Helpful Hints to Successful Organic Gardening

Diagnose BEFORE You Treat: This takes a little more time because it forces us to investigate and do a bit of research.... But you shouldn’t go out and use toxic sprays and chemicals unless you know what and how you’re using it. Consult an expert first.

Use Essential Oils: These can be in the form of bottled oils, which are handy for drops in the home, OR in plant form. Many bugs hate strong odors and will stay away from the natural oils in specific types of plants. Citrus oils like lemon and orange can be used by soaking cotton balls in the oil and placing around your home, in cupboards, and in cracks and crevices that may attract bugs. Mint, peppermint, clove, pennyroyal, citronella, eucalyptus and tea tree oils are also very effective for reducing the bug populations.

Homemade Concoctions: Blending garlic and peppers can be a deterrent for insects, ants and other larger pests, such as rodents. 

Combination Plantings: Citrus Scents: Plants with strong aromas may naturally deter insects and these can include:

Scented Geraniums: Lemon, Mint, Rose-Mint

Lavender

Tansy

Plants in the Mint Family, Pennyroyal, Catmint and Catnip, Bee-Balm,

Mountain –Mint (This is a great alternative to the invasive mints, more compact and upright.

Chrysanthemums

Use Native or Indigenous Plants: These are hardy in our region and will most likely have a higher survival rate because they are stronger in our natural environment.

Buy Locally! Department stores, plant books and on-line sources can be great for deals but they are not always the most reliable. Sometimes it’s hit or miss, so you should buy from your local growers who are more knowledgeable about the plants they sell.

Provide the Correct Environment for your plants: If you have good soil structure, the correct amount of light and the proper amount of water, your plants should thrive and if they are healthy they will be more resistant to diseases and insects.

Carrie Taylor: carriel.taylor@kctcs.edu (606) 759-7141 ext. 66232