It keeps vampires away, so it makes sense that it can keep unwanted insects away, too. If you are looking for a nontoxic pesticide, look no further than your pantry and try garlic powder. The garlic powder kills aphids in the vegetable garden and can also deter other garden pests from invading -- or from coming into your home. Just liberally sprinkle the place you want to keep bug-free. It's completely safe around humans and pets, and you can find large containers of garlic powder in warehouse club stores.

While it may look pretty to plant a flowerbed or vegetable garden underneath a tree, it's actually the worst place to put a garden. The roots from flowers, vines and other plants will intermingle with the roots of the tree, and when it comes to water and nutrients, the tree takes priority. Whatever is leftover is given to the other plants. In no time, the garden will wilt and die. Instead, plant shade-loving, low-maintenance ivy and other ground cover under trees.

Potato chips, crackers and other snack foods that come in bags can be a delicious treat, but they can also be deadly for pets and wildlife. Since the residual crumbs and smells of food can linger inside bags, they are tempting to animals. In the trash, many animals will seek them out and stick their hands inside, which can deprive them of oxygen and cause them to suffocate. When you are done with your favorite snack foods, cut the bags open before you discard them. You'll be saving lives!