Natural Fire Ant and Cat Repellents: Orange and Lemon Peels

Question

Betty asks how to get rid of fire ants naturally and keep cats out of flower beds.

Answer (Charlotte)

Fire Ants

• Chopped orange peels broadcast over yard. Orange oil = active ingredient in commercial fire ant baits.
• For large areas: grind peels of 2 oranges + 3–4 lemons in food chopper. Mix with 1 container Epsom salts in gallon jar. Shake well, let sit overnight, shake again. Scatter over area.
• Spring swarm: buy bag of oranges, involve kids/grandkids to eat fruit, scatter peels yearly ritual.

Cats

• Chopped lemon peels (dime-sized) scattered in flower beds and containers. Refresh every month or two.
• Wash area with soapy water first, then apply peels.
• Grapefruit peels repel dogs.

Why It Works

Essential oils in citrus peels repel pests naturally. No chemicals, safe for pets, kids, environment.