Since it is time to plant and ready our gardens for the coming summer bounty, it came to mind that some earth friendly gardening makes for a great way to celebrate Earth Day! Last year I suggested a few things to help our struggling bees and monarch butterflies here. This year, some “weed and insect control” tips:
- Got mosquitoes? Plant a lot of lavender, basil or marigolds to repel them from your patio. Many people also swear by mints — especially peppermint. Watch out, though. Mints usually go crazy and take over a garden in a flash. Perhaps some potted plants around the patio will do.
- Ladybugs love to munch on aphids. Did you know most nurseries carry them? Release them at dusk in your garden area that aphids show up, and everyone but the aphids will be happy.
- Dandelion leaves make for great additions salads. Like arugula, the leaves have a bite to them, and packed with nutrients. Just make sure no pesticides or herbicides have landed on them.
- White vinegar! If grasses or other vegetation begins sprouting up in cracks on your sidewalks or driveway, consider using a 50/50 mix of plain old white vinegar. It won’t harm the bees and is much cheaper than the chemical sprays sold at nurseries. If the weeds hang in, simply up the ratio of vinegar. Why use a product with caution labels and poison warnings if you don’t have to?
- Plant LOTS of flowers! Not only will you enjoy the lovely view, the birds and bees will to!
Happy Earth Day!