Do Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Really Keep Garden Pests Away? Here’s What an Entomologist Says

Do Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Really Keep Garden Pests Away? Here’s What an Entomologist Says

Credit: Stopboxstudio / Getty ImagesKey PointsCrushed red pepper flakes may deter some pests, but are not a reliable solution for major infestations.Capsaicin in chili flakes can repel pests, but it degrades quickly and requires frequent reapplication.Proven pest management methods are more effective and safer for plants, pollinators, and people.If you’ve heard of the handy gardening hack of sprinkling chili around your flower beds to deter prob…