Natural Critter Control 

by Karen Stokes, RN

Gardening season is in full swing and it brings such joy to see the flowers blooming and the vegetable garden thriving. The insects, the spiders and the local furry creatures are out and about too. The ground hogs have come out of hibernation and the rabbits are scurrying about sniffing the greenery. Everything is so alive with nature’s flora and fauna. It certainly is a time to celebrate life. Watching butterflies flutter to the flowers that attract them can bring a person inspiration. Watching the birds, insects and animals outdoors can certainly enhance relaxation. Occasionally, however some of these creatures can overstep their boundaries and attempt to invade our homes, our garages and our gardens. Although we know that spiders play an important role in the balance of nature, some of us don’t feel comfortable when they hang around the screen door or window. The ants that march through the family room can give one a “creepy-crawly” feeling. The mice that have taken residence in the garage or the attic are creating havoc. You are torn because you don’t want to exterminate these creatures – they are part of the “divine plan” after all-but they have invaded your space. Toxic, chemical repellents are certainly not acceptable when trying to persuade the varmints to move elsewhere. Fortunately there are many plants and essential oils that can be helpful in discouraging insects and animals. They are safe, non-toxic to the animals and the environment. 

If you have rabbits or ground hogs that like to eat your baby vegetables, there are some companion planting tips that you might find helpful. Aromatic tansy is a repellent for animals. In addition, many gardeners have found that tansy discourages flies, ants and Japanese beetles. Available at most garden centers, this plant is very easy to grow in practically any soil. Tansy plants can be placed around the perimeter of the garden or among vegetable plants. 

I discovered another animal repellent plant at my local nursery. It is a type of coleus that is called “scented coleus.” Its skunk-like odor is supposed to ward off most of the foraging animals. It is truly stinky, but I am going to try a few close to the lettuce. Perhaps the rabbits and ground hogs will find another smorgasbord this year. 

Most rodents and deer do not like the scent of cayenne pepper. Powdered cayenne pepper can be purchased in bulk and sprinkled onto the plants that you are trying to protect. It must be reapplied after watering and rain to be effective. Don’t do this on a windy day. Cayenne pepper is very irritating to the eyes. Powdered white pepper is another common spice that can be used to keep the local animals from eating your flowers and vegetables. It is the primary ingredient in several commercial deer repellents. As with the powdered cayenne, reapply as needed and be careful not to get it in your eyes. 

A student of mine told me about the use geranium essential oil to repel ants. Place a few drops of geranium on cotton balls or blotter paper to leave at the location of ant entry. Look for gatherings of ants and put some there. Some folks use peppermint and spearmint oils for ant control. Outdoors, you can plant scented geranium, peppermint or spearmint plants. 

To keep the spiders from getting comfy too close to your windows or doors you can try this simple essential oil repellent. Hang some strips of blotter paper with ribbon or string near corners where the spiders like to hide out. Then add a few drops of either peppermint, eucalyptus or camphor to the blotter paper and refresh with more essential oil every few days or so. You can try one oil at a time or you can create combinations of them. 

Peppermint, spearmint and camphor can also keep mice away. Place cotton balls, blotter paper or small clay diffusers laced with these oils around the areas that the varmints are likely to hide or nest. The nice thing about these potent essential oils is that they leave a pleasant fresh aroma around as well. This is an easy way to get rid of the musty smell in the garage, basement or attic.
The sights, sounds and scents of nature can certainly relax and comfort as well as bring joy into our lives. Relaxing, exercising and meditating in nature is such a joyful experience. It’s a good feeling to be part of it all. You can practice being silent and tuning into the sounds of the birds, animals and insects. Focus on your “oneness” with nature. You can do this from a porch, balcony or window as well. Just sit quietly and connect. Perhaps this affirmation will help you to connect with the spirits of the plants and animals. “I hear, see, smell and feel nature around me. I am a part of nature. I feel as one with the universe. I celebrate life.” Peace and joy for a wonderful summer! 

Karen Stokes, RN is an aromatherapist, herbalist and homecarepy/hospice consultant who has been involved in natural healthcare for 25 years, (248) 651-8636.