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does creeping thyme repel mosquitoes

by Dr. Brian Lind II Published 4 years ago Updated 3 years ago

Thyme. Thyme, including red creeping thyme (shown), possesses excellent mosquito-repelling properties. The secret is to crush the leaves to release the volatile oils. You can simply place crushed stems around outdoor seating areas or rub the leaves on skin or clothing.Jul 24, 2020

Does thyme repel mosquitoes?

A study published in the Journal of Medical Entomology found a mixture of 50 percent thyme oil and 50 percent clove oil repelled mosquitoes (Anopholes albimanus) for up to 2.5 hours. Use caution with thyme essential oil because both studies found it irritating to human skin. Thyme is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 8. Other Mosquito Repelling Plants

Does creeping lemon thyme repel bugs?

Creeping lemon thyme repels mosquitoes and other insects and pests. It also prevents musty odors. Sage repels many garden bugs like moths, ants, slugs, sticks, carrot flies, and cabbage moths that are known to destroy vegetable gardens. Rosemary repels lice, moths, carrot flies, mosquitoes, silverfish, and bean beetles.

What plants repel mosquitoes and flies?

Dried bay leaves are available in the market. Geraniums repel a wide variety of insects like Japanese beetles and mosquitoes. Their flowers also add color to your garden. Catnip keeps mosquitoes and flies at bay.

Do lemongrass plants repel mosquitoes?

There are so many reasons to grow lemongrass: its bright green leaves, its delicious lemony stems and its mosquito-deterring properties. Oil of citronella, which is widely used in many highly effective mosquito repellents, comes from lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus).

How to keep mosquitoes away from my garden?

Many of the herbs you already love to grow also work to keep mosquitoes away from your outdoor spaces! Move them from the garden plot to your deck or patio containers and you’ll have a multi-purpose garden that keeps bugs away and gives you a mini herb garden right outside your door. These herbs also look just lovely combined with traditional container elements such as wave petunias or lobelia but also pair nicely with the three plants mentioned in Part 1 of this series (Citronella Geranium, Lantana, or Lemon Grass).

What is a good herb to use in a rocky area?

This low-growing, trailing herb fits well in rocky and sandy locations and adds a lemony kick to your summer cooking. The lovely leaves release a burst of citronella scent when bruised or rubbed and its vining growth pattern makes it a great “spiller” addition to most containers.

What to do with rosemary trimmings?

Use these trimmings in outdoor bouquets; tie in bundles and dry for later use; or toss on the campfire for a smoky, scented repellent. Rosemary also makes a great garden companion as it deters bean-hungry bugs, parasites, and cabbage flies. Mint (any variety) Photo courtesy of Wenke Greenhouses, photographer unknown.

Can you use stems for potpourris?

Stems can be bundled and hung to dry and will continue to give off a lovely scent making it a favorite for sachets and potpourris. You can even make a natural insect repellent that almost smells like perfume (more on that in our next article).

Does mint help kale?

Plant prefers full sun and well-draining soil and should be trimmed back periodically. Mint also works to deter ants, aphids, and cabbage flies so it’s a good companion for cabbage, kohlrabi, broccoli, and kale.

Does lavender repel mosquitoes?

It not only repels mosquitoes but also deters fleas, ticks, and even mice while at the same time attracting beneficial insects, butterflies, and birds. Lavender prefers full sun; well-draining soil; infrequent but deep waterings; and occasional pruning.

How Does Thyme Repel Pests?

For thyme to repel pests, it has to be grown directly in the garden, or containers. Thyme is hardy and doesn’t require much attention. Plant the seeds in a sunny spot since it loves hot growing conditions. Add compost to the soil during planting.

Why do you put thyme on corn?

Growing thyme near your corn plants will prevent the pests from destroying your crops. If your plants have already been affected, pour mineral oil on the corns, as it suffocates them.

What do cabbage loopers attack?

Cabbage loopers attack plants like cabbages, spinach, potatoes, lettuce, and celery. Young larvae scar the leaves of the vegetables while older ones bore holes on them. Plants can die if attacked by these pests at their early growing stages. The loopers are usually large, and you can spot them easily.

How to make thyme look more attractive?

You can also prune your plants with hand pruners to make them more appealing. Grow thyme on the edges of your garden and shape it to different designs, to achieve an attractive look.

How long does it take for thyme to germinate?

Thyme grown from seed will start germinating 14-28 days after planting. Provide it with the right growing conditions to speed up the process. Soaking the seeds and stratification speeds up germination too.

What is thyme used for?

Thyme is a Mediterranean herb popular for culinary and medical uses. Since ancient times, it has been used for the treatment of various diseases. It is also a staple fresh that is much adored worldwide for its strong, distinctive taste. Thyme is used together with other herbs such as chives and rosemary.

What herbs repel slugs?

Other herbs that repel slugs include rosemary and mint.

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