As temperatures transition from Summer’s blistering heat to Fall’s relative warmth you may notice an increase in insect activity around your home and garden. Common fall pests such as ants, spiders, and beetles begin to get in an overwintering mindset. Fall is their last opportunity to store food and seek shelter in anticipation of colder winter temps. These pests can not only be a nuisance, but they can also cause damage to your plants if left unchecked.
Autumn bug infestations can be prevented with proper care. By practicing good plant maintenance, you can reduce the likelihood of a fall pest invasion. Additionally, the use of proper pesticidal and repellent solutions can help deter insects from making themselves at home in your garden. With a little extra care and attention, you can keep these pests at bay and enjoy a pest-free autumn (Football!) season in Alabama.
Impact of Fall weather on insect populations
Fall weather accelerates insect infestation in Alabama. Seasonal temps during Alabama’s Fall months can accelerate the growth and reproduction of insects, leading to a higher population of pests in the area. This increase in insect activity can result in more frequent garden infestations as pests thrive in the Alabama’s Autumn temperatures.
Impact of Fall weather on insect behavior
Many insects such as caterpillars, ants, aphids, and beetles take advantage of these last few weeks of relative warmth to work and prepare for colder temperatures and/or their next stage of development. This makes your home and garden an inviting environment in seeking the food, water, and shelter they need. By understanding seasonal insect behavior and the impact of seasonal weather on insect behavior, you can better prepare for potential infestations and take steps to prevent them.
***Preventative measures for insect infestation***
Prevent bugs with proper plant maintenance. One of the best ways to prevent insect infestations in Alabama is to practice proper plant maintenance. By keeping your garden well-maintained and free of debris, you can reduce the likelihood of pests taking up residence in your plants.
You’ll also find products such as insecticidal soaps, neem oil, and other natural remedies are effective in deterring infestations. By being proactive in protecting your plants, you can ensure they remain healthy and thriving despite the presence of fall pests.
***Battling Infestations***
Despite our best efforts with preventative measures, insects can sometimes find a way. There’s a reason they’re still here while the
dinosaur is long gone. Knowing the type of infestation and how to combat it is key. Chew patterns, leaf webbing, plant color, and other types of damage are primary clues as to the type (insect) of infestation you have. There are numerous resources available in identifying and destroying/deterring the insect(s). Consult your local nursery and consider the combined knowledge and insights you’ll find in an online gardening group. If all else fails, Google has plenty of answers.
When all is said and done, Mom’s advice regarding an ounce of prevention and pound of cure applies to your Fall garden. Fortunately, we now have the resources Mom never dreamed of in finding the best preventative practices for the specific plants in our gardens and insects that might look their way so, whether it’s mums, roses, dahlias, or even sunflowers, get your hands dirty and Happy Fall Gardening!
