Even though we think of many insects and arachnids as pests, all creatures perform a role in their ecosystems, even systems as small as a backyard. Scorpions eat other insects and ants help aerate the soil so water and oxygen can reach plant roots.
Because pests have important jobs, it’s better to try and repel them, rather than trying to get rid of them with chemical or other pest treatments. A better solution is to plant your pest control. You can do this by adding plants that deter pests around outdoor areas that you and your family might enjoy, such as a patio or pool deck.
Just because these plants help repel pests, doesn’t mean they are unattractive. Many of them are beautiful to look at and to smell! Additionally, many plants that keep creepy-crawlies away are Texas natives that will thrive in yards and gardens with relatively little care.
- Lavender produces oil that deters scorpions. True and Egyptian lavenders are best, but Spanish and English lavenders also work to create an environment less attractive to scorpions.
- Lemongrass keeps mosquitos, scorpions, ants, fleas and many other pests away because its strong scent masks human and food scents that attract many bugs.
- Rosemary, like lavender, also produces oil that scorpions and mosquitos dislike. As a bonus, if add a sprig of rosemary to your food while grilling it’ll add flavor to your food and the scented smoke will keep mosquitos and flies away. Common rosemary and trailing rosemary are best-suited for the DFW area.
There are a few non-native plants too useful not to mention, and luckily they can thrive in pots both inside and outside the home.
Mint is a non-native plant that can be grown in pots. Many pests such as flies, scorpions and ants avoid mint because of its oil. Mint of any kind will do the trick. Another easy-to-grow-in-a-pot plant is citronella; it puts off a strong fragrance that masks human scents, keeping mosquitos, scorpions, ants, fleas and many other pests away.
Article Courtesy of Garden Style San Antonio