Organic Approach to Pest Control Part 5 – Pyrethrum

Pyrethrum is an extract from chrysanthemum (Tanacetum cinerariifolium). It is one of the oldest pesticides known, and is also the strongest insecticide allowed under organic standards guidelines. Made from died flowers, pyrethrum insecticides are known for their fast knock-down of unwanted insects. Insects are typically paralyzed as soon as they come into contact so it is often […]

Organic Approach to Pest Control Part 4 – Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous Earth – This magical dust is effective against caterpillars, ants, apohids, codling moth, whitefly, beetles, loopers, mites, snails, slugs, leaf hoppers and a variety of other insect pests. What is it? Diatomaceous Earth is a naturally occurring siliceous sedimentary mineral compound from microscopic skeletal remains of unicellular algae-like plants call diatoms. These plants have […]

Organic Approach to Pest Control Part 1 – Fruit Fly

This subject was first written about on the Coffs Harbour Garden Club blogspot and as it generated so much discussion, this and other organic approach to pest control articles will be reposted here.  Let us look at one common pest – the fruit fly. There are some sound husbandry measures that can assist in this pest’s limitation. […]