7 natural predators to encourage into your garden to keep pests away from your plants and control weeds too – no harsh chemicals needed

A hedgehog peeking over a log in an English garden.

If aphids, slugs and other garden pests are turning your outdoor space into a battleground, it might be time to let nature lend a helping hand.

Creating a healthy, sustainable garden is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. And encouraging natural predators into your garden is one of the easiest ways to keep common pests under control without relying on toxic chemicals. It can also help create a balanced ecosystem where pests and invasive growth are kept under control naturally.