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Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Moth Balls & Marigolds

Moth Balls & Marigolds

Your flower garden is an enjoyable hobby and few things are more frustrating than having those flowers destroyed overnight by rampaging wildlife. It's a common misconception that moth balls placed in a garden will keep these animals away. In fact, it's illegal to use moth balls in this manner. Not only are moth balls highly toxic, they are also useless against outdoor pests.

Effects on Plants

    A Cornell University study found that paradichlorobenzene is toxic to some plants. The study reported that the chemical causes damage to roots, seeds and seedlings. Trees also showed serious injuries after being exposed to the chemical.

Effects on People and Pets

    Moth balls may look like candy. If eaten, however, the insecticide poses serious health problems including brain damage. Young children can develop a devastating breakdown of their red blood cells within hours of being exposed to naphthalene. This condition can result in jaundice and kernicterus, which is a form of neurological damage connected with profound disability. Moth balls can also cause liver failure in dogs and cats. Animals showing signs of moth ball exposure, such as seizures, vomiting, and an odor of mothballs around the mouth should be taken to the veterinarian immediately.

Alternative Wildlife Deterrents

    Use hot peppers to make your own effective wildlife deterrent.
    Use hot peppers to make your own effective wildlife deterrent.

    North Dakota State University horticulturist Ron Howard states that moth balls are ineffective against nuisance wildlife such as rabbits or mice. Instead, consider using commercially-available wildlife repellents or make your own. Deter wildlife from helping themselves to your marigolds by placing three hot peppers into a blender with enough water to make a liquid. Blend these two ingredients together and pour the resulting mixture through a strainer or cheesecloth. Add two tablespoons of vegetable oil or olive oil, a teaspoon of non-toxic white glue, and a squirt of liquid detergent. Mix well and add one part of this concoction to ten parts of water in a large spray bottle. Spray your plants. The wildlife might take one bite, but then they'll opt for less spicy fare. Re-apply this mixture after a heavy rain.

    Exclusion fencing is also an effective means of keeping unwanted wildlife out of your flower garden. Twenty-four-inch-high wire mesh fencing or hardware cloth keeps out many animals. Encircle your flower beds with this fencing in the spring when plants are most vulnerable.

1 comments:

  1. I would like to know what harmful effects if any would result in using Paradichlorbenzen near tomato plants to eliminate or control Liepidoptera moths from spreading Leaf Minor

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