As a former habitat professional, turned pest manager, I'd like to share a unique insider perspective. This article highlights 2 risky situations I've noticed that keep happening while doing pest control. Hopefully neither situation describes you, but read on to make...
3 Highly-Effective Natural Wasp Repellents with Essential Oils
It's getting to be that time of year when wasps buzz around our picnics, and can cause anxiety or stinging incidents. You don't want to get stung, but you also don't want to use toxic chemicals to keep wasps away. No problem. Luckily there are lots of great ways ways...
How to Get Rid of Stink Bugs With Essential Oils
Brown marmorated stink bugs. You're frustrated with big brown bugs on the outside of your house? It's probably these guys. In Fall, brown marmorated stink bugs search for warm crevices in which to shelter overwinter.Remedies to Get Rid of Stink Bugs NaturallyIf you're...
Devastating Discovery of Emerald Ash Borer in Oregon
Anxious environmentalists have been dreading the arrival of emerald ash borer in Oregon. Sadly, on June 30th 2022, the presence of emerald ash borer in Oregon was found by a Portland biologist picking his children up from summer camp.Emerald Ash Borer OregonFor folks...
How to Remineralize Your Soil With Basalt Rock Dust
A super easy way to make your garden lush & green is to remineralize your soil with basalt rock dust. At a time where top soil is being lost at extraordinary rates, this is a no brainer. This article explains how to get amazing results using basalt rock dust to...
How to Get Rid of Sugar Ants Without Spraying Chemicals
Desperate to eliminate ants? But don't want to spray chemicals? Have you tried cleaning, caulking, or store-bought ant "traps" to no avail? Some get success with ant baits over-the-counter. Others find ants coming back every year no matter what. In this article, we'll...
How To Start A Permaculture Garden? Mulch!
Now more than ever, folks are wondering how to start a permaculture garden. This article will detail some creative ways to jumpstart your soil for the best start to a permaculture garden. First let's try to define permaculture... What is Permaculture? Permaculture is...
The Truth About Natural Pest Control Products
With all the harsh chemicals out there today, people want all natural pest control products for their homes. Generally, natural pest control chemicals are safer for humans and pets than synthetic ones. But they're not always regulated the same. This article explores...
Pioneering Portland’s Best Trees to Plant for Climate Change
New pioneer gardeners and habitat restoration managers are wondering which species might be the best trees to plant for climate change. This article explains why we think Willamette Valley Ponderosa pine and Oregon white oak might be the best trees to plant to stand...
5 Best Soil Amendments For Stunning Gardens and Trees
You might ask yourself what are the best soil amendments when your garden and trees start looking sad. The best soil amendments are different than plant fertilizers because they feed the soil. A healthy soil food web is always the best way to get good garden pest...
2 Amazing Organic Sprays That Stop Bugs Eating Plants
Many gardeners scorn bugs eating vegetable plants. Garden pests can be devastating if you’re like me and you love vegetables, plants & trees.
From Honey Bees to Possums, The Beneficial Invasive Species We Love
Humans have introduced so many exotic species, so long ago we now think of many as natural. Some become disruptive, but others find a place within their new ecosystem. What are some examples of beneficial invasive species? Why do we love some exotic species, when we...
How To Imagine The Best Climate Change Resilient Trees and Landscapes
Axious about climate change? Wondering what climate change will do to trees, plants, and your landscaping? We'll explore these questions and offer which local Portland trees we think will be worst and best for climate change resilience. How Does Climate Change Affect...
Why Compost Is Amazing For Garden Pest Control
There is so much information on horticulture, gardening and nursery websites that it can be daunting to dig through. Soil pH, Nitrogen, Phosphorous, Potassium, and a whole aisle of brightly colored pesticide products on the shelf at the hardware store, it is tempting to just start buying bottles for the heck of it.
How To Distinguish Invasive Species From Good Ones
You may have noticed convoys of Portland pest control trucks patrolling the highways and backroads of the metro area. Or maybe you’ve recently had to call one yourself. Pest control is something most of us have grown up with. But what is the definition of pest? One species that’s a pest to one may not be to another. For Portland pest control, our two main urban “pest” species are rats and ants. Why do we define rats and ants as pests?
How To Stop Bird Feeders From Attracting Rats
Humans love feeding birds. Sometimes we find ourselves asking how to keep rats away from bird feeders. Putting out sunflower, millet, and other seeds is certain to attract adorable songbird visitors. Seeds contain perfectly proportioned packets of fats, carbohydrates, protein and nutrients. Nature designed seeds to give the plant everything needed to germinate and survive.