Pest Control - Page 2 of 6 - Backyard Boss

How to Care for Hostas in the Fall

Woman planting hosta bush plant on flower bed, using shovel tools, spring gardening.

Hostas are popular perennial plants that are incredibly versatile. Their stunning foliage provides a perfect backdrop for other plants and they’re often used for ground cover and borders. But, they can also stand alone as a focal point! These shade-loving plants are low-maintenance, requiring little attention throughout their growing season. In the fall, however, it’s …

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7 Houseplants That Repel Common Pests

Fresh green herbs, rosemary and basil, in blue pots placed on a window frame.

Houseplants are more than just home decor: they’re a hobby, they bring the freshness of the outdoors inside, and they are even said to improve the air quality. In fact, many houseplants can even repel common pests. Whether you’re fed up with houseflies, mosquitos, or fruit flies, you can rid your home of unwanted guests …

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6 Ways to Keep Squirrels Out of Potted Plants

Curious red squirrel peeking behind the tree trunk

Are you fed up with torn-up plants, missing crops, and dirt strewn across your patio or yard by those furry rodents? Squirrels may be cute and cuddly-looking creatures, but they can also be pesky vermin when it comes to your garden. Without the proper precautions, your potted herbs and flowers could become susceptible to a …

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How to Grow Epazote in Your Herb Garden

Epazote plant in mexico food

Epazote (Dysphania ambrosioides) is a unique and pungent herb commonly used in Mexican cuisine. It grows as a perennial herb in its native environment of South America, Central America, and southern Mexico, but in cooler climates, it acts as an annual. Epazote is drought-resistant, sun-loving, and easy to grow. If you want to get your …

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8 Types of Garden Pests Most Common in the Fall

macro of small pest garden snail on green leaves

Fall is a favorite season among many gardeners. Plants also enjoy the benefits of the cooler weather. However, like the other gardening seasons, fall presents a host of garden pests. These pests will prepare for winter and re-emerge in your garden next spring. It’s important to recognize these pests and not mistake them for beneficial …

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How to Get Rid of Tomato Hornworm Caterpillars

Close-up of a huge tomato hornworm on a tomato plant.

Tomato plants are a popular option for many gardeners. They’re easy to grow, harvest, and store; of course, their delicious, juicy flavor adds to the appeal! Unfortunately, tomato plants are prone to different diseases and pests. If you’ve spotted hornworm caterpillars on your plants, it’s time to take action since these little beasts can wreak havoc …

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5 Common Houseplant Pests To Watch For

Hands processing potted plant. Stromanthe against diseases, crop pests. Indoor flowers, bottles with agent against plant diseases and watering can on windowsill.

Whether you’ve just begun growing houseplants or are well-versed in the world of tropicals, there’s a good chance you’ve had a run-in with a bug or two. If not, you’re one of the lucky few. Regardless, every plant parent should know about these five common houseplant pests to watch for, how to identify them, and …

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7 Trap Plants for Pest Control in Your Garden

Caterpillar on yellow sunflowers. Sunflower pest.

Think of trap plants as your garden martyrs. The term refers to plants sown early and grown expressly to be eaten by those pests that would otherwise chow down on your favorite garden fruits and vegetables.  Trap plants should be planted well in advance of any other garden vegetable and, once infested with pests, can …

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