If you are a keen gardener, you will know that pest control is an important tool in every horticulturalist's arsenal. However, the effects of harsh chemicals used in many pesticides can be detrimental to the progress of your plants.

Many gardeners find themselves faced with a dilemma: either to surrender their flowers to the hungry insects, or to spray them with powerful solutions that are often toxic, not simply to the aphids and caterpillars, but to pets, children, and indeed the plants themselves.

In short, it appears that some kind of solution needs to be reached. It is not possible to garden without adequate pest control, but, it seems, the cost of protecting your plants in the conventional way is fairly high. In order to get around using toxic chemicals in your horticultural activities, many of today's garden enthusiasts are turning to greener means of protecting their flowers.

For example, you might consider introducing certain predatory species of insect into your garden. While this process might take some careful, quasi scientific monitoring, it can be very effective: the 'carnivorous' insects eat the ones that would ordinarily destroy your garden, and you are left with healthier, happier plants.

This is just one option open to environmentally conscious gardeners. There are myriad other means by which to minimise insect damage in your back yard. With a little research and some careful planning, you should find that you are able to protect your prized flowers without risking the safety of your children or pets.