Pests can be an annoyance, especially in the summer months. Moths, mosquitoes, flies and rodents have a way of frustrating homeowners in a way that makes us want to pull out our hair. But, there are certain herbs you can use that help deter pests, naturally, without the need for nasty pesticides that are harmful to our health and the environment in the long run.
Here are some herbs that are known for their pest-repelling properties:
Basil:
Basil repels mosquitoes and flies. You can plant basil indoors, near your doors and windows or you can grow them outdoors in pots around your outdoor seating areas.
Mint:
Mint repels ants, fleas, and rodents. Plant mint around the perimeter of your home or plant it in pots in your kitchen to keep pests at bay.
Lavender:
Lavender repels moths, mosquitoes, and flies. Plant lavender in your garden near your doors and bedroom windows or keep dried lavender sachets in your closets and drawers.
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Rosemary:
Rosemary repels mosquitoes and other insects. Plant rosemary in pots or in the garden. You can also mix it with water and use it as a natural insect repellent spray.
Chives:
Chives repel aphids and other pests that could negatively affect other plants. Plant chives among your vegetables or herbs to protect them.
Thyme:
Repels mosquitoes, worms, and flies. Plant thyme in your garden and use it as ground cover to deter pests from any vegetable crops you may be growing.
Oregano:
Repels many pests and is effective against aphids and spider mites. Plant oregano in your garden or use it as a companion plant.
Chamomile:
Repels mosquitoes and other flying insects. Plant chamomile among other plants to enhance their growth and keep nasty pests away.
Image credit: Unsplash
Catnip:
Repels mosquitoes, flies, and cockroaches. Plant catnip in your garden or use it in sachets to keep pests away.
These herbs can easily be grown in your garden, in pots on your windowsill, or even in your kitchen or inside your home.
Keep in mind that while these herbs may help deter pests, they might not eliminate infestations entirely. Integrated pest management, which combines various strategies, is often the most effective approach for pest control.
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Feature image: Unsplash
