Repel Bugs By Growing These Plants
Bugs can be a source of aggravation for people and plants alike, but some plants have natural properties that repel certain insects. Limiting the number of pests in your garden is not only helpful for keeping your plants healthy, but it also reduces the likelihood that you’ll personally have to deal with these nuisances. Planting greenery with natural-repellent properties in your garden, around your property, or even indoors can help keep pesky bugs at bay. To aid in eliminating pests from your property, we’ve created a list of plants that naturally repel common insects.
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Mosquitoes
If you’re wondering how to repel mosquitoes, you’re not alone. Mosquitoes are some of the most annoying insects that plague outdoor activities throughout the year in Florida. Citrosa — dubbed the “mosquito plant” — lemon thyme, and citronella grass all contain trace amounts of citronella oil. If that sounds familiar, that’s because citronella oil is sold as a mosquito repellant. Marigolds, basil, and lavender are also considered natural mosquito repellents.
Beetles
While maybe not considered the worst offender on this list, beetles can infest homes, damage wood, and fabrics, and be a general nuisance. Many plants are promoted as beetle deterrents, but they all have limited or no documentation of their success. Still, if you want to give them a try, consider growing chives, chrysanthemums, petunias, or garlic as natural pest repellents.
Roaches
An unwanted sight in any home, roach populations can be difficult to eradicate without professional pest removal, but adding some plants to your pest control regimen couldn’t hurt. Chrysanthemums, perhaps one of the best plants for repelling bugs, can be helpful with roaches. Putting bay leaves down in your kitchen might also help keep them out of their favorite room.
Spider Mites
While classified as arachnids instead of insects, these tiny pests can cause real damage to plants, flowers, and other vegetation. If the infestation is bad enough, the damage might be so severe that it kills your greenery. For this one, chrysanthemums are another solid choice for getting rid of spider mites. Dill is also considered useful spider mite prevention.
Garden-Friendly Bugs
Even though bugs may not always be welcomed guests, some of them can actually benefit our gardens and landscapes. Ladybugs, spined soldier bugs, and praying mantises all eat various garden pests. While they may not eat other insects, bees and pollen wasps help pollinate plants, and their presence should be encouraged in every garden.
