5 Dog-Safe Plants that Naturally Repel Mosquitoes
During the warmer months, mosquitoes become an extreme annoyance for people everywhere. As a dog owner, it’s important to find safe and natural ways to repel mosquitoes. While chemicals are a quick and effective way to deal with pests, they are not safe to use in areas that your dog has access to. Luckily for dog owner, there are a few dog-safe plants that naturally repel mosquitoes.
Here are the top 5 dog-safe plants that you can add to your backyard that will naturally repel mosquitoes.
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Basil
Herbs like basil, sage, and thyme not only give your food extra flavor, but also repel mosquitoes. With basil, you don’t have to crush the leaves to reap its benefits. In fact, basil plants are toxic to mosquito larvae. Consider placing basil around standing water in your yard to help deter mosquitoes from laying eggs there.
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Lavender
Lavender is one of the most recognized scents today. It is known for its pretty purple appearance and sweet aroma. What smells sweet to humans is absolutely rancid to mosquitoes and gnats. Not only is lavender is a dog-safe plant, but it is also used in essential oils as an aromatherapy that promotes relaxation and sleep for both you and your dog.
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Lemon Balm
Lemon balm, also known as horsemint, contains citronella, a compound that gives it a beautiful citrusy aroma that mosquitoes can’t stand. It is fast growing, so landscapers recommend planting lemon balm in pots versus a flower bed. This helps to maintain the growth and avoid a lemon balm takeover in your yard.
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Peppermint
The mere sight of peppermint is enough to repel mosquitoes. Known for its robust aroma, peppermint can be used as a personal mosquito repellent by simply crushing the leaves and rubbing them on your skin. You don’t have to worry if you dog gets into this dog safe plant; eating it may actually give them really nice smelling breath.
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Rosemary
Rosemary is one of the most versatile among natural mosquito repellents. Not only is the plant itself a natural mosquito repellent, but it can also be burned to spread the scent throughout your yard during barbecues or other gatherings. Burning a few sprigs will help keep mosquitoes away without the worry of poisoning your dog. You can even use rosemary as a lotion or body spray to keep mosquitoes from biting.
Invest in Dog Safe Plants
These are just a few dog-safe plants that can naturally repel mosquitoes. All of these can be grown together, which will give you the added benefit of all of their unique qualities. Although these plants are safe for consumption, if your dog happens to eat too much, he/she may end up with an upset stomach. It is best to keep grazing to a minimum.
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About the Author:
Abi Pennavaria is a dog mom, avid pet care volunteer, author of Saved By The Bark blog, and starting a pet sitting business in Oklahoma. [/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]