At Planted Places, we grow organic food, refrain from harmful chemicals on our plants, and use regenerative gardening methods. From time to time, we need to get rid of pests, and when we do, we make our own natural insect repellent.

If you’re looking to give unwelcome pests the boot, try our homemade pest repellent. It uses safe ingredients like peppermint castile soap and garlic oil to protect precious pollinators and drive away pests.

How Does Natural Insect Repellent for Plants Work?

In our recipe, the strong-smelling ingredients work as “olfactory deterrents” and will help repel various pests. Many plant-eating bugs dislike the smells of peppermint and garlic. In addition, the repellent’s pungent smell can help disguise your plants from pests like aphids, birds and even rabbits!

Apply it regularly for best results, as it washes off easily in rain or moisture. Spray in the early morning for pests that are active during the day or evening to deter nocturnal pests. Avoid applying this spray during the heat of the day. Be sure to test it first on a single leaf before spraying the whole plant. Then, wait a day to observe results, and if it looks good, apply to the entire plant.

Natural Insect Repellent Recipe

Ingredients

• Garlic oil (homemade or store-bought)
• Peppermint castile soap (We like Dr. Bronner’s brand)
• 1 cup water

Equipment

• Small spray bottle

Directions

In your spray bottle, incorporate 1 tablespoon of garlic oil and 1 teaspoon of peppermint castle soap. Add water. Shake vigorously before each use to thoroughly combine ingredients.

 

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