Trees are host to a plethora of organisms, but some are not as beneficial as others. Common tree pests (gypsy moths, Asian longhorned beetles, mites, etc.) may find their way into your garden and onto your trees. Two safe and effective methods for controlling these insects are: (1) prevention and (2) the use of natural insecticides.
Prevention
- A tidy yard space. Rot and debris (like dead or fallen branches) attract all manner of pests. Removing waste is the first necessary step in preventing infestation.
- Proper irrigation and mulching. Avoid excessively watering and mulching trees. Too much water causes soil compaction and will deprive trees of much-needed nutrients. It also makes them vulnerable to rot. Too much mulch may also cause crown rot disease and attract slugs and rodents.
- Pruning. Prune when insects are less active (boring insects, especially) so they have no opportunity to make their way into freshly cut areas. Late fall and winter is a great time for tree maintenance.
- Good insect “appeal.” Insects like ladybugs, damsel bugs, soldier beetles, and lacewings are natural predators for some of the more harmful insects in a garden. Encourage their stay by bordering your property with plants that attract them.
Healthy plants. Make sure trees and plants are well-watered, fertilized, and located in areas with suitable sun and soil conditions. Healthy growth has immune systems to fight off pests and disease.
Natural Pesticides
Prevention is key; but if pests manage to get through your garden’s primary line of defense, you can turn to pesticides. To protect both your health and that of your garden, it’s best to avoid harsh chemicals. Here are a few natural pesticides you can use:
- Neem oil spray. Neem oil is a highly effective pesticide that causes hormonal disruption in insects, making it difficult for them to grow and reproduce. It also has properties that puts a damper on the feeding habits of insects and can be used as a fungicide. Create a mixture with two teaspoons of neem oil, one teaspoon of mild liquid soap, and five cups of water. Shake it and spray on affected areas, thoroughly covering those surfaces.
- Soap spray. Soap can also act as an effective insecticide. Mix 1 1/2 teaspoons of mild liquid soap with five cups of water, and spray it on affected parts of the plants. It works best when applied during cooler parts of the day (early mornings and evenings).
- Tomato leaf spray. Tomatine, found in tomato plants, has insecticidal properties and is an effective alternative to other chemicals. You can make this by simply mixing two cups of chopped tomato leaves with 5 cups of water, letting the mixture steep overnight, and straining it. Use the remaining liquid as a spray.
- Diatomaceous earth. Made from fossilized algae called “diatoms,” diatomaceous earth is a natural pest control method that is lethal to insects. It works by absorbing the waxy substance from their exoskeleton, effectively dehydrating and killing them. Purchase it from a garden store and sprinkle it on the soil surrounding your trees or on leaves. Reapply after a rain shower (it needs to be dry to be effective).
Trees can benefit a garden in a variety of ways, but they require proper care and maintenance. To ensure that you get healthy trees, select a trusted supplier. Caledon Treeland offers a great selection of trees. For tree care advice and quality trees for sale in Toronto and Brampton, call us at (905) 880-1828.