Effective Methods to Keep Bugs Out of Your Greenhouse
Greenhouses are fantastic for growing plants and vegetables all year round. However, with the benefits of a greenhouse comes a downside – the potential for pests to invade. These pests can damage your plants and even kill them. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to keep bugs out of your greenhouse that are natural, safe, and easy to use.Using Sticky Traps to Keep Bugs Out of Your Greenhouse
Sticky traps are a great option for catching and trapping bugs that may be lurking in your greenhouse. These traps work by attracting bugs to them with their bright color and trapping them with their sticky surface. Some effective sticky traps that can be used to catch flying pests include:- Yellow Sticky Traps: These traps are effective at catching aphids, whiteflies, and other flying pests. They blend in with the foliage of your plants and are easily replaceable.
- Blue Sticky Traps: These traps are designed to catch thrips but can also catch other flying pests. They are incredibly sticky and can trap pests before they even get a chance to damage your plants.
Infused Yellow Plates for Warding Off Aphids and White Flies
Another effective method for keeping pests out of your greenhouse is by using infused yellow plates. These plates are coated with a layer of olive oil and can be infused with garlic, hot peppers, or other repellent plants. The yellow color of the plates acts as a natural attractant for aphids and whiteflies, while the infused oil repels them. These plates are incredibly easy to make. All you need is a yellow plate, olive oil, and your preferred repellent plant. Brush the olive oil onto the plate and then place the plant material on top. Hang the plates around your greenhouse, and they will work to repel aphids and whiteflies for several weeks.Using Wormwood as an Essential Oil for Natural Pest Control
Wormwood is an herb commonly used in traditional medicine, but it is also an effective natural pesticide. The essential oil of wormwood has been shown to repel aphids, whiteflies, and other common pests that can invade your greenhouse. To use wormwood oil, dilute a small amount with water and spray it onto the leaves of your plants. Alternatively, you can hang dried wormwood around your greenhouse, and it will work as a natural pest repellent.Beneficial Insects as an Effective Method for Controlling Greenhouse Pests
Beneficial insects are another effective method for controlling insects within your greenhouse. These insects are natural predators that feed on harmful pests and can keep their populations under control. Some common beneficial insects that can be used in a greenhouse include:- Ladybugs: Ladybugs are natural predators of aphids, mites, and whiteflies.
- Parasitic Wasps: Parasitic wasps lay their eggs on the bodies of common pests, such as whiteflies and aphids, and kill them.
- Predatory Mites: Predatory mites feed on spider mites, thrips, and other harmful pests.
Protecting Your Greenhouse from Fruit Flies and Vinegar Flies
Fruit flies and vinegar flies are common pests that can invade your greenhouse and feast on ripening fruits and vegetables. Fortunately, there are several easy ways to keep these pests at bay. Some effective methods to control fruit flies and vinegar flies include:- Removing Rotting Fruit: These pests are attracted to ripe and rotting fruit. Remove any damaged or rotting fruits from your greenhouse to prevent these pests from snacking on them.
- Using Vinegar Traps: Vinegar traps can be made by filling a small jar with vinegar and adding a drop of dish soap. The flies will be attracted to the vinegar and the dish soap will trap them once they land.
- Using Sticky Traps: Sticky traps, such as yellow sticky traps, can be effective at catching fruit flies and vinegar flies. They can be hung around your greenhouse to catch any unwanted guests.