You love spring. Who doesn’t after being cooped up all winter?
It feels like we only get a couple warm, sunny days before we have to share our backyards with bugs.
I will try anything to avoid mosquitos and biting bugs, especially if it means planting some beautiful plants.
So here it is. A list of natural ways to repel those biters.
1. Lemon Balm is a natural bug repellent.
It contains high levels of a compound called citronellal, which gives it its lemony aroma and flavor that bugs find so unpleasant.
Plant a little lemon balm plant and you’ll have an endless supply of bug repellent just sitting in your yard. You can just crush the fresh leaves and rub them directly on your skin, especially around the ankles, arms and other areas most exposed and vulnerable.
Planting lemon thyme and lemongrass with the lemon balm can add to the repellent properties.
2. Citronella “the original” for bug repelling
It’s a grass like plant that grows up to 6 feet tall with a powerful lemony scent. It can be a skin irritant- so just plant and let it do it’s thing.
3. Catnip
Some studies have shown that catnip may be even more effective at repelling mosquitos than DEET. It can be used similarly to lemon balm; crushed and rubbed onto the skin.
4. Marigolds
In addition to mosquitoes, marigolds repel garden pests too. Side note- the flowers are edible and add color and flavor to salads or can be a gorgeous garnish.
5. Lavender
If you keep it next to a sunny window, it will grow inside as well as out. Keep the bugs away and enjoy the lovely, calming scent.
6. Peppermint
Biting bugs don’t like the scent of peppermint, so if you do- crush up the leaves and rub it on your skin to ward them off.
You’ve worked hard to have that backyard. Now with just a few plants- you can actually enjoy it all spring & summer.