When checked frequently, many garden insects can be controlled successfully without the use of insecticides. No single chemical will protect plants from all of these pests. Many insecticides are available today. Insecticides should be selected with care and chosen with a specific pest in mind. Common insecticides for home garden use are available in synthetic, botanical, biological, and mineral-based formulations.
Biological controls are a good option, particularly for caterpillar pests.
Other materials homeowners may use for insect control include diatomaceous earth, oils, and soaps. Insects that live in the soil and damage roots and underground portions of the stems cannot be effectively controlled by treating the above ground portions of plants. White grubs and wireworms may cause serious damage to garden plants. If the garden area has a history of white grubs or wireworm problems or if garden plants are to be planted in an area that was grassy or weedy the previous season, then an insecticide should be broadcast and lightly tilled into the soil prior to planting. Control of soil insects on a rescue basis after planting is usually not successful.