Concern remains over the health and environmental impact of pesticides. But there is no shortage of alternative suggestions. CTV Ottawa has compiled a few tips from experts, but Have Your Say below by adding comments with your own experiences!

  • Less toxic pest control products include baits, bait stations, soaps, gels, dusts, and powders with lower pesticide levels than traditional sprays;
  • Keep your house clean and crumb-free;
  • Seal food tightly in clean containers;
  • Seal up your home to eliminate cracks and passageways for pests;
  • Don't let water set stagnant around your home;
  • Marigolds planted around your home give off an odor bugs don't like;
  • Bathe your pets often using shampoos that are pesticide free;
  • Some bugs eat other bugs and can help with a garden or yard infestation. Ladybugs, for instance, love to snack on aphids and can even be purchased at local nurseries and garden centers;
  • Microscopic organisms such as certain fungi, bacteria, and viruses can be toxic to bugs and keep them away from your home and yard;
  • Find recipes for natural pesticides that use garlic, cornstarch, onion, mint, and boric acid.
  • If you do choose to use pesticides at home, follow all safety precautions, use the correct dosage, and be sure to correctly identify the pest. And consider alternatives and physical methods before making the purchase.

And now, specific ideas for a selection of pests, critters, and larger animals...

Cockroaches: cut off their food, water, and hiding places. Seal up "highways" in houses and apartment buildings to prevent their movement.

Spiders: keep clothes and shoes in plastic containers rather than on the floor. Seal cracks and crevices around the home. Vacuum or sweep away webs. Shake out clothing in laundry baskets before washing or wearing. Keep garages, attics, and basements clean and clutter-free.

Rodents: keep tree branches and foliage at least eight feet away from your roof. Place screening on roof vents. Repair foundation cracks and holes. Mix broken glass with wet cement to deter gnawing. Protect floor drains and basement windows.

Squirrels and Raccoons: use castor oil, cayenne pepper, salt, or used cat litter as repellents. If using a trap, line with peanut butter to attract.

Moles: spread castor oil and castor beans. Use vibrating devices in the ground and eliminate grubs. Use traps or an underground barrier around your garden as a last resort.

Deer: plant mothballs or predator urine. Use regular fences or thorny shrubs and small trees. Hang aluminum foil or tin cans that are shiny and make noise in the wind.

Sources: Canada Mortgage Housing Corporation; Health Canada; National Pest Management Association; Healthy Child, Healthy World; Suite101.com; Gardening Magic; Pestinformation.com.