Ghost peppers are saving U.S. grasslands—by scaring off hungry mice

Ghost peppers are saving U.S. grasslands—by scaring off hungry mice​

I wonder if capsaicin would be useful to the home gardener as a deterrent for urban pests.

 

I forgot you made that comment, was wondering the same thing. It might be tricky handling it though - I can see myself getting it in my eyes in under one minute.

 

Capsaicin is often used as an animal repellent. There are lots of articles on the Web. It's also being used to repel some insects. Birds can't sense capsaicin; so it won't work against them.

 

I didn't know that. Thanks. Maybe this is something I can use to fight spider mites on my container plants. I'll have to do some research. Do you know if capsaicin affects the taste of edible produce/fruit?

 

It might add some "picante" to whatever its sprayed upon but can be washed off if you don't like the effect. Capsaicin stimulates heat/pain receptors in your body, not taste receptors; so, it doesn't have any direct effect on taste.