All-Natural Ways to Keep Pests Out of Your Garden
Gardening can be a wonderful and relaxing hobby—until you encounter a pest problem. Deer, rabbits, and insects can quickly ruin a beautiful garden. While it may be tempting to use dangerous chemicals and pesticides to solve the problem, consider trying the following all-natural solutions for a safer, more humane alternative:
Attract Beneficial Predators:
Depending on where you live, it may be feasible to attract natural predators to deter pests. Nesting boxes can be used to attract owls, while tall, open perches make for an attractive hunting ground for hawks. A few strategically placed flowers will attract beneficial insects that feed on many pest species, allowing you to cultivate a garden without resorting to harmful pesticides.
Create a Barrier.
For many pests, such as rabbits and deer, a wire fence may be the best way to keep them out of your garden, while bun-owing animals can be discouraged with raised beds for your plants. If a fence isn't an option, or if you'd prefer something less unsightly, consider planting deterrent species such as daisies, echinacea, or thorny shrubs.
Set Live Traps:
Using baited traps is a humane, non-lethal way to deal with smaller pest animals. Simply bait the trap with plants that the pests have been targeting and wait for them to get curious. Check the traps two to three times daily, and once you've caught something, set the animal free several miles away from your property to ensure that they don't find their way back.
Use Natural Repellents:
There are many non-toxic, all-natural alternatives to pesticides and chemical repellent sprays. For rodents such as rabbits, mice, and squirrels, adding chili powder or hot sauce to the dirt around your garden is often enough to keep them at bay. If that doesn't work, it is possible to purchase bottled fox urine that will make any pest think twice about nibbling on your plants. If deer are the problem, consider using fertilizer made with fermented salmon, or spraying plants with a mixture of beef bouillon and water.
Don't Expect Perfection:
When dealing with humane, non-toxic pest solutions, it's important to realize that you won't be able to deter 100% of harmful pests. Don't get stressed or frustrated by every last bite that an insect or rodent takes from your garden. Accept that even with the best preventative measures, some pests may sneak through, and don't let that detract from the peace of mind that comes with a healthy, all-natural garden.
While poisonous chemicals may be the fastest and easiest option, nothing beats the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your garden is all-natural and free of pesticides. The tips and techniques above make it simpler than ever to maintain a gorgeous garden without tearing your hair out over troublesome pests.
Contact a company that carries mice bait and other baits for more information and assistance.