About Organic Pest Control for Plants

Organic pest control for the home gardener is a major concern. The point of growing your own food is to remove possible chemical contamination. Luckily, there are a variety of ways to control pests in the garden, without sacrificing the organic environment you have worked hard to create.

Benefits of Organic

Organic means not using any manmade chemicals. All ingredients are natural and easily obtained. The benefits are that you are ensuring a healthy environment for your family and reducing the risks that are associated with chemical use.

Planting To Control Pests

One of the great ways to handle pests is by planting species of plants that deter pests to begin with. Some great plants to add to your landscape are lavender, mint, tansy and garlic. These all help reduce ants, moths, flies and fleas.

Use of Friendly Bugs

If you have ever been in a garden center and noticed a bag of ladybugs for sale, there is a good reason for it. Ladybugs love to eat aphids, which make them a great choice for controlling issues in rose and tomato plants.

Homemade Remedies

There are two very simple sprays you can make in your kitchen to reduce pest on plants. Canola oil (be sure it is a pure oil not an engineered oil) and water or a mild soap and water mixture. Mix one part oil or soap to three parts water. Spray on the plant, making sure to get the underside of the leaves and stems where pest like to hide.