Tools and Supplies to use citrus peels to repel wood ants | ||||
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1 | Citrus peels (lemon, orange, grapefruit, etc.) | |||
2 | Cutting board | |||
3 | Knife | |||
4 | Blender or food processor | |||
5 | Spray bottle | |||
6 | Strainer or cheesecloth (optional) | |||
7 | Funnel (optional) |
Wood ants can be a nuisance when they invade your home or garden. These ants are attracted to wood and can cause damage to wooden structures. One way to repel wood ants is by using citrus peels. Citrus peels contain natural oils that wood ants find repulsive. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to use citrus peels to repel wood ants.
Step 1: Collect Citrus Peels
The first step is to collect citrus peels. You can use peels from oranges, lemons, limes, or grapefruits. It is best to use fresh peels as they contain more oils. Collect enough peels to cover the areas where wood ants are present.
Step 2: Dry the Peels
Once you have collected the peels, spread them out on a flat surface to dry. You can leave them in a sunny spot or use a dehydrator to speed up the process. It is important to make sure the peels are completely dry before using them.
Step 3: Grind the Peels
After the peels are dry, grind them into small pieces using a food processor or a mortar and pestle. The smaller the pieces, the more oils will be released.
Step 4: Spread the Peels
The next step is to spread the ground peels in areas where wood ants are present. You can sprinkle them around the perimeter of your home or garden, or in areas where wood ants have been seen. Make sure to spread a thick layer of the peels.
Step 5: Refresh the Peels
Citrus peels lose their effectiveness over time. You should refresh the peels every few weeks to ensure they continue to repel wood ants. You can replace the old peels with fresh ones or add more to the existing layer.
In conclusion, using citrus peels to repel wood ants is a natural and effective solution. By following these simple steps, you can keep wood ants at bay without using harmful chemicals. Remember to collect fresh peels, dry them, grind them, spread them, and refresh them regularly.