It's frustrating to lift a garden bench and find it's become a bug hotel! Don't worry, you can reclaim your space with simple, natural strategies. The key is to make the area under your benches uninviting. Start by keeping it clean and dry. Regularly move the bench and sweep away leaves, webs, and debris where pests hide. Ensure proper drainage so moisture doesn't accumulate.
Next, create natural barriers. Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around the bench legs—it's harmless to pets but dehydrates insects. You can also place cedarwood blocks or chips underneath; many bugs dislike its scent. For a DIY repellent spray, mix 10-15 drops of peppermint, tea tree, or citrus essential oil with water and a spoonful of dish soap in a spray bottle. Apply this around the bench base weekly.
Make maintenance a habit. Seal any cracks or crevices in wooden benches where bugs could enter. Consider placing bench feet in shallow dishes of water as a simple moat barrier. By combining cleanliness, natural repellents, and consistent upkeep, you'll enjoy your garden seating without unwanted eight-legged or multi-legged guests.