Green Your Garden: Natural Pest Control

Want to be the ultimate locavore? You needn't go farther than your own backyard. This week we'll provide tips to help you plan a garden that'll be brimming with fresh veggies this summer.

Tip #2: Protect Plants Without Pesticides

If you're a new gardener, chances are you'll be surprised by some sort of infestation before the growing season is over. Connect with local gardeners to determine the most common problems in your region, then look for organic fixes. Many pest control solutions can be concocted from household items: For example, aphids are deterred by garlic and cayenne pepper, slugs find eggshells unappealing, and ants (who can exacerbate an aphid problem) dislike coffee grounds and vinegar. Before you apply organic treatments, be sure to research their effect on beneficial insects like ladybugs.

Share your tips: What are your most effective recipes for organic pest control?