What Plants Repel Bugs

Introduction

No one likes to be bothered by pesky bugs, especially when spending time outdoors. While insect repellent sprays can help keep bugs away, they often contain harmful chemicals that may not be safe for all individuals. One natural approach to repelling bugs is to plant certain types of plants in your garden or around your outdoor living space. In this article, we will discuss some plants that can help keep the bugs away.

Citronella Grass

Citronella grass is a well-known plant that is often used to make candles and sprays to repel mosquitoes. This plant contains citronella oil, which has a strong aroma that masks the scents that attract mosquitoes. Citronella grass is easy to grow and can be planted in pots or in the ground. The plant prefers full sun and fertile soil, and it is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Lavender

Lavender has a sweet aroma that humans find pleasing, but bugs find repulsive. Planting lavender can help keep flies, mosquitoes, and fleas away from your garden and outdoor living space. Lavender plants require well-draining soil and regular pruning to keep the plant healthy. The flowers can be dried and used to make potpourri or sachets that can be placed around the house to repel bugs.

Marigolds

Marigolds not only add a pop of color to your garden, but they also repel bugs such as mosquitoes, aphids, and whiteflies. The plant gives off a strong aroma that bugs find unappealing. Marigolds thrive in full sun and well-draining soil. It is important to deadhead the flowers regularly to promote new growth and keep the plant healthy.

Peppermint

Peppermint is a popular herb that can be used as a natural bug repellent. The scent of peppermint is known to repel mosquitoes, ants, and spiders. Peppermint plants require well-draining soil and full sun to grow properly. To use peppermint as a bug repellent, crush the leaves and rub them on your skin or place them around your outdoor living space.

Catnip

While catnip may attract cats, it repels bugs such as mosquitoes, fleas, and cockroaches. The plant contains a chemical called nepetalactone, which is a strong bug repellent. Catnip prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It is important to prune the plant regularly to promote new growth.

Conclusion

Planting bug-repelling plants in your garden or around your outdoor living space is a natural and safe way to keep bugs away. Citronella grass, lavender, marigolds, peppermint, and catnip are just a few of the plants that can help keep your outdoor space bug-free. Give them a try and see the difference they can make!