Story: Tips for A Natural Pest Control
Episode: 18
Presenter: Simon Holloway
Air Date: 13 December 2025

Simon shares some simple, pesticide-free tricks to keep garden pests at bay the safe and sustainable way.

• With the risks of pesticides now well known, simple non-chemical methods offer effective, garden-friendly alternatives.
• A strong spray of water can knock off pests like aphids, which rarely survive the fall and can’t feed again if disrupted while eating.
• Fine mesh fruit bags act as physical barriers that protect produce without covering the entire tree, while still allowing pollinators to access flowers.
• A traditional, plant-derived insecticide that deters or smothers soft-bodied pests, though it may slightly affect flavour on edible crops.
• A simple mix of crushed garlic, chilli, detergent, and water provides an easy homemade defence against pests, no harsh chemicals needed.