Some insects and other small pests can cause big problems when they attack your plants.
Here’s the best approach for dealing with them.
You should figure out if the bugs are eating or harming your plants.
Japanese beetles often show up in large groups.Credit: Denny Schrock
Here’s how to put this approach to work for you.
How to Get Rid of Garden Bugs
1.
Decide on Acceptable Levels of Garden Bugs
For example, what is the acceptablelevel of aphidsorJapanese beetlesin your garden?
A hefty infestation causing a plant to decline may warrant action.
Still, if the plant seems unaffected other than cosmetic damage, somegardenersprefer to let nature run its course.
Suppose you have an invasion of cabbage loopers (small green caterpillars).
Keep a Close Eye on Garden Bugs
Scout your yard at least once a week.
The sooner you catch the problem, the easier it will be to nip it in the bud.
(Wear gloves to minimize the “ick” factor if you’re squeamish.)
Usually, a combination of control measures will give you the best results.
