Natural Insect Repelling Plants for Your Landscape
Shoo fly, don’t bother me… You’ve already fertilized for Spring and now you’ve began thinking about preparing your garden beds and how you want your landscape to look this year. As you plan, you may want to consider adding a few of the plants listed below.
These are all natural insect repellent plants that help keep away bugs so you and your family can enjoy being outdoors this spring and summer without being attacked by pests:
Citronella Grass
Most commonly used natural ingredient in mosquito repellents. It is lemon-scented and masks mosquito attractants. It is a Low maintenance plant that grows well in warm conditions and can be planted in a sunny area.
Catmint (catnip)
A study conducted by Iowa State University found that catmint is 10 times more effective than DEET (the chemical used in most insect repellents). Catmint is an herb related to mint. Some research shows that catmint repels mosquitoes, house flies, mites, cockroaches and ticks. Most varieties of catmint prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
Mums (Chrysanthemums)
Contains a natural chemical called Pyrethrin that kills insects and is safe for animals. Mums are known to repel ticks, fleas, ants, beetles and other insects. Mums prefer full early sun and they are susceptible to mildew so keeping them dry is key.
Rosemary
This edible herb has a woody scent which is what keeps mosquitoes, cabbage moths, carrot flies, and Mexican bean beetles away. Rosemary prefers full sun and a well-drained soil.
Lavender
Is one of the most fragrant and highly versatile herbs that is a part of the mint family. The oils from lavender deters mosquitoes, moths, scorpions, fleas and flies. Lavender grows particularly well in full sun and well-drained soils.
Scented Geraniums
Gives off a lemon-smell much like citronella grass which helps keep pests at bay. They help repel leafhoppers and corn earworms. Scented geraniums prefer sun but need some protection when the sun is strongest.
Marigolds
While aesthetically pleasing to the eye, marigolds have a distinct smell that repels mosquitoes. Marigolds need a lot of sun and grow in most soils – they thrive in moderately fertile, well-drained soil.
While many plants have pest repelling properties, you can crush the leaves of these plants for additional coverage and protection. Keep in mind that these are all natural insect repellent plants which means they will not make your yard pest free.
