Garlic is a natural insect repellent.
Garlic water, sometimes referred to as "garlic tea," is commonly used as a pesticide, especially in organic gardening, because it is effective, all-natural and safe to use on all plants. Simply planting garlic near other plants helps prevent insect infestations, but this is not always practical, especially if you are trying to protect larger plants like shrubs and trees. Does this Spark an idea?
Benefits
Like other strongly scented aromatics, garlic naturally repels pests but this is not limited to insects. Garlic is potent enough to repel other creatures that would otherwise gnaw and destroy your plants including cats, dogs, rabbits, squirrels and other woodland animals. Garlic water variations include hot chili peppers, which work even better to repel larger creatures and may even kill insect pests, and dish soap, which helps the garlic water adhere to the plants.
Recipes
The most basic recipe for garlic water is simply garlic and water. Break up two bulbs of garlic into a blender and cover with about 5 cups of water. Blend until pureed, let sit for two days, then strain out the solids. Pour the solution into a 1-gallon jug and fill the jug the rest of the way with water. There are variations that call for adding whole hot peppers, like jalapeños and serranos, which boost the garlic water's potency. Some recipes also call for the addition of 1 teaspoon of pure soap, like Ivory, which has a minimum of chemical additives. If you are adding soap, wait until after you have strained out the solids.
Storage
A batch of garlic water will last for up to one month if properly stored. Keep your garlic water concentrate in a 1-gallon-sized container with a loose fitting lid. Your garlic water will last longer if you keep it in the refrigerator but, failing that, a cool, dark place like a garage, garden storage shed or basement will suffice.
Application
Depending on the size of the plant you are planning to spray, you will need either a common spray bottle or a high-powered garden sprayer. Spray bottles are great for smaller plants in flower and vegetable gardens. If you are spraying anything large from shrubs to trees, use a garden sprayer. Mix 1/4 cup of the garlic water concentrate with 1 gallon of water and fill your spray bottle or garden sprayer. Completely coat the plants with the garlic water once every one to two weeks throughout the spring and summer months. Reapply after any rainfall.
Tags: garlic water, garden sprayer, garlic water, garlic water, garlic water concentrate