Page 17 - Allotment Gardener Issue 2 2024

PEST CONTROL
ORGANIC OPTIONS
If you are suffering with infestations of particular pests and feel that you need to
take decisive action, fear not – there are thankfully now many organic and eco-friendly pest control options that don’t pose a risk to other garden wildlife, or pets and children.
For example, you can now get slug ‘pellets’ made from sheep’s wool which create a sort of mulch on the surface of the ground which slugs find uncomfortable to crawl over. These do occasionally need refreshing, but the good news is that as well as forming a barrier against slugs, they also break down and add goodness to your soil, afterwards.
Also, most of us are probably familiar with the idea of nematodes – microscopic creatures that act as parasites against garden pests. As this is a biological rather than chemical control, the nematodes are specific to the type of pest you are trying to target so do make sure you select the right type for your needs. These are easy
to apply: most can be added to watering cans and watered onto your soil. As they are living things, they do need to be used fairly soon after ordering for the best results. Re-application will often be necessary, but the frequency of this will depend on your specific type.
Traditional scarers are another option for birds feasting on your leaves – tie CDs, fake birds or anything that moves and glints around the plot.
Overall, keeping on top of pests can feel frustrating, but it is also really satisfying to work with nature and find fantastic solutions that offer many additional benefits, too.
COMPANION PLANTING
As well as the beauty of adding extra plants to your space, companion planting can also benefit you by distracting pests, too! Certain combinations of companion planting are well-known – such as marigolds around tomatoes, beans near nasturtiums, carrots alongside mint, and many more. So have a look into what works well with what you want to grow.
It is also well worth just giving it a try and growing combinations you fancy – confusing the pests and providing sacrificial crops for them to munch on instead of your precious produce is always worth doing and can even supply you with some sneaky extra harvests in the mix!
It isn’t just the pest control properties that companion planting helps with, either – you can also see improved pollination and, in some cases, improved growth in general – so there are many reasons to add some beneficial blooms, herbs and more to your space.
Grow Your Own is a monthly magazine packed full of expert advice for fruit and veg growers. Subscribe today and receive six issues for just £32.99. Find out more at www.growfruitandveg.co.uk
Allotment Gardener | Issue 2 2024 | 17