How to Prevent and Control Plant Pests

Once they do, there are ways of dealing with them, and eliminating them whether chemically or organically. But that doesn't get rid of the damage they've caused.

There are a few steps we can take, however, to reduce the amount of damage these plant pests can do before it's too late.

Start Fresh to Avoid Plant Pests

Since most insects live in the soil before they attack a plant, it's best to start at the source.

Use sterile potting soil when repotting house plants. Always wash and sterilize pots and don't reuse soil, especially garden soil, in your pots.

When placing plants in the garden, especially if you've lost a plant to pests and are now replacing it, treat the soil to get rid of the pests first.

Starting with good, rich, clean soil makes it easier for plants to acclimate to their new environment, whether the garden bed or a pot.

Inspect your plant before potting or planting it, especially if it's a newly purchased plant. Check under the leaves and, if the plant looks less than perfect, be extra diligent here.

Loss of leaves, chewed leaves, and excessive wilting may be due to pest problems. Don't introduce these into your garden beds or house plant collection.

If you've bought a flowering plant to add to a bed, remove any dead flowers before planting.

If you start with a healthy plant, it's less susceptible to pest damage than one in a weakened state.

Routine Maintenance to Catch Plant Pests

Once you've transplanted or repotted a plant and added to it an assortment of other plants, don't assume your work is done.

Check your plants periodically, peeking under leaves and watching for signs of stress like wilting or damaged leaves.

Remove spent flowers as they die to eliminate breeding grounds for pests.

Bugs like a still environment, so shake things up a bit with a shower from the garden hose occasionally. Allow room for air to circulate between plants.

Add a little soapy water to a bucket of warm water and wipe the leaves down with a soft cloth if you suspect pests may be invading.

For houseplants, you can put them in the bathtub and wipe them down and shower them off. You may need to use a magnifying glass to check for mites and other small insects.

There are several products on the market for protecting trees and plants from insect damage before it occurs. Read the directions and use these at the correct time to prevent damage.

And consider bringing ladybugs and praying mantises into the garden. These beneficial insects control the population of less desirable ones.

By using a few simple techniques to prevent and control infestation by plant pests, you can limit the damage they leave behind.

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