winter

DIY Homemade Pest Controls for a Pest-Free Winter Garden

Winter is here. Like many homeowners, you may have worked on your garden and made it so beautiful and inviting. However, along with the cold weather come pests that can ruin your garden. But you don’t have to resort to harsh chemical-based pesticides and insecticides to keep your garden safe from these pesky creatures. The chance is you can try investing in the best pest control here, or you can make homemade pest controls using ingredients that are easy to find in your homes, such as essential oils, vinegar, and soap. If you choose option number 2, then keep reading. Today, we’re going to see the best DIY natural pest controls and how to make them from scratch. Let’s get started.

Garlic Spray

garlicDealing with aphids and other leaf-eating bugs? Then you’ll love this garlic spray. All you need is a few garlic cloves, some cooking oil, and water. Start by blending the garlic with the oil until it forms a paste. Once done, add about 2 tablespoons of the paste to 1 liter of lukewarm water. Stir everything together and either pour it into a spray bottle or use a cloth dipped in the mixture to apply to your plants.

Horticultural-Grade Diatomaceous Earth

When dealing with snails, slugs, and other crawling bugs, you’ll want to turn your attention to horticultural-grade diatomaceous earth. This is a natural insecticide made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms. The powder-like substance works by dehydrating the pests it comes into contact with. Not only is it effective, but it’s also safe to use around pets and children. All you need to do is sprinkle the powder around your garden, and it will start killing the pests on contact.

Slug and Snail Traps

Another good option for slugs and snails is the use of traps. All you need to do is make a simple trap with items you already have in your homes, such as beer or sugar water. You can also use pet food, but we don’t recommend it since it can attract other animals. Once you make the trap, place it around your garden and wait for the snails and slugs to enter. They will be attracted by the bait, and then you can quickly dispose of them.

Good Garden Bugs

lady If all of them are not enough, let’s get the big gun. Well, not big guns but rather good garden bugs that will help you get rid of the pests. Ladybugs and lacewings are two of the most popular insects to introduce into your garden because they feed on aphids and other pests.

These friendly bugs can be purchased from local nurseries or online, so it’s easy to find them. But keep in mind that you will need to keep them in the garden for a few weeks before you start seeing results. A wise man once said, “The best defense is a good offense.” This couldn’t be more true when it comes to keeping your winter garden pest-free. With the right DIY homemade pest controls in place, you can ensure that your garden remains healthy and vibrant throughout the cold season. So, let’s start now. Your garden isn’t going to protect itself.