Battle pests during UK heatwave with 35p household essential that experts love

With more hot weather on the way this week, gardeners will be outside enjoying all their hardwork of planting, growing and sprucing their areas.

However that's not to say certain pests will also be enjoying gardens too, but there are some easy ways to banish the unwanted visitors - and it can cost as little as 35p.

Insects can ruin plants and vegetables growing in gardens, so being able to spot the inital damage is crucial in order to save your garden. To help homeowners protect their plants and woodwork, DIY expert and Ronseal brand manager Jimmy Englezos from Ronseal has shared some tip tips for gardens.

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When it comes to protecting your garden, Petar explains that: “Spotting the signs of insect infestation early is key to saving your plants and preventing the problem from spreading. When inspecting the garden, look closely at any new growth, the undersides of the leaves and around the base of the plant.”

Petar explains: “Protecting plants from insect pests requires a combination of strategies. Relying on one method alone rarely works long-term." He suggested using organic sprays when "pest pressure is high". Home remedies such as vinegar spray is effective and costs just 35p to buy. Mixing it with some water can help banish insects easily.

You could also opt for soapy water spray, garlic, chilli or hot pepper spray, coffee grounds, cinnamon powder, aluminium foil or beer traps for slugs and snails.

The expert further suggested other remedies such as:

Companion planting: Companion planting, a gardening technique where you grow mutually beneficial plants next to each other, works well as part of an integrated pest management plan, it can reduce pest pressure, attract beneficial insects and improve plant resilience.

Physical barriers: Fine mesh netting is excellent against cabbage white butterflies, carrot root fly, flea beetles and aphids. Copper tape or rings deter slugs and snails from climbing into pots or beds, while sticky traps trap flying pests like whiteflies.

Encourage natural predators: Build insect hotels or leave undisturbed areas to attract lacewings, ladybirds and hoverflies. Plant nectar-rich flowers, such as alyssum, yarrow, dill and fennel, to attract pollinators and predators.

Organic sprays: Use selectively and only when pest pressure is high. Some home remedies that can help reduce insect pressure include

Growing technique: Crop rotation prevents pests from building up in the soil, while maintaining a healthy soil promotes strong plants with good nutrition, which are more pest-resistant. Remove plant debris and fallen leaves to eliminate overwintering pest habitats. Water early in the day to reduce slug activity and fungal conditions.

Spacing: Stagger planting times to avoid peak pest seasons for sensitive crops. Consider wider spacing to improve airflow and reduce humidity that attracts pests like aphids and whiteflies.

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