Question
Hello.  This is our first year of container gardening on a raised deck behind our apt in Albany NY.  We kept our efforts limited this year to 3 tomato plants, a couple zucchini, eggplant, hot peppers and basil.  We have had quite a few issues with garden pests though, more so than friends who have in ground gardens.  Specifically we've had problems with squash bugs, aphids, spider mites and squirrels.  We've sprayed with a multi-purpose insecticide/fungicide that contains neem oil, however the mites still claimed one of the tomatoes.
Are container gardens more susceptible to pests than in-ground gardens?  Is there anything special that we should be doing to keep them down next year?  Thanks for your help!

Answer
If container gardens are more susceptible to pests, it is because the plants are not as strong, and healthy as the plants in the ground. To grow the kind of plants that will not attract pests takes some skill and attention. To explain it another way, "insects and diseases are more often found on weak or stressed plants." Because container plants don't have the same soil volume, nutrients, and water capacity as plants with unlimited soil, and water, they are often weaker.

Solution, make sure the soil you use is of the highest nutrient value. (It is possible that the insects were in your soil as eggs, when you planted your plants if you used poor soil.) Add time release fertilizer and moisture amendments. Pot the plants up to the next size pot to prevent them becoming root bound. Make sure they have plenty of sun, but protect them from extreme heat.

Because you have a small garden, next year when you plant, try puting a tent of fine netting over the plants. You may notice that I have not mentioned insecticides. That is because you are talking about food, and about a deck where you live. These chemicals are not a very healthy solution. If you can avoid putting them on your food, it will be better for you.

I know how frustrating it can be to battle these pests. I have battled grasshoppers, snails, and earwigs by the thousands, not to mention deer, and gophers. I have found that strong plants, barriers, and determination, to be the best deterrent.

bakerplanter