All-Natural Pest PreventionLee Washington1As the weather becomes warmer and people travel outside more often, daring pests creep indoors to explore kitchens and pantries. It is important to know that insects and mice can contribute to the spread of germs and diseases. At the very least, these pests can damage food supplies or cause itchy bug bites. From the largest mice to the tiniest fleas, these creatures can turn a peaceful home into a crawling nightmare!2Many people, however, hesitate to use commercial sprays near children and pets or in places where they store food. The harsh chemicals in these sprays can cause serious injuries if they aren’t used properly. Luckily, there is now another choice for people who want to avoid these dangerous chemicals. The experts at Growing Garden Supply are happy to help you discover all-natural ways of keeping these creatures outdoors, where they belong.3This week, pots of peppermint and lavender plants are on sale. These herbs not only let off fragrant scents, but they also can be used to keep pests out of your home. Place a pot of lavender in the kitchen to ward off mice and use mint as an all-purpose pest remover. The scent of crushed mint leaves is unpleasant for mice, ants, and fleas. Sprinkle a few along the edge of your home to discourage pests from entering. Happily, mint leaves are completely safe for humans to eat. Try some in a cup of tea, or use them to add flavor to baked goods.4After seeing the great results from the mint and lavender plants, why not start an entire garden of plants that are unappealing to pests? Growing Garden Supply has an excellent selection of bitter cucumber seeds and garlic bulbs. Slices of cucumbers and garlic can help chase away ugly roaches and mosquitoes, and the leftovers taste wonderful in summer salads and pasta dishes.5People who are eager for an immediate fix to their pest problems might prefer a liquid spray. Fortunately, we have many plant oils and spray bottles in stock! Some of these essential oils can be combined for an even greater effect. Remember, essential oils cannot be stored in plastic or metal for long periods—the oils will eat away at the container. Instead, check out Growing Garden Supply’s impressive collection of beautiful glass jars, available in a variety of shapes and sizes. This will solve all of your oil storage problems.6Once the house is free of pests, consider natural ways of keeping wildlife from attacking your garden and yard. Choosing the right plants to grow together can be a natural way of keeping hungry caterpillars and rabbits away. Ask our specially trained employees for more helpful suggestions on pest prevention both in and outside the home.Question 1Which best describes the point of view of the author in this passage?ResponsesA The author believes that essential oils are essentially a scam.The author believes that essential oils are essentially a scam.B The author believes that pests can be prevented using all natural methods.The author believes that pests can be prevented using all natural methods.C The author believes that all natural pest prevention is not as effective as chemical preventatives.The author believes that all natural pest prevention is not as effective as chemical preventatives.D The author believes that a mix of chemical and all-natural pest preventatives is most effective for garden care.The author believes that a mix of chemical and all-natural pest preventatives is most effective for garden care.Question 2Which two quotations from the passage best support the idea that all-natural pest preventatives can be effective?ResponsesA Happily, mint leaves are completely safe for humans to eat.Happily, mint leaves are completely safe for humans to eat.B This week, pots of peppermint and lavender plants are on sale.This week, pots of peppermint and lavender plants are on sale.C The scent of crushed mint leaves is unpleasant for mice, ants, and fleas.The scent of crushed mint leaves is unpleasant for mice, ants, and fleas.D People who are eager for an immediate fix to their pest problems might prefer a liquid spray.People who are eager for an immediate fix to their pest problems might prefer a liquid spray.E Place a pot of lavender in the kitchen to ward off mice and use mint as an all-purpose pest remover.