The presence of insects is natural and an essential part of healthy gardens. However, the challenge is managing the pests that harm your crops without harming your gardens microcosmic health and environment as a whole. The best way to do this is by adopting organic gardening techniques. This includes using natural pest control solutions and treading gently. The good news is that there are plants that are effective in eliminating pests. All you have to do is plant them in your garden. These plants include;

Artemisia

Artemisia produces a strong antiseptic aroma that repels insects and small animals when planted in drifts. Powis Castle produces botanical poison. Thus, it is advisable to plant it in flower borders as compared to using it in vegetable gardens.

Basil

Basil is known for repelling mosquitoes and house flies. Though used as a delicious pork, chicken, and salad recipe, basil deters insects. To deter flies, plant basil in containers and place them in outdoor areas where you have reserved for relaxation or by house doors. Moreover, fresh basil can be used to make quality insect repelling spray. Mix 4 ounces of boiling water 5 ounces of fresh basil leaves. Let the mixture rest for a few hours before removing the leaves and squeezing all the moisture. Mix the basil water mixture with 4 ounces of vodka. Keep the spray refrigerated and spray when necessary. Avoid contact with nose or eyes.

Lavender

Lavender is commonly used as clothes and home fragrance. Though we all love the sweet smell of lavender, unwanted insects like flies, moths, fleas and mosquitoes hate it. To deter insects using lavender, plant it in sunny areas of your garden and near house entry paths. Distribute it evenly in your garden for maximum results.

Alliums

Plants such as Alliun giganteum and herbs like garlic chives, shallots, and leeks that belong to the Allium family. Their flower heads stalk up to 6 feet high. These broad and tall flower heads are natural insecticides that repel insects such as aphids, slugs, cabbage worms and carrot flies that plaque vegetable gardens. Plants that can benefit from planting Alliums in your garden include; broccoli, carrots, cabbages, pepper, tomatoes, and potatoes just to mention a few. Alliums also ward off aphids from rose bushes.

Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums contain pyrethrum; an effective ingredient for repelling insects. Pyrethrum kills jumping and flying insects. They repel ants, ticks, lice, bedbugs, spider mites, Japanese beetles, roaches and harlequin bugs. Though effective, chrysanthemums are carcinogenic to humans and should be handled with care.

Petunias

Petunias deter leafhoppers, squash bugs, hornworms, and beetles. They are the most popular type of natural pesticide because they are brightly colored and require minimal care. They can be grown in hanging baskets, containers, and garden beds. When used outdoors, they should be planted near herbs and vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and beans.

The beauty of gardening is that the garden takes care of itself indirectly. This starts by selecting the plants for use in your garden to control pests. Using plants to control pests not only reduces your gardening workload but also reduces the chemical insecticides used in your garden.