How do you control pests when you don’t use pesticides?

At Feed Your Soul, needless to say we will not be using fungicides or herbicides in our garden. Not only are these harsh chemicals terrible for the planet, destroying top soil, killing off wildlife and decreasing crucial populations of insects and bees, but they are terrible for us too. Although pesticide residue can be washed off, much of the chemical goes into the plant, which is then ingested by us upon eating. Many of the pesticides used are known carcinogens and endocrine disrupters.

 

But this begs the question - how do you deal with pests? It’s of no surprise to us that Mother Earth already had the answer covered, we just needed to listen.

Most large scale, industrial farming is done using a monoculture. This  means planting one variety of crop, such as wheat or potatoes. This makes it very easy for pests to get through a plant quickly. Poor quality soil also makes the plants less hardy. Because of this, farmers then turn to pesticides as the only solution.

When multiple planting methods are used, such as companion planting, succession planting (which happens in nature, crop rotation doesn’t) and planting ornamental plants with edibles, as you would find in nature, you diversify the landscape. This makes it harder for pests or diseases to find the plant they want. The soil is also much richer in nutrients when no chemicals are used and multiple plants have a chance to give and receive from the soil, meaning that plants are often much hardier and resistant to pests anyway. And companion planting, such as planting rosemary with asparagus to deter asparagus beetle, can provide a natural repellent.

Permaculture sees no creature as a pest, more a part of the natural landscape that is very necessary in the circle of life. A rise in one population of ‘pest’ is seen more as a sign of an imbalance, rather than a problem that needs to be exterminated.

A key to natural pest control is to have patience - a trait that must be cultivated when becoming green fingered! It can take around 3 years to get the predator/pest balance right in your garden when doing it naturally, but there are some things you can do to make the environment more conducive to wildlife that will naturally keep the less helpful creatures at bay!

Consider what predators you may want to invite into the garden in relation to the ‘pest’ problems you have. You may want to create a water feature for frogs or toads, or leave an aspect of the garden to grow wild. Lady birds like nettles, and will feast on aphids to help keep control of your garden.

The key, like in nature, is diversity. If you diversify your garden and beds, pests should be kept to a minimum. However, in the event they do arise, there are natural treatments that can be made to support your already thriving ecosystem.

If you would like to get involved in Feed Your Soul, then reach out via our DMs, or email hello@feedyoursouluk.co.uk . We can’t wait to hear from you! 🍎💚