Spring is a good time to get those vegetable and herb gardens started and growing for the summer season. It seems like all the hard work and care that we put into our gardens just goes to the nearest hungry bug or rabbit. When it comes to putting pesticides on plants, some get nervous about spraying pesticide on plants that we’re going to eat later. There are homemade natural pesticides that are safe and healthy to put on those veggies and herbs.

Garlic Spray

This spring the deer will be in the search for a tasty snack. Spring is also the time that mealybugs and mice begin to flourish and of course they are hungry too. To stop their hunger from being taken out on your vegetation gather up about 10-12 garlic cloves, a quart of water, and a cup of cooking oil. Blend the garlic and water together in a blender and strain it through cheesecloth into a bowl. Add the oil to the mixture in the bowl and let it stand for two days. After the two days pour the concoction into a spray bottle and spray your vegetables, fruits, and herbs every few days to keep them from getting eaten.

Oil Spray

Aphids, spiders, and whiteflies are going to be coming from all corners of the yard when they get a whiff of those tomatoes or peas. Keep them off of your goods by spraying them with an oil spray made up of dish soap, cooking oil, and water. Mix one tablespoon of dish soap, one cup of cooking oil, and blend it well with water. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and spray it on your vegetables once a week to keep the creepy crawlies away.

Fire Water

My grandmother is a big fan of her “fire water” to keep the rabbits from touching her plants. Rabbits are not big fans of spicy foods, so when you combine garlic powder, chili powder, water, and paprika the rabbits will not come near your plants. Put 1 teaspoon of each in some water and pour it into a spray bottle. Shake the mixture up well and then spray it on the bunny’s favorites, they are sure to leave it alone.

Start Planting

Spring is the time when we all start planting our gardens, but it is also the season that hungry animals and bugs visit for a snack. Keep them from nibbling on your garden with these natural and homemade sprays.