Scented geraniums exude an intense aroma of lemon, roses or mint. The popular balcony and terrace plants not only look attractive, they can also be used in many ways. For example, the essential oils obtained from the leaves of Pelargonium citrodorum or Pelargonium crispum are used in the food and cosmetics industry, but also repel annoying insects such as wasps or mosquitoes.

Scented geraniums are said to keep annoying wasps away

Essential oils are said to repel wasps

The intense scent of the scented geraniums does not come from the pretty flowers, but from the leaves. These contain glands filled with essential oils, which the plant uses to ward off pests - ergo the scented geranium (especially the lemon scented geranium) is a completely natural weapon against various insects. However, the intense scent not only serves to protect against plants, but is also intended to reduce evaporation. In this way, the scented geranium has adapted perfectly to the living conditions of its South African homeland.

Do scented geraniums really help against wasps?

Basically, it is by no means a marketing trick, as some garden enthusiasts suspect. However, scented geraniums do not work as reliably against wasps as one might wish; especially not when the animals are particularly hungry for the fresh, sweet cakes on your coffee table in late summer. Plants, strategically placed around seating, can help ward off pesky wasps, but you probably won't report 100% success.

Particularly recommended varieties

The varieties of lemon-scented geranium (Pelargonium x citrosmum, Pelargonium crispum or Pelargonium citronella) are considered to be particularly effective against wasps, but also the oak-leaf geranium (Pelargonium quercifolia), which smells of pine needles, or southernwood geranium (Pelargonium abrotanifolium). The most recommended varieties are:

  • "Lillibet"
  • "Mosquito Repellent"
  • "Lemon Fancy"
  • "Orange Fizz"
  • "Princess Anne"
  • "Royal Oak"

What else helps against the pests

However, instead of surrounding yourself with scented geraniums, you can fight wasps, mosquitoes, flies etc. naturally in other ways.

  • Place bowls with water and a few drops of scented geranium oil (Pelargonium crispum).
  • Slice fresh lemons and stud them with cloves.
  • Arrange the lemon slices on a pretty plate and place them strategically.
  • The essential oils of other plants also repel wasps, e.g. Lavender, peppermint, rosemary, thyme, basil or garlic.
  • From this you can create an interesting, wasp-hostile balcony planting.

tips

Incidentally, scented geraniums not only help against wasps, they are also edible.

Category:

Vegetable garden