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Introduction
Onions aren't just a kitchen staple — they’re also a powerful, all-natural pest deterrent hiding in plain sight. Their strong aroma and sulfur-rich compounds make them effective at repelling many common garden pests such as aphids, spider mites, slugs, and even rabbits. Whether you’re a home gardener or simply trying to avoid chemical pesticides, using onions offers a sustainable, affordable, and surprisingly effective solution.
Ingredients
To make your own onion-based pest repellent, you'll need:
2 large onions (yellow or red)
4 cups of water
2 cloves of garlic (optional, for added potency)
1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional)
Spray bottle (clean and empty)
Strainer or cheesecloth
Instructions
Chop the Onions: Roughly dice the onions into small pieces. You don't need to peel them, as the skins contain useful oils too.
Simmer the Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped onions, garlic (if using), and water. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
Cool and Strain: Once the mixture has cooled completely, strain it using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl, removing all solids.
Add Optional Heat: Stir in the cayenne pepper if you're dealing with more persistent pests like deer or squirrels.
Transfer to Spray Bottle: Pour the liquid into a spray bottle for easy application.
Apply to Plants: Spray generously onto the leaves, stems, and surrounding soil of your plants. Focus on areas where pests tend to gather.
Serving and Storage Tips
Storage: Store your onion spray in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Shake well before each use, as ingredients may settle.
Application Frequency: Apply every 3–5 days, especially after heavy rain or watering.
Test First: Spray a small area of the plant first and wait 24 hours to ensure there's no adverse reaction.
Variations
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