Gardening with essential oils is not only a rewarding and enjoyable experience, but it's also a great way to incorporate natural solutions into your daily life. Many people choose to use essential oils in their garden instead of synthetic chemical options due to concerns about the impact of these chemicals on their health and the environment. Essential oils are natural and plant-based, and they contain powerful compounds that can help to repel pests, support plant growth, and even promote soil health. Additionally, many essential oils have pleasant scents that can be used to create a more enjoyable and calming outdoor environment. 

If you're new to gardening with essential oils, don't worry! This beginner's guide will give you everything you need to get started.

First, it's important to note that not all essential oils are created equal. Look for high-quality oils that are pure and free from synthetic ingredients. Young Living is a reputable brand that offers pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils that are great for gardening. Because of this, it's the only brand I use for my gardening, home, and personal needs. 

Choose essential oils based on your gardening needs. For example, peppermint oil is great for keeping pests away, while lavender oil can promote a relaxing atmosphere.

To use essential oils in your garden, you can add them to your soil by combining a few drops of oil with water and using a spray bottle to distribute it. Alternatively, you can mix the essential oils with carrier oils, such as coconut oil, and apply them to plant leaves. When mixing essential oils with carrier oils, use a ratio of 1-2 drops of essential oil per 1 tablespoon of carrier oil. Be sure to mix well and test a small area of your plant before applying to the entire plant to ensure it's safe for use.

1. Peppermint oil is useful in gardening because it repels insects and rodents. In addition, it has a cooling effect that can help to soothe any irritation caused by insect bites or stings. 

2. Lemon oil is a great option if you want to refresh and purify your gardening space. This oil also helps to remove sticky residue and leaves a fresh scent behind.

3. Lavender oil has a calming and relaxing effect that can create a peaceful atmosphere in your garden. In addition, lavender oil promotes healthy plant growth. 

4. Thyme oil is also a great option if you want to protect your plants from insects. This oil repels many types of insects and helps to promote healthy growth.

5. Eucalyptus is a versatile oil that can be used in many different ways. In gardening, it is useful because it repels insects and adds a fresh scent to the surrounding area.

Your garden will be more productive when you attract plenty of pollinators to it! Choose one or more essential oils from the following list to encourage natural pollinators. Simply apply to a cotton ball, hanging cloth strips, or string and place near your plants. 

To attract BEES:  orange, coriander, lemongrass, lavender, hyssop, marjoram, helichrysum, basil, sage, roman chamomile, rosemary, dill

To attract BUTTERFLIES:  lavender, peppermint, spearmint fennel, sage, helichrysum

To attract OTHER BENEFICIAL INSECTS: (such as ladybugs, overflies, lacewings, parasitic wasps)

12 drops lavender essential oil 

8 drops rosemary essential oil 

5 drops orange essential oil 

One of the best things about summer is fresh fruit and veggies. A great choice for cleaning your fresh produce is Young Living’s Thieves Fruit and Veggie Soak. Just put one capful (about 2 Tablespoons) in one gallon of clean water - I do this in my kitchen sink or in a big bowl. Let your produce soak for 1 - 2 minutes and rinse. My fruit and veggies tend to stay fresher longer when I clean them this way, whether they're fresh from my garden or if I bought them somewhere. 

In conclusion, gardening with essential oils is a wonderful way to enhance your gardening experience. With Young Living's pure essential oils, you can feel confident in creating a natural and healthy environment for your plants and garden. By following these tips and using high-quality oils and oil-infused products, you can create a healthy and relaxing environment for your plants and enjoy a more rewarding and enjoyable gardening experience.