If you’re an environmentally conscious person, you do your best not to harm the Earth. This can be challenging at times, especially when it comes to your yard. You spend a lot of time and money keeping your outdoor space looking nice, and the last thing you want to see are pests and diseases ruining your trees and shrubs. You may think the only option is using harmful pesticides. At Griffin Organics, we are experts in environmentally-friendly lawn care, and we’re here to tell you there’s a greener choice: integrated pest management. By working with Nature, instead of against her, you can enjoy pest-free landscaping guilt-free.
Why Choose Integrated Pest Management
Integrated pest management (IPM) utilizes fewer chemicals by incorporating biological, cultural, and physical means to keep pests at bay. In other words: you don’t have to kill off everything to keep your trees and shrubs protected.
What Is Integrated Pest Management
Integrated Pest Management, or IPM, is used only when insect levels exceed acceptable levels. Think of it this way: if you saw a single ant in your home, it would be unreasonable and overreactive to fumigate. However, if you see a trail of ants, it may be time to set down traps. The limit of ants is no longer acceptable. With this in mind, IPM was developed. Your lawn care tech will target the pest population while reducing the impact on other animals in the environment. According to the IPM Institute of North America, the definition of integrated pest management is “a sustainable, science-based, decision-making process that combines biological, cultural, physical and chemical tools to identify, manage, and reduce risk from pests and pest management tools and strategies in a way that minimizes overall economic, health and environmental risks.”
How Does IPM Work
First, a Griffin Organics technician will inspect your trees and shrubs. They’ll note down any existing pest issues, as well as things that are more likely to attract pests. From here, your tech will determine what the appropriate levels of pests should be by estimating the insect’s population. Your technician will only use pesticides as a last resort. Instead, there are steps we can take before turning to chemicals.
Tree And Shrub Pruning
Removing dead or dying limbs and branches from trees and shrubs will deter pests as they are attracted to unhealthy plants. In addition, knowing when and how to trim properly can reduce pests as well. Even though trimming and pruning are necessary at times, if done incorrectly, it will create a wound that allows insects to attack or diseases like tree cankers to form.
Fight Fire With Fire
A common problem with North American trees is aphids. There are several species, but you’re probably most familiar with the tiny neon-green bugs that like to hide under the leaves of shrubs, trees, and flowers. Aphids can be incredibly destructive, but they have many natural predators. You might be able to control them by releasing live ladybugs into your yard. They will hunt out the aphids while leaving your trees alone.
Horticulture Oil
Many horticulture oils are made from petroleum-based products, but others are derived from cottonseed or soybeans. When mixed with an emulsifying agent (which allows the oils to blend with water), they can be safely sprayed on your trees and shrubs to keep pests away!
Diversify Your Plants
By planting various trees and shrubs, you create a diverse natural environment, which is less prone to diseases and pest infestations. And stagger the years you plant new ornamentals. Younger plants are more susceptible to diseases. If you plant many trees at once, they all could become ill if one gets sick. After all, they’re the same age and concentrated in a small area, making it easier for pests to find them. By diversifying your plants’ age and species, you’ll reduce the overall risk of problems. Just ask your lawn care service technician what trees would be best suited for your yard!
Perks Of Integrated Pest Management
The biggest benefit of IPM is that chemicals are only used as a last resort. As a result, this makes it the safest option for families with pets or children. The fewer chemicals that get sprayed on your trees, the less polluted the local environment will be. Pesticides can be harmful to the bee population and make their way into the water table beneath the surface.
Get Professional Tree And Shrub Care
If you’re looking for a gentler way to keep pests away from your trees and shrubs, call us! The experts at Griffin Organics have over 25 years of experience delivering effective organic lawn care solutions. You’ll enjoy a vibrant, healthy landscape – without harming the environment. From grass to trees to shrubs, if it grows in your yard, we can take care of it!
We Offer Lawn Care Services in Southeast New York
Whether your lawn needs patching up or a complete redo, the experts at Griffin Organics are here to help. We service these cities and more!
Speak to a representative today by calling 914-788-9622, or you can leave us a message online. To learn more about organic-based lawn care and gardening, be sure to check out our monthly blog page here. We’re also on Facebook!