Snow-covered Garden Boxes

There does not seem to be any indication of spring in the back yard. My garden boxes are buried beneath a few feet of snow! But this does not stop me from some thinking about gardening. This morning I read a tip that I intend to use when time comes...
Fresh banana peels can be added to the soil around plants (house or garden) to repel bugs such as aphids and ants. Also, thin strips of peel can be hung on branches. Here's hoping this works, especially on the grape vines and roses. I have been trying to keep the vegetation chemical-free.