FEATURE
Popular insect repellant plants
Metro Creative Connection
Homeowners choose plants for their properties based on a number of variables . Some may be into growing their own foods , while others desire their gardens to be an awe-inspiring mélange of bright colors and alluring scents . There ’ s no wrong reason to plant a fresh garden , but some plants offer extra benefits , such as repelling insects .
Insects can be a nuisance and a threat to individuals ’ overall health . According to the American Academy of Family Physicians , insect-borne diseases are viral and bacterial illnesses that develop from insect bites . Mosquitoes , sand flies and fleas are some examples of insects that can pass on disease . Fever , chills , headache , and muscle soreness are just a few of the more common symptoms linked to insect-borne diseases .
The good news for avid gardeners is that certain plants can help repel insects and provide the additional benefits like fresh food and aesthetic appeal that so many people love .
• Basil : The aroma of fresh basil is enough to compel any gardener to make a place for it in their garden . But there ’ s more to fresh basil than its scent , as the Farmers Almanac notes it can be used to repel mosquitoes and moths .
• Lavender : Fleas , flies , mosquitoes , and moths are not fans of this aromatic and colorful member of the mint family . Bees tend to be drawn to lavender , a durable plant that many garden centers recommend in areas prone to drought or hot summers without much precipitation .
• Mint : Mint is another plant that is instantly recognizable for its aroma . But mint lovers may not realize that it ’ s also great for keeping ants at bay . Mint also can be used to repel mosquitoes , but gardeners with no experience planting mint should plant it in pots . That ’ s because the Farmers Almanac notes mint is an especially aggressive spreader that can quickly take over a garden . Separating mint in pots can prevent it from bullying its way into other plants ’ domains .
• Lemongrass : Lemongrass is a tropical grass that ’ s so fragrant it ’ s often used in perfumes . Lemongrass contains citronella , which many people associate with repelling mosquitoes . A potted lemongrass plant can repel these unwanted guests , keeping them away from decks , porches and / or patios all summer long .
• Chrysanthemums : The Farmers ’ Almanac ® recommends using chrysanthemums , which repel a range of insects from bedbugs to fleas to ants , as border plants around a home . That ’ s because they contain the natural insecticide pyrethrin , which can serve as something of an insect-repelling boundary around a home .
Insects are unwanted guests around a home each spring , summer and fall . Certain plants can help repel insects and serve as an eco-friendly alternative to insecticides .
20 • MERIDIAN HOME & STYLE