Natural Garden Pest Control Solutions

Control Bugs the Natural Way

Birds, toads, and other bugs are the best way to control bugs or pests in your garden. Unfortunately, many things we do in our garden actually sabotage nature’s ability to do what she does best – keep a balance. Pesticides, poisons and extreme measures actually kill the very predators that will do the job the best. Here are two homemade plant sprays that will keep pests off your garden favorites without the use of environmentally unsafe products. You can “cook” these up in your own kitchen in minutes.

All Purpose Bug Spray

This is the one I use the most. It works on almost all pests, including slugs and beetles.

1. Chop or dice 1 garlic bulb & 1 small onion.
2. Place in a pot with 1 quart of water and 1 tsp ground cayenne pepper.
3. Steep one hour.
4. Strain through fine sieve or cheesecloth.
5. Add one tablespoon environmentally-friendly dishwashing liquid.
6. Put in spray bottle.
7. Spray on plant leaves.
8. Store the extra in tightly sealed jar.

I use this one for most of my vegetable garden plants, including tomatoes. Some plants are sensitive to leaf burn, so test new plants on one leaf before spraying the whole plant.

Hot Pepper Spray

This is what I spray on the ground or on the mulch to keep the neighborhood cats out of my yard. I also use it on my plants when I run out of the above mixture.

1. Place ½ cup diced hot peppers and 2 cups of water in a blender.
2. Puree until smooth.
3. Strain and spray frequently to deter cats and dogs from your yard.

Deb Bixler presents environmental workshops to schools, churches, clubs and businesses. Learn more about Deb Speaks by clicking here

National Wildlife Federation Global Warming Ambassador
Certified Professional Recycler of Pennsylvania
Springettsbury Township Recycling Committee
National Wildlife Federation Certified Back Yard Habitat

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