Plants that Deter Unwanted Insects & More

4 images: lavender closeup, lemongrass, rosemary, and basilSafe & Natural Ways to Deter Pests with Plants

Wondering what the best technique is to rid your garden landscape of unwanted pests? At SummerWinds Nursery, we have a variety of methods to choose from, including plants!

 

BasilPlants that Deter Pests

Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Basil isn't just delicious! It helps repel flies, mosquitoes, carrot flies, asparagus beetles and whiteflies. Available in a number of varieties.

 

Lavender

 

Lavender (Lavandula)

Sweet smelling lavender repels moths, fleas, flies and mosquitoes. Available in a number of varieties.

 

 

Lemongrass

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon)

Many health benefits have been atributed to this lemon-scented tall perennial grass, including relief from a long list of physical ailments. Lemongrass is availalbe in a numerious varieties. Citronella, a natural oil found in lemongrass, is often used in candles, soaps and oils due to its insecticidal properties that are effective on pests such as mosquitoes, lice and fleas.

Lemon Verbena

Lemon Verbena (Aloysia triphylla)

This perennial herb can be planted in your garden landscape and near windows and doorways to help deter mosquitoes. It has a pleasant and distinct lemon scent. In addition to deterring mosquitoes, lemon verbena boasts a number of health benefits and is often used medicinally.

Rosemary

 

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosemary is availalbe in a number of varieties and is an all-purpose repellent that works on mosquitoes and a variety of insects harmful to vegetables.

 

Scented Geraniums

Scented Geraniums (Pelargonium spp.)

The many varieties of deer resistant and drought-tolerant Scented Geraniums help repel insects by emitting a range of fragrances such as coconut, citrus, pine and rose (depending on the variety). The citrus variety is particulary effective on mosquitoes, while the rose variety is a tick repellent.

Society Garlic

 

Society Garlic (Tulbaghia violacea)

Society Garlic can be used to repel fleas, ticks and mosquitoes. When planted in a border, it may also help deter other unwanted garden visitors, such as: cats, deer, dogs, gophers, groundhogs, moles, rabbits, snails and snakes.

At SummerWinds, We Guarantee Success!