LifestyleAvoid these tick-attracting plants for a healthier garden

Avoid these tick-attracting plants for a healthier garden

Ticks in the garden
Ticks in the garden
Images source: © Pixabay

12:03 PM EDT, August 2, 2024

Garden enthusiasts often struggle with ticks – not only are they irritating, but they are also carriers of dangerous diseases. The good news is that there are natural ways to combat these parasites. However, once ticks appear in the garden, you may need to consider removing certain plants.

Ticks are a common problem in gardens and parks, especially in spring and summer. Their bites are unpleasant, and they can cause serious diseases such as Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis.

Although chemical insecticides can be used, remember that they can harm animals and the environment.

In the fight against ticks, it is best to start with proper garden care and selecting the right plants.

They attract ticks like a magnet. Avoid these plants

To reduce the risk of tick presence, keep the garden clean. Ticks like moist and shady places, so regularly trimming the lawn and shrubs and removing leaves and branches can significantly reduce their number. Below is a list of plants that can be an ideal shelter for ticks.

  • Ferns – a moist environment promotes the development of ticks. Regular trimming and maintaining spaces between them can help.
  • Ground cover plants – create moist, secluded places for ticks, so keeping them clean is essential.
  • Shrubs and thickets—Dense plants are excellent shelters for ticks, so they should be regularly trimmed to ensure good air circulation.
  • Tall grasses – ticks like to reside in tall grass, so it's worth trimming it regularly.
  • Deciduous trees – a large number of hanging branches favor tick hiding. Regularly trimming branches and removing fallen leaves is necessary.

Here is a list of plants that can help in the fight against these stubborn parasites:

Lavender – not only smells great but also repels ticks, mosquitoes, and moths.

Rosemary – its aromatic properties effectively repel ticks and other pests.

Eucalyptus – a tree with a strong scent, whose essential oil can be used in the garden.

Plants that repel ticks

Garlic – effectively repels ticks, making it an excellent choice for minimizing their presence in the garden.

Red myrtle – contains natural substances that repel ticks, making it ideal for planting in the garden.

Black pepper, catnip, wormwood, mugwort, and buttercup can provide additional support in protecting the garden from ticks. Use these natural methods to enjoy a beautiful garden free of unwanted guests.

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