Which herbs keep flies away?
Flies can be a nuisance, especially during the warmer months when they are more active. While there are several commercial products available to repel flies, many people prefer natural alternatives to avoid harsh chemicals. Herbs are an excellent option for keeping flies at bay while adding a pleasant scent to your surroundings. In this article, we will explore five herbs known for their fly-repelling properties.
1. Lavender
Lavender is a versatile herb known for its soothing scent and beautiful purple flowers. It also has natural fly repellent properties. The strong scent of lavender is highly disliked by flies, making it an effective deterrent. You can plant lavender in your garden or place potted lavender plants near windows and doorways to keep flies away.
Another way to use lavender is to make a homemade fly spray. To make the spray, combine a few drops of lavender essential oil with water in a spray bottle. Shake well and spray areas where flies are likely to gather, such as patios or outdoor seating areas. The refreshing scent of lavender will not only repel flies, but also add a delightful aroma to your surroundings.
2. Basil
Basil is a popular culinary herb that adds flavor to many dishes, but it also serves as a natural fly repellent. Flies do not like the strong smell of basil, so it is an excellent choice for keeping them away. You can plant basil in your garden or keep potted basil plants near doors and windows to deter flies from entering your home.
To further enhance its fly-repelling properties, you can crush a few basil leaves and rub them on your skin or place them in small bowls around your outdoor gathering areas. Alternatively, you can make a basil-infused oil by soaking basil leaves in carrier oil for a few weeks. Strain the leaves and then use the oil as a natural fly repellent on your skin or as a room spray.
3. Rosemary
Rosemary is a fragrant herb commonly used in cooking, but it is also known for its ability to repel flies. The pungent aroma of rosemary acts as a deterrent, keeping flies at bay. Planting rosemary in your garden or keeping potted rosemary plants near openings can help keep flies out of your home.
To make a fly-repellent sachet, tie a handful of dried rosemary sprigs together with a piece of string and hang it in fly-prone areas, such as doorways or windows. The scent will deter flies from entering your home. In addition, burning dried rosemary sprigs in an outdoor fire pit or grill can also help repel flies while adding a pleasant aroma to your outdoor gatherings.
4. Peppermint
Mint is a refreshing herb widely used in beverages and culinary preparations. Its strong scent is highly disliked by flies, making it an excellent natural repellent. Planting mint in your garden or placing potted mint plants near entrances can help keep flies away.
To make a homemade fly repellent, crush a handful of mint leaves and place in a bowl with a few drops of water. The essential oils released will repel flies, and you can keep the bowl on your patio table or near windows and doors. You can also rub crushed mint leaves on your skin as a natural fly repellent.
5. Lemongrass
Lemongrass is a tropical herb with a citrusy aroma commonly used in Asian cuisine and herbal teas. Its strong scent acts as a natural fly repellent. Planting lemongrass in your garden or keeping potted lemongrass plants near windows and doors can deter flies from entering your home.
To use lemongrass as a fly repellent, you can make a lemongrass spray by boiling several lemongrass stems in water. Allow the mixture to cool, strain, and pour into a spray bottle. Spray the solution in areas where flies are present, both indoors and outdoors. The refreshing scent of lemongrass will help keep flies away while adding a delightful scent to your surroundings.
In conclusion, using herbs to repel flies is a natural and fragrant alternative to chemical-based repellents. Lavender, basil, rosemary, mint and lemongrass are all excellent choices due to their strong scents that flies find unpleasant. By incorporating these herbs into your garden, strategically placing potted plants, or creating homemade sprays and sachets, you can effectively keep flies at bay while enjoying the delightful scents these herbs offer.
FAQs
Which herbs keep flies away?
Several herbs are known to repel flies due to their strong aromas. Some effective herbs for keeping flies away include:
1. What are the benefits of using basil to repel flies?
Basil is not only a delicious culinary herb but also acts as a natural fly repellent. Its strong scent helps deter flies and keeps them at bay.
2. How can I use lavender to repel flies?
Lavender is a fragrant herb that flies find unappealing. You can use dried lavender flowers or essential oil to create a fly repellent spray or place small sachets of dried lavender in areas where flies are a problem.
3. Does rosemary repel flies?
Yes, rosemary is an effective herb for repelling flies. Its strong aroma acts as a natural deterrent, making it an excellent choice for keeping flies away from outdoor spaces.
4. Can mint help in controlling flies?
Mint is known for its refreshing scent, but it also has fly-repellent properties. Planting mint around your home or using mint essential oil can help deter flies from entering your living spaces.
5. Are there any other herbs that repel flies?
Yes, there are several other herbs that can help repel flies. Some examples include lemongrass, tansy, citronella, and geranium. These herbs contain compounds that flies find unpleasant, making them effective natural fly repellents.