Easy Tips For Organic Gardens
Many of today's gardeners are rejecting toxic chemicals and pesticides in favor of more environmentally friendly, non-toxic organic solutions for their gardens. There are many simple, organic remedies for common garden problems that can be made from items usually already found in the home.
Weeds are a common and very frustrating problem for many gardeners. Pulling, digging and treating with harsh chemicals are not the easiest or most environmentally friendly solutions to weed growth. For a non-toxic, cost effective weed treatment, spray the unwanted plants with full strength household vinegar in full sun. This treatment is non-toxic, safe to use and very inexpensive and it works!
Aphids are annoying and destructive. Don't head to the home improvement store for aphid treatments, spray the affected plants with a very small amount of dish soap diluted in water. Let the treatment sit for a few minutes or an hour and rinse with clear water. This treatment is extremely inexpensive, safe and works on even the toughest aphid epidemics.
Sometimes, gardens attract larger pests, like deer. Despite their beauty, they can be very destructive in gardens. Deer can be discouraged by placing human hair around the garden (you can pick up your clippings at the salon). Another natural deer repellent is bar soap with a strong scent. Place shavings around your garden for an inexpensive, but effective repellent.
Wild rabbits are also common, ravenous, garden visitors. No need to hurt them, just use garlic or lavender around the perimeter of your garden. Both smell terrible to rabbits, and they'll bypass your garden entirely. Another easy way to repel rabbits is planting catnip. Rabbits hate the smell, and the smell of the cats that may flock to it.
Another commonly used natural pest repellent can be made from hot pepper or garlic. Pulverize the herbs in a blender with a little water, strain out the pulp and make a diluted spray by combining the remaining "juice" with water. Transfer the mixture to a spray bottle and use as needed.
Acid loving plants like dogwoods and azaleas will thrive if mulched with pine needles or coffee grounds, both great, natural sources of acid. Blueberries will also benefit from these unique mulches.
Eliminating weeds and pests from gardens can be done safely and inexpensively with these common organic solutions. Help save the environment and your garden by trying some of these tips today!