Let Mother Nature work! Beneficial insects such as lady bugs are a good balance in the garden against pests.

Don’t forget about using the hose to blast off any insects. This can be the safest, cheapest and easiest way to control pests. It is best to do in the morning when pests aren’t as active and it also gives the water time to evaporate.

To apply bait type pesticides, and prevent, pets, birds, and children from touching bait, place bait in a plastic bottle. Bury the bottle in the ground so that its top is right at the sod line. Pests are small enough to crawl in and reach the bait, but critters and kids are not!

Brew you own insecticidal soap by mixing 2 teaspoons dishwashing liquid with a few drops of vegetable oil and 1 gallon water. Use a plastic spray bottle to apply. Protect eyes, wear gloves, and do not use a recycled bottle that had household products in it before, the residue could harm the plant.

Make a bug juice by collecting ½ cup of the pest you want to kill, mash them with 2 cups water and a few drops of liquid dish soap. Strain and spray on plants. Protect eyes and wear gloves.

Mix ½ cup hot chili peppers in 2 cups water and few drops vegetable oil in a blender. Strain and spray on plants. Protect eyes, wear gloves and I would wear a mask to keep from breathing in by accident.

Remember these are pesticides even though you mixed up yourself follow the guidelines to protecting yourself and others by wearing the proper protection: eye wear, gloves and a mask and taking precautions as stated above.

Always test first!!! Some pesticides can scorch, discolor, or damage foliage. Always test substance on a small, inconspicuous part of the plant. Wait a few days and if the growth remains healthy, use the pesticide on entire plant.

How to avoid pesticide use

• Start with healthy plants adapted to your site and encourage diversity in the garden
• Practice good housekeeping by deadheading spent flowers and cleaning away debris- thus denying pests a place to hide and nest.
• Monitor the garden constantly for evidence of pest damage so you can stop a problem before it becomes a infestation
• Use mechanical controls such as barriers, traps, and hand picking.
• Use beneficial insects such as lady bugs and lace wings to keep down the pest population

At Alford‘s English Gardens we always try the least toxic method of controlling pests before using pesticides. Kathy Alford is certified as Qualified Pesticide Applicator through the California Pesticide Regulation Board. (QAL licensed WE6919)