| I have a dog that loves to lick the concrete around the house area. I also have cockroaches all around the house and sometimes find them inside the house. Can you recommend a safe pesticide or biological chemical that I could try? I have aphids on my plants, too. |
| Cockroaches are difficult to control, especially when food is available. Start by keeping all foodstuffs in sealed containers and sweeping or mopping up even the tiniest crumb that falls on the floor. There are two botanicals that will help control the pests; diatomaceous earth and boric acid. Diatomaceous earth is available in dust or powder forms. It works by dissolving the waxy outer layer of beetles and cockroaches. Boric acid is a stomach poison that roaches and ants carry back to their nests. Both products are about as safe as you can find for use around homes. Aphid populations on your plants can be discouraged by hosing them off with a strong stream of water from a hose, or by spraying with an Insecticidal Soap. The soap works against soft-bodied insects such as aphids, especially when sprayed directly on the insects. Once the product dries there is little residual effect. Hope these suggestions help you gain control over the creepy crawlies. |
