Comments on: On Gardening, and the Never Ending Efficacy of Twine

By: Sayward

Sayward — Wed, 13 May 2009 22:03:13 +0000

@ Leigha – I’ve heard of the Irish Spring technique! I wonder what it is about that particular brand, hmm? It’s good to know you’ve tried it and it works, so it’s not just an urban legend anymore! Thanks for the info. =)

By: Leigha

Leigha — Wed, 13 May 2009 15:35:29 +0000

Actually, Irish Spring (the soap) keeps away many rodents, but also deer. I live in the Midwest and well, we have a lot of deer. Every spring I make a run to Sam’s club (or Costco) and get a giant package of Irish Spring. You can hang it in bags (pantyhose works well too) or shave it and sprinkle around the perimenter of your garden. Replenish after rain or wind. It’s not a completely “organic” method, but it certainly beats using mothballs or other chemicals. I’d love to know if it works for you or your readers!

By: Sayward

Sayward — Sat, 09 May 2009 16:23:39 +0000

@ Jenny – Alas, the twine is just for climbing on. It won’t keep the critters away (it keeps the dogs from running through, but it won’t keep smaller mammals out). I bet you could build a very tightly woven ‘wall’, but you’d need to be able to access the plants once you want to harvest.

I haven’t had much experience with natural pest repellents, just because I haven’t needed them yet. I do plan to look into it in the future, though. Let me know if you find any good solutions!

By: Jenny

Jenny — Fri, 08 May 2009 22:19:40 +0000

Does your twine keep the bunnies from eating your plants?
I thought about putting up twine or chicken wire, but my thoughts were too slow. My beets and swiss chard were totally gobbled up by the rabbits (I’m blaming the rabbits, but it could really be any creature). The plants must be tasty!
Any suggestions? I’ve heard human hair, Tabasco sauce, or cayenne pepper works well. I’ve had little success with cayenne pepper.

Thanks! I really enjoy your blog.

By: Sayward

Sayward — Sat, 02 May 2009 16:03:05 +0000

@ Domestic Godzilla – I love your name! And thanks for the kind words. Blogger love all around! =)

By: Domestic Godzilla

Domestic Godzilla — Fri, 01 May 2009 03:31:38 +0000

I just discovered your blog. How lovely! We share a love of natural, better-for-everyone alternatives, and I salute you for creating such a great resource. I hope my little seedling of a blog will blossom into something comparable one day. :)

Also, kudos for the garden accessorizing. Flamingo? Check. Matching trellis bling? Check.