Naturally Repelling Garden Pests

As evidence mounts regarding the risks associated with pesticide use in both environmental and health terms, many home gardeners are looking for alternative methods of pest control.  Fortunately, most gardeners can use completely natural methods of repelling common garden pests.  This article details three ways to fight pest problems without reaching for a sprayer or poisonous powder.  The options outlined do not represent a comprehensive examination of natural pest control, but they are proven means by which one can make improvements.  Consider these simple, pesticide-free, options.

Marigolds

The crisp, almost peppery smell of marigolds is a natural repellant to many insects.  By bordering one’s garden with the flowers, one can stave off an insect invasion without resorting to the use of chemicals.  Pests may love your melons and tomatoes, but they are not as smitten with marigolds.

This solution is a winner on multiple levels.  The flowers themselves are quite attractive and come in a variety of stunning colors.  The marigold is extremely hearty and can thrive without a great deal of attention.  Additionally, marigolds are quite inexpensive.  Thus, one can reduce insect problems while improving the appearance of their garden with very little effort or cost associated with the strategy.

Radio

We might like the idea of listening to the radio while tending your garden, but pests like gophers and rabbits prefer the sounds of nature.  If one has a problem with these or other rodents, they may want to consider using a small radio, turned to a very low volume, to keep the hungry varmints at bay.

One can purchase a cheap AM transistor radio for a few dollars.  At low volume (people won’t even hear it unless they are very close), the batteries will last for quite some time.  The radio can be placed in a zippered sandwich bag to protect it from the elements and water.  The chatter from the radio will dissuade many pesky creatures from making a move on one’s tasty vegetables.

Faux Predators

Corn farmers of centuries past knew what they were doing when they stuffed old clothes with straw and perched scarecrows in the field.  Scarecrows really do a fine job of keeping many pests away.  A full-sized human replica, however, probably won’t do much to keep insects away and may not be the most attractive landscaping decision one can make.

Instead, opt for other replica creatures that will give pests a reason to steer clear of the garden.  Inflatable owls, rubber snakes and other faux predators can help one maintain a low-pest garden without applying pesticides.

If you are looking for ways to avoid the use of dangerous chemicals in your garden, you will need to find alternative means by which to keep pests away.  There are many strategies one can adopt, including the use of marigolds, the presence of a low-volume radio and strategic placement of replica enemies of the pests.