Saturday, September 6, 2008

What to do to control pests in organic gardening

What to do to control pests in organic gardeningPest control in organic gardening is one of the main problems of people who are into it. This is especially true with people who have been gardening all their lives but have relied on chemical pesticides and ready-made formulas for killing pests. 


Organic gardening however is based on the rule that no chemical pesticides and fertilizers should touch the plants. Otherwise, it will not be organic anymore. Everything should come from the earth and be created from natural processes. Fertilizers are made from food scraps, animal wastes and dried leaves and plants. Pesticides on the other hand are done through a natural process.


But this is easier said than done. Pests are hard enough to deal with without having to worry about the natural process. Experts in organic gardening however feel that if people would just constantly observe their plants and be vigilant about potential pest problems, dealing with it will not be a problem.


The trick is to nip the problem in the bud even before it needs dealing with. This does not only start with getting rid of pests but also making sure that there is no pest at all. This can be done by making sure that the plants are healthy and the soil is good. Constant care and attention are needed to ensure that you won't need to control pests ever again.
Still, pests are something that you can't sometimes avoid. Here are two natural pesticides that are safe to use.


Control pests in organic gardeningBt (Bacillus thuringiensis)
There is bad bacteria and good bacteria in the human. The former creates sickness while the latter helps combat it. The same goes with plants. Bacteria can be used to combat pests. These are sprayed on the leaves and in the plants, which insects will feed on. Although it does not have any effect on people and pets and in animals that help plants like the bees and the birds, Bt acts as stomach poison to insects, killing them in an instant.


Neem
This is made from ingredients that are taken from the seed kernels of the neem tree fruit, making it all natural. Neem is also sprayed on the leaves, which when eaten by insects can upset their hormonal system. This is actually most effective with insects that are just developing as it prevents them from undergoing complete metamorphosis. Perfect for organic gardening! One problem with this is the fact that it easily washes away with rain. That is why it is often used during the summer.

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