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How to Keep Pests Out of Your Garden

Part of the draw of living in Oklahoma is the surrounding nature. The weather makes it a great place to garden and the local flora and fauna is a joy to observe. These are just some of the many reasons that KCI chooses to build our homes here. But if you are an avid gardener, you know that local fauna can sometimes wreak havoc on your prized produce. If you are looking for ways to keep pests at bay, try these suggestions.

Mint

Mint is a great herb to add to your garden. It's great for drinks, dishes, and desserts. Additionally, it is a great pest deterrent. Stick with the most fragrant varieties since they pack the most punch, e.g. peppermint and spearmint. You can strategically place containers around your garden or you can just plant them around the perimeter of the garden itself. Just be mindful that mint has a way of taking over but that also means it can make for a fantastic ground cover.

Cayenne Pepper

Something that can deter animals from taking bites out of your flowers and fruits is cayenne pepper. Squirrels, deer, and even bears really don’t appreciate spice. To put a protective layer of pepper on your plants, mix 1 tablespoon of cayenne per 1 cup of water. Place the mixture into a spray bottle, give it a good shake, and spray the foliage in your garden. When you are ready to harvest and eat your produce, just make sure to give it a thorough washing to rinse away the pepper.

Marigolds

Add a little pop of color and keep your garden safe at the same time with the help of marigolds. These yolky orange flowers carry strong fragrant properties that many woodland creatures and bugs alike just don't care for. Rodents, mosquitoes, deer, aphids, and more can all be kept at bay when you put marigolds to use. Plant them in sunny spots along the perimeter of your garden for the best results.

And there you have it! A few tried and true methods for keeping pests out of your garden. Put one of them to use, or try them all.

By KCI Homes 4-27-2022