Commercial pesticides can be poisonous to the environment. These toxins get into the soil and, eventually, into the water tables, causing unsafe living conditions. Organic vegetable gardens offer a safe alternative. There are natural and cost effective ways to keep the vegetable garden healthy without resorting to dangerous chemicals. Does this Spark an idea?
Natural Insect/Pest Repellent
An equal part mixture of talcum powder, cornstarch and sulfur powder keeps away many of the bothersome insects in the garden. Sprinkle this repellent anywhere there is a pest problem. The powder must be re-applied after a rainfall. The natural repellent can be used on an organic vegetable garden as often as necessary to control bugs. None of the ingredients are toxic, so it is safe to use on edible produce.
Getting Rid of Slugs
Slugs can cause damage to any plant. These pests will destroy a plant's foliage by eating holes to make it look like Swiss cheese. A great way to keep slugs from invading is to create a mixture of egg shells and salt. The salt will dissolve the slug and the egg shells deter the slimy pests because it acts like shards of glass to their soft bodies. This mixture must be placed well away from vegetable plants, which can be damaged by high levels of salt in the soil.
Companion Planting
Rabbits, mice and other wildlife prefer the tender shoots of new plants. An organic vegetable garden can be kept safe by planting crops that repel these animals. Marigolds, onions and mint are plants with strong odors. The scent these plants give off keeps some wildlife away. Disperse these plants intermittently throughout the garden to add color and protection for the other plants.
Pepper Spray
Hot pepper oil mixed with garlic keeps most of the soft bodied bugs, like worms and mites, away from the garden. Create a mixture of pepper sauce, garlic, onions, and water in the blender to make a pest repellent for the organic vegetable garden. The strong odor will keep out the wildlife as well.
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