A gardener’s nightmare is to step out into the backyard and discover the garden, that has been so carefully crafted, has been eaten by something other than the gardener.

This nightmare can be prevented and garden pests need not be a major concern if you take a few steps and apply some organic pest control methods.

The first step is to get over any fear you may have of bugs; the ones roaming in your garden may be gardening allies and not foes to vanquish. The second step is to identify some of the more common bugs in your region. Spiders are most welcome as they will devour other insects and help keep you garden’s insect population in proper balance.

Ants ( Lasisus Niger) are also useful, as long as they stay outside, they make a good biological control for aphids as ants herd aphids much like humans do cattle and for similar reasons.

Organic gardening methods provide you with all the skills and knowledge you need to keep your garden in balance and that is just what a thriving garden is an ecosystem in balance.

The gardener’s role, after the garden beds are made, is to maintain that balance and while this may require a bit of reading; companies such as Rodale publish a number of very helpful books, and some effort on your part, your reward will be a garden that is safe for children to play in and one that produces vegetables you can eat without consuming any poison.

If you follow the two fundamental garden rules; right plant right place and feed the soil, you are on your way to a balanced garden.

The balanced garden will almost look after itself as the beneficial insects such as lady bugs are out on patrol, helping you keep the bugs that want to eat your lettuce before you do in check.

Another important step to take is spending time walking about your garden and observing. You will see the relationships taking place and are in a position to spot any problems before they manifest. Get in the habit of either wearing your garden gloves or having them handy, that way when you turn over a leaf and spot something that should not be there you can pick it off and squish it. There can be a certain satisfaction in doing so; you have saved the plant and in a plant friendly manner.

In order to keep you garden in balance you will want to add a variety of plants such as herbs and native flowers even if you are vegetable gardening. The herbs serve two purposes, some can be left to grow and attract bees and butterflies to help pollinate and some can add zest to your meals.

The native plants will attract butterflies and if you spend a bit of time at your public library you can find out what butterflies are native to your region and what plants they prefer.

An organic or natural garden is home to a wide variety of creatures and for the most part, it is those creatures who will be your front line pest control. Your job is to be vigilant and lend a hand when needed.