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How To: Pest Patrol

Jerry Coleby-Williams explains how to spot some common insect pests and what to do to control them

Presenter: Jerry Coleby-Williams, 26/02/2011

Series 22 Episode 03

Looking for Pests

Summer is a time for constant vigilance because when it comes to pests, if you let your guard down, don't be surprised if they launch an attack on your garden.

The first line of defence is regular inspections. Pest control is so easy if you do it before their numbers build up. Remember though - pests aren't always out during the day, so periodic night inspections (with a torch) can be useful in getting an overall picture of pests in your garden.



Ladybirds are generally beneficial in the garden - they control a wide range of pests and diseases. But there's a traitor in the ranks and it's the 28 Spotted Ladybird. These pests attack a wide range of plants in the potato and the cucumber family. Spraying this pest can be counterproductive because you'll lose the good as well as the bad. The pest way to control them is by picking them off.


Swat them early in the morning, when they're sluggish, You can spray them with pyrethrum, but target them very carefully, so you don't harm any beneficial insects.

Further Information

Homemade Pest Remedies

Pest Traps