthy garden, pest control is a major priority. While Australia’s climate is ideal for growing a variety of plants, it also invites its fair share of pests. However, with some strategic planning and smart choices, you can significantly reduce the risk of infestations and keep your garden looking lush. Below are some practical tips for pest-proofing your garden, ensuring that your outdoor space remains vibrant without relying on harmful chemicals.
Choose Pest-Resistant Plants
One of the easiest ways to prevent pest problems is to select plants that naturally repel or resist insects. Many native Australian plants are particularly good at fending off pests, as they’ve adapted to the local environment and have built-in defenses against common garden pests.
- Native plants: Opting for hardy, native species such as grevilleas, bottlebrush (Callistemon), or kangaroo paws is a fantastic way to reduce pest issues. These plants are naturally resilient and less appealing to insects due to their tough foliage or oils that deter pests.
- Pest-deterring plants: Some plants naturally deter insects due to their strong scents or oils. For instance, lavender, rosemary, thyme, and basil not only add to the beauty of your garden but also repel aphids, flies, and mosquitoes. Marigolds are another great choice, as they release a chemical that repels nematodes, whiteflies, and aphids, making them ideal to plant around vegetable beds.
By filling your garden with pest-resistant plants, you’ll not only create a low-maintenance space but also reduce the need for harsh insecticides, keeping your garden eco-friendly.
Companion Planting for Natural Protection
Companion planting is a clever, organic way to enhance your garden’s defenses against pests. The idea is simple: some plants, when grown together, help protect each other by repelling insects or attracting beneficial bugs that prey on pests.
- Basil and tomatoes: A classic example of companion planting is growing basil near tomatoes. Basil repels whiteflies and tomato hornworms, while the tomatoes provide shade, creating a mutually beneficial relationship.
- Nasturtiums and cucumbers: Planting nasturtiums near cucumbers or pumpkins is another smart combination. Nasturtiums act as a “trap crop,” attracting aphids away from more valuable plants like cucumbers and zucchinis, keeping your veggie patch safe.
- Marigolds and beans: Marigolds release a chemical in the soil that deters nematodes (microscopic worms that damage plant roots), making them perfect companions for beans, tomatoes, and other garden crops. This simple technique can help prevent pests without resorting to chemical solutions.
By using companion planting, you create a naturally harmonious environment where plants work together to fend off pests, making your garden stronger and healthier.
Build Healthy Soil
Healthy soil is what makes up a thriving garden. By focusing on maintaining nutrient-rich, well-draining soil, you make your plants more resilient to pests and diseases. When plants are strong and healthy, they’re less likely to succumb to insect attacks.
- Composting: Regularly adding compost to your soil improves its structure, drainage, and nutrient content. Compost encourages beneficial organisms like earthworms and bacteria that break down organic matter and improve soil health, making your plants more robust and less vulnerable to pests.
- Mulching: Applying mulch around your plants helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil quality. Organic mulches like wood chips or straw also create a protective barrier that discourages pests like slugs and snails, which prefer damp, exposed soil.
- Organic fertilisers: Instead of using synthetic fertilisers, opt for organic alternatives such as compost, worm castings, or seaweed solutions. These not only feed your plants but also enrich the soil in a way that supports natural pest deterrents like beneficial microorganisms.
Strong, well-fed plants are better able to fend off pests and recover from minor infestations, so keeping your soil healthy should always be a top priority.
Install Physical Barriers
While natural pest control methods are highly effective, sometimes physical barriers provide the best protection, especially for delicate plants or when dealing with larger animals. Installing simple barriers can safeguard your plants from insects and wildlife without needing chemicals.
- Garden netting and mesh: Lightweight garden netting or mesh is ideal for protecting young plants, vegetables, and fruits from birds, insects, and larger animals. You can drape it directly over plants or create frames to support the netting, ensuring pests can’t access the plants. This is particularly useful for crops like strawberries, lettuce, or tomatoes, which are often targeted by birds and possums.
- Row covers: For insect protection, floating row covers made from fine mesh fabric can shield plants from flying insects like aphids and whiteflies while still allowing sunlight and water to reach the plants. These covers are especially helpful during the growing season when certain pests are more active.
- Fencing: For larger animals like possums, rabbits, or even wallabies, installing a simple wire fence can be an effective way to keep them out. Make sure the fence is high enough (at least 1.5 metres for possums) and that the mesh is small enough to prevent animals from squeezing through. If you’re dealing with digging animals, consider burying the bottom of the fence 15-30 cm into the ground to stop them from burrowing under.
Physical barriers are a safe and environmentally friendly way to keep pests at bay, especially in areas where chemical solutions aren’t desirable or effective.
Practical Guide to Outdoor Pest Control
Australians love spending time outdoors, especially when it comes to hosting barbies and enjoying the warmer months in the garden. But nothing ruins an outdoor gathering faster than an invasion of pests like flies, mozzies, or ants. Fortunately, with a bit of effort and some clever strategies, you can keep your outdoor entertaining areas pest-free. Here are some practical tips to help you keep unwanted guests away from your next backyard get-together.
Keep Your Entertaining Area Clean and Tidy
The first step in preventing pests from taking over your outdoor space is maintaining a clean and clutter-free environment. Pests are drawn to food scraps, standing water, and messy areas, which can quickly turn your patio into a haven for ants, flies, and rodents.
- Food scraps: After a BBQ or gathering, it’s essential to clean up food scraps immediately. Leftover food, especially meat or sugary drinks, will attract ants, flies, and even rodents if left out for too long. Make sure to wipe down tables, clear away plates, and store leftovers properly in sealed containers.
- Rubbish bins: Ensure your outdoor bins are well-sealed and emptied regularly. Overflowing rubbish, particularly in the summer, can become a magnet for flies and cockroaches. Consider using bins with tight-fitting lids to keep pests out.
- Standing water: Mosquitos breed in stagnant water, so it’s crucial to eliminate any standing water around your entertaining area. Check pot plant saucers, bird baths, or any items where water can collect and ensure they’re emptied or cleaned regularly.
- Clutter: Keeping outdoor furniture, toys, or gardening tools tidied away when not in use helps to reduce hiding spots for pests like spiders and cockroaches. A neat, organised space is much less inviting for unwanted critters.
A clean, tidy entertaining area not only makes for a more enjoyable space but also significantly reduces the likelihood of pests crashing your party.
Use Citronella and Natural Repellents
Rather than relying on chemical sprays, which can be harsh and unpleasant, there are plenty of natural alternatives that can effectively repel pests from your outdoor area. Citronella candles are a classic choice for keeping mosquitos and flies at bay, and they create a pleasant atmosphere too.
- Citronella candles: Place a few citronella candles or oil burners around your outdoor space. The scent of citronella is known to repel mosquitos and other insects, making it a popular choice for backyard entertaining.
- Essential oils: If you’re after a more eco-friendly approach, eucalyptus oil, lavender, or lemongrass are excellent natural alternatives. You can make your own DIY repellent spray by mixing a few drops of essential oil with water in a spray bottle. Spritz it around your outdoor seating area or on your skin to keep insects at bay.
- Herbs and plants: Consider planting lemongrass, basil, or rosemary around your patio. These plants not only smell great but also act as natural insect deterrents, adding a bit of extra protection against mozzies and flies while enhancing the look of your garden.
Natural repellents offer an environmentally friendly and chemical-free way to protect your guests while creating a relaxed outdoor vibe.
Install Mosquito Screens and Shade Cloths
Creating a physical barrier between you and the pests is another effective method to keep your outdoor area bug-free. Screens and mesh can help create an insect-free zone where you and your guests can relax without the annoyance of mozzies or flies buzzing around.
- Mosquito screens: Installing retractable screens or mesh around your outdoor entertaining area is a simple way to stop insects from entering. You can set up mesh screens over patios, gazebos, or pergolas to create a designated bug-free space while still enjoying the fresh air.
- Shade cloths: Not only do shade cloths provide relief from the harsh Aussie sun, but they also act as a barrier to insects. Flies and mosquitos are less likely to hover in shaded areas, making it a win-win. Setting up a shade sail or canopy over your seating area can help keep pests away while adding comfort for your guests.
When to Call in Professional Pest Control
Even the most diligent gardeners and homeowners can find themselves facing a pest problem that’s simply too much to handle. While there are many effective DIY solutions for keeping pests at bay, sometimes the situation escalates beyond what you can manage on your own. Here’s how to recognise when it’s time to bring in the experts, and what kind of services are available to help keep your outdoor areas pest-free.
Knowing When the Problem Is Beyond DIY Solutions
Most of the time, regular cleaning, pest-resistant plants, and natural repellents do a good job of keeping the bugs away. However, there are some situations where the problem can grow beyond the reach of at-home solutions. Here are some signs that it might be time to call in the pros:
- Persistent pests: If you’ve tried everything from natural repellents to traps, but the pests keep coming back, this could be a sign of a deeper problem that needs professional attention.
- Large infestations: Small pest problems can often be tackled with DIY methods, but if you’re seeing large numbers of pests like ants, termites, rodents, or even possums, it’s a clear sign that you need professional help. Large infestations can cause significant damage to your home or garden and are difficult to eliminate on your own.
- Health concerns: Some pests, like spiders, mosquitoes, and rodents, carry diseases or cause allergic reactions. If you’re concerned about the health risks, it’s best to call in professional pest control to ensure a thorough and safe removal.
- Damage to plants or property: If you notice chewed leaves, damaged crops, or signs of gnawing on wooden structures around your home, it could be a sign of a pest infestation that’s causing serious damage. When pests start destroying your garden or property, professional intervention is often needed to prevent further destruction.
Call in the Experts at Pesky Possum
When pests take over your garden or outdoor entertaining area, it’s time to call in the professionals.
Pesky Possum offers a wide range of pest control services, from eco-friendly solutions to possum relocation. With years of experience in keeping Australian homes and gardens pest-free, Pesky Possum can provide tailored treatments that fit your needs. Whether you’re dealing with insects, rodents, or larger wildlife, our team is ready to help protect your property and restore peace to your outdoor space.
Contact Pesky Possum today to schedule an inspection and keep your garden pest-free all year round.