"Don't know if they actually repel roaches, but the insecticidal/repellent properties are widely mentioned. " Here in the mid-west they are traditionally scattered around in root cellars and basements in the fall to keep insect pest down. I've heard of novices simply tossing them down the steps and into stored glass canned foods (oops ! ) and the like. Seems like that has been going on for ever here. I don't recall seeing insects eat the fruit, so it may repel them. Best Jim W. -- Dr. James W. Waddick 8871 NW Brostrom Rd. Kansas City Missouri 64152-2711 USA Ph. 816-746-1949 Zone 5 Record low -23F Summer 100F +