Gelled Aromatherapy

The heat can be high and it can seem like our plants are withering away (especially in the midst of a drought) and not producing flowers as they ought to but just because summer will be winding down, doesn’t mean we should stop fighting for them. Or ourselves for that matter. Pests plaque us both! For or green friends it can be Japanese beetles, gypsy worms, aphids and all other sorts of dangerous pests. For us its the dreaded mosquito, constantly on the look out for blood and not caring if the pass on West Nile or even worse malaria.

Essential oils can be of extreme benefit in both of these common situation but their use continues to be way underutilized. A new carrier medium might be the answer. Popular when the heat is high and plants, such as roses are just starting out, a product used to retain moisture in plants can be used a whole new, diffuser like, way. These gel crystals are hard out of the container but once water is added and/or they are allowed to soak, they expand into a gelatinous material. It is actually sort of fun to play with. It has also been used in the florist industry for unique floral arrangements. You can use these gel crystals to your advantage by soaking them in either hydrosals or for extra vavoom essential oil mixed in water. As long as you’re not touching the crystals or applying it to your skin, you can use higher concentrations to allow for a defusing of the essential oils properties.

Simply scoop out the amount you wish to use. Then add the essential oil of your choice... good ones include essential oil or neem, lavender and if you can stand it garlic. Allow the crystals to steep a while and then apply them either to the soil at the base of your plant or, if it is deep enough, to the water catcher at the bottom. Crawling pests such as caterpillars and icy slugs won’t be able to travel around the barrier. Flying insects will be kept at bay by the wafting essential oils due to evaporation. Even larger animals such as rabbits, cats, dogs, etc., can be kept at bay with these super infused crystals.

If you would like to swipe the benefit for yourself (why should your plants have all of the fun) you can take any size candle holder (such as for votive), glass bowls or even unglazed pottery and fill it to its brim with soaked gel crystals. Pack it down good and it

Go To Page: 1 2