We can prevent or at least minimize plant problems by eliminating all sources of infestation. For instance, disinfect your tools regularly to get rid of bacteria, viruses and fungal spores to prevent them from spreading between plants. Gather up and destroy all deceased or insect infested plant litter. Remove weeds before they go to seed.

Proper cultural practices like pruning overly bushy plants and using mulch, compost and natural fertilizers are important to improve growing conditions for your plants and assist in removing sources of infestation.

We can use physical and mechanical control methods also like pruning diseased or overly infested plant parts, and spraying water to dislodge aphids and mites. Use boiling water or full strength vinegar to burn weeds. Manual, mechanical and high pressure water tools can be used to extract weeds. Bait and traps will lure and trap slugs, earwigs and beetles. Floating covers on lightweight plant fabric helps to protect fruits and vegetables from predators.

We can also use living organisms to control some insect pests biologically. For example, spreading nematodes on your lawn help limit white grub damage. There are many safe, natural ways to eliminate sources of infestation in our gardens.

For more information about ecological gardening log onto the Native Landscapes Garden Center website at www.NativeLandscaping.net.

And tune in to hear "The Living Landscape" with Pete Muroski throughout the day on LIME Radio, Sirius Satellite channel 114. Thanks for visiting "The Living Landscape".