Plants that Help Deter Pests in Your NYC Apartment

One of the challenges of living in a city like New York is dealing with pests in your apartment. From cockroaches to mice, these unwanted visitors can be a real nuisance. However, there are natural ways to deter pests without resorting to harmful chemicals.

One effective method of pest control in NYC is to incorporate pest-repelling plants into your indoor or patio garden. Not only do these plants add a touch of greenery to your space, but they also help keep pests at bay.

Plants That Repel Pests

Citronella Plant

The Citronella Plant (Cymbopogon nardus), also known as the Citronella geranium or Citronella Pelargonium, is a popular choice for its mosquito-repellent properties. Its distinct lemony scent has the ability to repel mosquitoes, making it an ideal addition to gardens and outdoor spaces.

One of the key characteristics of the Citronella Plant is its ability to emit a strong fragrance that acts as a natural mosquito repellent. The strong odor deters mosquitoes from coming near, reducing the risk of mosquito bites and the transmission of diseases they carry.

It is important to note that the Citronella Plant is different from Citronella grass (Cymbopogon winterianus), which is widely used for the extraction of citronellal, the main compound responsible for its mosquito repellent properties. Unlike Citronella grass, the Citronella Plant contains a low concentration of citronellal.

In comparison to Ceylon or Java Citronellagrass, the Citronella Plant has significantly less citronellal content. While Citronella grass has higher levels of citronellal, the Citronella Plant offers a natural deterrent against mosquitoes with its lemony fragrance.

Marigolds

Marigolds are not only beautiful flowers but also serve as effective insect repellents and animal deterrents. They possess natural chemicals and compounds that make them highly effective in repelling various pests. For example, marigolds are known to effectively deter Mexican bean beetles, nematodes, squash bugs, tomato worms, mosquitoes, rabbits, and deer.

Mexican bean beetles are a major threat to bean crops, but marigolds can keep them at bay. Nematodes, microscopic worms that damage plant roots, can also be controlled by planting marigolds around affected areas. Squash bugs and tomato worms are common garden pests, but the strong aroma of marigolds can repel them effectively.

In addition to repelling insects, marigolds can also deter animals. Mosquitoes, known for their irritating bites and ability to transmit diseases, are naturally repelled by the fragrance of marigolds. Rabbits, notorious for nibbling on vegetable plants, can be deterred by planting marigolds around the garden. Even deer, larger and more destructive animals, have been observed to avoid marigold-filled areas.

Furthermore, marigolds can be easily planted in window boxes to keep flies and mosquitoes out. By placing these colorful flowers near windows and doorways, their natural repellent properties help to create a barrier against these pests, reducing the annoyance and health risks associated with them.

Lavender

Lavender, known for its pleasant scent and numerous benefits, is a popular choice among garden enthusiasts for its natural insect-repellent properties. This versatile herb not only adds a touch of beauty to any garden but also harmoniously blends with various plants.

Lavender's most notable attribute is its ability to ward off insects. The fragrance of lavender is highly effective in repelling pests such as mosquitoes, flies, and moths. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking for natural alternatives to chemical-laden insect repellents. Furthermore, the aromatic qualities of lavender create a serene and calming atmosphere, making it a favorite among many.

If you are planning to incorporate lavender into your garden, it is important to consider its compatibility with other plants. Some plants that go well with lavender include roses, salvias, and sage. These plants not only complement lavender's appearance but also thrive in similar growing conditions.

However, it is essential to note that lavender does have a few incompatible companions in the garden. Mint, for example, is known to hinder the growth of lavender and vice versa. Additionally, impatiens do not pair well with lavender, as they require different levels of sunlight and soil conditions.

Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are not only admired for their beautiful and vibrant colors but also possess several beneficial properties that make them a valuable addition to any garden. Chrysanthemums have long been used for their pest-repellent qualities.

One of the key benefits of chrysanthemums is their ability to drive away various pests that can harm plants. This is mainly due to the production of a natural insecticide called pyrethrin. Pyrethrin is an organic compound found in the flowers of chrysanthemums, which acts as a potent insect repellent. This natural insecticide is highly effective in targeting a wide range of pests, including spider mites, nematodes, lice, ants, beetles, ticks, roaches, and even bed bugs.

However, certain precautions need to be taken when planting chrysanthemums near lettuce. Chrysanthemums can release chemicals into the soil that may affect the growth and flavor of lettuce. Therefore, it is best to keep a distance between these two plants.

Moreover, while chrysanthemums are beneficial for pest control, it is important to note that they can be toxic if consumed. Particularly for pets, chrysanthemums can cause various health issues if ingested. Therefore, it is advised to keep pets away from chrysanthemums and avoid planting them in areas accessible to pets.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass, also known as Cymbopogon citratus, is an herb commonly used in Asian cuisines for its unique aroma and flavor. Apart from its culinary applications, lemongrass is renowned for its properties as a natural mosquito deterrent. It contains citronellol, a compound that is highly effective in repelling mosquitoes. This is why lemongrass is often compared to citronella grass, which is widely used for its mosquito-repellent properties.

One of the major benefits of using lemongrass as a natural mosquito deterrent is its ability to offer protection against specific species of mosquitoes. For instance, the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which is responsible for transmitting diseases like dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika virus, is known to be repelled by lemongrass. By using lemongrass-based repellents, individuals can reduce their risk of mosquito-borne illnesses.

Additionally, lemongrass oil has also been found to be effective in repelling stable flies. Stable flies are notorious pests that bother both humans and animals, causing significant discomfort and potential health issues. In a lab setting, a study conducted in the Journal of Medical Entomology found that lemongrass oil significantly reduced stable fly landings on a test panel compared to the control group. This suggests that lemongrass oil has the potential to be used as an effective repellent against stable flies.

Pet-Safe Plants That Repel Pests

Creating a safe environment for our pets is a top priority for many pet owners. While pests can be a nuisance and potentially harmful to our furry friends, it is essential to find pet-safe solutions to repel them. Luckily, there are several plants that not only serve as natural pest repellents but are also safe for pets to be around.

Basil

Basil, a popular herb known for its aromatic leaves, has been utilized for centuries as a natural mosquito repellent. Incorporating this herb into your garden not only serves as a culinary delight but also helps keep pesky mosquitoes at bay. To effectively use basil as a mosquito repellent, consider the following tips:

• Planting: Start by planting basil near doors, windows, and outdoor gathering areas. This will create a natural barrier against mosquitoes, deterring them from entering your living spaces.
• Crushed Leaves: Mosquitoes detest the scent of crushed basil leaves. Rubbing crushed leaves on your skin can act as a repellent when spending time in the garden or during outdoor activities.
• Infused Oil: Create a homemade mosquito repellent by steeping basil leaves in a carrier oil, such as almond or olive oil, for several days. Strain the oil, and apply it to exposed skin to keep mosquitoes at bay.

Basil is not only effective in repelling adult mosquitoes, but it also showcases toxicity towards mosquito larvae. The plant's essential oils contain compounds called eugenol and estragole, which can be toxic to mosquito larvae. This makes basil a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for preventing mosquito breeding.

Additionally, basil has the ability to deter flies. The strong aroma of basil acts as a natural fly repellent, making it an effective plant to incorporate into your garden to keep flies away.

Planting basil offers several benefits beyond its mosquito-repelling properties. Its unmistakable flavor enhances the taste of homegrown tomatoes, making basil an ideal companion plant for tomato cultivation. Moreover, the versatility of basil in various recipes makes it a must-have herb in the kitchen. From pasta dishes and pizzas to salads and soups, basil adds a fresh and aromatic touch to numerous culinary creations.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a fragrant herb commonly used in cooking, but it also serves as a natural insect repellent. Its potent aroma is effective in deterring various pests, making it a popular choice for those seeking a natural alternative to chemical-laden repellents. The benefits of using rosemary as an insect repellent extend beyond its effectiveness in keeping bugs at bay.

One of the significant advantages of rosemary as a natural insect repellent is its non-toxic nature. Unlike commercial insecticides that contain harmful chemicals, rosemary is safe to use around humans and pets. This makes it an ideal option for those who prioritize their health and the environment.

Furthermore, rosemary's unique scent adds a pleasant aroma to the air. For individuals who value a refreshing and uplifting atmosphere, using rosemary as an insect repellent can serve a dual purpose. Not only does it keep insects away, but it also enhances the air quality, making it a win-win situation.

Rosemary can repel a wide range of insects, including mosquitoes, flies, and moths. To maximize its effectiveness, place potted rosemary plants near entry points, such as doors and windows. The scent emitted by the plants will act as a natural barrier, deterring insects from entering your home.

Sage

Sage has been used for centuries as a natural pest repellent due to its strong aroma and properties that insects and rodents find unappealing. It is an effective solution for keeping ants, flies, mosquitoes, mice, and rats away from our homes and gardens.

To repel ants, sprinkle dried sage leaves around entry points, such as windows, doors, and cracks in the foundation. This can create a barrier that ants are reluctant to cross, deterring them from entering your living spaces. Similarly, flies can be repelled by placing bundles of dried sage near windows and entrances.

For mosquitoes, burn dried sage leaves as incense or add them to a campfire. The smoke released from burning sage acts as a natural mosquito repellent and helps keep these pesky insects at bay. Sage can also be used in the form of essential oil, diluted with water and applied to the skin to repel mosquitoes.

When it comes to mice and rats, sage can be used as a deterrent by placing it in areas where they are likely to enter, such as near cracks in the walls or floorboards. The strong odor of sage disrupts their sense of smell, discouraging them from entering.

Catnip

Catnip, a member of the mint family, is commonly known for its ability to attract cats. However, this fascinating herb is not only loved by felines but can also act as an effective bug repellent, particularly for houseflies and mosquitoes.

When it comes to houseflies, catnip can work wonders. The pungent scent of catnip leaves acts as a natural deterrent for these pesky insects, effectively keeping them at bay. Additionally, the essential oil found in catnip contains nepetalactone, a compound that repels mosquitoes as well. This makes catnip a versatile bug repellent, targeting multiple irritants.

Furthermore, a study conducted by Iowa State University has shed light on the remarkable effectiveness of catnip oil as a "spatial repellent" in comparison to commonly used DEET-based repellents. The study concluded that catnip oil provided longer-lasting protection against mosquitoes and had a greater overall repellency factor. Its ability to ward off mosquitoes without the need for toxic chemicals such as DEET makes catnip oil a more environmentally friendly option.