Best Ways to Get Rid of Locusts and Grasshoppers Naturally

It’s a warm, breezy summer afternoon, and as you step outside into your garden, the faint rustling of leaves catches your ear. At first, you think it’s the wind, but then you spot them—those pesky grasshoppers, leaping from stem to stem, nibbling on your prized tomatoes. You’ve worked hard all season to nurture your garden, and now these voracious pests are threatening to undo all your efforts.

If you’ve ever dealt with locusts or grasshoppers, you know how frustrating it can be. Their rapid reproduction and insatiable appetite can quickly transform a lush garden into a barren landscape. But fear not! In this guide, we’ll dive deep into practical, natural methods for getting rid of locusts and grasshoppers, ensuring your garden stays thriving and healthy all season long.

Understanding Locusts and Grasshoppers: What’s the Difference?

Before diving into control methods, it’s important to understand the culprits you’re up against. Although they may seem similar, locusts and grasshoppers are distinct insects, each with unique behaviors and habits.

Grasshoppers are solitary insects that are typically found in small numbers. They have large hind legs, which help them leap long distances, and they primarily feed on grass, plants, and crops.
Locusts, on the other hand, are grasshoppers that, under certain environmental conditions (such as overcrowding), can change behavior and form swarms that can devastate large areas of vegetation.

While grasshoppers are a common garden nuisance, locusts are more likely to be a problem in agricultural areas or regions prone to droughts.

How to Prevent Grasshopper and Locust Infestations

Preventing these pests from setting up shop in your garden is always the best strategy. By being proactive, you can save time and effort later. Let’s look at some of the most effective prevention techniques:

1. Maintain a Healthy Garden

A strong, well-maintained garden is less likely to attract pests. Grasshoppers and locusts prefer environments with sparse ground cover or unhealthy plants. Keep your garden lush and dense by:

Choosing pest-resistant plants: Certain plants like lavender, rosemary, and marigolds naturally repel insects.
Using mulch: A layer of mulch can provide protection for your plants and create a less hospitable environment for pests.
Regular pruning: Keep plants trimmed to ensure they stay healthy and don’t become too inviting for pests.

2. Control Weeds

Weeds can serve as a breeding ground for grasshoppers and locusts, providing them with both shelter and food. Regularly pull weeds to reduce the risk of an infestation.

3. Trap Crops

Planting crops that attract pests (but aren’t your main crops) can draw grasshoppers away from your prized vegetables. For example, planting a few extra clover plants or other leguminous crops can lure them in, preventing damage to more valuable crops.

How to Get Rid of Grasshoppers and Locusts: Effective Solutions

When prevention isn’t enough and you find yourself with an infestation, it’s time to take action. Here’s how to get rid of these garden invaders:

1. Natural Predators: Invite Nature’s Helpers

Grasshoppers and locusts have natural predators that can help keep their populations in check. Encourage beneficial insects and animals into your garden, such as:

Birds: Robins, sparrows, and even chickens love munching on grasshoppers.
Frogs and Toads: These creatures feast on grasshoppers and can be an excellent natural pest control method.
Nematodes: Certain types of parasitic nematodes attack grasshoppers and locusts in their larval stages, preventing them from reaching adulthood.

2. Diatomaceous Earth: A Non-Toxic Solution

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a natural powder made from fossilized algae. It works by causing physical damage to the exoskeletons of insects, ultimately dehydrating and killing them. Sprinkle DE around the base of your plants or directly on the pests for an effective, chemical-free solution.

3. Insecticidal Soap or Neem Oil

For a more targeted approach, consider using insecticidal soap or neem oil. These products are safe for most beneficial insects and won’t harm your plants. They work by suffocating pests or disrupting their feeding habits. Apply them early in the morning or late in the evening when bees and other pollinators are less active.

4. Handpicking and Trapping

While it may sound a bit tedious, handpicking grasshoppers and locusts off plants can be effective in smaller gardens. Place the pests in a bucket of soapy water to drown them. Alternatively, use traps like sticky tape or barriers to catch them.

5. Companion Planting: A Natural Repellent

Some plants have natural pest-repelling properties. Consider planting the following near your vegetable or flower beds to deter grasshoppers and locusts:

Garlic: Known to repel a variety of insects, garlic is a great companion plant.
Onions: Grasshoppers and locusts tend to avoid onions due to their strong scent.
Mint: The strong aroma of mint can deter pests and make your garden smell delightful.

6. Homemade Repellent Sprays

You can make your own natural insect repellent with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. A simple mixture of hot water, dish soap, and crushed garlic can be sprayed directly onto affected plants. Grasshoppers and locusts dislike the scent, and it can help keep them away.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Dealing with Grasshoppers and Locusts

Overusing Chemicals: Pesticides can harm beneficial insects, so it’s best to reserve chemical treatments for severe infestations. Opt for organic options when possible.
Ignoring the Problem: Grasshoppers and locusts reproduce quickly. If you see one or two, act fast before they multiply.
Not Rotating Crops: Monocropping (planting the same crops in the same place each year) can attract pests. Practice crop rotation to break their cycle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can grasshoppers damage my garden permanently?

While grasshoppers can cause significant damage, they usually don’t kill plants unless the infestation is severe. If controlled early, the damage is often reversible.

Are locusts more dangerous than grasshoppers?

Yes. Locusts can form large swarms that consume vast amounts of vegetation, causing widespread damage in agricultural areas.

How do I know if I have a grasshopper or locust infestation?

If you notice large groups of insects devouring plants and hear a constant “chirping” sound, it’s likely you’re dealing with grasshoppers. If they swarm in large numbers, it’s a locust problem.

Conclusion: Keep Your Garden Safe and Thriving

A garden should be a peaceful oasis, free from the worries of pests. By staying vigilant and using natural methods to control locusts and grasshoppers, you can protect your plants and maintain a healthy, thriving garden. Whether it’s encouraging beneficial predators, using non-toxic sprays, or simply picking off pests by hand, there’s no shortage of effective solutions at your disposal.

Have you struggled with locusts or grasshoppers in your garden? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below—we’d love to hear how you’ve tackled this common gardening challenge! And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to receive more expert tips, seasonal advice, and gardening hacks directly in your inbox!