Whether in the garden, yard or in the house,
all of us have, at one time or another, had
to deal with pests.

Here are some ways to get rid of insects and
other pests without spending a lot on expensive
products.

1. For garden pests, make a mixture of 1 tablespoon
liquid dishwashing soap and 1 cup of cooking oil.
Mix about 3 tablespoons of this concentrate with a
quart of water in a pump bottle and spray on plants.

Another recipe for insect control: soak citrus rind
(lemon, orange, grapefruit) in water for a few days.
Pour the water into a pump bottle and spray on
plants.

2. Sprinkle cayenne pepper around plants to keep
cats away.

3. Cucumber peel on a kitchen shelf will deter ants.
You can also try washing or spraying your cabinets
with vinegar and water.

4. Basil is a natural insect repellent. Keep a pot
in your kitchen. Take a few leaves along with you
on a picnic and put them out on the table to keep the
flies away.

5. Bay leaves in your pantry will keep pests away.
A bay leaf in a container of flour, cornmeal, or cereal
will keep weevils out.

6. Plant peppermint around your house. It will keep
ants out and it repels mice also.

7. Also cinnamon sprinkled around your foundation is
said to keep ants out.

8. Weeds are not really pests, but they can be really
pesky! Hot water will kill most unwanted plants --just
boil some water and pour it over the plant you want to
kill.

9. Mint teabags can be used in your clothing drawers or
in your closet to repel moths.

Try these tips and do a little bit to help the environment
and your budget at the same time.