Manage Pests Responsibly
It is impossible, and unwise, to strive for a completely insect, disease, and weed-free yard. Healthy plants can usually ward off pest and disease attacks. Predatory insects, spiders, birds, and lizards help control undesirable insect populations. Moles and skunks take care of many pesky soil insects. Even snakes do a great job of getting rid of rodents and roaches. Even though these critters are uncomfortable guests, they are a part of the web of life and help to further the food chain. Keep in mind that we, the humans, are doing a fabulous job of eliminating their natural habitat so these critters have to adjust to survive.
Learn how to treat the problem, not the symptom. For example:
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Too much watering: on leaves causes disease; near a foundation attracts bugs and allows mold to grow. Solutions: water the soil not the plant and make sure water drains away from foundations.
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Mulch is deeper than 4”: creates habitat for rodents; introduces disease to plants; causes tree roots to grow above ground. Solution: mulch no more than 3” around shrubbery.
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Birdfeeders: attracts critters other than birds; creates weeds where uneaten seeds fall. Solution: Put only amounts that can feed birds in 2 days at most. Clean up after messy birds. Consider planting native plants that provide nectar and seeds for birds when they need it most.
Manage Pests Responsibly Actions:
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Learn to identify 5 beneficial insects that provide natural control of pests.
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Scout for pests and learn more about common problems for plants in your landscape. One bug is not an infestation and could simply be squashed.
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Avoid routine applications of pesticides. Treat only affected areas with the chemical labeled for the problem. Overuse can injure plants and harm beneficial insects.
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Determine the appropriate method of control such as pruning, hand-removal, clearing away diseased debris, plant replacement, using horticultural oils/soaps, biological controls, and pesticides.
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HINT: Forsyth Cooperative Extension can help ID plant disease, critters and weeds as well as provide the most effective control measures.
More Info:
https://forestry.ces.ncsu.edu/forestry-urban-wildlife/
http://www.ncwildlife.org/Have-A-Problem#5565125-h2find-assistance-with-wildlife-problemsh2
