Top 3 Outdoor Plants to Protect your Summer Garden from Insects
Summer's here and it's time to reap the organic rewards of planting your own garden. However, maintaining a beautiful and thriving garden requires more than just regular watering and fertilizing.
Insects can pose a significant threat to your plants, causing damage and stunting their growth. Luckily, nature offers us a valuable ally in the battle against these pests: outdoor plants that act as natural defenders. Let's explore the top three outdoor plants that can help protect your garden from insects, allowing your plants to flourish without the need for harmful pesticides.
3 Plants that Protect Your Garden
1. Marigolds
Species name: Tagetes
Marigolds are widely recognized for their vibrant colors and their ability to repel a variety of insects. These hardy annuals release a scent that repels pests, making them an excellent choice for protecting your garden. The pungent smell of marigolds acts as a natural deterrent against aphids, whiteflies, nematodes, and mosquitoes. Additionally, marigolds also attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs, which feed on harmful pests.
Plant marigolds in strategic locations throughout your garden, especially near plants that are particularly susceptible to insect damage. Consider planting them in borders, between rows of vegetables, or near entrances to deter insects from entering your garden in the first place. Marigolds require full sun and well-drained soil, making them relatively easy to grow. With their bright gold blossoms and effective pest-repelling properties, marigolds provide a double benefit to any garden.
2. Lavender
Species name: Lavandula
Lavender is not only an eye-catching addition to any garden, but it also possesses natural insect-repellent qualities. The strong fragrance produced by its light purple and elongated flowers helps keep pests at bay, including mosquitoes, fleas, moths, and flies. The essential oils present in lavender are known to disrupt an insect's sense of smell, making it difficult for them to locate their target plants. And they even have a calming effect on many humans!
To optimize the insect-repelling effect of lavender, plant it in sunny areas with well-drained soil. It's recommended to place lavender near entrances or seating areas where you tend to relax to create a natural barrier against insects. You can also dry the lavender flowers and create sachets, potpourri or bouquets to place indoors as a natural repellent. By incorporating lavender into your garden, you not only enhance its beauty but also create a bug-free oasis for you to enjoy.
3. Basil
Species name: Ocimum basilicum
While known for its culinary uses, basil is surprisingly an effective plant for keeping insects away. The strong aroma emitted by basil leaves acts as a natural deterrent to mosquitoes, flies, and aphids. Say goodbye to bug bites! And basil also attracts beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, which help with pollination and balance your garden's ecosystem.
Basil can be easily grown in containers such as pots or planters or directly in the ground. Plant it in areas where you want to prevent insects from congregating, such as near windows, doors, or outdoor seating areas. To make the most of basil's insect-repelling properties, you can also try crushing the leaves and rubbing them onto your skin as a natural repellent when spending time in your garden.
Insects can wreak havoc on your garden, but fortunately, there are natural ways to protect your plants without resorting to harmful chemicals and pesticides. By harnessing the power of outdoor plants with insect-repelling properties like marigolds, lavender, and basil — you can create a natural defense system that will safeguard your garden against pests.
These plants not only repel insects but also attract beneficial ones, creating a balanced ecosystem that promotes the overall health and vitality of your garden. Now you can sit back and relax while you embrace the beauty and benefits of these natural solutions... and watch as your garden thrives in harmony with nature.
