Question 1

Are snake repellents safe to use?

Accepted Answer

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Some snake repellents are risky to use around people and pets because they use the active ingredient in mothballs, naphthalene. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified naphthalene as a carcinogen that can cause damage to the liver, neurological issues, and cataracts.

The Colorado State University Extension suggests there’s not enough conclusive evidence of the effectiveness of snake repellents to recommend their use.

Question 2

What scents do mosquitoes hate?

Accepted Answer

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Some of the smells we love are, thankfully, pretty putrid for mosquitoes. A few essential oils that might have them swarming in the other direction include:

Lavender
Citronella
Eucalyptus
Cinnamon
Thyme

Be careful how and where you apply essential oils around pets and children, and top them off regularly so they stay effective.

Question 3

Do squash bugs come back every year?

Accepted Answer

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Squash bugs only see one generation per year, but that doesn’t mean they won’t return. These persistent pests overwinter in garden debris, under leaves, and in nearby structures, emerging in the spring ready to start the cycle again. Without proper cleanup and preventative measures, you can expect squash bugs to come back each growing season, especially if you’ve had issues with them in the past.

Question 4

What is the easiest way to get rid of spiders?

Accepted Answer

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The easiest method to get rid of spiders is using a spray. Mixing water with either vinegar or essential oils is a simple method that can be used over and over again. It may require spraying periodically to help get rid of and prevent spiders. You can choose to keep a spray bottle of the solution handy to use as needed.

Question 5

How can you tell how many mice you have?

Accepted Answer

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There is no exact science here, due to the nature of nests and how mice raise their young, but a good place to start is to inspect the droppings. A single mouse poops a lot, leaving around 50 droppings in a single day, likely near a primary food source. If you find only sporadic droppings, you likely have a small infestation. If you spot large mounds of droppings, you are dealing with a big problem.