Do you have pesky pests in your garden, but hesitate to use any harsh chemicals near your tender young veggies? These options for pest control are easier on the plants and the environment.

Pest Control Primer

The best way to control pests in your garden is to pinpoint what the problem really is. Some pests are harmless and even helpful. Your pest control should target only those you must eliminate.

1. Baking soda. One tablespoon mixed into a gallon of water can help eliminate fungus spores.
2. Pyrethrum. Can get rid of sucking insects, but take care--it can cause nasal allergies in some people.
3. Rotenone. Mix it with pyrethrum to kill chewing insects. Keep it away from fish ponds.
4. Summer horticultural oil. It can get rid of a multitude of pests and fungus as well. Read the instructions carefully and take care not to breathe in the mist.
5. Sabadilla. A great way to control insects that nothing else can kill, but the downside is that it also kills honeybees. Protect your bees by spraying only at dusk, and keep the mixture well away from flowering plants.
6. Soap. Spray made from Dawn or Ivory detergent and water can kill bugs, but you have to get the mixture directly on them. The good news--it is safe for fruits and vegetables.
7. Nematode. A "cruiser" or small worm that attacks grubs in your garden.
8. Spinosyn. A naturally-occuring organism called "Conserve SC, " it attacks many pests, including caterpillars, gypsy moth larvae, leaf miners, and more.

Pest control doesn't have to be detrimental to the environment. With careful attention and regular application, you can keep your garden thriving without the presence of pests that would like to take your carefully-tended vegetables for themselves.