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Pest Control the Frugal, Natural Way

By Cyndi Roberts

Whether in the garden, yard or in the house, all of us have at one time or another had to deal with pests. Here are some ways to get rid of insects and other pests without spending a lot on expensive products.

1. For garden pests, make a mixture of 1 tablespoon liquid dishwashing soap and 1 cup of cooking oil. Mix about 3 tablespoons of this concentrate with a quart of water in a pump bottle, and spray it on the plants. Another recipe for insect control: soak citrus rind (lemon, orange, grapefruit) in water for a few days. Pour the water into a pump bottle and spray on plants.

2. Sprinkle cayenne pepper around plants to keep cats away.

3. Cucumber peel on a kitchen shelf will deter ants. You can also try washing or spraying your cabinets with vinegar and water.

4. Basil is a natural insect repellent. Keep a pot in your kitchen. Take a few leaves along with you on a picnic and put them out on the table to keep the flies away.

5. Bay leaves in your pantry will keep pests away. A bay leaf in a container of flour, cornmeal or cereal will keep weevils out.

6. Plant peppermint around your house. It will keep ants out, and it repels mice also.

7. Cinnamon sprinkled around your foundation is said to keep ants out.

8. Weeds are not really pests, but they can be really pesky! Hot water will kill most unwanted plants. Just boil some water and pour it over the plant you want to kill. Some weeds may require more than one dousing.

9. Mint tea bags can be used in your clothing drawers or in your closet to repel moths.

© Cyndi Roberts

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Cyndi Roberts is the editor of the "1 Frugal Friend 2 Another" bi-weekly newsletter and founder of the web site of the same name. Visit www.cynroberts.com to find creative tips, articles and a free e-cookbook. Subscribe to the newsletter and receive the free e-course "Taming the Monster Grocery Bill."