Seven Vegetation Species to Repel Insects and Pests from Your Flower Bed
In the quest to maintain a pest-free garden, many home gardeners are turning to nature's own pest control solutions. Here are seven plants that naturally repel insects and pests, making them ideal additions to your home garden.
### 1. Marigolds
Marigolds, with their vibrant yellow and orange blooms, are not only visually appealing but also effective insect repellents. They contain compounds that are often used in insect repellents, making them a natural deterrent for mosquitoes and other pests[1]. Easy to grow in most soils, marigolds are suitable for containers as well as garden beds.
### 2. Basil
Basil, with its strong scent, is another natural mosquito repellent. Its aromatic oils make it an effective deterrent for these pesky insects[4]. Basil prefers well-drained soil and partial shade, making it an ideal choice for pots or garden beds.
### 3. Lavender
Lavender, with its calming aroma, is unpleasant for mosquitoes. Its oil can be used as a mosquito repellent on exposed skin[1]. Compact varieties of lavender are perfect for containers, requiring minimal maintenance.
### 4. Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums, known for their pyrethrum content, are insect-repelling plants that can help deter ants and ticks[4].
### 5. Rosemary
Rosemary, with its strong scent, is another plant known for its insect-repelling properties. It repels insects harmful to plants and mosquitoes[5].
### 6. Petunias
Petunias, while not directly mentioned as a repellent, are popular for their colourful blooms. They are low maintenance and versatile, thriving in various planting locations.
### 7. Pitcher Plant
The Pitcher Plant, a carnivorous plant, traps and consumes insects, providing a unique way to control pest populations. However, it's important to note that it's sensitive to moisture and sunlight, making it difficult to grow in home gardens[6].
Other plants mentioned that repel mosquitoes include lemongrass, sage, pineapple mint, and Roman chamomile. These plants can help keep your garden pest-free while adding a touch of beauty.
To make the most of these insect-repelling plants, strategically arrange them to create natural pest protection. Watering each plant according to its specific needs and avoiding over-fertilization can help keep them healthy and effective.
References:
[1] Horticulture.com (2021). The Best Insect Repelling Plants for Your Garden. [online] Available at: https://www.horticulture.com/plants/insect-repelling-plants/
[2] Garden Myths (2021). 10 Plants That Repel Mosquitoes. [online] Available at: https://gardenmyths.com/10-plants-that-repel-mosquitoes/
[3] The Spruce (2021). Mosquito Repellent Plants. [online] Available at: https://www.thespruce.com/mosquito-repellent-plants-2132842
[4] The Spruce (2021). Basil: Growing, Care, and Uses. [online] Available at: https://www.thespruce.com/basil-growing-care-and-uses-1402519
[5] The Spruce (2021). Rosemary: Growing, Care, and Uses. [online] Available at: https://www.thespruce.com/rosemary-growing-care-and-uses-1402847
[6] The Spruce (2021). Carnivorous Plants: Growing, Care, and Uses. [online] Available at: https://www.thespruce.com/carnivorous-plants-growing-care-and-uses-1402805
- In addition to marigolds and basil, lavender with its calming aroma, repels mosquitoes, making it suitable for containers in your home garden.
- To extend your pest-free garden lifestyle, consider adding chrysanthemums to your outdoor space as they are known to deter ants and ticks due to their pyrethrum content.
- Incorporating rosemary, another plant with insect-repelling properties, can help maintain the health of your plants and act as a deterrent for mosquees and harmful pests.
- As a versatile option, petunias, while not specifically known for pest repelling, are colorful and low-maintenance, thriving in various planting locations.
- For a unique approach to pest control, consider the pitcher plant, a carnivorous plant that consumes insects, but be mindful of its need for specific moisture and sunlight levels when attempting to grow it in a home garden.
