Many homeowners are chemically addicted from their cleaners to lawn and garden care to pest management. The problem with this approach is chemical cleaners and pesticides contaminate indoor air and creates an unsafe environment for children and pets in yards and gardens and increase respiratory problems. Pesticides in particular used outdoors can have a chain effect killing off other critters that feed on the pest you are trying to eliminate. One of the biggest problems with chemical pesticides is some critters develop resistance to the pesticide meaning regardless of how much of the pesticide you use, it will not be effective. This is why cleaners with additional anti-bacterial properties should not be used in your home. Urban lawns in particular are very much chemically addicted to weed and feed products which is about the least eco-friendly approach you could take!
Many pests (eg. critters, insects, weeds) can be controlled by manual removal and physical barriers. It is an eco-friendly approach to pest management. Keep pests out of the house by sealing cracks and crevices as well as keeping doors, windows and screens in good repair. Create a three to six foot barrier around your house to discourage insects and spiders. An effective barrier is cedar mulch as cedar is a natural insect repellent. Encourage insect eating birds, toads, frogs and bats around the perimeter of your property. Indoors, discourage pests by keeping counters and floors squeaky clean. Store food in glass containers. Caulk all cracks and crevices. Vacuum up spiders and other insects rather than using chemical sprays. Nix as many chemical cleaners or pesticides as you can to create a healthier home environment both indoors and outdoors.
Garden Gnome
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