Are you tired of the noise of mosquitoes in your ears and annoying bites? Plants can be a natural solution:
Let’s face it: is there anything more annoying than that sound of mosquitoes flying near your ear while you sleep? Or the countless and unbearable bites that itch relentlessly in the summer? Not to mention the risk of diseases such as dengue, which has alarmingly increased the number of infected people.
In addition to repellents, screens and insecticides, plants can be excellent allies in eliminating mosquitoes! The landscape designer Renata Guastelli says three species work as repellents and how to use them:
1. Lavender
“This plant with purple flowers has a pleasant odor for humans, but unpleasant for insects,” explains Renata. Lavender can be grown in pots and beds, with well-drained soil and moderate watering.
A tip is to use the flower in sachets or prepare lavender oil and use it as a repellent.
2. Lemongrass
Lemongrass is an aromatic plant that gives off a citrus scent that keeps mosquitoes away. Renata explains that it can be grown in a pot or in the garden, as long as it receives plenty of sun and water. It is a low maintenance plant and can be used in candles and repellent oil.
3. Mint
A mint It is an excellent non-toxic option for keeping mosquitoes, flies and even ants away. The stronger the scent, the fewer bugs you will have. It is an easy to plant plant that, according to the landscape designer, prefers full sun or partial shade and moist soil.
In addition to the oil you can use the leaves and prepare a delicious herbal tea!
4. Marigold
OR marigold, Easy-to-grow annual flower, it gives off a scent that keeps mosquitoes away. Grow it in pots and place it near your patio or home entrance to keep insects away.
Marigolds are also a popular addition to vegetable gardens. According to the New York Botanical Garden, not only can they repel mosquitoes, but they can also deter aphids, thrips, whiteflies, Mexican bean beetles, squash bugs and tomato worms.
5. Rosemary
Another great mosquito repellent is rosemary, an herb that many of us are familiar with. Its woody aroma is exactly what keeps mosquitoes away.
While the pests stay away, you can enjoy the aroma of the herb and also use it to season your dishes in the kitchen.
6. Basil
OR basil is another herb that can work as a pest repellent. The strong odor that basil leaves give off is what keeps parasites away.
This herb likes to stay moist, it needs a good drainage AND he really likes the sun. You can plant basil in pots or in the garden, alone or with other flowers, as long as both plants meet the same requirements.
7. Common sage
If you enjoy gathering around a fire pit in your yard, plant some sage nearby. Throw part of the plant into the flames and its earthy scent will keep insects away. Sage can also be dried and used to make a homemade repellent.
How to prepare essential oil for a repellent
- Collect flowers or leaves from your plant;
- Leave the branches and leave them hanging to dry upside down in a dry, warm place but not exposed to direct sunlight for a maximum of 2 weeks;
- Take a glass container and fill it with the dried flowers/leaves leaving 2-3 cm of space at the top;
- Add the oil of your choice until the flowers/leaves are covered; recommendations are coconut or almond oil;
- Leave the container in a sunny window for another 2 weeks; shake the container every day to facilitate infusion;
*alternatively: it is possible to make the infusion by placing the container in a bain-marie for a few minutes, replacing the water when it evaporates
- Filter the oil through a strainer or coffee filter to remove flowers, leaves and impurities;
- Keep in a cold and dry place;
* Garden design fountain
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
