– To keep weevils out of flour and rice, place a few Bay leaves in the container.

– Neem oil  (Azadirachta indica) from India is known to destroy over 200 insect species. A paste made from Neem powder is applied to the head to kill lice. Leaves from the tree are placed within the pages of library books to deter pests.

– To discourage crawling bugs add essential oil of Cedar or Sandalwood to your mop water.

– Woody fragrances repel moths. A sachet containing Camphor, Sandalwood and/or Cedar can be hung in one’s closet for this purpose.

– Ants may be repelled by rubbing fresh sprigs of Pennyroyal along cracks and baseboards where they appear. A spray made from a strong infusion of Cayenne works in a similar fashion.

– Mice abhor the scents of Peppermint and Tansy and fresh sprigs from the plants may be placed in areas where they might hide.

– Basil, Chamomile, Elder, Mint, Mugwort, Pennyroyal, Rue, Tansy and Wormwood  have all been utilized to prevent flies from entering the home. They may be used individually or combined. Rub the fresh leaves on window sills or spray doorframes and windowsills with a strong infusion or essential oils diluted in water. There is also an herb appropriately named Shoo Fly (Nicandra physaloides)which may be grown for a similar effect.

– To remove aphids make a strong infusion of crushed Garlic cloves. Mix 1 quart of this infusion with 1 teaspoon of a natural dishwashing liquid and spray your  infested plants.

– Beneficial insects are a wonderful alternative to pesticides. Many nurseries carry ladybugs and praying mantis eggs that can be released and will prey upon pests.

– Remember that there are far more beneficial insects than there are those that are dangerous or harmful. Encourage insects such as bees and butterflies which are pollinators. Try to only deter or, if necessary kill, those insects which are endangering you, your pets or your garden.