Get rid of mosquitoes with plants, not harmful chemicals.
Getting rid of mosquitoes is important if you spend any amount of time outside. Aside from carrying harmful diseases like malaria, they can put an end to an otherwise good time. If you want to avoid spraying dangerous chemicals which can be harsh on humans and pets, there are plants that work just as well to keep mosquitoes away. Some of these plants can easily be found at home-improvement stores. Does this Spark an idea?
Citronella Grass
Citronella grass is more commonly known as providing the oil for citronella candles, but in its natural form, this tropical grass can act as a natural mosquito repellent. When planted, it can grow to be over 6 feet tall, so it will need trimmed on a regular basis. But when used along the perimeter of a commonly used area, it can provide relief from bothersome mosquitoes. The plant can also be crushed and mixed with vodka or rubbing alcohol. After allowing it to meld, it works well as a rub on repellent.
Rosemary
Most people know rosemary as a cooking herb, but the scent it emits is a natural mosquito repellent. Planting rosemary around your home not only cuts down on the appearance of mosquitoes, but it also adds a nice scent to the air. Rosemary plants can grow from 2 to 8 feet tall and require full sun for maximum growth. If you want to keep your plants throughout the winter, plant clippings in a pot and bring them inside during colder months.
Catnip
Nepetalactone, the primary ingredient in catnip has been shown to be 10 times as effective as DEET in repelling mosquitoes. A 2001 report by the American Chemical Society has encouraged homeowners to grow the plant in their yards to cut down on mosquito bites. This member of the mint family has been used for years to increase activity in cats and the exact reason for its affect on mosquitoes is still not known. While tests were conducted on yellow fever mosquitoes, the effects have been shown to work with any species found in the United States.
Marigolds
The oils found in Marigolds are used for a number of commercial mosquito repellents, and because the plant has a long season, it should provide protection for your yard throughout the summer. Marigolds are annuals, which means they bloom every year, but if you want to make sure you have a supply for next year, just collect the seeds for replanting. Try placing them along the perimeter of your home, or using them in hanging baskets around your patio.
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