Tag: Natural pest control

Bay laurel trees have been cultivated since ancient times, with their leaves used not just for flavor but also to crown victors in ancient Greece. If you have a bay tree, you may be wondering what to do with bay tree leaves beyond a simple pot of soup.

Diatomaceous earth is a natural pesticide made from the fossilized remains of ancient diatoms. Knowing how often should you use diatomaceous earth is key to its effectiveness, as its desiccant properties work best when the powder is kept dry and applied strategically.

Used for thousands of years in both cooking and traditional medicine, the humble bay leaf contains volatile organic compounds like eugenol, cineole, and linalool that contribute to its aroma and potential benefits.

While the FDA considers food-grade DE "Generally Recognized as Safe" for consumption in small amounts, inhaling the dust is known to cause respiratory irritation and poses a risk of serious lung conditions, highlighting the critical distinction between safe use and potential side effects of DE. This fine powder, derived from fossilized diatoms, carries different risks depending on its grade and how it is handled.

A single guinea fowl has been reported to eat thousands of ticks annually, making them a powerful force against pests. If you're wondering what's a guinea good for, these hardy, alert birds offer numerous benefits for homesteads, from natural security to sustainable pest control.

The global citrus processing industry produces millions of tonnes of waste, including large quantities of orange seeds. Instead of simply discarding them, these often-overlooked seeds possess significant potential for repurposing in gardening, cooking, and household applications.

With a history dating back to 15th-century China, poms flowers are a versatile and resilient bloom used for much more than just decoration. Also known as pompon chrysanthemums, these flowers are prized in floral design for their texture and volume, while other uses range from natural insect repellent to traditional herbal remedies.

Despite widespread belief, scientific studies, including a 2022 review in *Bulletin of Entomological Research*, have consistently shown that foods like garlic and bananas do not effectively repel mosquitoes when ingested. The notion that certain foods repel mosquitoes is a persistent myth that continues to circulate.

For decades, people have sworn that taking a vitamin helps keep mosquitoes away, specifically citing B1 (thiamine) as a potent insect repellent. However, systematic scientific reviews have repeatedly found no evidence that consuming any vitamin, supplement, or food can deter mosquitoes.

Over 70 species of caterpillars are known to feed on leafy greens, but if you've discovered little green worms in lettuce, the culprits are most likely imported cabbageworms or cabbage loopers. These voracious larvae can quickly cause significant damage to your vegetable garden, but thankfully, there are effective methods for identification and control.