Get Rid Of Insect Pupa

Kill insect pupae, such as these, before they become adults

Kill insects in the "pupal" stage, before they become bigger, scarier adults. A "pupa" (plural form is "pupae") is an insect in its early stage of development. (Many people call insects "bugs," but "bug" is the proper term for only one type of insect.) Killing the pupae before the insects mature decreases the risk of infestation.

The best way to get rid of insect pupa is to use an organic solution such as boric acid, which is low in toxicity to humans and readily available. Because pupa are not very active, boric acid remains in place on their bodies after contact, killing them quickly. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Find areas with large insect populations. Pupae are usually located inside an insect nest or colony.

2. Pour two tbsp. of boric acid powder through a fine strainer near the opening of the nest or colony. The boric acid attaches to the bodies of the insects.

3. Sift the boric acid powder. Shake the fine strainer from side to side.

4. Pour boric acid powder directly on visible pupae. Direct contact with boric acid kills the pupae.

5. Wait two weeks for the boric acid powder to work. Adult insects transfer the boric acid on their bodies into their nest or colony, and the boric acid powder then makes contact with the pupae to exterminate them. Because you have killed the pupa, you have a better chance of eliminating the entire nest or colony than if you had killed only the adults.

Tags: boric acid, acid powder, boric acid powder, nest colony, before they, before they become, colony boric

Fix Magnetic Purse Closures

Fix Magnetic Purse Closures

Magnetic purse closures are common on many purses and are used by manufacturers at all price points. Unfortunately, sometimes magnetic closures become damaged, shift and do not line up properly or need repair or replacement. With care, you can fix the magnetic snaps on your favorite purse easily and inexpensively. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Measure the broken or damaged magnetic snaps on your purse. Choose replacement magnetic purse closures in the same size and shape. Visit local fabric stores for magnetic closures or order from an online sewing notions supplier.

2. Remove the damaged purse closure. Slide a flat-head screwdriver under the magnetic snap. Pry the snap upward slightly. Look closely and you will see two prongs folded through openings in the magnetic snap backing. Use pliers to loosen these prongs and detach the snap. Repeat for the opposite half of the magnetic purse closure.

3. Make a small slit in the fabric. Choose a spot near the purse snap, but easily hidden to make this slit. Cut into the fabric and remove the snap backing for both the male and female halves of the snap.

4. Slide the new magnetic snap backing through the slit in the fabric and into the original snap position. Line up the openings in the magnetic snap backing with the correct purse closure position. Place the top half of the snap on top, threading the two metal tabs through the openings in the backing. Fold the two tabs securely into place. Repeat for the opposite half of the snap.

5. Hand-sew the slit in the fabric using small, neat stitches.

Tags: magnetic snap, snap backing, magnetic snap backing, purse closure, slit fabric, half snap, magnetic closures

Can Dryer Sheets Repel Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are attracted to floral scents.

According to the myth busters at Snopes, the repellent nature of dryer sheets in relation to mosquitoes is purely fiction, though many people swear by their effectiveness. Unfortunately, the heavy floral perfumes that make dryer sheets so attractive to us are also attractive to these biting pests. But there are ways you can beat the bite without wasting your dryer sheets. Does this Spark an idea?

Eliminate Perfumes

One way to make yourself less attractive to mosquitoes is to eliminate any perfumes. Use unscented products when it comes to soaps, deodorants and detergents. On days when you know you will be outdoors, forgo the hair conditioner, hair styling products and perfume. All these flowery scents can make you more attractive to mosquitoes.

Dress Appropriately

Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors, so dig out the whites and the khakis and any other light colored clothing. For better protection, wear lightweight clothing with long sleeves and long pants to cover as much skin as possible. Try soaking a bandanna in your favorite bug spray and tying it around your neck, on the crown of your hat or even hooked through your belt loop.

Mosquitoes and Smell

Mosquitoes track their prey by following the carbon dioxide that is exhaled. Often, mosquitoes are more attracted to people who eat many processed and sugary foods than for those on a more natural diet. Eating a lot of garlic may also make you less desirable, as the garlic oil is secreted through your pores and on your breath. Onions have been shown to have a similar effect.

Reduce Habitat

To reduce the number of mosquitoes around the yard and garden, grow plants that mosquitoes dislike, like marigold, rosemary, peppermint, catnip and lemon balm. Rub the leaves of these plants between your fingers when you go out, as this activates the odors the bugs find unpleasant. Also eliminate standing water from planters, pet bowls, old tires and rain barrels, as these are mosquito breeding grounds.

Tags: dryer sheets, attractive mosquitoes, Mosquitoes attracted, through your

Keep Rain Water From Stagnating

Rainwater can be collected for future use.

Rainwater can provide a supplemental water source by catching and storing it for later use. Rain barrels store rainwater captured from the roofs of buildings. Such systems offer benefits such as reducing your water bill and relieving pressure on wells or municipal water providers, but you must prevent rainwater from stagnating. Stagnant water, characterized by a murky appearance or a surface scum, a foul odor, overgrowth of algae and the decay of organic matter, is a breeding ground for disease and mosquitoes. Basic precautions can help keep your collected rainwater from stagnating. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Use your rainwater as often as possible to keep it from stagnating. Empty your barrel every 10 days, if possible, to prevent the breeding of mosquitoes, which takes about 10 days, if you cannot seal out mosquitoes.

2. Use a dark colored, food-grade barrel that is approved for liquids. Keep as much sunlight as possible off the barrel to prevent growth of algae or bacteria.

3. Cover your barrel with a tight-fitting top. Keep organic matter, such as leaves and twigs, out of the water by using a fine screen at the end of the downspout that feeds your barrel from your gutters to discourage decay of matter in the stored water.

4. Clean your gutters and roof regularly. Keep the catchment area for your rain barrel free of organic matter and debris.

5. Add to your barrel non-toxic mosquito dunks, which release a biological agent into the water that is toxic to mosquito larvae but safe to use on your garden, landscaping or even for watering animals.

6. Clean rain barrels regularly using vinegar, which will kill much of the contamination in the barrel but is not harmful to your garden or animals.

Tags: your barrel, from stagnating, organic matter, rainwater from, rainwater from stagnating, your garden

Is Cedar A Mosquito Repellent

Tiny mosquitoes can cause a big annoyance.

As the whining buzz of a mosquito darts past your ear for the hundredth time, you begin to wonder about the wisdom of being outside right now. You want a way to repel the blood-sucking pests, but you don't want to use chemicals like DEET that have been shown to be harmful to people and pets in addition to repelling insects. Does this Spark an idea?

Mosquitoes

The diminutive bugs breed in standing water and sally forth at dawn and dusk to look for mammals from which to suck blood. The female mosquitoes are the culprits responsible for itchy, red bumps the world over and malaria is spread through the feeding tube mosquitoes in tropical climates. They track their prey primarily by scent so insect repellents provide a scent that the bugs hate more than they love to suck blood.

Cedar

Aromatic cedar has long been used to prevent moths from devouring wool clothing with cedar lining applied in trunks and wardrobes. Cedar blocks can also repel insects that might try to infiltrate your home. Something about the smell of cedar is repulsive to bugs so they find a different place to be when they catch a whiff of the cedar in your closet or cupboard.

Cedar Oil

Distilling the scent of cedar down into an essential oil makes the insect repellent power of cedar much more portable. Where you are not likely to make a shirt out of cedar, you might dab some of the oil on your skin, especially if it's mixed with other known repellent substances like citronella. Put a few drops of cedar oil into sunblock or lotion and rub it on your skin. Mix up a cedar-infused citronella candle to drive the pests away from your next garden party.

Premixed Products

There are several commercially available products that use the power of cedar to not only repel, but also to kill insects like mosquitoes that plague homes and yards. Cedar and cedar oil are popular ingredients since they are completely natural and have no harsh chemicals and have not been shown to be harmful to humans or animals.

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Repair A Rubber Boat Using Silicone

Repair a Rubber Boat Using Silicone

River rafts and inflatable boats are designed to withstand extreme abuse, bounce off of jagged and sharp rocks and still keep the hull integrity. Occasionally punctures take place, necessitating the need to patch and repair the puncture. For inflatables that are damaged in the field, use a quick emergency repair tape. These tapes use silicone to provide a stout and near ballistic level of protection in the tape material. The counterintuitive part is that you don't clean the raft itself with silicone-base cleaners like Armor-All, as they prevent the tape's glue from making a solid bond.

Instructions

1. Wipe off the puncture area with the warm soapy water and sponge. Let it dry and then wipe the area down with an alcohol wipe. Let the area dry from the alcohol.

2. Cut off a piece of the silicone-base emergency repair tape about two inches longer than the puncture. Remove the back of the tape to expose the glue.

3. Press the glue side of the tape onto the puncture and hold in position firmly for 30 seconds. Press the entire length of the tape. Pump the raft back up and press around the tape, listening for any leaks. Apply an extra strip of the emergency repair tape if there are any leaks.

Tags: emergency repair, emergency repair tape, repair tape, Boat Using, Boat Using Silicone, Repair Rubber

Home Remedy For Bat Control

Control bats with a simple home remedy.

Bats are highly beneficial flying mammals. Few people realize how essential these animals are to the planet's health. If they take up residence in your attic, try not to panic. They're not there to terrorize you, but are probably seeking a safe place to nest and nurture new offspring. The only sure solution for bat control is exclusion, which shouldn't be done from April through August when bats are raising their families. While you may empathize with these maternal animals, you probably prefer that they homestead elsewhere. You can accomplish this from September through March with a simple home remedy. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Examine your attic walls to find openings where the bats might be coming in. Turn on a bright light in the attic after dark and go outside to see where light shines through, or go into the dark attic during the day to see where sunshine filters in. You will have to cover these openings to prevent the bats from accessing the indoors.

2. Go outside the following dusk and watch for bats to leave your attic. They tend to use the same openings consistently, so you can verify how they're coming and going. Check the indoor areas around holes that you suspect are access points for evidence that bats are indeed using them. Look for dark discolorations below them. These "rub marks" are stains that have collected from the dirt and body oils present on the coats of bats as they exit the opening to go outside to feed. You may also find little piles of droppings, or guano, below these holes.

3. Use a staple gun to secure plastic garbage bags loosely over the outer openings if the exterior of your home is wood. Staple it shut above the top and around both sides of the hole. Leave the bottom flap open so that the bats can leave. They won't be able to figure out get through it to go back indoors.

4. Roll a sheet of hardware cloth about 1 foot wide and 1 foot long into a cylinder with 2-inch diameter openings. Force one end of the cylinder into a bat hole if your home's exterior surface won't allow the use of nails or staples. Cut the toe part off an old sock off and slide the other end of it over the outer opening of the cylinder. The bats will easily find their way out, but won't be able to re-enter.

5. Remove the bags or cylinders in about a week. This will allow stragglers to get the idea and vacate. The bats may hang around your place for a little while, but will give up and look for more accommodating housing on their own.

Tags: your attic, bats leave, home remedy, over outer, simple home, simple home remedy

Herbs To Keep Mosquitoes Away

Mosquitoes transmit malaria and other diseases, in addition to leaving itchy bites.

Mosquitoes are a nuisance and can be carriers of disease. Herbs have been used historically to help prevent mosquito bites and are still used in some parts of the world. In the United States, chemical products have mostly replaced herbal remedies, but they can still be an effective defense against mosquitoes.

Lemongrass

Citronella is a common ingredient of mosquito-repelling candles for outdoor use, and lemongrass contains citronella oils. Use its oil to repel mosquitoes by crushing a few lemongrass stalks and rubbing them over your skin.

Myrrh

Ancient Egyptians used myrrh, a gum resin, for fumigation. Use myrrh to keep mosquitoes away by saturating a candle wick with myrrh essential oil and burning it.

Chamomile & Elder

Make an infusion of chamomile and elder leaves by steeping equal parts of each in boiling water for 15 minutes. The infusion repels mosquitoes for about 20 minutes when strained and applied topically to the skin.

Lavender, Citronella or Tea Tree Oil

Dilute a few drops of essential oil of lavender, citronella or tea tree in olive oil. Pure essential oils can be irritating to the skin. Test the oil on a small patch of skin first to make sure it won't be irritating and if not, apply it as an insect repellent. Tea tree and lavender oil will also help relieve itching from existing mosquito bites.

Tags: mosquito bites

Identify Insect Bites With Bruising

Insect bites that cause you to bleed under your epidermis, or the top layer of your skin, will cause bruises to form. There are several types of insect bites that may form bruises, such as bites from spiders, mosquitoes, bed bugs and ticks. Stings from scorpions, wasps or bees may also form bruises. Insect bites that cause bruises have a very distinct look to them. Once you learn what to look for, you will be able to identify an insect bite with bruising.

Instructions

1. Look for tiny red or white puncture marks in the center of your bruise. If a spider bit you, there will be a pair of puncture marks. A single puncture mark can be made by a mosquito, bed bug or tick. Insect bites with bruising typically do not develop a red, raised, irritated and itchy lump around the bite.

2. Inspect the color of your skin around the bite. Is it purple, red and yellowish or is it magenta or bright red? If your skin is a magenta or bright red bulls-eye or target shape, you have been bit by a tick and may have Lyme disease, which is a serious condition that needs to be treated with medication prescribed by a doctor. If the surrounding area of the bite is more muted pinkish-red color that looks like a weal or oval shaped rash, it is not an insect bite with bruising, but a bed bug or mosquito bite. Bed bug bites are very painful. Mosquito bites irritate the skin and make it itchy.

3. Inspect your skin where you have located the insect bite to determine if it has caused bruising. An insect bite with bruising will have a ring of normal colored skin around the bite surrounded by a larger ring-shaped bruise that is radiating out from it. The bruised area around the insect bite will be 1-inch or wider in diameter and will look like a donut.

Tags: insect bite, your skin, around bite, bite with, bite with bruising, bites that, insect bite with

Cure Ich On African Cichlids

Cure Ich on African Cichlids

Ich is caused by the ichthyophthirius multifillis protozoan, which appears on the body and fins of fishes as small pimples resembling grains of salt. Other symptoms of ich are "flashing," or rubbing against the side of the tank, labored breathing, and lowered fins. Ich often leads to bacterial and fungal infections, and can be fatal if left untreated. By the time you see the spots on your African cichlids, the ich protozoan is mid-life cycle, and has already become a trophont; because it has burrowed under your fish's mucus coating, trophonts are immune to medications. In its two other stages, the tomont stage and thermont stage, the ich protozoan is off the fish and is vulnerable to treatment. You can treat ich with various chemicals, but some are toxic to snails and plants, and are not well tolerated by scaleless fishes such as loaches and catfish. Fortunately, you can effectively treat your African cichlids for ich without resorting to chemicals.

Instructions

1. Raise the temperature in the tank one degree per hour until it reaches 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the temperature rises, the ich life cycle runs its course within four days, making it easier to treat.

2. Angle the filter powerheads towards the surface to maintain strong continuous surface agitation, and lower the water level slightly to benefit more from the filter return. Water holds less oxygen at higher temperatures, so you have to ensure sufficient aeration.

3. Monitor your African cichlids closely for signs of stress, other than what they are already undergoing from the ich. If you observe this, slowly bring the temperature back down.

4. Measure 2 tablespoons of aquarium salt for every 5 gallons of water in the tank.

5. Add the salt to the tank slowly over the next 24 to 48 hours by dissolving it in a small amount of tank water first, then introducing the solution bit by bit.

6. Monitor your fish to see if their distress increases; if so, perform an immediate water change.

7. Change about 50 percent of the water daily, salting the replacement water as well.

8. Maintain the salt bath for 10 days, or at least for three days after the symptoms subside.

9. Perform several large water changes using dechlorinated, unsalted water to retun tank to normal. Slowly lower the water temperature to normal.

10. Quarantine any new fish for 14 to 21 days to prevent the re-introduction of ich. Use separate nets for each tank, and let nets dry completely betwen uses. Ich can not survive being dried out. Never buy plants from tanks with fish in them. If you have reason to believe the plant has been in a tank with fish recently, quarantine the plant for a week.

Tags: your African, your African cichlids, African cichlids, Cure African, Cure African Cichlids, lower water

Cure Bedbug Bites

Bed bugs can infest beds and feed on human blood while victims are asleep.

Bed bugs are tiny insects that feed on blood. It's generally assumed that bed bugs can only live in unsanitary places, but bed bugs are increasingly found in cleaned hotels, apartments and homes. They can hitch a ride on bedding, clothing, luggage and furniture, and can be transported from one place to another without your knowledge. Typically they infest beds, and bite sleeping victims. These bites can be painfully itchy and sometimes even cause infection. However, there are several ways to speed recovery from a bed bug bite.

Instructions

1. Identify the bites as bed bug bites. They can occur anywhere on the body, but are most common on parts of the body that are exposed during the night, such as the face, neck and arms. Bed bug bites are typically painless, but are nevertheless itchy, red and swollen. If you've had bed bugs in your bed, you may observe drops of blood on your mattress, or an offensive smell. A doctor can identify bed bug bites for you, if you're unsure.

2. Wash the bites with soap and water.

3. Apply a disinfectant, such as rubbing alcohol or benzoyl peroxide, by dabbing the substance onto the bites with a cotton ball. This will help prevent infection.

4. Apply an anti-itch cream with hydrocortisone to the bites. Try to find a cream that includes aloe, which will also soothe the skin.

5. Make a soothing paste out of baking soda and water. Mix the baking soda with some lukewarm water until the paste is thick enough to apply to the skin without dripping. Leave the paste on the bites until it's completely dry, wash the skin gently, and pat dry. If this doesn't work the first time, you can try leaving the paste on the skin for an hour or more after it dries, to increase effectiveness.

6. Take an oral antihistamine to reduce the allergic reaction caused by the bites. An antihistamine may cause drowsiness, so avoid taking it during the day unless you know already how your body reacts to the medicine.

7. Rid your home of the bed bugs. Ultimately, treating bites will be useless if you're bitten every night. Diatomaceous Earth is chemical-free and kills insects by dehydrating them. Purchase a bag at a pet food store or garden store, and sprinkle it under your mattress, along baseboards in your home, on the bed frame, under furniture and anywhere else you think bed bugs might reside. Wash all of your linens and put them in a hot dryer for at least 20 minutes. If you live in a hot climate, bring the mattress outside to warm in the sun; the heat will kill the bed bugs. If you're unable to remove the bed bugs yourself, contact a professional pest control company.

Tags: baking soda, bites with, infest beds, your home, your mattress

Garlic Spray For A Yard To Get Rid Of Mosquitoes

Raw garlic spray is an eco-friendly mosquito repellent for yards..

Reducing the mosquito population of an area such as a backyard is one of the most effective ways to prevent bites. One method of reducing mosquito populations in a small outdoor area is using a natural deterrent, like garlic spray. Does this Spark an idea?

Time Frame

Strong-smelling natural plant products like garlic, as well as basil, citronella and eucalyptus, are effective mosquito repellents for up to two hours, according to the Mississippi State Department of Health.

Amount

Commercial garlic sprays will have instructions on how much to use in a backyard. Homemade garlic sprays should have a ratio of one part crushed garlic to 64 parts water. A one-gallon spray bottle is sufficient, because the garlic spray is used on tablecloths, chairs, plants and other areas mosquitoes may congregate as opposed to the entire backyard. Another method of employing garlic is to eat a clove of raw garlic or take garlic supplements.

Considerations

Chemical mosquito repellents like DEET can be dangerous to use on children or animals, and natural methods like raw garlic spray are harmless. Similarly, it can be dangerous to the ecosystem to spray insecticides outdoors, making garlic spray a healthier option. However, garlic is potentially toxic to cats, so avoid using garlic spray in areas where cats congregate.

Tags: garlic spray, like garlic, garlic sprays, like garlic spray, mosquito repellents

Household Substances That Repel Flying Insects Naturally

Trying out natural flying insect repellents may or may not pay off.

Despite a lack of solid research proving that natural products repel flying insects --- both outside and in --- many people turn to plants and household items to help curb the pests. Because of the lack of proof and developing research, use these products in a trial-and-error process. Some of these products work better than others, according to scientific studies. Does this Spark an idea?

Plants

Small, decorative pots containing basil in your kitchen or around your house can help deter flying insects inside. Basil is a plant powerhouse known to repel flies and mosquitoes. Marigolds are also thought to be pest deterrents. Their summery colors can make a nice addition in your kitchen or around your home. Many people plant marigolds around their garden because they are relatively pest-free, which suggests they repel pests. Science is still lacking on whether they actually repel pests from other plants, but they are known to attract beneficial predators such as lacewings and ladybugs.

Essential Oils

Several essential oils are thought or known to repel insects. Lemon eucalyptus is commonly used in commercial repellents. Synthesized oil of lemon eucalyptus found in several insect repellents with a "natural" label is recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC warns, however, that pure oil of lemon eucalyptus has not gone through the same testing as the synthesized product. Other essential oils that have shown at least some insect-repelling properties include eucalyptus, mint, peppermint, rosemary, lemongrass, clove, citronella and neem. Neem oil is a widely used insecticide and fungicide for plants, as well. Never apply pure, undiluted essential oil to your skin. Always dilute and test a small portion of skin before applying the oil liberally.

Homemade Traps and Repellents

Again, scientific evidence is lacking, but these homemade tips and tricks may work. To repel flies, wrap bay leaves, eucalyptus and cloves in small cheesecloth squares near open doors and windows. To make flypaper, cut strips of brown craft paper, soak them in a solution of a quarter cup of syrup and 1 tbsp. each of white and brown sugar, then let them dry overnight. Hang them around fly-heavy areas. Hot pepper and garlic solutions are also thought to repel insects. Steep garlic cloves or hot peppers in water or vinegar to make a spray.

Preventative Measures

Sanitation and exclusion are the two keys to controlling flying insects in your home. Sanitation is particularly effective against flies. To discourage flies from entering your home, clean up any breeding sites. Many houseflies will breed and lay eggs in garbage bins and around piled-up dishes and other food stuffs. Without a decent breeding site, flies will seek somewhere else to breed. To discourage pantry moths, seal your foods in air-tight containers. Plastic bags and cardboard boxes don't work; the moths and their larvae can still get in. Keep your screens tight on your windows and doors, and seal any other areas through which flying bugs can enter.

Tags: your home, also thought, around your, flying insects, insect repellents

Plant Remedies To Repel Mosquitoes

Get rid of pesky mosquitoes with naturally repellent plant products.

Before the development of DEET, people used a variety of plants to keep mosquitoes at bay. Strongly scented herbs, seasonings, oil and extracts were rubbed on the skin or placed bowls and arranged strategically around campsites, picnic areas and patios. The various remedies repelled mosquitoes and other bugs by emitting an odor the insects found unappealing, effectively deterring the unwelcome pests for several hours at a time. Does this Spark an idea?

Plant Choices

While mosquitoes tend to be drawn to floral or fruity fragrances, they seem to be put off by acidic, sharp or particularly pungent aromas. The crisp scents of citronella and lemongrass are long-standing favorites for mosquito control, as are the bitter, biting aromas produced by eucalyptus oil, basil leaves, beautyberry bushes, cedar shavings and raw onions.

Use

Apply fresh plants directly to any exposed areas of your skin. Simply crush or cut the foliage to release the juices and rub them over your skin. For example, areas of your body can be patted with slices of fresh onion, effectively blanketing your body in a mosquito-repellent layer of bitter juice. If you do not relish the idea of smelling like an onion, pieces of lemon, lime or orange peel can be used to achieve similar results, as can handfuls of crushed basil, peppermint or beautyberry leaves. Dilute essential oils, such as lemon eucalyptus, celery, cedar, garlic or pennyroyal, before applying them to the skin, mixing 10 to 20 drops into ¼ cup of unscented oil, such as olive oil; then rub the mixture evenly over your skin. Create area repellents by filling shallow dishes with oils or freshly chopped foliage and placing them in front of windows or around the perimeter of the designated area.

Alternatives

In addition to plant repellents, people have been known to use everyday items such as pure vanilla extract, distilled white vinegar and fabric softener sheets to keep mosquitoes away. While there is no current scientific evidence to support their effectiveness as insect repellents, these items can be found in most homes, and in a pinch they may be better than nothing.

Bites

Should the chosen insect repellent prove to be ineffective, the itch can be taken out of bites with a number of natural products. Just dab the affected area with a cotton ball that has been dampened with plant extracts, such as lavender essential oil, tea tree oil or juniper oil, or with tea made from dried chamomile flowers or sprigs of St. John's wort; the itchy feeling should vanish. Alternatively, redness and inflammation can be reduced by moistening the skin and rubbing the bites with pieces of willow bark or an ordinary aspirin tablet.

Tags: your skin, areas your, bites with, keep mosquitoes, over your, over your skin

Contents Of Mosquito Repellent

Some insect repellents contain strong active ingredients.

Increased awareness of diseases, such as West Nile virus, associated with mosquito bites has caused more consumers to consider pesticides and other repellents as a defense. The number of insect repellents on the market has grown as a result, offering more varieties and combinations of active ingredients. It's important to understand which active ingredients your repellent contains, and the benefits and risks associated with each. Does this Spark an idea?

DEET

The majority of mosquito repellents on the market contain a chemical ingredient known as DEET. The amount of DEET in a product registered for direct application to human skin can range from 4 to 100 percent. These products are available in many forms, including sprays, lotions and liquids. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has approved the use of DEET directly on the skin, there is some concern about potential toxicity to humans. These advocates recommend applying DEET products to clothing rather than skin, and choosing those containing lower levels of the ingredient.

It should be noted that, despite these concerns, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that it is acceptable to use products containing low levels on DEET on children older than 2 months. The use of the product should be weighed against the threat of mosquito-borne illnesses in the area, and the child's exposure to the outdoors.

Picaridin

Picaridin is an insect repellent that was widely used in Australia and Europe before being introduced to the U.S. market. Repellents which rely on this ingredient to provide protection from insects generally contain 5 to 25 percent picaridin. The colorless, almost odorless liquid repels not only mosquitoes, but ticks, biting flies and chiggers, as well. Consumer Reports found in independent testing that picaridin is the only alternative to DEET that provides comparable protection from insect bites.

Natural Alternatives

Since some consumers are concerned about the potential side effects of chemicals like DEET and picaridin, there are other mosquito repellents which rely on biopesticides. These insect fighters are derived from natural sources such as plants, animals and certain minerals. Some examples of these include oil of lemon eucalyptus and citronella oil. Products containing citronella oil are usually sold in candle form, and emit a fragrance that masks the CO2 or lactic acid produced by humans which attracts mosquitoes.

While some find the natural solutions more palatable and deem them safer, independent consumer research has shown that these alternatives are far less effective than the chemical repellents.

General Caution

With all insect repellents, experts caution against use outside the recommended guidelines. Use care when applying these products to the skin, avoiding the nose, mouth and eyes. When returning to the indoors, it's recommended that you wash repellent off of the skin with soap and water.

Tags: active ingredients, insect repellents, about potential, associated with, mosquito repellents, protection from, repellents market

How Does Sickle Cell Disease Protect From Malaria

Malaria is a parasitic disease of the blood. Sickle cell disease causes the creation of abnormally shaped red blood cells. Malaria parasites cannot enter sickle cells. Sickle cell disease became prominent as people with normal hemoglobin died from malaria.

Malaria

Malaria is a disease caused by Plasmodium species parasites. The parasites are transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes. Once inside the body, the parasites invade red blood cells and reproduce in them.

Red Blood Cells

Red blood cells do not normally have any organelles inside them, having only hemoglobin for oxygen transport. This allows malaria parasites to infect the cells without destroying them.

Hemoglobin

Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells. It allows for the transport of oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.

Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease occurs when a genetic mutation causes the creation of abnormal hemoglobin inside red blood cells. The abnormal hemoglobin makes red blood cells form in a sickle shape instead of the normal form of round discs.

Protection from Malaria

Malarial parasites cannot infect sickle cells. This is because the parasite cannot "fit" inside the sickle cells, destroying them before the parasites can grow and reproduce.

Tags: blood cells, Sickle cell disease, sickle cells, abnormal hemoglobin, causes creation

Fix Netting

Your torn netting can be functional once again.

Netting is designed to have the same size holes throughout. Even one enlarged hole from a tear in some types of netting can make it virtually unusable for its designated purpose. For example, if you are using mosquito netting in the wilderness, the pesky insects will quickly locate a larger hole in the netting and start invading your space. Before this can happen, there is a simple, effective method that you can use to fix the netting so that it becomes perfectly functional once again. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Cut a piece of fabric that is about half an inch larger than the damage to the net.

2. Flip the net over and place the fabric over the tear or hole.

3. Place masking tape around the fabric to secure it to the net. Never use duct tape for this purpose. It's too sticky.

4. Turn the net back over and apply seam sealer adhesive all over the fabric piece. Use a generous amount.

5. Let the seam sealer adhesive dry for about 2 full days.

6. Remove the masking tape. The fabric will be bound to the net and the hole will be repaired.

Tags: functional once, functional once again, masking tape, once again, sealer adhesive

Crane Fly Life Cycle

Adult crane flies rarely live for more than two weeks

The crane fly is an insect of the biological categorization Tipulidae. They are slender creatures with long, spindly legs and are found in temperate and tropical countries of the world, such as the United States, Canada, South Africa, Great Britain, Ireland and Australia. They are known by several different names in different countries, including daddy long-legs, mosquito hawk and gollywhopper. Crane flies go through several different stages during their life cycle.

Characteristics

There are thought to be more than 4,000 different species of crane fly in the world, although they all share similar characteristics. Their slender body is a gray-brown color and their transparent wings have a brown line on the front edge. It resembles a large mosquito but is completely harmless to humans. They vary in size from under 1 inch to almost 4 inches in some tropical species.

Eggs

The female crane fly has an abdomen that differs in shape from the male. Whereas the male's body is square-ended, the female's is pointed. This is because it contains an oviposter, a biological structure used for laying eggs. A female will lay her eggs on vegetation, often decaying plant matter of the ground, so that when the young hatch they will have immediate access to food. Some crane flies will lay their eggs in water if their larvae are aquatic.

Larvae

All crane fly larvae feed on vegetation, including vegetables, flowers, fruit and roots, although some have also been known to feed on mosquito larvae. The larvae are sometimes called "leatherbacks", "leatherjackets" or "leatherback slugs" because of the way they move as they search for food. They spend most of their time underground. Crane fly larvae are usually a dull brown color and have chewing mouth parts, in comparison with the adult which has a long snout and a proboscis, a thin, elongated, flexible tube. They are sometimes treated as pests in gardens and agricultural land for their destructive effects on plant life.

Pupation

The larval stage is approximately 10 months long. When the crane fly larvae has consumed enough food to provide it with the energy required to pupate, it will develop a hard pupal case in which to metamorphose into an adult crane fly. Usually, crane fly pupae will be located within the organic matter on the ground. They do not move and are a dull brown color in order to blend in with their surroundings and avoid predators. Pupation takes approximately four weeks.

Adult

Having attained the adult form, crane flies break the pupal case and fly away. Adult crane flies rarely live for more than two weeks. A few species will feed on nectar, using their long proboscis, but the majority will not feed during this time. Their energy is devoted to finding a mate. Having successfully mated, and the female having laid her eggs, the crane fly will die. Crane flies are usually nocturnal and are attracted to lights. This is usually the reason why they get into houses.

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Ginger As A Mosquito Repellent

Burning ginger can help keep mosquitoes away.

People with concerns over using chemicals to repel mosquitoes often turn to natural items that can keep mosquitoes away with low risk of poisoning. Ginger may somewhat reduce mosquito problems, but its effectiveness has no scientific support. Does this Spark an idea?

Method

Repelling mosquitoes using ginger involves burning its plant materials and producing smoke that mosquitoes find unpleasant. Other plant materials that can keep mosquitoes away in this way include beetlenut and coconut husks.

Efficacy

The smoke from burning ginger plants can reduce the number of mosquitoes in an area, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Burning candles and other items produces carbon dioxide, which attracts mosquitoes and distracts them from pestering humans. However, no scientific evidence shows any benefit of burning ginger plants.

Safety

The smoke from burning ginger plant materials can irritate the eyes and lungs. As such, other natural repellents such as citronella candles can serve as safer alternatives.

Tags: keep mosquitoes, keep mosquitoes away, mosquitoes away, plant materials, burning ginger, burning ginger plants, from burning

Make Your Deck Mosquito Proof

Mosquito-proofing your deck can help you remain bite-free.

Mosquitoes can be quite a nuisance for homeowners who venture outside to enjoy their yards and gardens. However, mosquitoes don't just pester even the most patient of people; these insects can carry serious diseases like malaria, West Nile virus and several strands of encephalitis. The diseases they carry cannot only affect people, but they can also be passed to animals. Protecting yourself, your family and your pets from mosquitoes while relaxing on your patio or deck is easy and inexpensive to do. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Replace the water in bird baths often to prevent mosquitoes from gathering.

Drain any areas or containers near your deck that hold standing water. Stagnant water attracts swarms of mosquitoes and will become a breeding ground for more mosquitoes. Prevent water from collecting and becoming stagnant by using fill dirt to build up low areas and flushing items containing water -- like bird baths or pet water bowls -- often.

2. Clean gutters every three months to prevent mosquitoes from gathering.

Clean the gutters surrounding your deck. Gutters trap debris and stagnant water, which is a haven for mosquitoes and their eggs.

3. Bti will kill mosquitoes, but it won't harm you, fish or plants.

Use a product containing bacillus thuringiensis israelensis, or Bti, on bodies of water that can't be drained or flushed, such as swimming pools, fish ponds or ornamental fountains. The Bti is consumed by the mosquitoes, and then kills them.

4. Well-placed fans can keep mosquitos at bay.

Place fans around your deck and keep them running. Mosquitoes can't maneuver in air currents faster than two miles an hour. The fans will keep away the mosquitoes, and they'll keep you and your deck space cool.

5. Keeping grass short makes it less hospitable to mosquitoes.

Landscape the lawn and garden area surrounding your deck. Keep grass short and hedges trimmed to help water evaporate and increase sun and wind exposure, all of which helps keep out mosquitoes.

6. Mosquitoes aren't attracted to all light frequencies -- just some.

Replace existing light bulbs in deck lighting fixtures with yellow "bug lights" or LED lights. These lights have frequencies that don't attract mosquitoes, unlike some lights.

7. Netting can be pulled back when there aren't mosquitoes around so you can enjoy the outdoors.

Install mosquito netting around your deck. The netting is inexpensive and easy to install. It can be installed with a rolling track that surrounds your deck, or the netting can be hung with mounting hooks.

Tags: your deck, around your, around your deck, bird baths, Clean gutters, deck netting

Care For Citronella Plants

The citronella plant can help keep mosquitoes at bay.

Citronella plants, also called mosquito plants, are genetically altered geranium hybrids that actually repel mosquitoes. Rub a few leaves onto your skin to release the plant's oils onto the skin, or combine crushed leaves with rubbing alcohol to create a portable repellent. The leafy plant can reach a foot tall during its first season and produces a sweet lemony scent. In addition, the citronella plant can survive outside after the last and before the first frosts and thrives indoors during the winter season. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Select an area for the citronella plant that features full sun or partial shade. If growing the plant outside, make sure it is an area that will allow the plant to grow to 3 to 4 feet tall and wide in a warmer climate or up to a foot tall in a colder climate. Also, be sure the plant will receive six to eight hours of sunlight each day. When indoors, make sure the plant's area stays between 65 and 70 degrees F during the day and about 55 at night.

2. Check to see that the soil you use for your citronella, either in a flowering pot or in the ground, is loose enough to provide quick drainage and aeration. The soil also should be slightly acidic in addition to being dry. If growing the plant in a flower bed, collect a sample of the soil you plan to use for your citronella plant and take it to your local county extension office for testing. The ideal soil pH for geraniums such as the citronella plant is 6.5. Your soil test will let you know if you need to add any amendments such as sphagnum peat moss to the soil.

3. Choose a potting mix that is three parts soil, one part sand and one part peat moss or a mix that is two parts soil to one part sand for potted indoor or outdoor plants. Make sure the pot has holes in the base to allow excess water to drain from the plant roots after you plant and water the citronella.

4. Water the plant at least once a week and feed it with a soluble plant food product based on the label's directions. When planting outdoors, place a 1- to 2-inch layer of mulch such as shredded hardwood bark or pine straw over the soil after the soil warms in the spring to help the plant retain water.

5. Fertilize your citronella plant according to the manufacturer's instructions every four to six weeks. Use a 10-10-10 or 8-8-8 fertilizer with a slow-release form of nitrogen.

Tags: citronella plant, your citronella, foot tall, growing plant, make sure, part sand

Homemade Bug Killer

Various kinds of bugs, such as whiteflies and thrips, can wreak havoc in your flowerbeds and vegetable gardens; they can even become a problem on your houseplants. Before you treat your plants with a commercially prepared, chemically based insecticide, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends trying one of many homemade bug-killer recipes. Many of these homemade sprays can effectively control bugs without exposing you, your family or the environment to toxic substances. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Cooking Oil Base

1. Pour 1 tbsp. of standard liquid dish detergent into a plastic spray bottle, then add 1 pint of fresh water and 1 cup of cooking oil, such as canola oil or peanut oil.

2. Close the spray bottle and shake it vigorously to mix the contents.

3. Spray the mixture on any plants that are suffering from insect infestations. North Carolina State University suggests using this mixture only on days when the temperature is not above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The oil can insulate your plants and make them more susceptible to heat.

Baby Shampoo Base

4. Fill a spray bottle with 1 quart of water, then add 1/4 tsp. of standard baby shampoo.

5. Close the spray bottle and shake it to thoroughly mix the contents.

6. Mist the shampoo-water mixture onto your plants. For the best results, Utah State University advises spraying it after the sun sets. During this time, the spray has a greater chance of coming in contact with bugs, since much insect activity slows during the night.

Liquid Dish Soap Base

7. Pour 1 quart of water into a spray bottle, then add 1 tbsp. of liquid dish detergent.

8. Place the cap back on the spray bottle and give it a few shakes to mix the contents.

9. Spray the soapy mixture on your plants, evenly coating all exposed surfaces.

Tags: spray bottle, your plants, Base Pour, bottle shake, bottle then, Close spray

Homemade Bug Killers

Take care of nasty bugs like mosquitoes with a homemade recipe.

Bugs often do what they do best; bug people. People spend exorbitant amounts of money to keep bugs away, especially in the summer. Citronella candles can have an overpowering smell, and chemicals in bug sprays can cause skin and eye irritation. Instead of spending your hard-earned money on bug killers, mix together household ingredients to make your own. Homemade bug remedies take care of flies, mosquitoes and wasps that irritate you during the summer months. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Fly Paper

1. Cut a few strips of brown craft paper between 2 and 3 inches thick and about 14 inches long. Set the strips over a flat surface covered in newspaper.

2. Pour equal amounts of corn syrup, sugar and water into a saucepan.Mix together thoroughly.

3. Bring the mixture to a boil over the stove.Turn the heat off.

4. Dip the paint brush in the mixture and brush the sticky liquid onto the strips of paper, coating each strip thoroughly. Let the strips cool completely.

5. Hang the strips from screw hooks, door frames or against walls--with the sticky side out--in your home. Flies are attracted to the sugar, then stick to the paper.

Bug Spray

6. Fill an empty 1-gallon milk carton with water, leaving about 2 inches of space from the top.

7. Add 1 tsp. of baby shampoo to the water.Replace the milk carton cap and slosh the water around gently so as not to create suds.

8. Pour the liquid into a spray bottle.Store the rest of the bug spray in the carton. Spray the mixture on your skin to repel bugs.

Wasp Water Trap

9. Fill a bucket with water and add two or three squirts of dish soap. Mix the water and soap thoroughly. Place the bucket under a tree branch that is not near a patio or deck.

10. Measure the distance between the tree branch and the bucket. Cut a piece of string to that size, adding about 6 extra inches.

11. Tie a piece of lunch meat such as turkey or ham to one end of the piece of string.

12. Tie the other end of the string around the tree branch so that the lunch meat dangles about 2 inches above the soapy water.The wasp will eat the lunch meat, then fly into the water.

Tags: about inches, lunch meat, tree branch, branch that, milk carton, piece string, tree branch that

The Specifications Of A Spektrum Ar6300

The Spektrum AR6300 can be used to fly long-range model aircraft in wide open spaces.

The Spektrum AR6300 Nanolite Receiver is an extremely compact radio wave receiver that's mounted on model aircraft so that they can receive direction and flying commands from control transmitters. It's meant to be used with various Spektrum transmitters and control devices. This particular model is recommended for mounting on the lightest hobby flying devices due to its own light weight and small size.

Physical Specifications

The Spektrum AR6300 Nanolite Receiver consists of a green card with six connector inputs at the bottom and a thin red antenna protruding from the top. This receiver measures 0.72 inches wide by 1.18 inches long by 0.28 inches high (deep), and weighs 0.07 oz. Its antenna is 1.18 inches high.

Power and Performance

The input voltage range of this receiver is from 3.5 to 9.6 volts and it operates according to the pulse-code modulation 1024 resolution standard. This six-channel receiver has sufficient range for micro, foamie and slow flyer aircraft only; it's not meant for larger and heavier model aircraft.

Compatibility

The Spektrum AR6300 Nanolite Receiver has ports for JST-ZHR 1.5-mm micro connectors, and you can use it with any JST connector servo wires that have a left-to-right polarity order of positive-negative signal. Its modulation is DSM2, so it's compatible with all DSM2 aircraft and controllers. While it's compatible with most Spektrum transmitters, you can't use it with the Spektrum DX6 park flyer transmitter.

Other Specifications, Features

This receiver features SmartSafe programming, which prevents the motor from operating before the system is connected. In addition, the throttle is automatically switched to an "off" position in the event of signal failure. The Spektrum AR6300 Nanolite Receiver also includes ModelMatch compatibility with Spektrum transmitters, and this feature prevents operation of a receiver with memory settings for the wrong model of plane or transmitter. Both of these features prevent crash damage to model aircraft.

Manufacturer Information

Spektrum recommends this receiver and airplanes used with it for ages 14 and up. The Spektrum line is manufactured or imported by Horizon Hobby, Inc., and the Spektrum AR6300 Nanolite Receiver is sold with a one-year warranty. As of April 2011, this model is current, with a list price of $59.99.

Tags: AR6300 Nanolite, AR6300 Nanolite Receiver, Nanolite Receiver, Spektrum AR6300 Nanolite, model aircraft

Squirrel Species In Minnesota

Gray squirrels are a common species in Minnesota.

Minnesota, with its vast areas of natural habitat, is home to numerous mammal species. Of the many species, six are members of the squirrel family, or sciuridae. The family is made up of three main body types: flying squirrels, ground squirrels and tree squirrels. Squirrels are found all over the world except in Australia and extreme southern South America.

Flying Squirrels

Minnesota is home to northern and southern flying squirrels, both of which look similar in appearance. The southern variety grows to around 9 inches long and 2 ounces in weight. The northern is slightly larger and grows to 11 inches long and 3 ounces in weight. Both species have olive-brown fur with pale-colored bellies and large, dark eyes. These squirrels are the only nocturnal varieties in the state.

Fox Squirrel

The fox squirrel is Minnesota's largest squirrel species. It grows to 34 inches, nose to tail, and weighs up to 3 lbs. It has orange-gray to dark orange fur with a long, bushy tail. It lives throughout much of the state except for the northeastern portion. The squirrel can be found in almost any kind of forested area in the state and is an adept climber.

Eastern Gray Squirrel

The eastern gray is one of the state's most common squirrel species. It grows to around 20 inches in length and weighs up to 1 1/2 lbs. As the name suggests, the squirrel is mainly gray in color with brownish or white bellies. Some individuals can be white or black in color. The eastern gray can be spotted almost anywhere trees are found throughout Minnesota.

Red Squirrel

The red squirrel, also known as the pine squirrel, is the state's smallest tree squirrel variety. It grows to around 18 inches, nose to tail, and weighs up to 9 ounces. It is rusty red in color with a pale white to gray belly. During the summer months it is grayer in color than in the winter. It lives throughout most of the state except for the southwestern portion.

Thirteen-Lined Ground Squirrel

The thirteen-lined ground squirrel is a small native species. It grows to around 11 inches long and weighs up to 9 ounces. It is buff in color with longitudinal black-and-white stripes running the length of its body. It lives in the grassy plains of most of Minnesota except for the northeastern portion.

Tags: around inches, grows around, grows around inches, color with, inches long

Garlic Slug Repellent

Slugs die quickly when they ingest garlic-based poisons.

According to a study published in 2003 from University of Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, slugs and snails die after eating garlic-based products. Researchers see potential for the use of garlic as a slug-killing agent. Does this Spark an idea?

Concentrated Garlic Product

The commercial slug-control product ECOguard uses garlic as the active ingredient. You can make your own non-toxic homemade garlic slug-control spray. Combine crushed garlic cloves, garlic powder and water in a spray bottle and mist the plants you need protected with it. Slugs will consume the garlic and die shortly afterward.

Garlic Results

Slugs are an expensive pest for farmers worldwide.

Slugs that consume or crawl through garlic slug products die quickly, although scientists such as the lead researcher on alternative pesticides at Newcastle University, Dr Gordon Port, aren't sure why. These compounds also kill slug eggs that are often hidden in the leaf litter and compost of your garden. Garlic slug-killing products are sprays applied onto and around your prized plants.

Compare Slug Baits

Garlic-based slug baits won't harm your plants or animals in your yard and have no lasting effect on the environment. Other commonly used main ingredients in slug killers include iron phosphate and the highly toxic metaldehyde.

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Old Wives' Tales Insect Repellents

Can bugs be kept away with so-called old wives' tale remedies?

Rooted in oral storytelling traditions, old wives' tales provide a unique take on remedies for many illnesses as well as preventative measures. Although these tall tales typically have little basis in true scientific research or facts, many believers seek out these folk cures as an alternative to modern medicine. There are many different tales about using household and/or natural items as insect repellents, ranging from foods and beverages to cleaning products. Does this Spark an idea?

Truth or Fiction

There is little medical or scientific reason to believe in the validity of old wives' tales. Although some of these stories and remedies may have been carefully passed down from generation to generation, few have proven to be effective in the laboratory environment. This is especially true of insect repellent. Old wives' tales concerning insect repellent may revolve around all-natural or chemical-free alternatives. Understandably, these methods are advantageous in that they provide a non-toxic, earth-friendly choice. Unfortunately, most of these tales are more fiction than fact. According to the American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA), the most effective repellents include the chemical DEET. This directly contradicts old wives' tales that tout the benefits of food, plant and nature-based repellents.

Safety

Old wives' tales are simple stories made up by individuals who usually have little or no scientific or medical training. Some preventative measures, such as using insect repellent, arose from a trial and error process with natural or everyday household items. Simply because a tale states that a repellent is natural or chemical-free does not make it safe or effective. Many natural items, such as plants, vitamins and oils, can be hazardous to humans and animals if not used properly. Professional clinicians and scientists typically do not approve these measures as safe for use. Many products and items included in these tales should either not be used or used in the quantity or way described. Many tales that advise using seemingly non-harmful ingredients may, in fact, be extremely hazardous to your health. Before trying an insect repellent based on an old wives' tale, ask a doctor or other expert.

Food Repellents

Foods and spices are often central to old wives' tales concerning insect repellents. For example, garlic is a favorite substance. From possibly true tales, such as maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol, to the totally false myth of a mosquito repellent, garlic is said to have many different uses. While garlic may taste good and help to season our food, there is no scientific evidence that eating it will help repel insects. Another food product repellent in old wives' tales is the banana. Although healthy to eat, there is no proof that this fruit can or would repel any insect.

Household Repellents

Some old wives' tales mention simple household products or cleaners as effective insect repellents. These typically untrue tales are in no way grounded in actual scientific research and may be hazardous to your health. Items such as dryer sheets, Lemon Joy dish soap and even Listerine have all been the subject of insect repellent wives' tales. These so-called repellents have never been proven as a safe or effective way to keep bugs at bay. Although most old wives' tales involving these items call for outdoor use, placing them near an insect infestation or directly on the insects, accidental ingestion could pose a serious health hazard. Cleaning and hygiene products should only be used in the manner indicated on the packaging.

Tags: wives tales, insect repellent, insect repellents, repellent wives, repellent wives tales, wives tales

Identify Insect & Mite Bites

That smarts! A small insect on skin.

Have you ever started itching and scratching and noticed a few bumps on your skin? These can be caused by either insects or mites. There are different kinds of mites that will bite into your skin, such as bird mites, scabies mites and bed bug mites. Some insects will bite several times and can bite in groups, such as fire ants and fleas. If you break out in a rash or if the bite is painful, it is best to seek medical attention. Otherwise, the bumps will typically disappear after a few days.

Instructions

1. Analyze the appearance of the bite. Most insect or mite bites will itch, making you scratch, realizing the bite is there. The bite will be redder than the surrounding skin, sometimes crusty, with either one or several bumps. One bump may be from a spider or a fly, whereas several bites could be from fleas, mosquitos or scabies mites. If the bite is not a bump (not raised) it could be a bed bug mite bite, which also causes itching. Some spider bites may not be raised, but there will be only one bite.

2. Take notice to painful bites. Some insect bites can be very painful, making you immediately realize you have been bitten. Such insects as fire ants, horse flies and some spiders have painful bites. Fire ants make the skin inflamed, red and itchy and sometimes leave a hard knot that will give way to pus in a day or two. Fly bites are slightly swollen and light red.

3. A bite from the brown recluse spider is not only painful but poisonous and needs immediate medical attention. The bite will be red and swollen. Sometimes the puncture wound from a brown recluse bite is visible. Another sign of a brown recluse bite is bull's-eye-like bands around the bite. Visit an emergency room or a doctor immediately.

4. Examine the bite for a rash or blistering. Mosquito bites can cause severe itching, making the skin blister if it is continuously scratched. Fleas, chiggers, and mites cause rashes that can spread all over the body.

5. Continue to watch any bite mark. The bite mark should disappear within a few days. If it appears to be getting worse by looking larger or infected then go to your doctor for treatment.

Tags: brown recluse, bite mark, bite will, brown recluse bite, from brown, from brown recluse, medical attention

Home Remedy For Keeping Mosquitoes Out Of A Yard

Home Remedy for Keeping Mosquitoes Out of a Yard

Mosquitoes are mostly active during dawn and dusk and often stay in shady areas, such as under trees. They lay eggs in standing water. Home remedies for getting rid of mosquitoes include preventing egg-laying, relying on mosquito-eating birds or fish, planting or scattering repellents. Does this Spark an idea?

Plants

Plants that mosquitoes don't like include citronella, lemon balm, cat nip, scented leaved geraniums, rosemary, and marigolds.

Attract Mosquito-eaters

Plant flowers that attract birds and dragonflies that feed on mosquitoes. Install a bird house or two. One martin house will attract a whole family of efficient mosquito-eaters.

Standing Water

Eliminate standing water in buckets, potholes, old tires or low-lying puddles. If you have a birdbath, change the water every other day especially during the warm weather. It takes only two days for mosquitoes to hatch.

If you have a pond, add fish such as 'Feeder' goldfish, that eat mosquito larvae. A fish pond is also another way to attract birds.

Garlic Powder

In her "Thrifty Mommy" blog, Karen Weideman says spraying the yard with garlic powder and water will keep mosquitoes away.

Proper Clothing

Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors. So wear light-colored clothing. Cover your body as much as you can with long sleeves, high collar, socks. Although mosquitoes can bite through fabric, a layer between them and your skin can reduce the number of bites you suffer.

Tags: attract birds, Home Remedy, Home Remedy Keeping, Keeping Mosquitoes, Keeping Mosquitoes Yard

Doityourself Mosquito Yard Spray

Homemade sprays keep mosquitoes at bay.

Enjoying the outdoors can be short-lived experience in the presence of mosquitoes. Although there are several commercial products available that repel the unwelcome pests, homeowners can make their own concoction with a few simple ingredients. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Mix equal parts of Epsom salt, beer and an alcohol-based mouthwash into a spray bottle. Shake and spray the solution liberally onto grass, flowers and tall grass. Apply only one application when mosquitoes are most active.

2. Combine 20 gallons of water, 1 cup of lemon-scented dish soap, 1 cup of lemon-scented ammonia and 4 tablespoons of instant black tea. Mix the ingredients and shake them thoroughly in a spray bottle. Apply liberally the solution in the yard, and reapply as needed after a rain.

3. Incorporate plants that are effective at keeping the bugs at bay, such as Rose-scented geraniums that contain citronellal and geranial, two substances that to repel mosquitoes. Catnip is also very effective at repelling mosquitoes.

Tags: spray bottle, that repel

Tell If You Have Bed Bug Bites

It's important to distinguish bed bug bites from other insect bites.

Bed bugs are nocturnal parasites that hide in the cracks and seams of furniture and mattresses. At night, they emerge to feed on victims. The risk of bed bugs is highest in places (hotels and hospitals, for example) where there's a high turnover in the number of people who sleep there. Symptoms of bed bug bites can take as long as nine days to appear; however, the more a person is bitten, the quicker symptoms will appear. Bed bug bites are sometimes mistaken for mosquito or flea bites. However, there are a few signs you can look for to distinguish bed bug bites from those of other insects.

Instructions

Check Your Body

1. Examine your body for raised welts indicating new bed bug bites. Pay careful attention to your face, neck, shoulders, hands and other areas usually uncovered at night; these are the areas bed bugs often attack.

2. Check your body for the emergence of red, itchy bumps. Avoid scratching these bumps to keep them from getting infected.

3. Check the pattern of the bumps and welts. Bed bug bites are often in groups of three or four and arranged in a straight line or cluster.

4. Check your body for signs of new symptoms or additional bites each morning.

Check Your Home

5. Check your home for signs of bed bugs. Perform a daytime inspection and a nighttime inspection; nighttime is when the bugs are active.

6. Check your mattress and bed linens for the presence of small blood smears. Look for traces of blood left behind from crushed bugs.

7. Check your bed linens and the seams of your mattress for bed bug feces. Look for a trail of black specks. Also check your pillows, cushions and baseboards for feces.

8. Check your bedding, pillows, cushions, furniture and baseboards for the presence of bed bug exoskeleton. Look for thin, light-brown shells.

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Repair A Screen

Screen material is made of fiberglass or metal.

Screens are installed to keep debris and insects outside. When a screen develops a rip or hole, everything you don't want to get inside--can. Most repairs can be accomplished with patches from similar screen mesh. If the damage is too big for a patch, you can replace the panel on a wooden frame screen. Aluminum screen frames are trickier, and often require an entire screen and frame replacement. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Repairing Screen with Patches

1. Measure the width and length of the rip. According to Home Tips, screen materials are metal or fiberglass. For fiberglass, dab a small rip with clear nail polish instead of patching.

2. Cut two patches of the same type mesh as the screen to be repaired (fiberglass feels like plastic; metal is rough with sharp edges) measuring ½ inch wider and longer than the place you are repairing, with wire cutters or utility scissors. Screen material and patch kits are available for purchase at home improvement stores.

3. Apply the appropriate adhesive to the screen patch. Press one patch to the front side of the screen, centered over the damaged area. Apply the adhesive to the other patch and press it over the damaged area on the back of the screen. To adhere fiberglass patches, according to Home Tips, apply household repair cement. To adhere metal patches use an epoxy intended for metal repair. Use epoxies in well-ventilated areas and avoid contact with flesh.

Installing New Screen on a Wood Window Screen Frame

4. Separate the molding holding the screen to the inner wood frame by inserting a flathead screwdriver between the layers and prying upward. Remove any staples holding the damaged screen to the inner wood frame by using a staple remover. Grip the staple within the prongs of the staple remover, squeeze and pull out the staple. Remove and save the damaged screen.

5. Lay the new screen onto a flat surface. Put the old screen on top. Cut around the old screen with wire cutters or utility scissors. Discard the damaged screen or save for future screen patches.

6. Align the top edge of the screen mesh over the top of the inner frame. Screen material should hang over the edge (the amount will depend on the size of your cut screen). Apply a clamp on each corner and in the center to secure. Stretch the screen down over the bottom edge of the frame until tight. Apply clamps on each corner and center.

7. Staple a wood staple at 1-inch intervals across the top of the screen onto the top edge of the wood frame. Remove clamps. Repeat for bottom edge.

8. Stretch the right side of the screen over the right edge. Clamp on each corner and center. Repeat for the left edge, pulling the screen tight. Clamp on each corner and center. Use the staple gun to insert staples 1-inch apart across the right and left sides. Remove clamps.

9. Trim any excess screen so it is even with the back of the frame. Staple the molding over the screen into the frame.

Tags: corner center, each corner, each corner center, damaged screen, Screen material, wood frame, bottom edge

Keep Hornets & Wasps Away

Enjoy your summer outdoors with natural wasp and hornet repellents.

Wasps and hornets are bothersome, yet necessary, insects. But even if they are an important part of our ecosystem, nothing is quite as annoying as hornets and wasps flying around your yard while you're trying to enjoy a day outside. In addition, these insects may pose a health risk---hornet and wasp stings can hurt quite badly, and some people are allergic to these stings. If you need to rid your garden of hornets and wasps, choose an eco-friendly method rather than using a commercial toxic insecticide. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Repellent Spray

1. Fill a clean, empty spray bottle with ½ oz. citronella oil, 1/8 oz. pennyroyal oil, ¼ oz. lavender oil, 1/8 oz. tea tree oil and 1/8 oz. jojoba oil. These essential oils can be purchased at most health food stores or pharmacies.

2. Shake the bottle well to thoroughly combine the ingredients.

3. Spray the mixture around the yard, on outdoor furniture, and even on clothing to deter hornets and wasps.

Hornet and Wasp Trap

4. Thoroughly rinse out an empty 2-liter soda bottle with plain water.

5. Cut the top off of the bottle. Use a sharp knife and make the cut carefully at the point where the sides of the bottle begin to even out with the width of the bottle. On most 2-liter soda bottles, this point is just above the label.

6. Place bait in the bottom of the bottle. Beer, sugary soda, fruit juice, and wine are some examples of good wasp and hornet bait. Place about 2 inches of bait into the bottom of the bottle.

7. Situate the top part of the bottle that you cut off upside down into the bottom part of the bottle (without the cap). Make sure the two pieces fit snugly with one another. Apply a few pieces of duct tape along the edges if the pieces are not snug.

8. Place the trap in places you've seen wasps. The idea is for the wasps and hornets to fly down into the funnel of the trap to get to the bait and drown before they can get out.

9. Empty the trap and refill it with new bait every few days, or as you begin to see dead insects in the bottle. Place the trap in a large bucket of water for about 30 minutes before emptying it to make sure all the wasps and hornets are dead before you clean it out.

Tags: hornets wasps, 2-liter soda, bottle with, bottom bottle, down into

Gloves To Prevent Scratching In Toddlers

Sometimes trimming your child's nails to prevent scratching isn't enough.

Very few things can frustrate a parent like a toddler constantly scratching herself. Toddlers and young children affected by chickenpox, rashes or itchy bug bites cannot help but scratch. As parents, we know the importance of preventing scratching to allow for healing. Using gloves to prevent scratching in toddlers will become an important tool in the healing process. Finding gloves or other covers that the toddler will agree to wear remains the biggest challenge we face.

Mittens

Some parents use big, puffy mittens that feature a nylon shell on the outside. The combination of the nylon shell along with the fiber fill inside of the mittens makes scratching nearly impossible. At times, parents deem it necessary to tape the cuffs of the gloves tightly around the toddler's wrist so he cannot pull them off. If you are using tape, use caution to ensure that blood circulation does not get cut off.

Tube Socks

Sliding tube socks over the hands and up the arms can work effectively to help prevent your toddler from scratching in her sleep. Sometimes the weave in tube socks does not prevent scratching very well, so keeping your toddler's nails trimmed short becomes essential.

Cotton Gloves

Cotton gloves work to prevent scratching by your toddler, especially at night when she may scratch unconsciously. To encourage their use, draw silly faces on each finger. Allow your child to help you choose the gloves based on her favorite fairytale princess or superhero character. When the child participates, she will proudly wear the gloves and not even realize the reason she must wear them.

Coflex Vet Wrap

Coflex vet wrap, a self-sticking gauze sold at most pet supply stores, works like an ace bandage. Since no pins or clips are required to hold it in place, Coflex remains a safe choice when used on toddlers and wrapped around their hands before bedtime. Coflex, available in many colors that toddlers may find fun, includes self-stick features that make difficult for toddlers to remove themselves. Those with allergies to latex cannot use these products.

Tags: prevent scratching, your toddler, nylon shell, tube socks, your child

Does Clorox Bleach Kill Lice On Bedding

Any parent with a young child in preschool or elementary school has to worry about head lice infestations. Because elementary school children are in a group setting all day, it is very easy for lice to spread from one person to the next. As common and frustrating as these infestations may be, treating head lice in the home can be performed with simple household products. Does this Spark an idea?

Facts

Head lice are parasites that attach themselves to the human head, neck, eyelashes and eyebrows and feed on minute amounts of human blood. Lice go through a basic life cycle. Female lice lay their eggs, also known as nits; the egg hatches into a nymph eight to nine days later, which then becomes a full grown louse in nine to twelve days. The female lice lay up to six eggs a day and do so at the base of the hair follicles, no more than a quarter inch up the hair shaft. Lice survive on human blood and will die in 24 to 48 hours if no longer able to feed.

Identification

Head lice are hard to see, so parents should play close attention for the following symptoms: a feeling of movement on the head, itching, scratching of the scalp and sores resulting from excessive scratching. An examination of the scalp may reveal something that looks like dandruff, but in children with darker hair lice are actually harder to spot.

Considerations

Although lice prefer to remain on a human head for feeding purposes, they will inevitably end up on brushes, combs, sheets, bedding, carpets and car upholstery. Consequently, as important as it is to treat the child, it is also vital to treat the home to contain spreading and re-contamination.

Treatment

Bleach is actually not necessary for killing head lice. Because lice are so dependent on humans, once they are removed from the host they are easy to kill. Soak brushes and combs in rubbing alcohol for at least and hour or simply dispose of them in the trash. Sheets should be washed on the hottest cycle and then dried fully on the highest heat setting in the dryer for at least twenty minutes. For pillows, blankets and comforters, a hot spin in the dryer for at least thirty minutes will kill the lice. If there is bedding that cannot withstand the heat, place it in a sealed plastic bag for at least two weeks. Although nymphs and adult head lice cannot survive without a human host for more than 48 hours, there may still be eggs waiting to hatch. Finally, carpets, upholstered furniture and car upholstery should all be thoroughly vacuumed.

Prevention

Head lice infestations can be rampant and difficult to get under control. Teach young children to avoid touching heads with other children at school. They should also avoid sharing brushes, hats and clothes. Although lice cannot jump or fly, they are great clingers and can move easily from one person to the next using their claws.

Tags: Although lice, brushes combs, dryer least, elementary school, from person, from person next, head lice

Fix Curtains That Are Too Short

Curtains that are too short can take away from the appearance of the window. When buying curtains it is always better to choose to go with more length rather than not enough length for curtains. In some cases, curtains from an old residence must be used in a new home. Finding ways to add length to fix curtains is not impossible and you might end up with a different look that you really like. Before you head to the department store to purchase longer curtains, consider these ways to add length to existing curtains. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Lower the curtain rods when possible to lengthen curtains without the need to add any fabric to the curtains. Add a valance to add more height or to cover a gap between the curtain rod and window frame.

2. Pull the curtains to the side and use a tieback. This will work when curtains can remain in that position and not be released.

3. Remove the hem and gain some extra material. Hem the curtains with a more flattering length.

4. Add material to the bottom of the curtains in a color that will complement the curtain and the existing decor.

5. Add trim to the bottom of the curtain that matches drapes or tiebacks.

6. Add length to the top of the curtain with more fabric. Remove the existing stitching if it is a rod pocket. Sew fabric to the top and create a rod pocket using the new fabric. This new material can be the same as the curtains or a contrasting color and even a different fabric.

Tags: with more, length curtains, ways length

Identify Insect Bites By Pictures

If you've got a book on bug bites, use that to help diagnose; otherwise you can try online.

If you've got an itchy or swollen insect bite, chances are you are itching to get rid of it as soon as possible. Identifying the bite can help diagnose remedy it, or at least give you peace of mind about the severity of the bite. By using pictures, be they from a bug book or online source, you can easily identify a bug bite to ensure that you take proper care of it and don't require medical attention.

Instructions

1. Check out the actual bite itself, and see if there are one or two holes. If it is two holes, you may want to focus on photos of spider bites, as these typically leave two tiny holes, whereas one hole can indicate another kind of bug. Spider bites can also leave one hole behind, instead of two, so you may still be dealing with a spider culprit even if you only see one hole at the bite area.

2. Look at the coloration of skin around the bite area. It may, for example, be red, white or even purple. Compare it to pictures from your book or online to find a few that match the coloration of skin around the bite.

3. Check out the swelling of your bite as well, and use that in hand with the coloration of the area to narrow down your results using the pictures you have selected. For example, you may have a photo with similar coloring, but your bite is much more swollen, so look to the photo that has both the swelling and coloration you have.

4. Research the bugs that have made the bites in the photos you found that match your bite. Find out what regions they reside in and figure out whether, depending on areas you have visited, you could have been exposed to one of them. Chances are you will find one and that is probably the culprit.

Tags: your bite, around bite, bite area, book online, coloration skin, coloration skin around

Clean A Fish Tank

When cleaning your fish tank, don't use soaps or detergents, as they could be harmful to aquatic and plant life.

Clean a Fish Tank. A crystal-clear tropical fish tank with colorful fishes darting around is a delight to behold. Keeping a tropical fish tank clean and looking good is not a difficult task. Not only will this add to the beauty of one's home, but it will also help promote happy and healthy fish. Follow these steps to find out how. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Unplug all electrical appliances, like the filter, aeration, lights or water heater, that are connected to the fish tank.

2. Remove the hood or top fixture and wipe down with clean water and paper towels.

3. Scoop enough water from the fish tank with a cup or bowl into a separate holding container to temporarily house fish.

4. Gently transfer fish to the holding container using a fish net.

5. Scrub the inside tank walls with an algae scraper or pad.

6. Remove rocks, artificial plants or any decorations that are noticeably dirty. Rinse well in running tap water and let air dry.

7. Using a siphon, clean the gravel and vacuum away debris at the bottom of the tank. When siphoning, remove up to 25 percent of the water, depending on how dirty the water is.

8. Remove soiled filter media and discard in a garbage bag. Remove the filter unit and rinse off with clean water.

9. Use a bucket and fill up the tank with clean tap water.

10. Add chlorine or chloramine remover which is available from any major pet store. This will remove chemicals harmful to fish that are found in tap water.

11. Replace rocks, artificial plants and decorations in the tank. Plug back in all electrical appliances.

12. Replace filter and filter media. Turn on filter and allow to run for an hour or so. This will reduce stress to the fish and normalize the water temperature.

13. Wipe down the outside of tank with clean water and paper towels.

Tags: fish tank, clean water, tank with, with clean, with clean water, artificial plants, artificial plants decorations

Plant Citronella Grass

Pest management experts at North Carolina University's Extension Service claim that citronella grass is one of a number of plants that are "very effective keeping away mosquitoes." But, wait. Before you run out and purchase a truckload of the stuff, Richard Jauron, horticulturist with Iowa State University Extension Service says that claim is "hogwash." He says that in order for these plants to release their natural citronella, which is used in pest repellents, the leaves must be crushed, as they won't repel anything sitting in a plot of dirt or a pot. Whichever claim you choose to believe, plant citronella grass for an attractive ornamental grass, if nothing else. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Choose an area in full sun in which to plant the citronella. Since the plant is hardy to the warmer zones - 10 and 11 on the U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zone Map - and requires copious amounts of water, site it near a faucet if you don't have inground sprinklers.

2. Amend the soil with 2 inches of aged compost, blended into the top 6 inches of soil.

3. Dig a hole that's the same depth as the nursery pot in which the citronella grass is growing and three times its diameter. A wide hole makes it easier for the roots to penetrate the soil.

4. Remove the citronella grass from the pot and gently shake the roots to remove loose potting soil. Place the roots into the hole, fill it and press down around the base of the plant.

5. Water the citronella grass slowly so that the soil is moist to a depth of 10 inches.

Tags: citronella grass, Extension Service, plant citronella, says that, University Extension, University Extension Service

Write A Research Methodology

Write a Research Methodology

Whether or not your research project yielded breakthrough results or insights, you can still write a technically strong paper. The key to writing a high-quality paper is to be thorough, yet concise, and to include all of the most important sections, including the methodology. The methodology is the section of the paper in which you describe the goals of the experiment and the methods by which you hope to achieve those goals. Make sure you include everything that belongs in this section while omitting everything that does not.

Instructions

1. Write a very brief introduction to the methodology section as a whole. The introduction should state the goals of the research experiment (or restate them briefly if they've been covered in a previous section), and should suggest any distinct challenges that may stand in the way of achieving these goals. This general introduction should ideally be a single paragraph and it should have its own heading.

2. Write a summary of your research methodology. Again, this section should be relatively brief, but it can be longer than the introduction. The summary should quickly cover all of the main components of the methods you've used to conduct your research, omitting all of the lesser details. As you write, keep in mind that the purpose of this summary is to inform readers who do not read the extended version of the methodology, which you will write next. This section should also have its own heading.

3. Begin the extended methodology under a new heading. The first part of the extended methodology should address your data-collection methods. This section should be thorough, although not overly wordy, and it should describe in exact terms all of the methods you used to achieve your research goals through data collection. You may include several subheadings within this section, such as materials, participants, research duration and step-by-step procedures.

4. Continue the extended methodology by writing the data-analysis section. Just as in the data-collection section, these paragraphs should cover every detail of the system you use to draw meaningful conclusions from the data you've collected. Subheadings may also be appropriate for this section, but the types of subheadings you use depend entirely on the subject matter of the research.

5. Proofread and edit your work. Be sure to indicate the methodology as its own section within the table of contents for your research paper.

Tags: your research, section should, extended methodology, methodology section, everything that, have heading

Girly Things To Do In London

If you want a place where you can let your hair down and embrace what it means to be a girl, London is a great place to start. A fashion center of the world, London is also home to glamorous clubs, noted shopping, spas, restaurants and theaters. What more could a girl want?

Settle In

London is a common destination for bachelorette parties and ladies nights out (or hen parties, as they are known locally). Many hotels offer packages for visitors looking to spend some time with the girls, including snacks and drinks. A luxury hotel or a charming bed and breakfast are perfect bases of operations for your girl's time out and about in London. Once you're all settled in, try something wild. In London, you can let your inner bad girl out to play at Rock n Roll Pole, where you can learn the art of the strip tease and the pole dance. Girls with an inner cheerleader may prefer the Cheerleader Experience, where you and a group of friends will learn and perform a basic routine over an hour and a half. Practice pom poms are yours to keep, and the best performer gets a bottle of bubbly to celebrate.

Clothes and More Clothes

In a city like London, it's easy to spend an entire day devoted just to clothes. Start your day at the Fashion and Textile Museum and take in exhibits on the history of clothes, how fabrics are created and collections of famous designers. Kensington Palace features an exhibit with displays dedicated to the fashion of Princess Diana, and the Museum of London has an ongoing Dress and Fashion exhibition. Of course, all the displays are just a warm up for the real deal, which is shopping in boutiques in London's many fashionable shopping areas, including Piccadilly, Mayfair and Knightsbridge.

Spas

There's no better way to end a girl-centric day than with spa treatment. Treat yourself (and your friends, if you like) to wraps, mud, soaks, massage, and other pampering treatment. London is home to innumerable spas, many of them located in London's finer hotels, but one excellent choice for celebrities and everyday girls alike is Sanctuary Spa in Covent Garden. From manicures and pedicures to massage and exfoliation, Sanctuary specializes in using ancient techniques in a modern, soothing setting.

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Garlic Pepper Tea As An Insect Repellent

Peppers repel insects from your plants

Chamomile tea sounds soothing, while orange zest sounds energizing. Garlic pepper tea is nothing you'd want to drink and insects feel the same way. It protects your plants from problem insects without exposing them to synthetic chemicals. Does this Spark an idea?

Garlic Pepper Tea

Easily made at home, garlic pepper tea is a natural insect repellent. Garlic oil drives insects away with its scent, while peppers get rid of them with a compound called capsaicin. When you eat spicy food, capsaicin makes your lips burn. It also burns insects on contact. Peel two garlic bulbs and put them in a blender. Add two whole hot peppers, such as habanera or cayenne. Pour in 2 cups water and blend the ingredients until the garlic and peppers are as liquefied as possible. Strain the solids, and then pour the liquid into a gallon container. Fill the container with water and mix thoroughly

Application

Pour ¼ cup of the solution into a gallon drum attached to a sprayer, and then add water until the container is full. Lightly coat the leaves and stems of plants you wish to protect from insects. In normal weather, apply the spray once a week. In hot weather, avoid stressing plants by only spraying garlic pepper tea every 10 days. If your area receives a lot of rain, spray every four days to replace any of the repellent that is washed away.

Drawbacks

Garlic pepper tea offers advantages as an insect repellent. You don't expose your family or the environment to potentially toxic chemicals found in commercial repellents. There are drawbacks, however. The tea is a broad spectrum repellent, so it drives away beneficial insects like bees and other pollinators, as well as the problem insects. It loses potency in time. After two months, discard any you have left over and make a fresh batch.

Considerations

When applying garlic pepper tea to plants, keep it away from children, pets and your own bare skin. The garlic part won't bother you apart from the odor, but the pepper oil burn skin or eyes on direct contact. Because of the potential for skin and eye irritation, garlic pepper tea should only be used outdoors, rather than in confined spaces like homes or greenhouses.

Tags: garlic pepper, insect repellent, into gallon, problem insects, your plants