Do Crab Apples Keep Spiders Away?

Spiders can be useful for controlling insects, but most homeowners don’t want webs and spiders crawling all over their houses. This has led to the popularity of many home remedies for repelling spiders including the use of crab apples. But do crab apples actually keep spiders away effectively? Let’s explore the facts.

What are Crab Apples?

Crab apples are a type of small, sour apple produced by flowering crabapple trees. They tend to be only around 1-2 inches wide. Unlike regular apples crab apples are generally not eaten raw due to their extreme tartness.

Crabapples have an astringent, bitter taste and hard texture. They are often used to make jellies, preserves, and vinegars. The trees are popular for ornamental landscaping due to their pretty spring blossoms and fall fruits.

Some common varieties of crab apples are Centennial, Dolgo, Donald Wyman, Red Baron, and Spring Snow. They come in a range of colors from red to yellow.

Using Crab Apples as a Spider Repellent

There are a few ways people attempt to use crab apples to repel spiders:

• Placing whole crab apples in corners, window sills, or other spots prone to spider webs.

• Crushing up crab apple fruits into a pulp and spreading it around as a homemade spray.

• Simmering crab apples into a concentrated liquid and using it as a deterrent.

• Pureeing crab apples to make candles or wax melts with an aromatic, spider-repelling scent.

The idea is that certain compounds in crab apples will deter spiders from spinning webs and lingering in treated areas. But let’s analyze the evidence on whether this DIY remedy really works.

Does Research Support Crab Apples as a Spider Repellent?

There has been limited scientific research specifically testing crab apples’ effects on spiders. However, some studies provide clues.

One analysis found that the essential oils from crab apple flowers do repel mosquitoes, so there may be insect-repelling properties.

Additional research found particular fatty acids in crab apples that deterred German cockroaches. But the study did not show a major impact on house spiders.

Other anecdotal experiences point to mixed results. Some homeowners report that placing crab apples around their houses led to fewer spider webs developing.

However, others noticed no difference in spider activity after trying crab apples. Theories on why crab apples may deter spiders include:

• Strong sour odor spiders dislike
• Natural fatty acids that repel or irritate spiders
• Alteration of moisture levels spiders need for web building

So while there are some scientific hints that certain crab apple compounds may repel insects, there isn’t concrete proof they will banish spiders specifically.

Potential Drawbacks of Using Crab Apples for Spiders

Before using crab apples around your home, be aware of a few potential drawbacks:

• Messiness – Rotting crab apples can attract other insects and leave behind sticky juices. Frequent cleaning is needed.

• Unpleasant smells – The sharp, sour odor of crab apples may be overpowering inside a home.

• Pet/child risks – Crab apples can pose a choking hazard and the seeds contain traces of cyanide.

• Short-lived effects – Crab apples deteriorate within a few weeks, requiring regular replenishing.

• Variable results – As a natural remedy, effectiveness can vary greatly. Some spiders may not be deterred.

Tips for Using Crab Apples as a Spider Repellent

If you want to test out crab apples for spider control, here are some tips:

• Start with a small area first to gauge results before using them widely.

• Focus on perimeter entry points like windows, doors, and foundation cracks.

• Choose less messy applications like crab apple extracts versus pulverized fruits.

• Refresh crab apples frequently as they decompose quickly.

• Never use near food prep areas or children’s rooms due to choking and cyanide risks.

• Combine with other deterrents like essential oils for added impact.

• Have realistic expectations since crab apples alone may not solve a serious spider infestation.

Alternative Natural Spider Repellents

If crab apples don’t give you the spider protection you desire, here are some other natural options to try:

Essential oils – Strong-smelling oils like peppermint, tea tree, citrus, and eucalyptus may deter spiders. Use in sprays, diffusers, or repelling sachets.

Diatomaceous earth – The sharp texture of this powdered sediment can irritate and dehydrate spiders. Sprinkle in corners or entry points.

Sticky barriers – Petroleum jelly, tape, or glue traps prevent spiders from crawling into protected areas.

Predator insects – Centipedes and certain wasps feed on spiders and can reduce populations when present.

Sealing cracks – Caulk and seal openings to obstruct spider entry points into your home.

Dehumidifying – Spiders avoid dry areas, so reducing indoor humidity can make your home less appealing.

Tidiness – Good housekeeping gives spiders fewer places to hide and form webs.

When to Call a Professional Exterminator

For most homes, natural spider deterrents and good housekeeping are sufficient. But if you have an excessive infestation, it may be wise to enlist a professional pest control company.

Signs it’s time to call in an exterminator include:

• Large webs in multiple rooms.
• Daily sightings of many spiders.
• Bites or spider-related illness.
• Failed attempts at natural control methods.
• Venomous spiders like black widows or brown recluses spotted.

Professional exterminators have commercial-grade chemicals and treatment methods that can tackle severe spider problems. This is the safest bet for sensitive areas like kitchens or bedrooms.

The Bottom Line

Crab apples may help limit spiders in some cases, but they are an unproven home remedy. While generally safe, they can also create mess and odor issues. Speak to an exterminator if you have an advanced spider concern.

For mild spider problems, start with preventative measures like sealing cracks and reducing clutter. Then experiment with crab apples and essential oils to see if they provide any added protection. Just don’t expect crab apples alone to solve a major spider infestation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find crab apples to use?

You can forage for fallen crab apples under wild trees in late summer and fall. Or purchase them at farmers markets and nurseries during harvest season.

How close together should I place crab apples?

Aim to have a crab apple every 1-3 feet around areas where spiders are a problem. Closer is better, but can get messy and smelly.

Can I use other fruits like lemons instead of crab apples?

You can try other tart fruits high in acids that may deter spiders, like lemons, limes, grapefruit, or green apples. But less research exists on these options.

How often do I need to replace crab apples?

Expect to replace crab apples every 2-4 weeks as they shrivel up. More frequent replacement is better for ongoing spider repelling.

Is it safe to use crab apples if I have pets?

Avoid placing crab apples in areas where dogs or cats can access them. The seeds contain a small amount of toxic cyanide.

Conclusion

Before resorting to strong chemicals, crab apples are worth trying as a natural spider deterrent. Just know they may not solve a major infestation alone. Combine crab apples with good housekeeping habits and sealing of cracks where spiders enter. And don’t hesitate to call an exterminator if spiders remain out of control.