November 30th 2024.
Recently, a neighbor reached out to me for advice on how to deal with carpenter bees. She was hoping for a recommendation for an exterminator, but I had a better solution that was not only more budget-friendly but also more effective and environmentally friendly.
This got me thinking about the importance of taking a moment to assess whether insects truly pose a threat before immediately resorting to pesticides or professional help. While we are all familiar with beneficial insects like ladybugs, dragonflies, and bees, it's time to expand our definition of "pests" and welcome other less-known insects onto the friendly bug list. Native beetles, assassin bugs, and even wasps all play important roles in the ecosystem, despite their intimidating appearances.
In fact, the Royal Horticultural Society in Great Britain has removed the "pest" label from slugs and snails, creatures that are typically considered garden nuisances. As it turns out, they also have a vital role in the environment, consuming decaying plant matter and serving as a food source for birds, frogs, and other animals. Some species even help to control algae.
This should come as no surprise - every living being has a purpose, whether we acknowledge it or not. Thankfully, as gardeners become more aware of the interconnectedness of different species, they are starting to view insects as essential components of a sustainable landscape rather than just pests to be eliminated.
When my neighbor mentioned using an exterminator to get rid of her carpenter bees, I warned her that the pesticides used could harm other pollinators and beneficial insects. Not to mention, the chemicals would need to be reapplied regularly, resulting in a constant upsell for "service plans." While carpenter bees may look intimidating, the males do not have stingers, and the females will only use theirs if they feel threatened. Their only real "damage" is drilling holes in wooden surfaces to create nests.
So, what can be done about carpenter bees? I suggested sealing the holes with wood putty to prevent them from accessing their nests, which would force them to find a new location. Additionally, painting bare wood surfaces can deter them from drilling in the first place. If necessary, spraying the nest openings with almond or citrus oil, which carpenter bees detest, can also be an effective deterrent.
Of course, in severe infestations, a stronger approach may be needed. In those cases, I recommend seeking out organic controls, such as diluted Neem oil, and only applying them after dark to avoid harming pollinators. Homemade soap sprays, made by mixing 1 tablespoon of dish soap into a quart of water, can also be used to control soft-bodied insects on plants.
To support beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps, I suggest planting nectar-rich native plants. This not only provides essential food sources for these insects but also adds beauty to your garden.
To prevent pest infestations from recurring, avoid planting the same crops in the same beds year after year. Instead, rotate them to essentially "starve" pests that target specific plants. This also allows for a clean slate when you reintroduce the crops to the bed after two or three years.
Lastly, it's important to learn to accept some "pest" activity in the garden. A few nibbled leaves here and there shouldn't warrant immediate eradication. These measures should only be taken when the damage threshold has been crossed, which in many cases, won't happen.
Remember, the circle of life in the garden is essential. For example, a single nest of baby birds can consume thousands of pests in just a few weeks. By encouraging birds to nest on your property through feeders and clean water sources, you have the best exterminators on your side - and they work for free.
In the end, it's about finding a balance and understanding the important roles that all creatures play in our ecosystem. So, before reaching for that spray can or calling in the professionals, take a moment to consider alternative solutions and embrace the diversity of life in your garden.
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