From the bugs to small animals — warmer weather has no shortage of pests. Yet, one of the easiest ways to managing those things that “bug” you is through clever landscaping.
According to researchers at North Carolina State University, “the more complex the harborage, the greater the carrying capacity,” says Scott McNeely in a recent article in Pest Control Technology.
It’s a simple concept, forget the traps and sprays. Instead of reacting to bugs and animals, prevent them from happening in the first place — a philosophy we strongly believe at Greener Gardens.
TREES
Any tree that produces seeds, nuts and fruit will attract pests. Your tree is basically handing them food on a silver platter. The same can also be said for trees with flowers, as insects will likely indulge on the plants. McNeely says some trees are more susceptible to being attacked by aphids, ants and other species. Depending on the trees proximity to your home, it may an invitation to having more trouble than you like. Remember, don’t be discouraged. Trees are a beautiful investment. Consult your gardener to find the best tree for you, and the best plan if those pests do become a problem later.
SHRUBS
Much like trees, shrubs can also provide an attractive home for pests. You’ll likely see that with fruits and flowers, you’ll have more ants and aphids. McNeely also notes that “densely planted shrubbery or shrubs with foliage extending to the ground can create an attractive home for rodents and other vertebrate pests.”
MULCH
Materials like wooden pellets or bard can attract pests, as it creates a safe, warm environment for them to breed. The great thing is that these days, there are many synthetic products available and alternatives, like shredded tires, which are less attractive to pests. Some experts say rock-based ground cover is even better.
CONTROLLING PESTS
It’s important for homeowners to understand the delicate balance of keeping pests away without harming your plants. It can be tempting to spray your trees and shrubs multiple times a week, but that may end up be harming the foliage, says garden expert Paul James.
“You might destroy 80 percent of the aphids, but you would almost certainly destroy 100 percent of the lady beetles that were busily eating all those aphids,” James says in a recent Home Gardening TV article. “And what's more interesting is that aphids don't have to mate during the growing season.”
The important thing to remember is that while we may call them pests, animals, bugs and insects are all a part of nature. They serve a purpose and some may actually help sustain the life of your garden. So before you grab the treatment, talk to an expert about the best plan before you put your trees and plants into the ground.
When the economic slowdown took a large bite out of Greener Gardens' business, diversification became the company's path to growing once again.
Founded in 2000, Greener Gardens offers everything you need to design, install, and maintain your outdoor environment. We have a strong commitment to finding and assessing the best plant materials and providing unmatched customer service.
Contact:
Greener Gardens
5275 Rambling Rd
St. Cloud, FL 34771
Phone — (407) 892-9795
Fax — (407) 892-3332
www.greener-gardens.com