Gardening - Q&A: Natural Pesticides

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Q&A: Natural Pesticides

Question: What are some natural pesticides for vegetable gardens?

Answer: It's very important to identify the pest before using any pesticide -- "natural" or not. Also, always try "cultural" methods first -- pruning, weeding, thinning, cleaning up garden debris, etc. There are certain pesticides, such as B.t., (a biological control) that target only one type of pest. Others, like horticultural oil, suffocate a variety of pests. Finally, there are "broad spectrum" controls, such as pyrethrum. These must be used with great caution because they will kill benefical insects as well as pests -- and these beneficials can often keep pests in control by themselves!

Content provided by the National Gardening Association