In case you missed #Gardenchat last night- here are some of the tips suggested by The Growers Exchange to help ward off pesky insects like ticks, mosquitoes, ants
and termites... naturally!
Usually
grown by cat lovers, catnip is proven to be ten times more effective at
repelling mosquitoes and biting insects than the harsh commercial
chemical DEET.
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According
to the American Chemical Society, the active chemical in catnip,
nepetalactone, that drives cats crazy also repels mosquitoes.
Plant
regular catnip or lemon-scented catnip in full sun and keep it well
pruned. Rub the leaves on clothing and skin as a protectant from biting
insects.
Basil
also keeps mosquitoes away, as well as repelling house flies,
especially when planted near doorways. Whether in containers or mixed
into flower beds, basil adds texture, beauty, fragrance, and most
importantly a "no fly zone" to homes.
 Both
peppermint and spearmint are excellent deterrents to ants, flies and
moths, but they can also keep lice and mice at bay as well. Planting
either variety of mint around the foundation of a house makes a natural
boundary that many pests won't go near. Use it near windowsills or
beneath sinks, to keep sneaky insects from coming in to visit.
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Planting
natural herbal defenses against pests eliminates the use of harmful
toxins, improves the local ecology in gardens, and provides benefits of
many plants that double as culinary, medicinal or aromatic herbs.
Make sure to choose the safe, sustainable insect repellents this summer and think of the garden before reaching for the toxic spray!
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1 comment:
different insects create problems.
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