Summer is just at our doorstep. These are times I love spending more time outdoors and on my deck on beautiful summer days and evenings. The problem is, though, that each time I'm out on my deck or walking in the woods, insects get the best of me.
I found an article (http://thegoodhuman.com/2014/05/27/plants-that-repel-annoying-insects/) written by David Quilty, of The Good Human, who has the same problem. So he went out and did some research on what plants naturally repel insects. So, if you want to know how to keep insects (mosquitoes, moths, flees, bees, ants, flies and who knows what others) at bay, read on.
Citronella, a perennial clumping grass that is the most common natural ingredient in manufactured mosquito repellents. The living plant has a much stronger odor than citronella-scented candles and torches and is therefore much more effective. The citronella plant is low maintenance and does best in full sun and well-drained conditions.
Marigolds are another option for keeping mosquitos away. The bright yellow and orange hardy annuals contain Pyrethrum, an ingredient in many insect repellants. Marigolds can be grown from seeds, but seedlings are easily purchased from garden centers if you want a head start. Marigolds are also useful at repelling insects that often prey on tomato plants, so planting a few near your tomatoes would be a great idea, too.
Lavender is not only a gorgeous and fragrant addition to any yard, it too keeps away mosquitos, fleas, lice, moths, and has other healing properties.
Basil plants, particularly lemon basil and cinnamon basil, are not only great to have around for making refreshing basil mojitos, they also have mosquito repelling powers.
Mint is also a must for you to grow to repel wasps.
Peppermint will repel mosquitos, flies, bees, and ants.
It's a great idea to have lots of herbs in your garden (even if you only have a deck with potted plants like I do). Nothing better than going out there and snipping a few edible herbs for cooking!
Happy Summer!
I found an article (http://thegoodhuman.com/2014/05/27/plants-that-repel-annoying-insects/) written by David Quilty, of The Good Human, who has the same problem. So he went out and did some research on what plants naturally repel insects. So, if you want to know how to keep insects (mosquitoes, moths, flees, bees, ants, flies and who knows what others) at bay, read on.
Citronella, a perennial clumping grass that is the most common natural ingredient in manufactured mosquito repellents. The living plant has a much stronger odor than citronella-scented candles and torches and is therefore much more effective. The citronella plant is low maintenance and does best in full sun and well-drained conditions.
Marigolds are another option for keeping mosquitos away. The bright yellow and orange hardy annuals contain Pyrethrum, an ingredient in many insect repellants. Marigolds can be grown from seeds, but seedlings are easily purchased from garden centers if you want a head start. Marigolds are also useful at repelling insects that often prey on tomato plants, so planting a few near your tomatoes would be a great idea, too.
Lavender is not only a gorgeous and fragrant addition to any yard, it too keeps away mosquitos, fleas, lice, moths, and has other healing properties.
Basil plants, particularly lemon basil and cinnamon basil, are not only great to have around for making refreshing basil mojitos, they also have mosquito repelling powers.
Mint is also a must for you to grow to repel wasps.
Peppermint will repel mosquitos, flies, bees, and ants.
It's a great idea to have lots of herbs in your garden (even if you only have a deck with potted plants like I do). Nothing better than going out there and snipping a few edible herbs for cooking!
Happy Summer!
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