Bishy Barnabee’s Cottage Garden

Pest Control & Nematodes

Organic and biological controls — working with nature

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Pest Control & Nematodes — your questions answered

Do you sell chemical pesticides?

No — we stock organic and biological controls rather than synthetic chemicals. Our range includes nematodes (microscopic predators of specific pests), copper rings and tape for slug control, fleece for physical barriers, and naturally derived sprays. The cottage garden approach is to work with biodiversity rather than against it.

What are nematodes and how do they work?

Nematodes are microscopic worms that occur naturally in soil. Specific species target specific pests — there are nematodes for slugs, vine weevil, leatherjackets, chafer grubs, and more. You water them onto the soil; they find and enter the target pest, releasing bacteria that quickly kill it. They are completely safe for humans, pets, and beneficial insects.

How quickly do organic controls work?

Faster than people often expect. Nematodes start working within days and reach peak effect over two to three weeks. Slug traps and copper barriers work immediately. Fleece and physical barriers are instant protection. The main difference from chemical pesticides is that organic controls work in cycles — you might need to repeat treatments rather than spraying once.

What about beneficial insects?

The best long-term pest control is a garden full of natural predators. Hoverflies, lacewings, ground beetles, and birds together control most pests for free, given somewhere to live. We stock insect houses, bug hotels, and bird feeders to support this. Planting a flower-rich border is itself the most effective pest control investment you can make.