Pests are a part and parcel of farming’s challenges. As urban farmers, we must deal with plant pests on a regular basis. Pests do, in fact, weaken plants and deplete nutrients from vegetable production. However, not all insects are harmful to plants. Beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies aid in pest biological control.
The key to successful production is a basic understanding of plant pests in the garden. Here are some of the most common pests in my garden and what I do to get rid of them.
Common Plant Pest Types
Pests cause curling leaves, deformed or stunted fruit, wilting, and dying of the entire plant. Handpick them for a mild infection, trim the infected part of the plant, and destroy it.
Fruit flies
Fruit flies are tiny flies that can rot healthy fruits by turning them soggy. They thrive in high-humidity environments, particularly after rain. I use the old-fashioned method of wrapping my fruits in a newspaper to protect them.
Aphids
In my garden, I have both black and yellow aphids. Aphids leave a sticky honeydew enriched with plant sugar after feeding on plants. This sugar material attracts ants by growing mould and fungus. Ants then defend aphids from predators in order to harvest the honeydew.
When I see a swarm of aphids, I spray them with a natural insecticide.
Whitefly
Whiteflies are small, white flying insects. Whiteflies can be found clustered beneath leaves. Insects flee when plants are disturbed. They are especially fond of tomatoes, mint, and winter melons. Whiteflies feed on plant sap and decayed leaves. I use natural pesticides on them.
Snail and slugs
Slugs and snails hunt for food at night and hide during the day. They usually hide in corners, under stones, and around pot edges. They are voracious eaters of young shoots. To protect my young plants, I put them in the nursery.
Increase Production Yield by Controlling Plant Pests
Chemical pesticides pollute the air and contaminate our water supply. Furthermore, the constant use of chemicals has resulted in bugs developing resistance to these chemicals. I avoid using chemicals in my garden.
Spray only in the morning before 9 a.m. or in the evening after 4 p.m., as advised. Do not spray the solution on any plant that is exposed to direct sunlight. It will cause the leaves to burn. Before spraying the entire garden, test it on one or two plants. Spray every other day if the infestation is severe. Spray it once a week until it is under control.
Pests have a strong ability to develop repellent resistance. To avoid this problem, try different solutions.
Organic Natural Pesticide
Wood vinegar is an effective pesticide for controlling whiteflies and black aphids. With the right mix, it can be used as a fertiliser to improve the quality of the soil and help plants grow.
Crushed chilli solution quickly and effectively treats whitefly and black aphid colonies. Avoid coming into contact with your skin and eyes.
To prevent and treat pests, spray plants with soda solution. 1 tbsp bicarbonate soda, 1 tbsp vegetable oil, 5 drops of dishwashing liquid, and 4 litres of water. This is the last option for your control measure..
White vinegar solution is an excellent treatment for whiteflies, black aphids, and spiders. To make the solution, combine 4g of white vinegar and 500ml of water, followed by a few drops of dish detergent. Remember to shake vigorously.
Papaya leaves solution is effective against aphids and caterpillars. Take 50g of papaya leaves and 100ml of water for home use. Cut the leaves into small pieces. Soak for a day in the water. Extract the juice and combine it with one litre of water. Shake vigorously and set aside.
Plants that make excellent companions
Basil and tomatoes work well together to repel whiteflies, mosquitoes, and aphids.
Mint repels ants and aphids.
Cucumbers and pole beans pair well with sunflowers. It supports cucumbers that like to grow in the shade and gives them a place to hide.