Controlling garden pests naturally

In short: Instead of poison, many pests can be kept in check with beneficial insects, companion planting, barriers and care. A diverse garden largely regulates itself.

In more detail: Ladybirds, lacewings, hoverflies, birds, hedgehogs and parasitic wasps eat aphids, slugs and caterpillars.

In detail

• Encourage beneficials: Flower strips, nesting aids, leaf piles, water sources (insekten-und-bestaeuber).
• Aphids: Spray off with a strong water jet or encourage ladybird larvae.
• Slugs: Collect in the evening, slug fence, ducks or Indian runner ducks, beer traps with caution.
• Companion planting: Onions beside carrots confuse the carrot fly, marigolds attract nematodes.
• Nets: Crop protection nets keep out cabbage whites and vegetable flies.
• Brews: Nettle liquid and garlic brew strengthen plants.
• Avoid chemicals: Insecticides also kill bees and beneficials (igel-im-garten-schuetzen).