Is Ginger Really An Effective Way To Naturally Repel Ants And Mosquitoes?

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Over the past few decades, a ton of research has been done about the negative effects of commercial pesticides. Pesticides may harm not only unwanted pests, but also humans, pets, and beneficial wildlife as well. They also pose a risk to the environment. Pesticide contamination has been found in water supplies and agricultural soils, and studies have shown that pesticides are responsible for decreasing the populations of birds and other pollinators. As a result of these findings, many gardeners may be looking for natural ways to get rid of ants and mosquitoes.  

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is often mentioned in gardening hack articles as a way to get rid of ants naturally, but is it really a scientifically proven method of effective pest control? According to research, ginger can effectively repel ants and mosquitoes — but only as an extract, essential oil, or ginger water spray. Growing ginger in your garden or even sprinkling ground ginger on your soil may not be enough.

Ginger has many health benefits to humans and plants, but is toxic to insects, making it the perfect natural insecticide. It has proven effective against ants, mosquitoes, cockroaches, ticks, leaf-cutting wasps, and armyworms. Active compounds found in ginger extract can attack an insect's respiratory and nervous systems and shrink their larvae, effectively diminishing their population.

Ginger is pest-resistant, which makes it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners. However, growing it won't keep pests away from nearby plants. Ginger's strong smell is part of what keeps pests away, and the smell is most pungent as an essential oil. Ginger essential oil, such as EVOKE OCCU Pure Ginger Oil ($8.49 for 4 fluid ounces), is a highly concentrated form of ginger extract. Add around 10 drops of ginger oil to every 3 ounces of water in a clean spray bottle like this JohnBee adjustable spray bottle. You can spray this mixture on plant leaves to protect them from ants, or use it to repel mosquitoes (avoid spraying fabrics as the oil could leave stains). 

Alternately, you can create ginger water from ginger roots. It's a great way to reuse scraps headed for the compost heap. Mince or crush raw ginger and add to a bucket of warm water. Let it steep for 24 hours, then strain out the large ginger bits. Pour the aromatic ginger water into a spray bottle and use both indoors and out as a natural pesticide. Although ginger is incredibly toxic to insects, it won't harm your pets. Ginger is one of the few essential oils considered safe for dogs, and raw ginger is safe for both dogs and cats to consume. As a bonus, ginger water also acts as a natural fertilizer, so you can use it to revolutionize your garden's health.