How to protect kale from pests naturally?

Effective natural pest control begins with understanding what kale is susceptible to. Common pests found in kale that seem to affect all gardens include cabbage worms (or butterflies) and aphids. However, there is no need to resort to harsh chemicals. For well over a decade, I have successfully protected my crops using row covers and placement for insects that are beneficial such as ladybugs and lacewings.

Companion planting is a form of passive protection. I interplant kale with thyme; its strong scent helps mask the location of cabbage moths. Additionally, marigolds help repel root nematodes when planted every 8 feet. Make sure to avoid strawberries, as slugs feed on them, and then move on to your young kale leaves.

Soil quality is a measure of how resistant a soil is to pests.I add 3 inches of compost to my kale beds every year and refuse to use harmful chemicals.Healthy plants can withhold up to 40% more from pests than stressed plants.My soil test showed my calcium levels were low and therefore, my kale stems were cracking.When I added eggshell powder the aphid infestation was cut in half on the kale plants.

Timing interventions are far more important than the specific intervention applied. I pick cabbage worms at 6 AM when they are lethargic. I spray neem oil on cabbage, broccoli, etc.-only after the dew dries because the wet leaves dilute the solution. If I am severely infested, I cut back the infested leaves and burn them. This will break the life cycle of the pest without applying chemicals.

Read the full article: How to Grow Kale: Complete Planting and Harvesting Guide