Many pests and diseases can be managed in the garden without using toxic chemicals. A garden can be home for many creatures that will help control pests and disease and link to the wider environment but often pests and disease may also be present. Controlling pests and disease can be harmful to beneficial agents. Many pests and diseases can be managed using non-toxic materials, many of which are in most homes. Come and learn some of the techniques and materials that can help keep your garden thriving.

Your Tutor is Peter Wilson 

Peter Wilson has been teaching at WEA since 2010. 

Peter has a Certificate in Education from Greenwich University, a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, an Advanced Certificate in Urban Horticulture from TAFESA, and a Certificate in Horticulture from TAFESA.

Peter has been teaching horticulture for nearly 30 years both locally and overseas, working with students from 3 years old and up. He has taught accredited and general interest sessions on a broad range of topics in this field and won prizes at Chelsea and Hampton Court Flower Shows.

Course Description

Tired of battling garden pests with harsh chemicals? 

This practical and informative course will show you how to keep your garden healthy using natural, non-toxic methods. 

Many common pests and diseases can be managed effectively with simple materials found around the home and through practices that encourage a healthy, balanced garden ecosystem. 

You'll learn how to support beneficial insects and creatures while reducing the need for commercial sprays that can harm your garden and the wider environment.

With a focus on sustainable gardening, this course introduces participants to the importance of garden hygiene, natural pest control strategies, and easy-to-use, chemical-free remedies. 

Through clear explanations and real-life examples, you'll gain confidence in managing pests and diseases using techniques that are safer for people, pets, and pollinators alike. 

Whether you're growing vegetables, fruit trees or ornamentals, this course will help you make your garden a cleaner, greener haven.

Course Structure

The session begins with an overview of garden hygiene and how a clean, well-maintained garden can naturally reduce the incidence of pests and diseases. 

Students are introduced to the most common local garden pests and how to recognise signs of infestation or disease. 

The tutor will then explain how to use everyday household items, such as soap, oil, or vinegar, safely and effectively in natural pest control. 

The course concludes with a discussion of how to support natural predators and beneficial insects that help keep pests at bay.

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Understand the role of good garden hygiene in preventing pest and disease problems
• Identify common pests and diseases found in local gardens
• Apply natural pest control techniques using common household substances
• Support beneficial insects and natural pest predators in the garden
• Reduce or eliminate the use of toxic chemicals in their gardening practices
• Feel more confident in creating and maintaining a healthy, chemical-free garden environment