Problems with Pests?
Summer is often the most anticipated season, not only for those wanting to feel the warmth after the colder seasons, but also for those looking to try their hand at cultivation outside.
To help our customers forget about the cold temperatures outside, we have some key advice about dealing with those pesky pests when the outdoor growing season arrives.
Sterilize your Soil
While some people like to grow as simply as possible, it is occasionally a risky prospect dealing with unsterilized soil. This can often contain larvae and eggs of common plant pests, meaning that you are putting your grow in danger before you have even really started.
It is extremely simple to sterilize your soil. Simply place it in the oven at around 180F for half an hour. This should kill any unwanted materials in your soil and subsequently protect your plants.
Use Natural Predators
Fight fire with fire. If unwanted pests are upsetting your grow, why not use natural predators to help clean up the mess for you?
Ladybugs are the most obvious, simple and most effective choice, but it is also worth noting that birds are also very good at helping to remove pests from your plants. Place bird baths or feed close to your grow to attract these predators and they should do the job. Just ensure your seeds have all germinated first, otherwise the birds will eat them!
Conceal your Grow
While this may seem like a simple thing to say, you would be surprised how many people fail to recognise that simply concealing your grow using a makeshift wall or fence helps in numerous ways. Not only does it keep your grow discreet from any nosey neighbours, it also helps keep larger predators away.
Use Organic Repellents
Creating a ‘ring’ of safety around your plants using organic pest repellent will ensure, once you have sterilized the soil within the circle, that no pests get to your plants.
While you can buy synthetic repellents from most garden stores, it is far friendlier to the environment to create a homemade, organic product. Home-made oil-based, garlic-based and soap-based repellents all work very well.
Use Other Plants to Mask your Grow
Planting other, naturally repelling plants intermingled with your cannabis is a great way of keep predators at bay.
Pungent plants like marigolds and geraniums will keep worms and leaf-eating insects far from your precious grow.
