How to Keep Pests Out of Your Garden- Naturally!

Friday, January 30, 2009

How to Keep Pests Out of Your Garden- Naturally!

Everyone is always looking for a natural way to keep pests and animals out of their garden. There are some wonderful natural pest and animal deterrents that are available right in your kitchen, and they are all safe for children and food gardens.

1. Kitty-B-Gone- To keep cats out of the vegetable garden, you can use a combination of different natural substances. Cats abhor the smell of citrus and black pepper oil. Next time you eat an orange or a grapefruit, peel the rinds and toss them around in your vegetable garden. Sprinkling a large amount of black pepper also works well, although it can get expensive. Black pepper works best in areas that will not be getting a lot of water. You can also use black pepper underneath the porch or other spots in order to prevent a “litter box” area. Chili flakes work well, also, but are probably not a good idea if you have small children.

You can also try planting the Coleus-Canina plant, a weed originating in Europe. It is also known as the "Scardy-Cat" plant because it emits an odor that felines hate. You can request this plant at your local nursery and plant it around any garden that you want cats to stay out of!

2. Natural Aphid Killer- Did you know that you can kill aphids on roses and other plants simply by spraying them with a diluted solution made with household dish soap and tepid water? It’s true! Just put a small amount of dish soap in a squirt bottle with some water and spray away! The aphids die instantly and the plants are usually just fine. This method is so much safer than using pesticides, especially with food plants.

Investing in some ladybugs is also a great way to kill aphids. Ladybugs have a voracious appetite for aphids and other soft-bodied pests. They can help your garden become pest and insecticide-free.

3. Seaweed Mulch- Mulch made from seaweed is good for the soil and also deters pests. Seaweed mulch contains loads of vitamins and promotes healthy plant growth. An added bonus is that it deters slugs and snails.

There is lots of valuable information on the internet for gardeners that wish to plant and maintain gardens naturally. Your garden will become a more natural and balanced place for the healthy production of vegetables and flowers. Attracting and promoting beneficial insects, mulching techniques, and little bit of research can help you have the organic garden of your dreams.