Ant infestations on rooftops are a common problem for some homeowners, who try their best to get rid of these insects, especially when they come near food. While some homeowners resort to the easiest solution of buying insecticides, others prefer natural solutions without side effects, especially since insecticides are full of chemicals harmful to human health. In this context, it is advisable to plant certain plants known for their ant-repelling scent. To achieve this, rub the leaves of the following seven plants; this action releases volatile oils into the air, preventing ants from entering certain areas.
.jpg "The 7 best plants for eliminating ants... plant them for guaranteed results without pesticides")
Plants and Herbs to Repel Ants
Mint: Among the dozens of mint varieties, peppermint and spearmint contain large amounts of essential oil and are characterized by their strong aroma. The scent of mint and its oil are effective ant repellents. To care for mint in a pot indoors, place the plant in a partially shaded location and water the soil 2.5 to 5 cm deep weekly.
Rosemary: A versatile aromatic herb, rosemary can be grown outdoors as a delicate perennial in many agricultural areas, as well as in pots indoors. Its strong, evergreen scent and long, needle-like leaves repel ants, as they inhale the volatile oils that disrupt their chemical pathways. It also enhances the effectiveness of other natural insecticides, such as pyrethrins. To care for rosemary in a pot indoors, place the plant in a location with full sun, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. It looks beautiful when pruned into miniature trees, making it a lovely addition to a kitchen.
Citronella herb: Some people often confuse citronella herb with citronella plant. Citronella is a type of geranium with a lemony scent and contains a much lower percentage of essential oil than citronella herb. To get rid of ants and other pests from outdoor living areas, it is recommended to plant perennial citronella grass in large pots in a location with full sun to partial shade, watering it when the surface of the soil is dry.
Lavender: All types of lavender contain essential oils with a sweet, perfume-like fragrance. The leaves, buds, and flowers of this delicate perennial are extremely fragrant and very strong to repel most insects except bees. Lavender grows in clumps, and its flowers, which come in shades of pink, purple, blue, and white, are borne in spikes that rise above the leaves. Lavender is a suitable choice for flower beds and pots, especially terracotta ones, and can be arranged on sunny windowsills. It can also be grown as a companion plant in a vegetable garden. It thrives in full sun and is drought-tolerant.
Bay: In temperate regions, bay is usually grown as a small tree in a pot and kept indoors during the winter. Its leaves emit a pungent, bitter scent that repels ants and other insects. Dried, crushed leaves can be sprinkled on windowsills, countertops, and in the pantry to deter ants attracted to food sources in your kitchen. To care for bay leaves in a pot indoors, the plant should be placed in a location with full sun and partial shade. The soil needs to be kept consistently moist. Bay leaves are attractive when arranged in wicker baskets to decorate the entrance of a house.
Thyme: Thyme has many uses in the home and garden. It is a culinary herb, a perennial flowering plant, and a suitable ground cover for walking. Many types and varieties are available, including citrus-scented thyme. To care for thyme in a pot indoors, the plant should be placed in a location with full sun and watered twice a week to once a month.
Chrysanthemums: Both annual and perennial varieties repel ants. To care for potted chrysanthemums indoors, the plant needs full sun and regular watering to keep the soil moist.
The pungent scent of plants repels ants from your home. Most plants that emit any strong scent deter ants, which have very sensitive olfactory receptors in their antennae. The most unpleasant scents are pungent ones like eucalyptus, sage, and catnip.
Plants alone may not completely eradicate an entire underground ant colony, but they act as excellent chemical barriers that prevent ants from entering certain areas. For increased effectiveness, it is recommended to wipe household surfaces with concentrated oils of these plants in addition to planting them.