Page 16 - Boardwalk Meander Issue 2 2025

NATURE

PLANTS THAT REPEL

MOSQUITOES
SAVE THE

MARIGOLDS
BEES
Not only do they make your land-
scape more attractive, but mari-
golds also have a distinct smell
that repels mosquitoes. Plant from
seed or get a starter plant from a
nursery or floral department. Place
potted marigolds near mosquito
entry-points, such as doors and
windows, or on a deck or balcony
where you spend a lot of time out-
doors. They also deter insects that
prey on tomato plants — an added
bonus for gardeners.

CITRONELLA
Citronella is one of the most common
ingredients in insect repellents, due
to its strong smell, which masks
mosquito attractants. The perennial
clumping grass grows 5 to 6 feet, and
can be planted in the ground or kept
in large pots. Citronella plants thrive
best in full sun and areas with good
drainage.
CATNIP
Warning: Your catnip might bring all the cats to the yard. The perennial herb, related to mint, is easy LAVENDER
to grow. While it repels mosquitoes in close proximity, some people apply crushed leaves for more In addition to smelling lovely, aiding
protection. in relaxation and promoting restful
sleep, lavender dissuades mosqui-
BASIL toes and gnats from invading your
Enjoy delicious pesto outdoor dinner party when planted
dishes, and keep in the garden or in pots placed by
mosquitoes at bay, windows, doors and entertainment
with this insect-repel- areas. The dried flowers can also be
ling herb. Basil is one placed in wardrobes to repel moths.
of the few herbs in
which you don’t have
to crush the leaves to
reap its benefits. Lem-
on basil and cinnamon
basil are the best
varieties to prevent
unwanted pests.

LEMON BALM
Also known as horse-
mint, lemon balm’s
aroma wards off mos-
quitoes, but attracts
pollinators like bees
and butterflies. It’s
fast growing, drought
resistant and reseeds
itself, so consider
planting in a pot rath-
er than in your yard
to avoid a lemon balm
takeover.

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Boardwalk Meander Estate Issue 2 · 2025
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