A thriving garden attracts more than just gardeners and pollinators—pests often find their way in too. While a few insects are a natural part of any healthy garden ecosystem, certain pests can quickly damage leaves, flowers, and bulbs if left unchecked.
The good news is that with a little observation and a few preventative strategies, you can keep your garden healthy and your plants growing strong. Here are some common garden pests to watch for and tips on how to manage them.
Aphids
Aphids are tiny insects that cluster on stems and the undersides of leaves. They feed by sucking plant sap, which can weaken plants and cause distorted growth.
What to look for:
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Sticky residue (called honeydew) on leaves
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Curled or yellowing foliage
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Clusters of tiny green, black, or brown insects
How to manage them:
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Spray plants with a strong stream of water
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Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs
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Use insecticidal soap if infestations become severe
Slugs and Snails
Slugs and snails love damp environments and often feed on tender new growth. They are especially active in the evening and after rainfall.
What to look for:
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Large holes in leaves
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Silvery slime trails on plants or soil
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Missing seedlings or young shoots
How to manage them:
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Remove hiding spots like dense mulch or debris
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Handpick pests in the evening
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Use barriers such as crushed eggshells or copper tape around plants
Japanese Beetles
Japanese beetles are shiny green beetles that feed on plant leaves and flowers. They can quickly skeletonize leaves, leaving only the veins behind.
What to look for:
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Leaves that appear lace-like or skeletonized
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Clusters of beetles feeding on plants
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Damage to flower petals
How to manage them:
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Handpick beetles early in the morning
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Drop them into a container of soapy water
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Encourage natural predators like birds
Spider Mites
Spider mites are extremely small pests that thrive in hot, dry conditions. They can weaken plants by feeding on leaf tissue.
What to look for:
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Tiny yellow or white speckles on leaves
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Fine webbing on plants
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Leaves that appear dusty or dull
How to manage them:
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Increase humidity around plants
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Spray leaves with water regularly
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Use horticultural oils if necessary
Deer and Rabbits
While not insects, larger garden visitors like deer and rabbits can cause significant damage by feeding on leaves, stems, and flowers.
What to look for:
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Cleanly clipped stems
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Leaves missing from plants
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Bite marks on young growth
How to manage them:
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Use garden fencing or plant cages
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Apply natural repellents
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Choose deer-resistant plants when possible
Preventing Pest Problems
The best pest control strategy is prevention. Healthy gardens are naturally more resilient to pests.
Helpful garden habits include:
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Inspect plants regularly for early signs of damage
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Remove dead leaves and debris
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Encourage beneficial insects like bees and ladybugs
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Water plants at the base rather than overhead
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Rotate plant varieties each season when possible
A Healthy Garden Is a Balanced Garden
Remember that not every insect in your garden is harmful. Many insects help pollinate plants or feed on destructive pests. By maintaining healthy soil, strong plants, and a balanced ecosystem, your garden will naturally resist many pest problems.
With a little attention and care, you can keep your garden thriving and enjoy beautiful blooms all season long.