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I was thinking about putting moth balls on my vegetable garden to keep the squirrels and rabbits out. Is this a good idea and will the produce be safe to eat?

Last Updated: August 26, 2009

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Mothballs contain the chemical dichlorobenzene and are not labeled for use on food products. Moth balls are often suggested for repelling wildlife from gardens, but this is an illegal pesticide use and probably ineffective.

Another thing to consider is that the moth balls themselves present an attractive nuisance to both children and wildlife. If eaten they are highly toxic.

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