FAQs
Natural pest control refers to pest control methods that rely on natural (chemical-free) remedies. From essential oils to fly traps to food grade Diatomaceous Earth, several natural elements can help control the pest population. These solutions are often safe for pets and small children and non-toxic.
How do you make natural pest control? ›
Recipe: Mix together in water some chopped mint, ash, garlic, tobacco, and no more than 1 tablespoon of soap. Steep the concoction for 24 hours, strain, and apply the solution with a watering can or a homemade broom. Beer attracts slugs. Place a saucer or cup just below the soil surface and fill it with beer.
What is the best natural insecticide? ›
Alternative insecticides for the yard and garden:
- Diatomaceous earth. Available at garden centers. ...
- Neem oil. Available at many garden centers. ...
- Peppermint, thyme, and rosemary oil repellent. Mix equal parts (about 10 drops) peppermint, thyme, and rosemary essential oil in a spray bottle filled with water.
How do I keep bugs from eating my vegetable garden? ›
How To Stop Bugs From Eating Your Vegetables
- Orange peel spray. While most people enjoy the clean and pleasant scent of orange peels, bugs have an aversion to this citrus scent. ...
- Maintain a healthy and clean garden. ...
- Sticky traps. ...
- Vinegar spray. ...
- Recycle your tomato leaves.
What is an example of a natural pest? ›
Beetles, weevils and caterpillars which eat leaves. (It is important, however, to remember that butterflies are useful for pollination.) Grasshoppers and locusts which bite the top of seedlings. Larger animal pests such as monkeys, rats and birds (for example pigeons and crows) that eat seeds and plants.
What are natural controls? ›
Natural control refers to the maintenance of insect populations within certain bounds by environmental conditions, or factors. Both non-biological and biological factors contribute to the natural control of insects. These include: Physical factors such as weather (e.g. cold winters can reduce some insect populations).
Is baking soda good for pest control? ›
Baking soda is often used as an alternative pest control solution for pests such as co*ckroaches, bed bugs or ants. But the reality is that baking soda for pest control is not effective. Baking soda does not dehydrate insects or cut them despite claims to the contrary.
What are the benefits of controlling garden pests naturally? ›
One of the most important benefits of all natural pest control for your garden is that your plants, flowers, and vegetables won't be exposed to harmful toxins. The toxins can also harm animals that tend to habitate around your garden, as well as your children or your pets if they play near your garden often.
Can I use vinegar as an insecticide on plants? ›
Mixing a quart of water, 12 ounces of vinegar, and a tablespoon of dish soap, you can create a mixture that will rid your garden of annoying, buzzing pests. This mixture is also harmless to plants, animals, kids, and other garden bugs you want to keep around.
What is the safest pesticide to use in your garden? ›
Organic insecticide is favored by many for its natural ingredients that are less harsh on your garden and the surrounding environment. Common ingredients of organic insecticides are neem oil, diatomaceous earth, pyrethrin, and essential oils.
Citronella
Citronella is a common natural and effective essential oil that works against mosquitoes. Made from a mix of herbs, it's an ingredient in many mosquito repellents. When outdoors, citronella candles can provide up to 50 percent extra protection.
Does cinnamon keep bugs away? ›
What is the one thing in your spice cabinet that can keep you bug and rodent free this summer? Yes! Cinnamon. Cinnamon naturally contains eugenol, an aromatic compound commonly found in traditional insect repellants.
How to keep bugs off tomato plants naturally? ›
What is best insect spray for tomato plants? To make an insect spray at home for tomato plans, mix 10 ounces of hydrogen peroxide, 1 gallon of water and 10 ounces of sugar together. Mix it well and spray it on and around the tomato plant and leaves. Remember to wash it off after a day or two though.
What is natural biological control of pest? ›
Biological control is the use of living organisms to suppress pest populations, making them less damaging than they would otherwise be. Natural enemies of insects play an important role in limiting the densities of potential pests. These natural enemies include predators, parasitoids, and pathogens.
What are the natural pest control around the house? ›
White Vinegar
To use white vinegar for pest control, simply add equal parts water and vinegar into a spray bottle before spritzing it around your home or garden. It creates an unpleasant environment that will deter pests from staying in the area.
Is natural pest control better than pesticides? ›
Effectiveness: Natural pest control methods are not as fast or effective when compared to chemical, professional options. Natural methods do not usually provide complete pest eradication.
What is natural pesticide? ›
Natural pesticides are pesticides that are made from things found in nature. They may be made from minerals, plants, minerals, or microorganisms. Experts have found that these natural pesticides don't remain in the environment as long as synthetic pesticides.