Easy Homemade Bug Repelling Candle

Zest it Up
by Zest it Up
5 Materials
$5
20 Minutes
Easy
I don’t know about you but I think one of my favorite parts about summer (and living in the north county where we have warm nights) is eating dinner outside. Al fresco dining makes me slow down and not only enjoy my meal and scenery a bit more, but I feel less rushed to jump up and clean the kitchen after dinner and actually enjoy conversation. I guess it’s that out of sight out of mind mentality. But with that there is always a flip side that can bug you, and in this case I really do mean bug. Pesky mosquitoes can easily ruin your ambiance, so why not add to the ambiance but also add some functionality? Plus these candles are super easy to make and actually really pretty, would make for a great wedding centerpiece in an outdoor reception.

Photo Cred: Anya McInroy
Supplies:
  • plant clipping (see list above)
  • small mason jars
  • tea light candles
  • essential oils
  • water
All these plants can be planted by your front door, on a patio or even by a window sill for some quick clippings. I happen to have a few of these plants growing and took a stab….here are some specific plants I used and the bugs I was trying to repel...
  • Mint, Rosemary, lemon thyme – repels mosquitos
  • Bay Leaves- repels flies
  • Lavender- repels moths, fleas, mosquitos
  • Basil- repels flies and mosquitos
Fill your jars about 1/2 way with water and add your plant clipping combos based on what you are wanting to repel…
You can even add a few drops of essential oils to really up the functionality, plus it smells amazing!
Enjoy the outdoors, pest free!
xo
Sam


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Zest it Up
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Frequently asked questions
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  • Cindymamabear Cindymamabear on Jun 25, 2019

    Is the candle for ambiance or needed to help in the bug repel? Mid-day picnic need the fly repellent but not the lighting.

  • Cathy Cathy on Jul 02, 2019

    Can I use peppermint plant?

  • Lori Sumner Lori Sumner on Jul 10, 2019

    Is there a way to make this into a spray? Also is there a plant and or oil to get rid of ticks? Thank you.

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