Many people that really love the outdoors are still unreasonably "bugged" by bugs. And although mosquitoes, no-see-ums, deer flies and other biting insects can certainly make outdoor activities unpleasant, most other garden insects are relatively harmless and some are even beneficial insects.

Keeping your plants healthy and inviting wildlife to your yard are two good environmental choices for cutting down on insect problems. Healthy plants can usually fend off damage from insects, and birds and other forms of predatory wildlife help by eating what they can catch.

However, if you still feel that a perfect environment is an insect free environment, keep these principles in mind:

• Some of the insects that you may be eliminating are actually beneficial to your plants and the environment. For example, catepillars turn into pollinating butterflies and ladybugs eat other leaf chewing insects. Try to identify the insects before you eliminate them by checking the beneficial insect EDIS Documents from this page or take a sample to the local extension office or a Master Gardener Clinic for help with identification.
• Spot treat when and where you see insect damage. Don't spray your whole yard thinking you will keep insects away. Most pesticides don't work as repellents.
• Many insects can actually be controlled by handpicking, pruning or spraying with water.
• Ask for safer alternatives to traditional, chemical pesticides at your local garden center. These include insecticidal soaps, horticultural oils and products containing a bacterium called Bacillus thuringiensis (BT).