5 Surprising Ways to Keep Bugs Out of Your Garden

Have you ever spent weeks tending to your garden, only to find that a swarm of bugs have devoured all of your hard work overnight? If so, you're not alone. Many gardeners face the challenge of keeping pests at bay, and the traditional methods of pesticides and insecticides aren't always ideal.

Luckily, there are some surprising ways to keep bugs out of your garden that you may not have considered.

Here, we'll explore five of these unconventional methods in-depth. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these tips will help you protect your plants and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Introduce Companion Planting

Companion planting is the practice of growing two or more plants in close proximity to one another for mutual benefit. It can be used to repel pests, attract beneficial insects, and improve soil health. For example, planting marigolds in between rows of vegetables can help deter pests like nematodes and whiteflies.

Similarly, planting basil near tomatoes can improve the flavor of the tomatoes and repel pests like aphids.

Consider Using Insect-Repellent Plants

There are a number of plants that naturally repel insects due to their scent, taste, or other properties. For example, lavender, mint, and rosemary all have strong scents that repel a variety of pests. Similarly, chives, dill, and fennel can attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings that feed on pests.

Use Row Covers to Keep Bugs Out

Row covers are lightweight fabrics that can be draped over garden beds to protect plants from pests. They allow sunlight and water to penetrate, but prevent insects from getting in. Row covers can be especially effective at preventing pest infestations early in the season when plants are most vulnerable.

Create a Barrier Using Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder made from the fossilized remains of tiny marine organisms. When sprinkled around the base of plants, it creates a barrier that insects are unable to cross. It is non-toxic and safe to use around children and pets, but can be harmful to beneficial insects, so use it sparingly.

Make Your Own Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is a natural alternative to chemical insecticides that can be effective at killing soft-bodied pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. You can make your own insecticidal soap by mixing a small amount of dish soap with water and spraying it on affected plants. Be sure to test a small area first to make sure it doesn't harm your plants.

As you can see, there are a number of surprising ways to keep bugs out of your garden without resorting to harmful chemicals. From companion planting to row covers, diatomaceous earth, and insecticidal soap, there are a variety of natural methods that can be effective at deterring pests and keeping your plants healthy.

By using these tips and experimenting with what works best for your garden, you'll be able to enjoy a thriving garden without the frustration of battling pests.