Pest problems are a great menace to many farmers and gardeners. Carefully cared for fruits, vegetables and flowers can be destroyed by such pests leaving owners with huge losses and frustrations. The best way to avoid problems from insect damage is by knowing how to keep pests away in the first place. Doing so will not only save you from losing your vegetable garden but will also save you precious time and from the expensive purchase of pesticides.

Tips for preventing pests in vegetables

1. Natural insect repellent:

To make your own natural insect repellent, use 2 grams of brown sugar, 2 ounces of vinegar, and 30 grams of urea. Add them in turn into a 30-pound bucket, stir evenly, and then spray it on your crops. , which can both prevent insects and increase production.

2. Biological control：

Not all insects cause havoc to the crops. Some insects are actually beneficial to the health of the plants. It is because they are carnivorous, and they will feed on the pests attacking your crops. Ladybug nymphs are known to feed on aphids. Have plants that will attract them to keep them coming. Such crops include marigolds and some herbs. Other carnivorous insects include; dragonflies, honeybee, lacewings, and hoverflies. These will all help to naturally control pest insect populations.

Encouraging larger natural predators to your garden can also help to control insect pest populations. Toads and frogs are great predators to encourage to your garden, as well as some birds. However, be cautious about the type of bird you introduce as some birds may end up feeding on your crops.

Make your farm or garden welcoming to these animals by providing food and shelter. For example, planting trees and shrubs for shelter and providing clean water can help attract birds to the garden.

3. Environmental management:

Keep the soil moisture appropriate, remove residual leaves and weeds regularly, and reduce the habitat of pests.

4. Organic fertilizers:

Use organic fertilizers to improve the resistance of plants and help prevent pests and diseases.

5. Spray soapy water:

Make soapy water spray and spray diluted soapy water on the leaves to help remove some soft-bodied pests.

6. Spray pepper water:

Use the capsaicin in pepper water to drive away some pests.

7. Sticky insect traps:

Placing sticky insect traps around plants can reduce the number of pests.

8. Cultivate beneficial insects:

Cultivate and attract natural enemy insects, such as ladybugs, to help control the number of pests.