When you incorporate a large variety of plants into your yard, you are more likely to create a balanced ecosystem. This means that your yard or garden will provide food and living conditions for a number of beneficial living things that will act as biological pest controls. Provide water, whether it's a jar or a bird bath, to attract beneficial organisms. By having a diverse garden, you will minimize potential overall damage because most pests only attack specific plants. This will minimize the potential for an infestation when you plant the following season.
Pests can overwinter in plant material.
Clean up leaves, stems and other plant debris in the spring. Mulches Mulches are materials placed on top of the soil and are effective in reducing weed and insect pests. Materials such as landscape cloth, wood and bark chips or plastic can be used to reduce weeds. Mulches also help retain soil moisture and warmth. Companion Planting Different plants attract different pests, and repel different pests.