What are some natural pesticides for vegetable gardens?
It’s very important to identify the pest before using any pesticide — “natural” or not. Also, always try “cultural” methods first — pruning, weeding, thinning, cleaning up garden debris, etc. There are certain pesticides, such as B.t., (a biological control) that target only one type of pest. Others, like horticultural oil, suffocate a variety of pests. Finally, there are “broad spectrum” controls, such as pyrethrum. These must be used with great caution because they will kill benefical insects as well as pests — and these beneficials can often keep pests in control by themselves!
