Author: smithcreekfarmstead

Let’s dive into two recipes: one for adults that packs a strong herbal punch, and one that’s gentle enough for the little ones 2+.

🧴 Bug Off, Y’all! – DIY Bug Spray for Adults

This blend uses essential oils known for their bug-repelling powers. It’s strong, long-lasting, and smells herbaceous and fresh—not like chemicals in a can.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup witch hazel (alcohol-free)

• ½ cup distilled water

• 10 drops citronella essential oil

• 10 drops patchouli essential oil

• 10 drops lavender essential oil

• 5 drops tea tree oil

• 5 drops cedarwood essential oil

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a 4 oz spray bottle (amber glass or PET plastic is best).

2. Shake well before each use.

3. Spray on exposed skin and clothing, avoiding eyes and mouth.

Upcycle Tip: If you’ve used our magnesium spray, don’t toss that bottle—give it a second life as your new bug spray bottle. It’s the perfect upcycle!

🌿 Proven Essential Oil Blends That Keep Bugs Away

If you’re looking to switch it up or use what you’ve already got in your stash, these five blends are a few more traditional herbal alternatives. Mix up one of these combos in the same base recipe (½ cup witch hazel + ½ cup water) and use about 30-40 total drops of essential oils per 4 oz spray bottle.

1. Classic Powerhouse Blend

• 10 drops citronella

• 10 drops lemon eucalyptus

• 10 drops lavender

2. Deep Woods Protection

• 10 drops cedarwood

• 10 drops patchouli

• 10 drops clove

3. Sweet & Strong

• 10 drops geranium

• 10 drops lavender

• 10 drops peppermint

4. Bright & Defensive

• 10 drops lemongrass

• 10 drops tea tree

• 10 drops lemon eucalyptus

5. Spicy & Long-Lasting

• 10 drops clove

• 10 drops cinnamon leaf

• 10 drops cedarwood

🧸 Lil’ Bug Bouncer – Kid-Safe Bug Spray

Kids’ skin is more sensitive, so this gentle version skips the stronger oils while still keeping bugs at bay.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup witch hazel (alcohol-free)

• ½ cup distilled water

• 10 drops lavender essential oil

• 8 drops geranium essential oil

• 6 drops lemon balm essential oil (or use a cooled lemon balm tea as your water base)

• 4 drops chamomile essential oil (optional but soothing!)

Instructions:

1. Add ingredients to a 4 oz spray bottle.

2. Shake well before each use.

3. Apply to clothing or skin (avoid face and hands with young kids).

Safe for kiddos 2 and up. For babies under 2, use gentle hydrosols (like lavender or chamomile) sprayed on clothes, blankets, or stroller canopies instead of direct skin application.

Want learn more about specific essential oils best for DIY bug spray? Check out the chart below created by https://oneessentialcommunity.com/

🌱 Why Go Natural?

Natural bug sprays are:

• Free from harsh chemicals

• Gentle on skin

• Customizable in scent and strength

• Budget-friendly and sustainable

• Easy to make at home with minimal tools

Whether you’re heading to the garden, camping in the woods, or just sipping sweet tea on the porch, these natural bug sprays help keep your skin bite-free—and smelling good while you’re at it.

✨ Final Notes:

• Always patch test any new product on a small area of skin.

• Store your spray in a cool, dark place and shake before each use.

• Essential oils are powerful—use caution around pregnant women, infants, and those with sensitivities.

Hope you enjoy!

-Smith Creek Farmstead Family

⚠️ Disclaimer:

This content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before using essential oils, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are using this spray on young children. Every body is different, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another.

This is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice.  Products mentioned in this article have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products and information on this page are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This website is not a substitute for professional care.  Always consult your medical doctor regarding your medical care. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

There’s nothing quite like the peeping of day-old chicks to make your heart skip a beat. Whether you’re starting your first backyard flock or adding to your homestead, those tiny balls of fluff need special care in their early days to grow into healthy, happy hens (or roos!). Here’s a simple guide to raising your chicks from day one until they’re ready to join the rest of the flock.

🐣 Bringing Home Day-Old Chicks: What You’ll Need

Before your chicks arrive, make sure you’ve got their brooder set up and ready to go. A brooder is a safe, warm space that mimics the comfort of a mother hen.

• Bedding: Use pine shavings (avoid cedar). Paper towels can be laid over bedding for the first few days to help them find their food.

• Heat source: A heat lamp or brooder plate to keep the temperature around 95°F (35°C) the first week.

• Chick Starter Feed: Go with a medicated or non-medicated chick starter, depending on your preference.

🌡️ Warmth is Everything (Literally)

Chicks can’t regulate their body temp when they’re first born, so they rely on you to keep things cozy.

Temperature Guide by Week:

• Week 1: 95°F

• Week 2: 90°F

• Week 3: 85°F

• Week 4: 80°F

• Week 5: 75°F

• Week 6: 70°F

Keep an eye on your chicks. If they’re huddled together under the lamp, they’re cold. If they’re as far away from the heat as possible, they’re too hot. Spread out and peeping contently? You’re golden.

🥣 Feeding and Watering Tips

Use a chick starter feed with 18-20% protein for the first 6-8 weeks. Always provide fresh water, and for the first couple of days, add an electrolyte booster to their water to give them an energy kick after hatching stress. Read the packet or bottle for proper dosing.

Tip: Dip their beaks in the water dish when you first place them in the brooder so they learn to drink.

💩 Keep It Clean

Chicks are messy, and a dirty brooder can lead to illness. Change bedding regularly and wipe down feeders and waterers daily. Watch for pasty butt (yep, it’s a thing)—a blockage of poop on their backside. Gently clean it with warm water if you see it. One thing we learned ages ago was after cleaning dot their bottom with a cotton swab covered in olive oil and it does exceptionally well at preventing it from reoccurring.

🐥 Socializing and Handling

Handle your chicks gently and often to get them used to people. This helps them grow into friendly, manageable birds. Just don’t overstimulate them—short and sweet is best in the early days.

🏡 When Can They Join the Flock?

Chicks can usually join the rest of your flock at 6-8 weeks old, once they’re fully feathered and the weather is mild (above 65°F consistently).

Before integrating:

• Let them see the older hens through a fence for a week or so.

• Watch for signs of aggression.

• Add distractions (extra feeders, treats) to prevent bullying.

It’s a slow introduction—think of it like chicken dating. A little distance and curiosity before they go steady.

Final Thoughts:

Raising chicks is one of the sweetest parts of farm life. It’s a little work, a lot of love, and totally worth it when you see those fluffballs turn into proud, clucking hens. Follow their cues, keep them warm and fed, and you’ll be well on your way to a thriving flock.

Got more questions or want to see our little chicks in action? Follow along on TikTok/Youtube/Facebook @Smithcreekfarmstead for real-time updates, farm life tips, and behind-the-scenes cuteness from our flock to yours.

Here’s to being Chicken Tenders!

-Smith Creek Farmstead Family