Natural Pest Control Ideas

It's that time of year - time for pests! Here are a few great ideas to discourage the critters, naturally. Feel free to let me know of others that have worked for you!

Ants - Set out cucumber peels or slices in the kitchen or at the ants' point of entry. Dry, crushed mint leaves, bay leaves or cloves also work as ant deterrents. I have tried both cucumber peels & bay leaves and found that this does work!

Mosquitos - If you're using the barbeque, throw a bit of sage or rosemary on the coals to repel mosquitos. Planting marigolds around your yard works as a natural bug repellent, the flowers give off a fragrance bugs and insects do not like. Basil and rosemary plants will help deter mosquitos in the yard. Or dab lavender oil on your wrists and elbows.

Slugs - Coffee grounds scattered on top of the soil will deter slugs. So will winding copper wire around plants.

Flies - Small sachets of crushed mint placed around the home will discourage flies. So will a potted sweet basil plant. I currently have a large basil plant on my kitchen counter, hoping this works. I love basil!