Outsmart Invaders

[ Found in the Maintenance Path ]

It’s easy to run to the store for herbicides and pesticides whenever weeds and bugs invade our outdoor spaces. Chemicals can be useful in difficult situations if applied properly. But most synthetic remedies are dangerous to people, pets and wildlife. Plus, they generate toxic runoff that contaminates streams, lakes and groundwater. Fortunately, organic alternatives can often be equally effective, and without harmful side effects.

Ask your county extension agent about natural controls specific to your situation. In the meantime, here are a few ideas to get you started. Spray weeds with white vinegar or a mixture of lemon juice and salt, or douse them with boiling water. Attack unwanted insects with insecticidal soap or pyrethrin, an organic pesticide derived from chrysanthemums. Try pheromone traps or trunk banding to discourage codling moths and other climbing insects, such as root weevils. Turn a flower pot filled with dry grass upside down to capture earwigs. Moisten a rolled-up newspaper to attract snails and slugs. Intersperse vulnerable flowers and vegetables with pungent “companion plants” that bugs hate—mint, garlic and marigolds, for example.

Finally, fight bugs with bugs. Predators like lacewings, ladybugs, spiders, dragonflies and praying mantises will be happy to rid you of aphids, mites and scale bugs. Just remember that different pests may require different solutions.