Organic Pest Control

 
Pest Control: If you are keen on looking after the environment and not using potentially harmful and hazardous chemicals on your flowers, plants and vegetables then there are a range of organic pest control methods that you can utilise to help deal with common pests that can invade your garden.

The first step to organic pest control is to ensure your garden and plants are healthy and have ideal growing conditions. This will include ensuring there is adequate water, minimal weeds, regular fertilising and sufficient amounts of shade and sun for the plants particular needs.

A rich and organic soil maintains the PH balance encouraging the growth of healthy plants and vegetables. A poor and nutrient deprived soil will hamper the plants growth and will increase the production of carbohydrates which insects thrive on. To increase soil health, add compost and fertilisers to restore nutrients to the soil and plants.

Plants that are stressed or are over or under watered will encourage disease and pests to attack them. Regularly monitoring the state of your plants will help determine any problems before pest populations begin to multiply.

Beating pests naturally

There are a variety of Organic pest control methods to help treat and prevent pest infestations and attacks once you notice that you have a problem. These include:

Sticky Traps
A rigid material of a particular colour (yellow, white or blue) that is coated with a sticky substance that is hung close the plant height. The trap will catch insects and bugs that are attracted to the colour. You will then be able to determine what pests are in your garden and the extent of their numbers. Sticky traps can be made at home or purchased from a garden supplier.

Barriers – create a physical barrier between the pest and the plant such as a thin netting over the plants that is secured firmly to the ground, so the pests cannot attack the plants.

Products & Sprays
There are a variety of organic sprays available to combat common pests. These are available at your local nursery or retailer and include:

• Bacillus Thuringiensis or BT – a natural bacterium found in the soil which is sold in a liquid or powder form that is mixed and diluted with water and sprayed onto the plants. BT helps to controls caterpillars, moths and grubs.
• Pyrethrum – a natural insecticide made from the flowers of chrysanthemums used for controlling grasshoppers, ants, aphids, caterpillars and thrips.
• Insecticide Soap – This is mixed with water and then sprayed directly onto the insects. Many insects and bugs cannot tolerate soap and it is highly affective on aphids and other soft bodied pests. Care should be given not to spray any beneficial insects in the area. The spray should not be applied during hot weather and should be tested on each plant prior to use as it can cause the leaves to burn.

Home Made Remedies
If you want to opt for the cheaper DIY method, there are a variety of home made remedies that can be made up using a mixture of common household items – some of these include.

• Insecticide: Chop four large onions, two cloves of garlic, and four hot chillies. Mix them together and cover with warm, soapy water and leave it to stand overnight. Strain off that liquid and add it to five litres of water to create an all-round insecticide.
• Pesticide: Cover a crushed garlic bulb with vegetable oil and leave for two days, strain liquid and then add a couple of drops of dishwashing liquid and use one millilitre of concentrate to one litre of water and spray over your affected plants.
• Nature Sprays: made from basil leaves, camomile flowers, chopped chives, chilli, garlic, eucalyptus leaves or citronella. Soak a cupful of an item in boiling water for a day or two and then strain liquid, the result will be an environmentally friendly homemade spray that can be used to kill pests.

Attract good bugs to your garden to combat the bad ones
The type of flowers and plants you have in your garden can go along way in the prevention of pest attacks.

Instead of choosing plants according to aesthetical beauty or smell, consider planting a range of flowers and herbs that have an abundance of pollen and nectar. This will attract pollinators and other beneficial insects into your garden, which will in turn help to rid you of other troublesome and unwanted pests.

Try Planting:

• Members of the cabbage family, flowering turnips, Mazuma and Mustard. These are full of nectar and pollen which attract pollinators as well as Hoverflies and Lacewings which help to control aphids.
• Salvia, Rosemary, Sage, Dill, Fennel, Coriander. These will attract insects such as Praying Mantises, Assassin Bugs and Robber Flies which eat caterpillars.
• Marigolds. Plant Marigolds alongside vegetable crops such as tomatoes as they can help prevent Root Knot Nematodes (microscopic organisms that attack the roots of plants eventually killing them)
• Choco plants or vines. Chocos will immediately attract a range of ladybirds, some of which can help to control scale, mildew, mealy bug and aphids.

So what ever form or extent you like to take it, there are a wide range of organic pest control methods that you do yourself, or you can purchase that are natural and greener choice for the environment.

And, of course, if you want some additional help and advice on organic gardening or pest control Fox Mowing can look after it all for you. And while we’re there in your garden, we can do a lot of other stuff too to get your garden looking, and feeling, its best.

Eco-Friendly Solutions for a Healthier Garden

Pests can wreak havoc on your plants, lawns, and garden beds — but harsh chemicals aren’t always the answer. At Fox Mowing & Gardening WA, we offer organic pest control solutions that protect your garden while keeping your family, pets, and the environment safe.

Whether you’re battling aphids, caterpillars, grubs or fungal outbreaks, we take a natural approach that targets pests without disrupting the balance of your garden.

What Is Organic Pest Control?

Organic pest control uses natural ingredients, biological solutions, and environmentally responsible methods to manage garden pests. Instead of synthetic chemicals, we rely on plant-based sprays, beneficial insects, soil health strategies, and cultural practices that reduce pest pressure.

The goal is to manage pests sustainably, without harming beneficial insects, your soil, or your local ecosystem.

Benefits of Going Organic

• No harsh chemicals – Safer for children, pets, and pollinators
• Protects beneficial insects – Bees, ladybirds, and earthworms stay unharmed
• Environmentally friendly – No runoff or long-term soil damage
• Improves long-term soil and plant health
• Great for edible gardens – Safe to use around herbs, fruit trees, and veggies
• Safe near water features or sensitive areas

Organic pest control works with nature — not against it — making it ideal for Western Australia’s diverse environments.

Common Pests We Treat Organically

Our local WA teams are trained to identify and manage a range of pests using natural solutions. Common culprits include:

• Aphids – Controlled with neem oil or soap sprays
• Caterpillars – Managed with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a natural bacteria
• Whiteflies & Mealybugs – Treated with insecticidal soap or horticultural oils
• Scale insects – Controlled with eco-oil and manual removal
• Lawn grubs & beetles – Managed with biological nematodes or spinosad
• Fungal issues – Treated with sulphur or copper-based organic fungicides
• Slugs & snails – Hand removal, traps, and natural deterrents like coffee grounds

We assess your garden and choose the right solution that’s gentle on your plants — but tough on pests.

Our Organic Pest Control Process

1. Garden Inspection – We identify the pests, signs of infestation, and contributing factors (e.g. soil health, overwatering).
2. Targeted Treatment – Using natural or low-impact products suited to your garden’s needs.
3. Preventative Advice – We provide guidance on plant spacing, watering, companion planting, and mulching to reduce future pest risks.
4. Follow-Up (Optional) – Regular checks to monitor effectiveness and make adjustments where needed.

Why Choose Fox Mowing WA?

• Local experts who understand WA’s plants, climate and pests
• Eco-conscious approach to garden care
• Honest advice and clear communication
• Fully insured, professional service
• Option to bundle with lawn care, hedging or clean-ups

We believe your garden should be a safe, thriving space — not just for your plants, but for your family and the local environment.

Book an Organic Pest Control Service Today

Say goodbye to destructive bugs — without reaching for harsh chemicals. Whether you’re managing a veggie patch, native garden, or ornamental landscape, Fox Mowing & Gardening WA can help you protect it the natural way.

Call your local Fox team today or book online to schedule an organic pest control service across Western Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is organic pest control as effective as chemical treatment?
In many cases, yes — especially when combined with good garden practices. Long-term, organic control is safer and more sustainable, but it frequently takes a little longer.

How often do I need to apply organic treatments?
The pest’s level of severity and the product being utilised determine this. Some may need to be reapplied every 7–14 days. We’ll advise on the right schedule.

Is it safe to eat fruit or vegetables after treatment?
Yes — most organic solutions are safe for use on edibles. We’ll always let you know if a waiting period is needed.

Can I do it myself?
You can! But our team can help you identify pests accurately and apply treatments more effectively — especially for larger gardens or stubborn infestations.

Army Worm

Stop Lawn Damage Fast with Fox Mowing WA’s Targeted Solutions

Noticed mysterious patches of dead lawn, rapid browning, or a wave of birds pecking at your turf? You might be dealing with Army Worms — one of the most destructive lawn pests in Western Australia.

At Fox Mowing & Gardening WA, we provide fast, effective, and environmentally responsible Army Worm control services to protect your lawn before the damage spreads.

What Are Army Worms?

Army Worms are the larvae (caterpillar stage) of several moth species, most commonly the Lawn Armyworm (Spodoptera mauritia). They get their name from their habit of marching in groups across lawns and devouring everything in their path.

These pests feed primarily on:

• Lawn grasses (especially Couch, Buffalo, and Kikuyu)
• Some crops and ornamental plants

They’re most active from late summer through autumn, especially after rain or heavy irrigation.

Signs of Army Worm Damage

Be on the lookout for:

• Sudden browning or scalping of your lawn overnight
• Birds swooping in flocks, feeding on the larvae
• Skeletonised leaves or turf blades
• Wriggling caterpillars near the soil surface (greenish-brown with stripes)
• Damage that appears in patches and spreads quickly

If caught early, treatment is highly effective. Left untreated, Army Worms can strip an entire lawn in days.

Our Army Worm Control Approach

At Fox Mowing WA, we take a strategic, effective approach to Army Worm treatment:

1. Accurate Identification
We inspect your lawn and confirm the presence of Army Worms — differentiating them from grubs, fungal issues, or other pests.
2. Targeted Treatment
We use proven, lawn-safe treatments that target Army Worms without harming your grass, pets, or the environment.
Options include:

• Organic insecticides (e.g. Spinosad or neem-based sprays)
• Biological controls (e.g. beneficial nematodes)
• Selective chemical treatments when infestation is severe

3. Lawn Recovery Advice

Once the pests are under control, we’ll help you restore your lawn’s health with aeration, topdressing, watering advice, or fertilising as needed.

4. Prevention Plans

We can advise on long-term prevention, such as regular inspections, proper mowing height, and reducing overwatering which attracts moths.

Why Choose Fox Mowing WA for Army Worm Control?

• Fast response – we know timing is critical
• Safe, pet- and lawn-friendly treatments
• WA-specific knowledge and lawn care expertise
• Option to combine with mowing, fertilising, or seasonal maintenance
• Fully insured and experienced local professionals

We service Perth metro, Peel, South West WA, Albany, and beyond — wherever lawn pests strike.

Book an Army Worm Inspection Today

Don’t wait for your lawn to be devoured. If you suspect Army Worms, Fox Mowing & Gardening WA is here to help you act fast and save your turf.

Call your local Fox team or book online now for an expert inspection and tailored treatment plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Army Worms kill my entire lawn?
Yes — in large numbers, they can strip a lawn bare within days. Early intervention is key to limiting the damage.
Are the treatments safe for kids and pets?
Absolutely. We use treatments that are safe once dry, and we’ll provide clear aftercare instructions for added peace of mind.
How long does treatment take?
Most infestations are controlled within 1–2 visits, depending on severity. Follow-up may be recommended to ensure complete removal.
Can I prevent Army Worms from returning?
While no lawn is 100% immune, proper maintenance, regular inspections, and pest-aware mowing practices greatly reduce the risk.

Grubs

The Hidden Invaders Under Your Lawn – Identified and Treated by Fox Mowing & Gardening WA

Is your once-green lawn starting to look patchy, spongy, or suddenly attracting birds and beetles? You might be dealing with grubs — one of the most common and damaging lawn pests in Western Australia.

At Fox Mowing & Gardening WA, we offer professional lawn pest inspections and grub control treatments to protect your lawn from beneath the surface. If left untreated, grubs can destroy an otherwise healthy lawn in just a few weeks.

What Are Grubs?

Grubs are the larval stage of various beetles, including African black beetles, Christmas beetles, and scarabs. They live underground and feed on grass roots, causing the lawn above to weaken, brown, and die off.

These pests are most active in late spring through to autumn, especially during warmer, wetter months when beetles are breeding.

Signs You Have Grubs in Your Lawn

Grubs can be tricky to spot, but there are a few tell-tale signs:

• Patchy, brown or thinning turf despite watering
• Increased bird or animal activity (birds, bandicoots, or rodents digging for food)
• Spongy or loose turf that lifts easily from the soil
• Presence of beetles around the garden during the warmer months
• Visible C-shaped white larvae under the turf, especially when you lift it back

A healthy lawn can tolerate a small number of grubs — but a full infestation can quickly cause severe root damage and dieback.

Our Grub Control Services

At Fox Mowing WA, we offer effective, eco-conscious treatments that target grubs while protecting your lawn and surrounding environment.

Our process includes:

Lawn Health Inspection
We assess damage, identify the grub species, and check for other lawn stressors like dry soil, compaction, or fungal issues.

Targeted Grub Treatment
We apply selective insecticides or organic alternatives to eliminate grubs beneath the surface. These treatments disrupt the grub’s feeding and development cycle.

Lawn Recovery & Support
After treatment, we can assist with:

• Fertilising and watering programs
• Top dressing or overseeding if needed
• Soil aeration to stimulate root growth
• Ongoing pest monitoring to prevent recurrence

Why Grub Control Matters in WA

Western Australia’s warm, dry climate and sandy soils can make lawns vulnerable to root damage and pest infestation. Grubs often go unnoticed until major damage has already been done. That’s why early detection and fast action are key.

Why Choose Fox Mowing & Gardening WA?

• Local lawn care professionals with pest control expertise
• Safe, efficient, and family-friendly treatment options
• Full-service lawn restoration and fertilising support
• Affordable, no-fuss service with real results
• Seasonal monitoring and pest prevention plans available

We treat your lawn like it’s our own — and we know exactly how to protect it from below.

Book Your Grub Control Treatment Today

Don’t wait until half your lawn is gone — if you suspect grub activity, let the team at Fox Mowing & Gardening WA inspect and treat it fast. We’ll restore your lawn’s health and help it bounce back stronger than ever.

Call your local Fox team or book online for a grub inspection and tailored lawn care plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I treat grubs myself with store-bought products?
You can try, but store products often miss timing or aren’t strong enough. Professional treatments are more effective and target the right lifecycle stage.

Are grub treatments safe for pets and children?
Yes. We use registered products and always advise when it’s safe to re-enter the treated area — usually once dry or after watering in.

How can I prevent grubs in the future?
Healthy lawns are more resistant to pests. Regular mowing, aeration, fertilising, and pest monitoring help reduce grub populations.

How long does it take for a lawn to recover from grub damage?
Recovery time depends on the severity. With proper treatment and care, visible improvement is often seen in 2–4 weeks.

Nematodes

The Microscopic Threat Damaging WA Lawns – Identified and Managed by Fox Mowing & Gardening WA

If your lawn is looking weak and patchy, despite watering and fertilising, there might be an invisible enemy lurking underground. Nematodes — microscopic roundworms — are a lesser-known but highly destructive lawn pest in Western Australia.

At Fox Mowing & Gardening WA, we specialise in detecting and managing nematode infestations, restoring lawn health from the root up. These pests may be tiny, but the damage they cause can be significant if left untreated.

What Are Nematodes?

Nematodes are microscopic worms found naturally in soil. While some are beneficial (used in organic pest control), others — particularly plant-parasitic nematodes — feed on grass roots, weakening the lawn and making it vulnerable to disease, drought, and other pests.

The most common turf-damaging nematodes in WA include:

• Root-knot nematodes
• Sting nematodes
• Lance nematodes

They damage lawns by feeding on or burrowing into root cells, reducing the plant’s ability to absorb water and nutrients.

Signs You May Have Nematodes

Nematode damage can look similar to other lawn issues, which is why professional inspection is key. Common signs include:

• Patchy, thin, or slow-growing grass
• Grass that wilts quickly during warm weather
• Poor response to fertiliser and watering
• Yellowing or stunted areas with no visible pests above ground
• Turf that easily pulls away due to weak roots

These symptoms are often worse in sandy soils, which are common across many parts of Western Australia.

How We Diagnose & Manage Nematodes

Nematodes must be identified strategically because they are too small to be seen without a microscope.

At Fox Mowing WA, we offer:

Lawn Health Inspections
We examine root health, lawn condition, soil type, and other possible causes before suspecting nematodes.
Soil Testing (on request)
In partnership with local labs, we can send samples to confirm nematode species and population levels if needed.
Nematode Management Plans
There isn’t a single chemical solution, therefore we strengthen your lawn’s defenses naturally with:

• Organic soil treatments and conditioners
• Nematode-suppressing soil additives
• Compost and humic acid applications
• Increased watering and mulching to reduce stress
• Careful mowing and fertilising to promote strong root growth

Follow-up Support
To maintain your lawn resistant to further breakouts, we offer optional maintenance visits and periodic lawn care advice.

Why Nematode Control Matters in WA
Sandy soils, drought stress, and over-fertilisation all increase the risk of nematode damage. WA lawns are especially vulnerable — and since these pests work below ground, they often go unnoticed until significant damage occurs.

Early detection and soil-friendly management are essential for a long-term solution.

Why Choose Fox Mowing & Gardening WA?

• Local team with knowledge of WA soil and pest issues
• Practical, chemical-free nematode control strategies
• Integrated lawn restoration services
• Honest assessments with no unnecessary treatments
• Seasonal support for long-term lawn health

We take the time to get to the root of your lawn problem — literally.

Suspect Nematodes? Let’s Take a Closer Look.

If you’ve tried watering, mowing, and fertilising with no improvement, microscopic pests like nematodes could be to blame. Recovery is easier the sooner you take action.

Call your local Fox team or book online today for a lawn inspection and tailored recovery plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see nematodes in my lawn?
No — they’re microscopic. Their presence is diagnosed based on symptoms and confirmed through soil testing.

Are there chemicals that kill nematodes?
Not for home lawns. Instead, we focus on natural suppression through organic matter, soil improvement, and better lawn health practices.

Will my lawn recover from nematode damage?
Yes, with the right care. Strengthening the lawn’s root system and improving soil quality are key steps.

Are nematodes seasonal?
They are more active in warmer months and sandy soils. That’s why spring and summer monitoring is crucial in WA.