Most gardeners have encountered at least one major pest problem over the years. For some, it's a constant battle to keep rabbits, ants, bugs, and other unwanted wildlife away from their prized plants. If you know your garden has a pest problem, now is the best time to work on the issue. Here are some of the tricks our real estate agents use to keep their gardens pest-free all season long. 

• Introduce Predators
  Insects like lacewings, ladybugs, and mantises eat common pest insects like aphids. If you can get more of these bugs to hang around your plants, they'll get rid of any pests you already have and deter others from settling down there. 
  
  To attract more of these helpful insects, add plants like sunflowers, yarrow, black-eyed Susans, and mountain mint to your garden. These plants are full of nectar that's easy for these beneficial bugs to reach. When they come to drink some of that nectar, they'll snap up the pests in your garden too. 
  
  If you have a dog (or are friends with someone who does), it's also helpful to let the dog run around your yard a few times a week. Doing this lets pests like rabbits and squirrels know to stay away from your yard so they stay out of danger. 
  
  
• Choose Pest-Resistant Plants
  Sometimes the best way to get rid of pests is to make sure there's nothing appealing for them to munch on. Choose plants that resist the types of pests you encounter in your garden. For example, chrysanthemums repel ticks, fleas, and roaches while marigolds are great for chasing mosquitos and aphids away. 
  
  Make sure you identify your pests correctly so you can choose the right plant species for the job. Once you know what kinds of plants you need, spread them out evenly in your garden so every area can benefit from their effects.
  
  
• Use a Barrier
  Pests can't eat your plants if they can't get to them! Placing a physical barrier between your garden and your pests will discourage them and may even stop them altogether. 
  
  You can easily make a fence or cage for your garden using wooden spokes, PVC pipes, and some mesh. Make your structure at least 2 feet tall and bury several inches of it below the ground; this will ensure that nothing can jump over or burrow under it. You'll still be able to reach over it to get to your plants, but only the very tallest pests will be able to do the same. 
  
  
• Use Natural Pesticides
  Chemical pesticides may get rid of your pest problem, but they'll also harm the ecosystem in your garden. Luckily, there are natural alternatives that you can use instead. 
  
  Make your own natural pesticides by mixing a repellant like chili powder, vegetable oil, tomato leaves, or dish soap with water. Put this mixture into a small spray bottle and spritz your garden with it a few times a week. The mixture won't hurt your plants, but it will irritate any insects that try to munch on them. 

Wish you had more outdoor space for an even bigger, better garden? Our roster of Belleville homes for sale includes many properties with large yards, gorgeous gardens, and plenty of room for expansions. Contact us today to speak to one of our agents, and let us find you the home you've been dreaming of.