Garlic produces substances that can repel insects.
Many farmers and gardeners use chemical insecticides and repellents to keep pests out of their gardens. However, these chemicals can have harmful side effects. Some natural substances can discourage insects without the danger of harmful residues. Does this Spark an idea?
Botanical Insecticides
Some plants produce toxins that readily kill or repel problem insects. These include the neem tree, citrus trees, chrysanthemums and chilis. Extracts from these plants can be applied to crops to discourage insects from consuming them, and may kill pests that try.
Essential Oils
Volatile oils extracted from plants, like cloves, also can work to prevent insect infestations in gardens. They have little to no residual activity, though they may leave behind a scent. They are very low risk to gardeners and the local environment.
Soaps and Oils
Insecticidal soaps and oils, derived from plants and other natural materials, are non-toxic to humans and mammals, and reasonably safe for most beneficial insects. They work by drying out the bodies of soft-bodied insects, like aphids, or by smothering them. Insects soon avoid treated plants.
Tags: discourage insects, from plants