Nothing ruins an outdoor party faster than pesky bugs, such as flies, mosquitoes or similar. While you may consider hosing down your backyard with insecticide to get rid of the critters, there’s actually no need to resort to that. A few strategically-placed plants of a certain type will help you ward off insects, allowing you to dine or party in the outdoors in peace. Below are ten plants that not only will keep the insects away this coming spring – they’re also herbs, which will make your next cookout a whole lot tastier!
1. Petunias
Plant some petunias near your vegetable garden or in a window box. They need quite a lot of sunlight, so make sure that they’ll get it in the spot you intend to plant them in. They are great for repelling squash bugs, beetles and aphids.
2. Basil
Basil contains oil that kills mosquito eggs. Plant the herb in pots in gathering areas, as this will help ward off flies and mosquitoes.
3. Marigolds
Marigolds are often planted by farmers to keep pests away from their produce. Make sure yours get plenty of sun though – marigolds love it. They’ll help keep mosquitoes and aphids out of your backyard.
4. Lavender
While lavender is a heavenly scent for human beings, it is disgusting to flies, moths, and mosquitoes. Planting some lavender is ideal if your backyard gets plenty of sun.
5. Rosemary
The presence of rosemary in your backyard will repel mosquitoes, as well as prevent any vegetable plants you might have growing from becoming infested.
6. Mint
Apart from its gorgeous smell, mint is great for repelling biting insects. Be aware that it’s best planted in pots because it spreads like wildfire if left to its own devices.
7. Catnip
Catnip contains nepetalactone, and while it may attract cats, it has the exact opposite effect on bugs and can repel them efficiently.
8. Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums contain a compound called Pyrethrin, which is an ingredient found in many commercial insect repellents designed for keeping mosquitoes, cockroaches, beetles, ticks, and silverfish at bay.
9. Alliums
Take your pick between chives, leeks, onions, garlic, scallions, and shallots for this one, because they all fall into the allium group. Plant some of these in your backyard, and you’ll soon have pretty purple, white or pink flowers blooming atop high stems. The plants will protect your backyard from slugs, flies, and worms. Beware though – alliums are highly toxic to dogs and cats.
10. Lemongrass
Lemongrass contains an oil called citronella, and that’s what gives the plant its citrus-like scent. Seeing as it enjoys plenty of sunlight, lemongrass is best to plant in the summer.
More bug-repelling tips
Get rid of any standing water in your backyard.
Keep all food covered if you’re having a cookout.
Keep your trash far away from where you gather outside with friends and family.
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