Managing Garden Pests Organically

If you are a gardener you've probably come to accept the battle between you and the bugs. It seems like those little pest think your garden is their own personal buffet but there is a way to repel those unwanted visitors without the use of harsh chemicals.

When combating ants, sprinkle lavender, mint, thyme, juniper, chili pepper or salt over the ant trails that lead towards the house. The smell of the herbs not only deters ants, but disrupts their scent trail so they can’t follow the trail leading towards your home.

Aphids are another common pest in this area. Plant some cilantro, garlic, lavender, or French marigold to discourage them from staying. Aphids particularly dislike nasturtium. If your plants are already infested, give them a morning spray with tansy, stinging nettle teas or with a mild detergent solution. Earwigs and Ladybugs are two insects that don’t eat plant matter, but enjoy munching on aphids. Attract them to your garden with flowerpots filled with wood shavings or with some of these other tips.

Protect your plant beds from slugs and snails by incorporating chamomile, nasturtium, sage parsley, and mustard. Place straw around your plants to stop the slugs in their tracks (they don’t like to crawl over sharp edges). Another tip is to spread oak leaves around your garden. The leaves contain tannins that repels slugs and snails.

For indoor plants, make a concoction of water and peppermint (I usually put in 10 drops) to spray on your plants to get rid of fruit flies and gnats.

What are some things you do to repel pest from your garden? Which one of these tips do you think you will try?