They are the uninvited guests at all our summer parties. They can even get at you when you are tucked up under the covers in bed. Mosquitoes arrive with the heat and humidity of the summer season. To get rid of them, forget about the chemical insecticides you can buy in the supermarkets, and reach instead for natural solutions, which are far better for both your health and the environment.
Certain plants are particularly good for keeping these little pests out of our homes – they diffuse an odour that mosquitoes detest, which repels them. Here is our selection.
1. Lemongrass
The smell of lemongrass plunges us straight into summer. Thanks to this plant’s properties, mosquitoes will bother you no more.
Grow lemongrass in a pot, as it can grow and spread too rapidly. In your garden, it attracts bees.
2. Catnip
Both minty and lemony, catnip produces nepetalactone. This is an organic compound that is hated by mosquitoes. But be careful, as the name indicates, catnip attracts cats!
3. Basil
According to a study published in 2009, basil traps mosquito larvae, and the oil it produces prevents them from developing. A few basil plants should suffice to get rid of mosquitoes in the long term.
4. Peppermint
Like basil, peppermint is toxic for mosquito larvae. This plant is often used in mosquito repellents.
However, do not put a peppermint plant in your bedroom: it can disrupt your sleep.
However, peppermint is highly effective for repelling mosquitoes during barbecues!
5. Rosemary and sage
Similar to peppermint, rosemary and sage are your best friends when you have friends over for a few drinks on the terrace. Don’t hesitate to add a few sprigs of these two plants to your barbecue. To add to their mosquito repellent properties, they make a great addition to your steaks!
6. Lavender
We never get tired of this old reliable: lavender comes with us everywhere we go! Because as well as its calming properties, it keeps mosquitoes at a distance. Note also that lavender is highly effective for keeping flies and moths at bay.
7. Marigolds
These brightly coloured plants are known to repel all sorts of insects. Mosquitoes included, obviously. Gardeners tend to plant marigolds around other flowers and plants to protect them from predators.
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