How to Keep Bugs Out of a Raised Planter

If you are experiencing a problem with insects in your flowerbed or raised planter, you are not alone. Finding an insect from time to time is a common occurrence. To remedy this situation, try making your own homemade insect repellant. Using homemade bug spray will allow you to protect your flowers without using harmful chemicals. You can make homemade bug spray using a combination of several common household ingredients. Once you make the bug spray, it should have a shelf life of at least six months.

Things You'll Need

• 2-3 minced jalapeno peppers
• Extra large stockpot
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 1 gallon water
• 1/4 cup canola oil
• stove top
• Funnel
• Gallon-size spray bottle with spray top
• 1 tablespoon liquid dish detergent

Instructions

1. Place two to three minced jalapeno peppers into an extra large stockpot.

2. Add two minced garlic cloves to the pot.

3. Fill the pot with one gallon water.

4. Add 1/4 cup canola oil to the pot. Heat the pot on a stovetop over a medium heat setting and bring to a boil.

5. Remove the pot from the stovetop and allow it to cool completely.

6. Place a funnel into the opening of a gallon-size spray bottle. Pour the mixture into the spray bottle.

7. Add one tablespoon liquid dish detergent to the bottle. Replace the spray cap and shake the bottle to mix the ingredients.

8. Spray the soil and flowers with the mixture to kill existing bugs and repel any future bugs.

Tips & Warnings

• If you do not have access to jalapeno peppers, five tablespoons hot sauce may be used as a substitute.

• To avoid accidental burning, allow the mixture to cool completely before pouring it into the spray bottle.

References

• Penny Pinching Grandma: Get Rid Of Garden Pests
• The Gardener's Rake: Organic Pest Control