Craft Gossip

Independent craft blog since 2007

How to kill Home and Garden Pests in Winter Naturally

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It is nearly time for winter. While it means that the holiday season will be soon upon us, it also means a certain kind of dread that we feel around our house. Because there will be some unwanted guests in our house and garden. You know who I mean.. the pests!

Fortunately, with some common sense tips and tricks, it is easy to prepare your home and garden for this onslaught. Here are some ideas that will help you defend your valuables in the garden and inside:

Mice in the Da House

No, peppermint and moth balls will not get rid of mice. Using those to get rid or deter mice is a lie perpetuated by the Internet. You know what really works? Peanut Butter :). Peanut Butter is the best way to get rid of mice by trapping them humanely.

Of course, better still, don’t let mice in the house by using these common sense tips:

  • Plug any gaps in the house. Use steel wool. Mice can chew through anything, but not that.
  • Get rid of food around the house – yes, mice will avoid your house if they can’t find anything to chew on.
  • Clean up the clutter. Goes without saying.

Cockroaches

You know what really works to trap these dinosaurs? Grease an empty margarine container and bait it with a little honey. Leave it lying around and come back in the morning to find any of these creatures in their having a gala good time, but unable to escape. Take them to the cleaners!

Coffee and garlic and chilli based solutions in the garden

Use garlic and chilli based spray for small insects such as aphids and caterpillars and espresso based spray for slugs and snails.

Crush some garlic and chilli with some grease or oil. Add to a spray bottle with dishwashing liquid and spray where you have a problem with aphids and caterpillars. Similarly, dilute some real espresso with water and spray where there is infestation of slugs and snails, and you will see a reduction in the problem within a few weeks.

Finally, use diluted milk spray for blackspot and mildew

Yes, just some simple cow’s milk in a ratio of 1:10, mixed with water and sprayed immediately on areas which have a blackspot and mildew problem will do wonders within a few days.

Hope all these natural solutions help you to get ready this winter to defend your home against these pesky pests! Do you have any home made natural remedies that might help our readers?

Comments

  1. When I was stationed in North Carolina, an elderly neighbor of ours who had an amazing garden told us that he soaked a plug of chewing tobacco in a couple of gallons of water and added a cup of dishwashing liquid to make a non-lethal spray. The tobacco repelled the creepy-crawlies and the dishwashing liquid made it cling to the plants.

Have you read?

Etsy Feature – Moth Pottery Template for Slab Building

Sometimes clay tools feel more like magic than equipment, and this Moth Pottery Template definitely falls into that category. One moment you’re working with a flat slab, and the next you’re holding a detailed, sculptural moth that looks like it could flutter right off your table.

Why This Template Caught My Eye

This design stands out because it combines structure with artistry. The template gives you the clean, symmetrical base of the moth form, but once you have that shape cut, the real fun begins—adding textures, underglazes, or even metallic accents to bring the wings to life.

It’s ideal for slab-builders who want to go beyond mugs and bowls and dive into more decorative or sculptural projects.

What Makes It Special

  • Unique Subject: How often do you see a pottery moth? It’s an instant conversation starter.

  • Sculptural Yet Simple: The template does the tricky work, leaving you free to decorate.

  • Wall Art or Table Décor: Finished moths look stunning hung on a wall, framed, or displayed on a shelf.

  • Room for Creativity: Paint with bright colors, earthy neutrals, or even metallics for different vibes.

Ideas for Makers

  • Use glossy glazes with shimmering metallic accents for a celestial-style moth.

  • Keep it natural and muted for a woodland-inspired look.

  • Make a series of moths in different colors and sizes for a gallery wall effect.

  • Turn smaller versions into pendants or ornaments.

Why Makers Will Love It

Templates like this are inspiring because they bridge the gap between functional pottery and decorative art. It’s not just about making something useful—it’s about making something memorable. And let’s be honest, it’s the kind of piece guests will immediately comment on when they spot it in your home.

You can grab it here: Moth Pottery Template for Slab Building on Etsy.

This spotlight is part of my Etsy Feature series, where I highlight clay templates and tools that push creativity beyond the basics. If you’re ready for a project that feels both bold and whimsical, this moth template will absolutely deliver.

Crochet Pattern – Adorable Fluttering Moth Sprite Doll [Crochet]

DIY Moth Embroidery Pattern And Kit [Needle Work]