You can make deer repellent with peppermint oil by combining it with other ingredients like cayenne pepper, kelp, and liquid soap to create a spray.
Here's a recipe for a homemade deer repellent using peppermint oil:
Homemade Deer Repellent Recipe
This recipe combines peppermint oil with other ingredients that deer find unpleasant.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon kelp (liquid or powdered)
- 1 tablespoon liquid hand soap (e.g., dish soap)
- 1 teaspoon peppermint oil
- 1 pint warm water
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: Mix all the ingredients thoroughly in a container.
- Transfer to Sprayer: Pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
- Application: Spray liberally on and around plants that you want to protect from deer. Reapply after rain or every few weeks as needed.
Important Considerations:
- Concentration: The strength of the repellent can be adjusted by altering the amount of peppermint oil. Start with the recommended amount and increase as needed if deer persist.
- Application: Focus on spraying the perimeter of your garden or the plants most vulnerable to deer. Avoid spraying directly on edible parts of plants.
- Weather: Rain will wash away the repellent, so reapplication is necessary.
- Safety: While these ingredients are generally safe, avoid getting the spray in your eyes or mouth. Wash your hands after application. Keep away from children.
- Effectiveness: Homemade repellents may not be as effective as commercial products for all deer populations or situations. Monitor your plants and adjust the recipe or application as needed.