For those with a green thumb, one of the best things about the East Bay is the ability to enjoy gardening year-round. The abundant sun and moderate temperatures make outdoor spaces such a pleasure to nurture and tend.
Cultivated gardens are part of the ecosystem and may even contribute to a household’s food supply, so it’s important to manage pest control in an environmentally responsible way. A healthy organic garden supports pollinators, creates habitat for other friendly local critters and reduces toxic runoff to local creeks and the bay.
Soil
The soil is the foundation for any flourishing garden. It can be time-consuming to prepare, but the right soil will help deter insect pests in the long term while giving plants their best shot at a fruitful existence. If starting from scratch, you’ll need to clear rocks, loosen the soil and work in some organic matter. Ambitious gardeners may even want to start a compost pile.
Plants
The plants you choose to grow should be suited to the conditions in your microclimate. Pick those that are not only beautiful and delicious, but can resist and repel pests. Marigolds, nasturtiums and lavender, among others, help keep destructive bugs away from salad fixin’s. Some gardeners have been known to plant more crops than needed so that “sharing” some with pests has less impact. There are some great options at the East Bay’s many nurseries.
Marigolds, nasturtiums and lavenders
Maintenance
Thin seedlings selectively, keeping the most vigorous ones. Weaker seedlings are more likely to become diseased and may pass the problem on to healthy plants. As they grow, keep any withered or damaged foliage trimmed away. Plants need good air circulation to stay healthy.
Water early in the day so leaves aren’t damp when it cools off in the evening. Fungus and other diseases thrive in moist conditions. Snails are notorious for enjoying a soggy path to the flower bed. They’re also big fans of beer, so if you find yourself with a snail problem, pour a can into a low dish and set it near your petunias. Their last moments will at least be happy ones!
Pests
Mechanical pest control means physically removing and destroying unwanted visitors. Trapping, handpicking or spraying with an earth-friendly soap solution or pesticide are all effective ways to reduce the pest population. If there are entrepreneurial children nearby, consider enlisting them to help by offering a bounty for captured pests. What ten year old wouldn’t want a summer job capturing bugs?
Many insects are beneficial to our gardening efforts. Ladybugs can be invaluable in the fight against unwanted pests. They eat aphids and mites plus the eggs and larvae of many destructive insects. Praying mantises, lacewings and parasitic wasps also assist. Beneficial garden insects can be purchased locally or ordered online. Be sure you don’t use any chemicals for at least 10 days before releasing your new friends.
Rats, mice, gophers, moles and voles may also do their best to disrupt the garden. Raised beds may help deter them. You can also try repellants like peppermint oil, catnip or other herbs with a strong scent. Doing your best to keep the garden clean makes it more difficult for rodents to settle in, since they are notoriously prolific breeders. If you decide to use traps, be sure to use one of the many humane options.
Red Oak Realty is carbon neutral and green certified and we use sustainable practices in the landscaping around our offices. If you need help finding resources for your earth-friendly gardening ambitions, just ask. We wish you an abundant harvest.
