LISTEN HERE:
Segment 1: Natural Mosquito Repellent
We’ve started hearing it again: it’s going to be a bad year for mosquitos! And the thing is, not everyone wants to go around doused in a chemical bug repellent and not everyone can deal with the smell. With that said, there are some natural alternatives that may work just as well, if used correctly. It’s not good enough just to plant these. You have to release the essential oils to make them work. Just roughly chopping and spreading on the lawn or patio should work. Here’s a list of some plants that will go in my garden this year, along with some warnings and ways to use them.
- Citronella
- A Florida A & M study debunked the myth that simply planting these repels mosquitos. You have to crush the leaves, release the essential oil and put it on your skin for it to work.
- Marigold
- Contains pyrethrum which is natures insecticide
- Used in organic insecticides
- Catnip
- It’s invasive in a garden bed. Consider using a pot.
- Often more effective than products containing DEET
- Cut the flower and boil in water
- Lemon Grass
- Plant in a pot because we are above zone 8
- Keep away from pregnant women and new moms
- Citronella Geranium
- Has a small amount of citronella oil in it
- Oil can be used to help remove scars
- Bee Balm
- Lemon Balm
- Is invasive so use a pot
- Lantana
- Lantana flower extract in coconut oil provides 94.5% protection from mosquitos for an average of 2 hours
- Mint
- Spreads like wildfire! Plant among rocks or in a pot
- Is toxic to mosquito larvae
- Can be used in tea as well
- Lavender
- Can be rubbed right on skin
- Beautiful purple flowers
- Rosemary
- Use on the grill with food. The smoke drives away mosquitos
- OR use 1 cup of dried rosemary to 1 quart of water and boil for 20-30 minutes
- Fennel
- Garlic
- It has to be crushed and who wants to smell like strong garlic???
- Basil
- Toxic to larvae
- Thai basil is the best with a slight cinnamon scent
- Thyme
- Sage
- Throw some in your fire
- Pitcher Plant
- Carnivorous plant that eats mosquitos among other things. Move over Venus Fly Trap!
- Put in a basket or pot on your porch
If you are interested in making your own essential oil bug repellent, you can try a recipe from The Organic Goat Lady!
Segments 2 & 3: Cool Paint Tools
Larry Schwartz from Wooster Brush Company is back to discuss some great painting accessories! Everyone knows about roller covers and brushes. But what about an extension pole? Or a Pelican Paint Bucket? These things will make your painting life a lot easier!
Segment 4: Dad Stories!
It’s Father’s Day weekend and we ALL have them; Dad Stories. Like the time Dad took Mom squirrel hunting but forgot to tell her she was going to have to hold the squirrel while he skinned it…..
We share our stories, as well as a great story from the manager of our Plainfield store, Bob, who’s dad found a creative way around New York City traffic. Pull up a seat and enjoy the laughs!