Tick repellent and outdoor/garden safety

[Andrea]

LadyB,
I posted this on your FB Garden page, but don't know how often you check in here or there.

I have a few questions about being safe outside in tick & Lyme world. Hope this will be helpful for many of us.

- How often do spray yourself with the geranium repellent? Once before going out, respray if sweating, other? Do you pat a bit on your face, avoiding eyes?
- A recent t.v. news segment on Lyme safety advised t...o wear dark clothing because ticks are attracted to light colors. Up till then, most people have probably heard the opposite. What say you?
- How do you dress to garden? Completely covered or can you get away with short sleeves, for example, if sprayed with geranium repellent?

Today was my first foray into the garden in several years, since the severe health struggle with tick borne infections and complications began. I would've said it was playing with fire, but felt pretty fearless and determined with the repellent. ...In any case, tackling the yard, however minimally, is necessary for getting the house on the market.

Thanks very much!! If this info is available elsewhere, point us in the right direction so that you don't have to repeat.

Andrea

[lenasquest]

Hi Lady B and Andrea,
What great timing! I'm in tick-thicket Maine, and I have catnip and geranium oils, some vodka and distilled water and a spray bottle. The only thing I'm lacking is the recipe for making that spray. I know someone posted it here but I'm not finding it.

Be well and thanks for any help.
Léna

[Andrea]

Hi Lena,

Welcome to the thread! I'm in tick-haven NJ.

LadyB's Tick Repellent Recipe
Combine in a spray bottle:
1 teaspoon geranium essential oil
1 teaspoon vodka
8 oz. water

Do not spray on cats as they can't handle essential oils.

Good luck and be safe out there!
Andrea

[lenasquest]

Hi Andrea,
Thanks so much! I'll make up some in the morning!
I haven't seen any ticks, but the deer flies and mosquitoes are pretty persistent and I'm understandably paranoid.

Be well,
Léna