Insects, especially harmful insects, are a matter of course on every farm or garden. Some bugs are useful as they chase the bad bugs and deliver valuable pollination for plants. On the other hand, other pests pose a threat. Pests can damage the appearance of fruits and vegetables and make these products difficult or impossible to sell. Worse, some pest damage can kill a crop instantly.
Traditional farmers spray toxic pesticides in order to get rid of harmful pests. Organic farmers, however, use alternative strategies to reduce and control pests without the use of synthetic inputs. They are aware of the harmful effects of using toxic pesticides. Learning the science behind organic farming has been the goal of Ant & Garden pest control companies. This way, they can be able to come up with organic but effective means to control pest infestation.
The scientific strategies for pest control
The first line of defense is prevention. Healthy soil produces strong plants which are resistant to pest infestation. Farmers can stimulate populations of beneficial insects and natural predators like ladybugs. Other approaches include crop rotation and choice of pest-resistant plant varieties.
When insects become a serious problem, organic farmers can use pheromones to interrupt pest mating cycles. They can also use mechanical controls such as trapping. If all other means are exhausted and a farmer is faced with a potentially significant loss, targeted sprays of pesticides that are organic approved can be used. Widespread sprays of non-specific insect killers are always the last resort.
Scientific view: The effects of chemical pest control
Chemical pesticides pollute our air and water. In addition, they kill good bugs and insects, and they destroy biodiversity in ways that affect ecosystems across the farm. Organic pest management is a holistic approach. This has to be acknowledged by every farmer across the globe. Organic farmers implement a lot of strategies, including those that have been described above. This way, they help to reduce the use and impact of chemical pesticides and promote an agricultural system that works in harmony with nature. The result is lower costs, stronger plants, healthier wildlife, and a cleaner environment for everyone.