Thwarting mosquitos

We’ve discovered countless, fascinating insects on our new farm.

Some familiar.

Some brilliantly unfamiliar.

Some that are common but seen through new eyes.

We’ve also discovered mosquitos, which we’d rather not come across more than we have to.

So we’ve concocted some homemade, all-natural bug spray.

The simple recipe offers a dulcet smell, compared to the chemical-laden store-bought ones.

Combine the following in a small spray bottle:

2 oz. witch hazel

2 oz. water

30 drops of any combination you’d like of these essential oils: lavender, cedar, cinnamon, eucalyptus, lemon grass, peppermint, or cloves.

If you have fresh lavender, simply dry the flowers then steep a handful in a pint of boiling water for an hour or more. Sieve, allow to cool, combine with witch hazel and water, and store in fridge when not in use.

Of course, you can also cultivate fresh lavender (along with citronella grass, marigolds, and chrysanthemums) in the garden or yard to help keep the bugs at bay. Or group small bouquets of cut or dried lavender by your doors and windows to keep mosquitos out of your home. In closets and dresser drawers, dried lavender repels moths and keeps your clothes smelling fresh. A sachet of dried lavender under your pillow helps you relax and enjoy restful sleep.

For the welcomed insects you discover with your children this summer, feel free to use this insect ID page and start your family’s own Backyard Book. For all the unwanted insects, I hope our recipe helps repel them.

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He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man.
Psalm 104:14