Plants that Repel Pesky Insects

by Elizabeth Griffin—Intern

Summertime is here along with the beautiful flora and fauna of West Tennessee, but unfortunately, it also means that pesky bugs are back as well. What if there was a way to ensure that mosquitoes and flies stayed away from your home so that you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the summer without unwanted pests? Here are a few plants to add to your garden this year to achieve just that!

Lavender:

Not only is lavender beautiful and fragrant; the oil acts as a natural bug repellent. The perfume that we so enjoy deters mosquitoes, flies, spiders, ants, and ticks. Place the lavender plants near tables and patios, or use the oil to create a spray. Since lavender oil is anti-inflammatory, you can also use it to help with a bug bite!

Basil:

Perhaps one of the quickest herbs to diffuse mosquito-repelling oils into the air, basil gives off a natural fragrance that deters insects of all kinds. When the leaves release the oil, it sends a natural compound into the air that humans enjoy, but bugs do not. As a bonus, if you plant basil with other vegetables or fruits such as tomatoes, the basil can enhance the flavor while protecting the plant!

Marigolds:

Marigolds are a beautiful addition to any home garden, and as a bonus, they repel mosquitoes and other insects. Pyrethrum, a compound found in many insecticides, is produced naturally by the marigold flower. Keep them in pots near the patio to fend off mosquitoes -- but keep them away from entrances or tables because they may attract wasps.

Mint:

Mint is an all-around natural repellent. It deters bugs, insects, mice, and more. The most effective way to release the oils held in the leaves of these plants is to bruise them. Simply bend the leaves or crease them to allow the natural remedy to get to work. If you decide to add mint to your garden, make sure not to pair it with other plants. Mint is not suitable for companion gardening and could take over the rest of the flowers or herbs in the garden.

Rosemary:

Rosemary is a common ingredient in many chef’s kitchens. This use makes it perfect for a small pot right outside the kitchen window or on the windowsill. Rosemary will repel mosquitoes and an assortment of other insects that are harmful to fruit and vegetable plants, so they are also beneficial to plant alongside them in your home garden.

Lemongrass:

The oil that lemongrass holds in its leaves is called citronella. It has a powerful aroma, is used in many natural mosquito repellents, and is known to keep away pests from mosquitoes to whiteflies. Be careful of where you place the lemongrass, as it is an ornamental plant that can grow up to four feet tall. Plant them around entrances to ensure that insects are kept away from this area!

The most efficient technique to release the bug deterring aromas from these plants into the air is by bruising the leaves. As you are tending the garden, crease or bend some of these leaves to diffuse the aroma more quickly. Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy the summer!