Pests are part of any garden. Although their presence may be annoying, it is not always seriously destructive. In dealing with pests, it is important to consider that chemicals are NOT necessarily the first or only line of defense. This article lists some of the mechanical and cultural methods used to reduce pests in the garden.

Physical barriers placed around some plants control certain insects.

Collars-Three- to four-inch upright cylinders of roofing paper, plastic or metal inserted one to two inches below the soil surface prevent insects, such as cutworms, from reaching and damaging stems of plants.

Shields-Squares of carpet or tar paper fitted snugly around the stem of young cole crop seedlings will prevent maggot larva from reaching the roots.

Row Covers-Commercial spunbonded row covers or cheesecloth can be used to
exclude cabbage maggots, onion maggots, leafminers, aphids, cucumber beetles, potato beetles and European corn borers; Remember to remove the cover from insect-pollinated plants (squash, cucumbers and melons) when in bloom.

In biological control, pests are controlled by the introduction of predators, parasites or diseases. This is an area many gardeners are exploring. Some biological controls are commercially available. One of the simplest to use is Bacillus thuringiensis (B. t.), a bacterium.

Tilling under crop debris in the fall destroys the habitat for many overwintering insects and plant diseases, thereby reducing their number the following year.

Insects may be hand picked from the plant. This is one of the most practical methods, especially when the pests are large, easily seen and relatively inactive. For example, Colorado potato beetle can be controlled this way. Insects may be killed by placing them in a bucket of water containing powdered laundry detergent.

Maintain healthy plants. Horticultural practices, such as proper soil preparation, fertilization and irrigation, will maintain plant vigor and reduce insect and disease damage. Plants under stress are more apt, to be attacked or damaged. Ideal germination conditions and rapid growth enable plants to out-compete or tolerate damage. Thin young plants to avoid over-crowding and weak growth.

Properly identify what is causing the problem. Determine if the pest is a serious threat to the plant. Most garden plants can tolerate some insect feeding, and pests can be washed off after harvest. If the pest is very destructive, try to use the least disruptive method of pest control.

Injury to plants should be avoided. Cuts, bruises and spots of insect damage are often sites of disease infection. Check plants for injury and insects before purchasing and planting.

Revised and updated by Richard A. Ashley, IPM Coordinator, University of Connecticut. March 2000.

Originally published: Hort Impact, Volume-97-7 July 1997
By: Norman Gauthier, Senior Extension Educator, Fruits and Vegetables, University of Connecticut, July 1997

ipm@uconn.edu

Information on our site was developed for conditions in the Northeast. Use in other geographical areas may be inappropriate.

The information in this material is for educational purposes. The recommendations contained are based on the best available knowledge at the time of printing. Any reference to commercial products, trade or brand names is for information only, and no endorsement or approval is intended. The Cooperative Extension system does not guarantee or warrant the standard of any product referenced or imply approval of the product to the exclusion of others which also may be available.All agrochemicals/pesticides listed are registered for suggested uses in accordance with federal and Connecticut state laws and regulations as of the date of printing. If the information does not agree with current labeling, follow the label instructions. The label is the law.Warning! Agrochemicals/pesticides are dangerous. Read and follow all instructions and safety precautions on labels. Carefully handle and store agrochemicals/pesticides in originally labeled containers immediately in a safe manner and place. Contact the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection for current regulations.The user of this information assumes all risks for personal injury or property damage.Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, Acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Kirklyn M. Kerr, Director, Cooperative Extension System, The University of Connecticut, Storrs. The Connecticut Cooperative Extension System offers its programs to persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability and is an equal opportunity employer.