The Mosquito War
It was really really cold in Manila last January. Such a breather from our normal oven-like weather. Mom, my sister and I decided to take advantage of “winter” by eating dinner out in the garden.
There was something about eating al fresco that makes food taste better and conversations longer and more interesting...until the first mosquito bites. Talk about party poopers! There's no better way to ruin a perfectly good time in the garden than mosquitoes flying around, buzzing in your ear and feasting on you.
There are many ways to repel these blood-sucking pests....katol, off lotion, baygon to name some obvious few. But I want to get to the heart of the matter. I want to be preventive instead of reactive. The best form of defense IS a strong offense.
I have apponinted myself as the chief of command in the war against mosquitoes in my garden. And my first strategy of offense is to plant mosquito repelling flowers to keep them out of my green kingdom forever! ( evil laugh hahahaha )
Here area few plants you can grow in your garden:
Horsemint - this plant smells a little bit like citronella. They are partial to sandy soils. It has a natural way of slowing down fungus and bacteria.
Rosemary - this herb is not only good for seasoning, it also works well as a natural mosquito repellant. It is easy to plant here because it thrives in hot, dry and well-drained soils.
Marigolds - these sun-loving flowers come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Humans don't usually lie their scent. If it's smell is not good enough for peope, then it'snot good enough for mosquitoes too
Citronella - There are many mosquito-repelling products that use citronella as their base ingredient. That in itself is enough reason to have in your garden.
Catnip - I have head that this plant is the most effective of all and is fairly easy to grow from seeds. Visit your nearest seedling bank and check get your own seeds fast.
Mosquitoes are turned off most effectively when the leaves of these pants are crushed. The aroma is stronger and more annoying to them this way. It is nice to know that the solution to one of the most irritating garden problems can be found right in the heart of it.
You can enjoy your eating in your garden without being eaten yourself too.
Rosemary
Marigold
Citronella
Catnip
Jean Ramiro, Restaurant owner, Band booker and writer
Jean has incredibly hectic schedule trying to balance managing several bands and her own restaurant and bar. She tries to achieve a balanced life and does this by doing a lot of gardening, and blogging about it too.
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