Central Florida is great place to call home. Unfortunately, a lot of bugs feel the same way. While backyards are meant to be enjoyed, it’s no picnic when mosquitos and other nuisance insects are buzzing about.
The best way to prevent an insect invasion is by adding plants to your garden, home, and outdoor gathering spots that will keep them at a distance.
Use nature to tell insects to buzz off!
Lavender – Its pleasant fragrance may give us joy and relaxation, but moths, fleas, flies, and mosquitos are agitated by it. Grow it in a sunny spot in your garden and in pots beside entryways to make insects avoid these areas. To keep bugs from taking up residence in your home, hang dried bouquets of lavender. As an added incentive, the oil extracted from this herb’s fresh flowers can be dabbed on the skin to keep bugs away.
Basil – Flies and mosquitos are repulsed by the scent of this tasty herb. In addition to planting it in your garden and growing it in pots around and inside your home to chase off bothersome insects, it makes an excellent insect repellant. This is accomplished by boiling fresh basil leaves in water, then pouring the cooled brew into a spray bottle.
Marigolds – These beautiful flowering plants pack a punch! Not only do they protect tomato plants from insects, but they also chase away mosquitos. Plant them in pots on your deck and everywhere else you like to enjoy the outdoors. It also helps keep mosquitos out of your home when you place potted marigolds beside entryways.
Citronella – This perennial is one of the main ingredients used in insect repellants, so growing it throughout your landscape to keep bugs away is a no-brainer. It grows well in the ground and in pots, but keep in mind that it can grow to be five to six feet tall and thrives in an area with full sun and good drainage.
Catnip – This pretty perennial herb is a relative of mint and does a great job of repelling mosquitos. If you’re going to be working in your garden or going for a hike, crush fresh catnip leaves and rub them on your skin to keep the bloodsuckers away.
Lemon balm – This bright green plant works in two wonderful ways. First, its scent deters mosquitos, and second, it attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies. It’s a perfect addition to any garden because it grows fast, reseeds itself, and is drought tolerant, which is great because you can plant it outside of your irrigation zones.
Speaking of irrigation, it’s good practice to monitor your irrigation system on a regular basis to make sure it’s turning on and shutting off in accordance with the settings. Too much or too little water can ruin these plants and hamper their ability to deter insects. If you’re not sure your system is running like it should, call us or complete our request service form and we’ll come take a look.
Now you can enjoy a home and yard free of annoying insects.
When you use natural means instead of chemicals to control pests, you are being kind to helpful insects such as honeybees and bringing no harm to the environment. Working in tandem with nature is the best way to have a healthy home and garden.
Remember, if you ever need assistance with sprinkler repair or irrigation in the Orlando area, give us a call!