Several insect management techniques follow and merit concerted attention by the conscientious gardener. Start the season with healthy plants and seeds. A healthy transplant should not contain mites or insects such as aphids, leafminers, or whiteflies. The better the percentage sprouted, the better the bag of seed, and the better chance for uniform and established stands. In order to keep those quality plants healthy, be sure to use proper and adequate fertilization, cultivation, and irrigation.
Healthy plants are less attractive to insects and also tolerate some damage.
Proper planting methods are essential. Seeds planted too deep may be slow to germinate making them more susceptible to soil insect damage before they can emerge. A good soil texture and soil pH will help ensure productive plants that may outgrow insect damage. Plants resistant or tolerant to insect damage are available to the home gardener. These plants can be effective in reducing insect damage.