Dealing with pests is just one of the many issues facing gardeners as summer gives way to the colder climate conditions presented by the autumn.
However, the matter still needs to be addressed with focus and vigilance – and garden designer Kate Gould has offered a few tips to those who are being plagued by insects and other creatures hungry for their handiwork.
In an article for the Guardian, she explained that it is tempting for green-fingered enthusiasts to stand back and admire the fruits of their labours after an arduous summer.
However, she emphasised the fact that nature does not stand still simply because the individual has elected to take a break.
She acknowledged that pests can be an issue – and expanded her definition to include the likes of bindweed, ground elder, nettles and brambles – as well as disease.
Gardeners who are concerned that their wall climbing plants or trees are at risk in the winter would do well to invest in a set of tree pruners.
These handy tools can help the user to maintain such a plant from the relative comfort and security of the ground – and keeping unwanted stems trim can help to protect against the risk of disease – particularly in the colder months.
Ms Gould said that she attempts to avoid using chemicals and pesticides wherever possible – preferring to keep things organic.
"Copper mats and rings repel slugs and snails, or you could simply go out when the molluscs are most active at night and collect them and repatriate them well away from your garden (and everyone else's – you won't be popular if you spread them to your neighbours)," the expert commented.
"Be warned: slugs and snails can travel further than you think and may well reappear," she continued.
