Learn what biological weed control is and how to manage and control the weeds in your yard using these biological agents.
You cringe at the sight of insects. The sound of the word "bacteria" gives you the chills.
What if we told you not all insects or bacteria are created equal and some can actually work for you? Almost like tiny little hired help?
Whether you have dandelions, thistle, or bindweed, these plant pests will continue to take over until you put a stop to their growth.
Learn more about these and others to use to your advantage.
In "Biological Weed Control" - DIY Garden Minute Ep. 73 - we want to teach you about this method of controlling weeds and where to find more information.
This episode is meant for any level of gardener who is looking for alternative ways to manage their garden weeds.
Any living organism that you don't want in your garden and could have a negative effect on your garden or its health is considered a garden pest. Weeds are no different.
A weed fits this pest description and can be characterized as a plant pest that can eventually outgrow and take over your garden area.
Pests show up in your garden for many different reasons. Some seek shelter while others come hungry noticing that your garden provides tasty meals. Other pests are just short-term guests who pass through or decide to stay for a few days.
Generally, pest control is broken down into five different categories in a management system called Integrated Pest Management, or IPM.
The five control categories are:
- Biological Control
- Chemical Control
- Mechanical/Physical Control
- Cultural Control
- Environmental Control
For more information, check out our article about managing pests like a pro.
Biological Pest Control
Biological pest control refers to using living organisms to control all kinds of pests.
In this method of IPM, the natural predator of a pest is used to manage the situation.
General examples of biological pest control include:
- Using parasitoid-wasps for aphid control
- Using ladybugs to eat aphids
- Using goats to eat ivy or blackberry
- Using a praying mantis to control either caterpillars or aphids
When biological methods are used for weed control there are multiple ways this can be used.
- Growing other plants that will compete for the same space and resources
- Promoting plants that actually seek out and harm weeds
- Using insects or animals to prevent, control, or remove those weeds from your property
- Examples of biological weed control
- Useful resources for further weed control education
Some of the resources and products below may be affiliate links, meaning we might get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.
- How to Strategize and Manage Your Garden Pests Like a Pro!
- Ep. 17: Best Pest Prevention Strategies For Your Garden
- 5 Natural Pest Remedies for Your Garden
- Non-Lethal Ways to Stop Digging or Burrowing Animals - DIY Garden Minute Ep. 72
- Understanding Basic Plant Growth - DIY Garden Minute Ep. 30
Other Gardening Products Related To This Podcast You Might Not Have:
- Best pruning shears
- Hand saw: folding or fixed
- Blower: hand-held or backpack, gas or electric
- Leaf Rake: metal or plastic
- Hard Rake: metal