For most of us, pests are something that need to be controlled but not necessarily something that should be done by harming the natural environment. The majority of pests serve a purpose, even if it’s just as part of the food chain for larger pests. That’s why it’s important to use organic methods and help to preserve the natural order of things.
Of course, if you have a serious pest problem then you need to call the exterminators. They can help to advise you regarding preventative methods which can be used alongside the following 6 organic pest control options:
- Salt Spray
Salt is surprisingly powerful, it can kill infections, pests, weeds, and a host of other things. It can even be harmful to humans in a large enough dose.
Simply mix a tablespoon of salt with some water in a spray bottle and then use it. You should note that it’s particularly effective on spiders.
- Oil Spray
You’ll need 1 cup of vegetable oil and a tablespoon of salt. Then mix this with 4 cups of water and add to your spray bottle. This is perhaps the most effective of all the spray solutions. It will kill mites, beetles, aphids, and even whiteflies.
Just spray directly onto and around the plants as needed.
- Soap Spray
This works in a very similar way to oil spray but is easier to make. All you need is 2 tablespoons of liquid soap and 4 cups of water.
It’s worth noting that this spray s best used in the evenings. If you need to use it in the morning then do it early, before it starts to get too warm as heat damages the effectiveness of the solution.
[ Read: How You Can Keep Pests Out Of Your Home ]
- Garlic Spray
Garlic is great at keeping vampires away but you’re probably not worrying about the in your garden! In fact, garlic is very effective at keeping an array of pests at bay. The main reason for this is the smell.
You can plant garlic in strategic places around your garden and it will help to protect the plants next to it from pests. You can puree 2 bulbs of garlic with a small amount of water and leave it to sit for at least 12 hours. This will infuse the water.
You can then add the water to a teaspoon of liquid soap and 4 cups of water, put it in your spray bottle and shake before use.
You’ll see the effects almost instantly.
- Citrus Spray
Citrus plants are no liked by many pests and the aroma is even known to keep mosquitoes away.
It is also very good at stopping ants from coming into your home. Simply add 10 drops of essential citrus oil to a spray bottle of water. You can add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper as well if you wish. Then spray affected areas and create a boundary line at entrances to your home.
- Tobacco Spray
Finally, tobacco can do just as much harm to pests as it does to humans. All you need is a cup of tobacco and approximately 1 gallon of water. Add the tobacco to the water and let it sit for at least 24 hours, the water will go light brown.
Simply put some into a spray bottle and use on most plants, although it is best to avoid tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants; the spray can cause them to wilt.