Effective pest control is essential for maintaining a healthy and thriving garden. By combining natural, mechanical, and, when necessary, chemical methods, you can manage pests without harming the environment. Here are some strategies for pest control in the garden:

1. Prevention

Preventing pest problems before they start is the first line of defense.

• Healthy Soil: Build healthy soil with compost and organic matter to promote strong plant growth and natural pest resistance.
• Companion Planting: Planting certain plants together can deter pests. For example, marigolds can repel nematodes, and basil can deter tomato hornworms.
• Crop Rotation: Rotate crops each season to prevent pests from becoming established in the soil.
• Sanitation: Keep the garden clean by removing plant debris, weeds, and fallen fruit, which can harbor pests.

2. Physical Barriers and Traps