Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) Among the insects attracted to lemon balm are tachinid flies, hoverflies and parasitic wasps. It is also said to repel mosquitos if you rub it on your skin. Lemon balm can work as a pest repellant.
Does lemon balm attract wasps?
The wasps are attracted to dill, fennel, lemon balm, thyme, yarrow, and cilantro.
Are flies attracted to lemon balm?
What makes lemon balm so effective as an insect repellent is its high levels of a compound called citronellal. So rather than using toxic chemical repellents, just place a lemon balm plant in your home to repel insects. Sage’s strong smell and oil both act in repelling mosquitoes and flies.
Does lemon balm attract ants?
Lemon Balm
This member of the mint family emits a clean lemon scent. Mosquitoes don’t like it. Neither do flies and ants.
Does lemon balm attract aphids?
Aphids are attracted to new lemon balm growth almost 100% of the time.
What does lemon balm repel?
Lemon balm repels mosquitoes and gnats. Commonly grown as ornamental border plants, marigolds are hardy annual plants which have a distinctive smell which mosquitoes, and some other insects, find particularly offensive. Marigolds contain Pyrethrum, a compound used in many insect repellents.
What smell do wasps hate?
Research has shown that a combination of clove, geranium and lemon grass essential oils effectively repels wasps. You can combine several drops of each oil in soapy water then transferring it to a spray bottle.
What plants keep gnats away?
There is a handful that can keep gnats at bay, including geraniums, lemon thyme, lavender, and Mexican marigold. The wonderful thing about using plants is that not only do they look nice in your garden, but they will also help keep more than just gnats away.
What is the quickest way to get rid of gnats?
In a small bowl, mix a half cup of warm water plus two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, a tablespoon of sugar, and about six drops of liquid dish soap. Gnats will be lured in by the sugary mixture, but once they dip in for a drink, the sticky dish soap will trap them.
What plants do flies hate the most?
Plants That Repel Flies, Mosquitoes and Bugs
- Petunias. Petunias are sometimes referred to as nature’s pesticide because of how well they repel leafhoppers, asparagus beetles, aphids and squash bugs.
- Marigolds.
- Lavender.
- Basil.
- Lemongrass.
- Nasturtiums.
- Floss Flowers.
- Lemon Thyme.
How does lemon balm spread?
While mint can spread rapidly by underground stems, lemon balm spreads by setting lots of seed and can, if allowed to go unchecked start to overtake the garden. To prevent spreading, prune flowering stalks before they have a chance to set seed.
Does lemon balm come back every year?
Container Growing Lemon Balm
Winter growing: Cut back lemon balm in fall leaving just 2 inches of stem. The plant may freeze back to the ground in winter but will re-grow from underground roots and renew itself in spring.
Should you let lemon balm flower?
Removing the flowers of the plant as soon as they appear will make your lemon balm far less invasive.
What can I plant near lemon balm?
Most herbs, fruits, and vegetables make great lemon balm companions, including the following:
- Winter and summer squash.
- Melons.
- Tomatoes.
- All members of the cabbage family (kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, etc.)
- Apples.
- Kiwi.
- Onions.
- Fennel.
What kills lemon balm?
How to Eradicate Lemon Balm
- Loosen the soil underneath unwanted lemon balm plants using a garden trowel or fork.
- Remove all roots with your garden tools.
- Spread mulch in the affected area to prevent any regrowth.
- Apply an organic herbicide, such as one containing clove oil, should the previous methods fail.
What plants will aphids avoid?
Planting garlic, chives, leeks, catnip, fennel, dill and cilantro will help repel aphids. Marigolds are also known to drive away a number of unwanted pests. Research good companion plants for these garden additions and place them wisely.
Does lemon balm repel spiders?
Lemon Balm
It has a strong smell, one you’ll enjoy, but two particular pests don’t like it: spiders and fruit flies. This can create an absence of not only spiders but one of their prey, removing an incentive for them being indoors anyways. It’s easy to grow.
Does lemon balm repel fleas?
Lemon Balm to Repel Fleas (Melissa officinalis)
This plant is a good repellent for mosquitos, and can make a great extract for a bug spray. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitos all hate the smell and taste of citrus-smelling plants, and they won’t go near you or your pet if they smell lemon balm around you.
Is lemon balm toxic to dogs?
Lemon balm, known scientifically as Melissa officinalis, is a non-toxic herb that can be used on dogs, cats, and even horses. As a supplement for your dog, lemon balm has many benefits that may help with several different conditions.
What kills wasp instantly?
Use soap and water
Mix two tablespoons of dish soap into a spray bottle of water and spray it on the nests. The mixture will clog the wasps’ breathing pores and kill them instantly.
What are wasps afraid of?
There are several essential oils you can use to safely and effectively repel wasps. Peppermint oil on its own has been shown to act as a natural repellent for wasps and bees, or you can use a combination of clove, geranium, and lemongrass essential oils as a natural pest control method.