Keep Your Outdoor Space Bug-Free with These Plants

Oleh Anonymous October 10, 2023 Post a Comment

Table of Contents

Plants That Keep Bugs Away Outdoors

If youâ€™re like most people, you love spending time outdoors in the warmer months. However, thereâ€™s nothing worse than being surrounded by pesky bugs while youâ€™re trying to relax. The good news is that you donâ€™t have to rely on chemical bug sprays to keep bugs away. There are many plants that can act as natural bug repellents, and theyâ€™re a great way to add some greenery to your outdoor space at the same time.

Lavender

Lavender is a popular plant known for its calming properties, but did you know it can also keep bugs away? Mosquitoes and flies are repelled by the scent of lavender, so planting it around seating areas or making lavender sachets to hang around your patio can help keep the bugs at bay. Plus, itâ€™s a beautiful and fragrant addition to any garden.

Citronella

Citronella is a classic bug-repelling plant thatâ€™s often used in candles and other products. However, if you want a more natural solution, consider planting citronella in your garden. Itâ€™s a perennial grass that releases a scent that masks other scents that may attract bugs. You can crush the leaves to release the oils and rub them on your skin as well.

Basil

Basil is a versatile herb thatâ€™s not only delicious in recipes, but it also has bug-repelling properties. Flies and mosquitoes are deterred by the scent of basil, so planting it around seating areas or using it in outdoor recipes can help keep the bugs away. Plus, itâ€™s easy to grow and maintain.

Marigolds

Marigolds are a popular annual flower that not only adds bright color to your garden but also repels mosquitoes and other flying insects. The scent of marigolds is said to be particularly effective at keeping mosquitoes at bay, and theyâ€™re easy to care for and propagate.

Catnip

Catnip is a member of the mint family and is well-known for its effects on felines. However, it also has bug-repelling properties. Catnip contains an essential oil called nepetalactone thatâ€™s been shown to be even more effective than DEET at repelling mosquitoes. Planting catnip in your garden or making a homemade catnip spray can help keep the bugs away.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a fragrant herb thatâ€™s often used in cooking, but it also has bug-repelling properties. The scent of rosemary is said to repel flies and mosquitoes, so planting it around seating areas or using it in outdoor recipes can help keep the bugs away. Plus, itâ€™s a hardy plant thatâ€™s easy to grow.

Other Natural Ways to Keep Bugs Away

In addition to planting insect-repelling plants, there are a few other natural ways to keep bugs away from your outdoor space.

Use Essential Oils

Essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and lemon can all help keep bugs away. You can mix a few drops of essential oil with water in a spray bottle and mist it around your patio or seating area. Alternatively, you can add a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser or use it in homemade candles or other products.

Keep Your Space Clean

Bugs are attracted to food and debris, so keeping your outdoor space clean is key to keeping bugs away. Make sure to clean up any spills or crumbs right away and keep garbage and compost bins far from seating areas. If you have a bird feeder, make sure to clean it regularly to prevent mold and bacteria growth.

Use Fans

Mosquitoes and other flying insects are weak fliers, so using fans can help keep them away from your outdoor space. Set up a few fans around your seating area to create a breeze that will deter bugs from flying near you.

The Bottom Line

Keeping bugs away from your outdoor space doesnâ€™t have to involve harsh chemicals or expensive products. By planting bug-repelling plants, using essential oils, keeping your space clean, and using fans, you can enjoy the great outdoors without being bothered by pesky bugs.

FAQs

Q: How do I care for insect-repelling plants?

A: Insect-repelling plants are generally easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. Follow the care instructions that come with each plant, but in general, they need regular watering and fertilization to thrive.

Q: Do natural bug repellents actually work?

A: Yes! While natural bug repellents may not be as potent as chemical sprays, they can still be effective at keeping bugs away. Plus, theyâ€™re a safer and more eco-friendly option.

Q: Can I use essential oils on my skin?

A: Yes, but make sure to dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil before applying it to your skin. Essential oils can be irritating if used undiluted.

Q: What should I do if I get bitten by a bug?

A: If you get bitten by a bug, wash the area with soap and water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Over-the-counter anti-itch creams can also help relieve itching and discomfort.