#Peppermint spray for mice and spiders how to#

Snakes also don't like pigs, cats or turkeys, either, so if you're thinking of backyard farming or acquiring new domestic animals, keep them in mind. Wild animals, such as raccoons and foxes, are snake predators, so don't get rid of raccoons or foxes if snakes are a bigger concern. Vinegar is said to keep snakes away naturally, too. You can also use oils, either dripped onto soil where snakes frequent or in bowls or Tupperware with holes in the lids choose clove oil, cinnamon oil and garlic oil. Snake-repellent plants, such as marigolds, allium, lemongrass, mother-in-law's tongue, garlic, wormwood, pink agapanthus, snakeroots, basil and yellow alder will all keep snakes away naturally. And if you can plant them out, too, you will find that snakes will steer clear of these areas. Using these as essential oils in areas that snakes frequent will help repel them. These include onions and garlic, lime, cloves and cinnamon. Snakes, like many other reptiles and, indeed, insects and mammals, including humans, have some scents that they really dislike. They also emit a strong smell that snakes detest, deterring them even when burrowing underground. Marigolds are very effective at keeping snakes away, thanks to their vigorous root system and their ability to release alpha-terthienyl – a phototoxin into the soil.

#Peppermint spray for mice and spiders how to#

And learn how to prune basil at the right time to prolong its life. Harvest individual leaves by picking them off, rather snipping several plants with scissors, as this will promote fresh, new growth. The soft and tasty leaves also scorch very easily so make sure your crop is positioned out of direct sun. It requires constant heat to grow and dislikes sitting in wet compost, where if left it will quickly rot.

You can grow basil from seed, indoors and out. Best grown from seed at regular intervals throughout spring and summer, this tender annual herb has a strong smell that we find inviting, yet snakes cannot stand.