Seasonal changes really affect how we manage pests in our gardens. Over the years, I've picked up some useful tips for dealing with these changes.

Spring: The Wake-Up Call

When spring arrives, it wakes up all the bugs that have been sleeping through the winter. You start to see the first signs of life in the garden. During spring, I take action to manage pests by:

• Checking plants often: Catching any pest problems early is super important.
• Bringing in friendly bugs: Ladybugs and lacewings can help fight off aphids and other pests.

Summer: Busy Bugs

Summer brings warm weather, but it also brings more pests. The key is to stay ahead of them. Here’s what I focus on:

• Keeping the garden clean: Cleaning up helps to remove places where pests can hide.
• Planting companions: Some plants can naturally keep pests away. For example, marigolds can help scare off nematodes and aphids.

Fall: Changing Season

As fall comes, the weather cools down, but some pests are still around. This time is all about preparing for winter. I like to:

• Clean up the garden: Removing dead plants gives fewer hiding spots for pests during winter.
• Plant cover crops: These can help make the soil better while keeping pest numbers lower.

Winter: Stay Alert

In winter, many pests go to sleep, but that doesn’t mean I stop being careful! I get ready for the next growing season by:

• Planning crop changes: Changing where I plant different crops helps break pest cycles.
• Setting traps: I use sticky traps or other safe methods to catch any pests that might appear.

By adjusting my pest management strategies with the seasons, I keep my garden healthier. Being observant and flexible with my approach makes gardening feel like a fun puzzle!