Tomatoes are one of the most commonly eaten vegetables among humans, as they can be used in a variety of dishes or to make soups and sauces. With all of the possible options, people love them. However, they aren't the only ones - pests love tomatoes too. If you aren't careful, pests could get to your tomatoes and prevent you from making that delectable cucumber and tomato salad. Consider these tips to keep pests away from your tomatoes.
Tomatoes are a juicy, abundant fruit that many people happen to grow in their backyards, Garden Guides noted. Because of its abundance, many pests love to dig into it as well. Larger pests, such as deer, raccoons, skunks and coyotes will all feed on a ripe tomato plant. However, don't discredit smaller pests, including whiteflies, stinkbugs, aphids and beetles, who all love to chow down on tomato plants. If the problem is left ignored, the pest population could become bigger, and homeowners may be disheartened when they realize that their tomatoes have been ruined.
Cones are a great way to protect your plants from any type of pest, the San Francisco Chronicle noted. They lift the leaves up and support the plant as it grows upward. Lifting the leaves and stem off the ground can help prevent pests from crawling directly on the leaves. Cones, which are sturdy and usually made of metal, can also resist larger pests such as deer, as they can't put their heads through the holes. Aim for cones that are 3 or 4 feet tall.
Certain herbs and flora actually keep pests away. Planting basil near your tomatoes can keep off small pests such as whiteflies. As an added bonus, tomato and basil are in plenty of recipes together. You could also try planting marigolds, which keep larger animals away, or sunflowers, oregano or carrots. See which works best for you.
Pests are less likely to go after a plant that's fairly healthy and blossoming. However, if you have rotting tomatoes, or you have tomatoes that have fallen off the plant and are sitting on the ground near it, you're going to attract pests. Pick off any rotten fruit or any tomatoes that have fallen off.
As the weather cools, you'll probably see fewer pests than you did during the warmer months, but that doesn't mean they're all gone just yet. Some insects can actually come out in full force during the autumn, while others might seek refuge in your warm home. Here are some key tips to keep in mind as fall gets underway:
It's finally here - sweet, sweet summertime at last! But has your time outside already been rudely interrupted by swarms of pesky bugs trying to take a stab at you? This season, let's say no more to swatting, slapping or clapping at these insects who seem to be tormenting innocent outdoors enthusiasts every year. Fortunately, the solution isn't as chemical ridden as you might think. As it turns out, some of your favorite scents are insects least favorite.
Not every creature that visits your property is a dangerous nuisance. Many animals actually offer a number of benefits that keep your yard healthy. Predatory animals, in particular, actually offer natural pest control. Here are five common suburban creatures that can help keep more difficult or annoying animals at bay:
The customer is always right, and this is especially true if he or she is complaining about seeing a mouse or cockroach. Pests have no place in your organization, as bugs and rodents will turn away potential business or even lead to a possible lawsuit. Keeping your company protected requires a proactive approach. Work with a pest removal specialist to identify the best ways to stop creatures from infesting your business. Here are just a few ideas for successfully mitigating and preventing any issues:
You might see an influx of rodents at this time of year, because as the weather cools mice and rats seek warmth anywhere they can find it. Unfortunately, that often means inside residential homes. Many homes may experience rodent infestations at this time of year more than any other. Whether they're getting into your garage, basement or kitchen, it's important to put a stop to them before the problem becomes too serious and requires the intervention of a professional pest control agency.
Though many bugs and other creatures can cause serious headache for homeowners or anyone managing a garden, there are plenty of critters that actually serve a number of benefits. These may promote healthy plant growth, provide aesthetic beauty or even prey on pests that can otherwise cause damage.
Summer is almost here and before you head out on a family trip or even if you travel for work, consider doing a little research so you become familiar with bed bugs. This will help you identify them quickly and it could keep you from bringing them home unknowingly!
