Pests can greatly spoil the time we spend outside and even damage our gardens. We want to get rid of them quickly, but the really quick solutions can be harmful for our children, pets and the environment. That is why you should turn to more earth-friendly methods and safely remove pests without harming anyone. Rely on Beneficial Insects
The insects that can help you the most when it comes to pest control are the predatory insects. They will remove those that cause damage to your garden, so you should give the beneficial ones a new home in your yard. You can easily find live specimens or eggs in stores, but make sure you provide a favorable habitat for them. Provide plants that will cover these insects and, this way, you can even attract some of them into your garden naturally.
Natural Repellents
If you’re searching for a natural repellent, you should know that cedar oil is one of the best, non-toxic solutions. It can easily be used to fight off mosquitoes, ants, fleas and many other insects. You are free to apply this oil on your skin which will protect you and exude a pleasant smell. Another useful repellent is the citronella oil which is often used in outdoor candles to protect you from pests. You can try some easy and natural DIY pest control too.
Non-toxic Pesticides
Sometimes, some stronger solutions might be needed to win the fight against pests. However, you shouldn’t rely on various generic pesticides, since they contain many chemicals that are harmful for everyone. Instead, rely on non-toxic pesticides which will ensure pest-free environment, but your family, pets and the environment will stay intact. Also, if you wish to get rid of cockroaches, mice or rats inside your home, you should rely on such pesticides, advise Gold Coast pest control pros Xtra Mile, and you don’t even have to evacuate your home or empty the cupboards or closest before application.
Attract Birds
Just like the beneficial insects, many birds are predators as well. Their favorite treats are pesky insects and that is why you should invite them into your garden. Build a few bird houses and feeders and hang them up on your patio or trees. If you provide that kind of favorable habitat for the birds, they will come to you and help you get rid of any insects.
Solar-Powered Repellents
These relatively new green products consist of solar panels on top, while the spike is buried underground. The device collects the sun’s energy for power and it occasionally shakes in order to send vibrations through the ground and frighten animals. These devices are perfect for fighting off moles, other vermin and even snakes.
Trap and Release
This is a humane method that will let the animals invading your property safe and (more or less) sound. All you need are non-kill traps that will capture pests, keep them safe and allow you to relocate them somewhere outside your home. However, you need to be careful when relocating the animal and you should choose a corresponding habitat in order to ensure the animal’s survival. Relocate the captive early in the morning to an area that has plenty of food, water and shelter available.
Get Rid of Snails and Slugs
Even though they’re slow, snails and slugs can ruin your delicate plants in the blink of an eye. These usually operate during the night and they wreak havoc in your garden. In order to protect your plants, you need to control their population. This can be done by placing a shallow dish among the targeted plants and filling it with beer. Believe it or not, slugs adore beer, but they will fall in and drown. Another method involves sprinkling crushed eggshells among the plants which will prevent snails and slugs from approaching and damaging them.
In order to protect our gardens, we shouldn’t rely on chemicals that can damage them even more. Natural pest control is preferable since it will protect your family and the environment, while the pests will be out of your way.
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I didn’t know about snails and beer, I’ll have to try that this year. Thanks for sharing on the Homestead Blog Hop!
HI Jennifer,
The beer does work – snails are drawn to it. Thanks for hosting the Homestead blog hop.
I didn’t know about the solar powered repellents. I wonder if it would affect the dogs or chickens. Although they do a pretty good job of keeping animals away in their own right. Thanks for sharing on the #WasteLessWednesday Blog Hop!
Hi Katy,
Yes I have used the solar powered repellents and so has my Mother. They have ones that are especially that is suppose to work on all animals but I don’t know about chickens. I know my Mother has had good luck with using them on her garden. Thanks for stopping by and commenting.