Why use ecological pest controls? Chemical pesticides are known to kill insects effectively, but these chemicals can also be toxic to humans and animals and lead to environmental problems if not used correctly and handled properly. On the other hand, natural pesticides are usually more environmentally friendly and more conducive to environmental sustainability.
The following list contains green ideas for pest control in your garden. They are worth testing before using chemical pesticides.
1. A saucer of beer will attract and drain slugs and snails.
2. To combat mold room fill a garbage can with algae, cover with water and leave for several weeks. Dilute the mixture to the ratio of one part seaweed stew to six parts water prior to application.
3. Make a chive spray to reduce mildew on zucchini and squash plants by soaking 1 cup of chopped chive leaves and three cups of water for several hours. Strain and add an equal part of water before spraying.
4. Aphids can be squashed by hand or with a garden hose (if water restrictions allow). Aphids can also be deterred by spraying nasturtium. The spray is made by taking a cup of nasturtium leaves and a cup of water and gently boiling for 15 minutes. When the mixture is cold, strain and pulverize.
5. To protect young seedlings, create a protective collar from an old yogurt container.
6. To deter aphids and caterpillars, spray by boiling rhubarb leaves in water. Strain the mixture and dilute in the ratio of one part rhubarb to four parts water.
7. Sandy sawdust spread around the seedlings will deter snails and slugs who don’t like the texture.
8. To prevent birds from eating home-grown fruit, place bird nets over trees or, alternatively, hang foil cake plates or old CDs from branches to create a reflection that scares away birds.
9. Used coffee grounds spread around seedlings will kill slugs and snails.
10. Control cherry and pear slug by dumping wood ash on affected trees. The ashes dehydrate the slugs.
