As the weather starts to warm up, insects become more active and can be a nuisance for homeowners. While chemical pesticides are effective at getting rid of insects, they can also harm beneficial insects, animals, and even people. Fortunately, there are many natural ways to repel insects, and one of the best is by using plants. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top plants to use to naturally repel insects and how to use them effectively.
Mint
Mint is a great plant for repelling mosquitoes, ants, and spiders. The scent of mint is a natural deterrent for these pests, and it’s easy to grow in pots or in your garden. You can use fresh mint leaves to make a natural insect repellent spray by steeping them in hot water for several hours and then straining the mixture into a spray bottle. You can also crush the leaves and rub them directly on your skin to repel mosquitoes.
Lavender
Lavender is another great plant for repelling mosquitoes, flies, and moths. The scent of lavender is pleasant for humans but repels insects. You can plant lavender in your garden or in pots around your home. You can also use dried lavender flowers in sachets and place them in your closet or drawers to repel moths.
Citronella
Citronella is a classic insect-repelling plant and is commonly found in candles and bug sprays. Citronella grass is easy to grow in warm climates, and its scent repels mosquitoes, flies, and other insects. You can plant citronella in your garden or in pots around your home. You can also make your own citronella oil by steeping the leaves in a carrier oil like coconut oil and using it as a natural insect repellent.
Basil
Basil is a great plant for repelling flies and mosquitoes. The scent of basil is strong and overpowering for insects, but pleasant for humans. You can plant basil in pots around your home or in your garden. You can also crush fresh basil leaves and rub them on your skin to repel mosquitoes.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a great plant for repelling mosquitoes and other flying insects. The scent of rosemary is strong and can be overpowering for insects, but it’s also a pleasant scent for humans. You can plant rosemary in your garden or in pots around your home. You can also burn dried rosemary as incense to repel insects.
Using plants to naturally repel insects is a safe and effective way to keep your home and garden free of pests. By planting these top insect-repelling plants, you can enjoy a pest-free environment without relying on harmful chemicals. Try incorporating these plants into your garden or Call Eastside Pest Control for free consultation.
