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Introduction
Gardening and home maintenance can often be a battle against pests. While many turn to chemical pesticides, these can be harmful to the environment, pets, and even humans. Fortunately, nature offers simple, eco-friendly alternatives. One such remedy is using onions as a natural pest repellent. Onions contain sulfur compounds and a strong aroma that many insects and pests find unpleasant, making them an excellent addition to your pest control toolkit. This article will guide you through how to prepare and use onions effectively to keep your plants and home pest-free.
Ingredients:
2 large onions (red or yellow)
4 cups of water
2 cloves of garlic (optional, for enhanced effect)
1 tablespoon of natural liquid soap (like castile soap)
1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional)
Directions:
Prepare the Onion Base: Peel and roughly chop the onions into small pieces.
Combine Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, add chopped onions, water, garlic cloves (if using), and cayenne pepper. Blend until you get a smooth mixture.
Strain the Mixture: Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove solid bits, leaving a liquid solution.
Add Soap: Stir in the natural liquid soap gently. The soap helps the mixture stick to plant leaves and surfaces.
Transfer and Store: Pour the mixture into a spray bottle for easy application.
Apply: Spray the solution generously on the leaves, stems, and soil around your plants or areas you want to protect. Repeat every 5-7 days or after heavy rain.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Application Timing: Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to spray to avoid leaf burn and maximize absorption.
Storage: Store the mixture in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before each use.
Safety: Test on a small portion of the plant first to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage. Avoid spraying during the hottest part of the day.
Variations:
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