Recently I was interviewed for an article on Martha Stewart.com about using mothballs in the garden. Needless to say, I was mortified that the idea was even being presented as an option so I had to respond to the query.

My fellow GardenComm colleague Teri Speight also weighed in on the subject. You’ll find all the details here:

Why You Should Never Use Mothballs in the Garden—and What to Try Instead

The physical cages mentioned in the article, and ones that we use to keep critters at bay are these from Gardener’s Supply. They really help protect your crops from nibbling critters. They are not cheap but they last for years.

Find more safe alternatives in our online pest control course, Creating a Healthy Garden

This includes beneficial nematodes, many of which target larvae in soils. Watch this video on the subject.

So if you’ve been using mothballs in your garden, please stop now. Check out the alternatives in the article and our suggestions above. That will ensure that you garden safely going forward.