Repels-All Animal Repellent is applied by sprinkling granules around a perimeter or spraying foliage and hard surfaces until wet, with the key rule being to wait at least 6 hours before rainfall. The method depends on the surface you are protecting.
Using this repellent effectively comes down to three things: picking the right formulation, hitting the coverage, and respecting the rain delay.
Repels-All Granules: Perimeter Protection
Granules are your best bet for protecting bulbs, flower beds, and vegetable garden edges. The goal is a continuous barrier.
- Rate: Apply 1 lb per 500 sq ft.
- Width: Sprinkle a 6–8 inch wide band around (not on top of) the area you want to protect.
- Bulbs: At planting time, work 1 tablespoon of granules directly into the soil around each bulb before backfilling.
- Water-In: Lightly water after application if you do not expect rain within 24 hours—this activates the scent.
- Reapplication: Every 7–10 days during rapid growth (spring/early summer) or monthly during moderate growth.
How To Use Repels-All Spray (RTU & Concentrate)
Sprays work best on foliage you are trying to protect and on hard surfaces to stop gnawing. The two formulations differ only in mixing.
Ready-to-Use Spray (RTU)
No mixing required. Spray from at least two angles until the plant drips (run-off). For hard surfaces like fences or deck corners, spray until visibly saturated. Always test an inconspicuous spot first for staining, especially on painted wood or light-colored siding.
Concentrate
Mix with water in a clean sprayer. Shake the concentrate bottle very well before measuring; an unshaken bottle produces weak spray that barely lasts a week.
Shake the tank periodically during use. Spray foliage from all sides until run-off, just like the RTU.
Drying requirement: Allow at least 6 hours of dry weather after any spray application before rain or watering. Ignoring this is the most common reason Repels-All fails.
Safety, Edible Plants, and When To Reapply
Instead, spray the ground surrounding those plants to form a barrier. You can spray seeds at planting time and bare bulbs (remove old skin and soil first, let them dry before planting).
| Application Type | Key Rule | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Foliage (flowers, shrubs, trees) | Spray until run-off; 6-hour drying window | Every 7–10 days (rapid growth) |
| Hard surfaces (fences, decks, cans) | Test for staining first; spray until saturated | Every 7–10 days |
| Granules (beds, bulbs, perimeters) | 1 lb/500 sq ft; 6–8 inch continuous band | Monthly (moderate growth) |
| Edible crops | No direct contact; treat surrounding soil only | Same as granules around the patch |
Reapply after heavy rain or more than 1 inch of water in a week. For a comparison with other brands, see our tested roundup of the best animal repellents.
Common Application Mistakes (And How To Avoid Them)
Most complaints come from one of these five errors, each with an easy fix:
- Ignoring the 6-hour window: Rain washes off the active ingredient. Apply when the forecast is clear for half a day.
- Insufficient coverage: A light mist or scattered granules leaves gaps. Spray until the plant drips; lay down a visible granule band.
- Skipping the shake (concentrate): The solution separates. Shake before measuring and every few minutes during spraying.
- Applying directly to edible crops: Not labeled for human-safe contact. Keep it on the soil around the veggie bed.
- Not testing spray on painted surfaces: Can stain. Test a hidden corner—wait an hour—before doing the whole fence.
FAQs
How long does Repels-All last after application?
Heavy rain or rapid new growth shortens the window.
Can I use Repels-All inside my home?
No. It is formulated exclusively for outdoor use on plants, perimeters, and hard surfaces. Indoor use may create an uncomfortable environment for pets and people due to the strong scent.
Does it keep all animals away or just deer?
The formula is labeled for deer, rabbits, squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons, porcupines, birds, rats, beavers, groundhogs, skunks, and shrews.
References & Sources
- Bonide Product Page (Granules). “Repels-All Animal Repellent Granules.” Covers application rates, perimeter width, and bulb protection instructions.
- Bonide Product Page (RTU). “Repels-All Animal Repellent Ready-to-Use.” Details foliage spraying, hard surface use, and drying requirements.
- Greenbook Label (EPA Registration). “Repels-All Animal Repellent Concentrate Label.” Official mixing ratios, safety warnings, and temperature guidelines.