In Western PA, we know a thriving garden adds more than curb appeal—it’s a signal of care, comfort, and pride in homeownership. But even in the friendliest neighborhoods, unwelcome guests (a.k.a. garden pests) can crash the party.

For homeowners seeking a chemical-free way to protect their plants, here are a few smart, sustainable strategies:

• Start with the soil: Nutrient-rich, organic compost builds resilient plants from the ground up. Healthy roots mean stronger defenses.
• Plant with purpose: Choose varieties based on sun exposure to avoid weakening them. Mix in aromatic defenders like marigolds, mint, lavender, thyme, and chives—they repel pests while attracting helpful pollinators.
• Diversify and rotate: Vary your garden’s layout to confuse pests and keep soil fresh. Alternating vegetable rows with pest-repelling plants can help, and crop rotation adds a layer of defense.
• Early action matters: Catch infestations early by removing affected leaves—or entire plants if needed—to prevent spread. Add predator-attracting plants to help nature do the work.
• Row covers = undercover magic: These allow sunlight and water in while keeping pests out. Just remember to lift them briefly in the morning so pollinators can visit.

Gardens, like homes, flourish with the right attention. Whether you’re planting roots or ready to move, little touches like this can make a lasting impression.

Here’s to a pest-free patch—and a property that blossoms inside and out.