From the ABC
Alexandria, VA – Alexandria is recognized and certified as a Better City for PetsTM and is home to many who create beautiful gardens! The Alexandria Beautification Commission encourages residents to plant native plants and avoid using toxic chemicals to maintain them. Below, I’ve listed a few eco-conscious, homemade weed-control solutions inspired by generations of farmers with multi-pet households. These recipes eliminate stubborn weeds using nontoxic ingredients like vinegar, salt, dish soap, and boiling water. Other methods like mulching, layering newspaper, and biodegradable landscaping fabric also prevent weed growth.
Weed Control on Pavers – Many patios have pavers/stones with weeds creeping in between. Here’s one recipe: 1 gal water, 1T dish soap (organic or natural), 1 cup salt. Spray only on weed-infested areas and wait 1-2 days. Once weeds die, use a brush to make the pavers look new. Do not use on desired plants.
Pest Control for Backyard Vegetable Planters – Gnats/fungus gnats may enter raised planters when organic soil and fertilizers are used. Try filling caps (bottle caps or any short cap) with apple cider vinegar and 2-3 drops of dish soap and place around plants. This attracts gnats who enter the solution and die, leaving your plants flourishing. Also, be sure not to overwater plants.
Vegetable Garden Companion Planting – Planting two different plants next to each other helps them thrive and deters pests. A common companion planting is tomatoes and basil. A complete guide is available at almanac.com/companion-planting-guide-vegetables.
Outdoor Mosquito Repellent – Equal parts geranium oil, lavender, lemon balm, and cedar wood. Combine with water and spray where mosquitoes habituate. These items can be ordered online.
Deter Pests in General Outdoors? Grow herbs! Basil, rosemary, lemon balm, catnip, peppermint, and lavender can deter outdoor pests.
We’d love to hear about your sustainable, nontoxic, pet-friendly weed and pest control recipes. Please email us at [email protected] to share your experiences!
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