To be successful, you must adopt the organic system throughout the garden. Banning chemicals from only the kitchen garden may provide you with vegetables that are free of pesticide residues but it will do nothing to restore the balance of nature that is essential in the control of pests and diseases. If you continue to spray insecticide on your roses, for example, you risk killing not only greenflies, but also the beneficial insects that were on their way to pollinate your vegetables.
Initially, while predators and parasites are assembling their troops, you may need to help them to keep pests under control. Do not be tempted to resort to chemical pesticides that will kill friends and foes alike, but choose a spray that is suitable for use in an organic garden. There are also many homemade treatments that can be used for combating pests, treating infection and boosting the health of your plants.
Most importantly, learn to distinguish between friends and foes. Never assume that an insect or other creature that appears in your garden for the first time is the scout of an invading army. It is much more likely to be a friend that has come to protect you from invasion and to enjoy the safety of your pesticide-free garden.
Seraficus/iStockphoto
Using insecticide to get rid of greenflies can do more harm than good.
