If you want to banish whiteflies from your garden, mint is the plant of choice. The herb contains essential oils that give off a scent that whiteflies dislike. You, on the other hand, will probably find the smell pleasant. Try it out and see for yourself how effective it is against the pests.
Whiteflies don't like the smell of mint
plant mint
location
- sunny to semi-shady
- permeable soil
- no waterlogging
- with intensive solar radiation high water requirement
- ideal underplanting of fruit trees
- Can also be cultivated in the tub on the balcony or on the windowsill
Caution: mint spreads widely and develops an extensive root system. In this way, the plant displaces both weeds and other plants with less assertiveness.
variety
Mint comes in numerous species. The best known is probably peppermint, which symbolically embodies the typical aroma. The great thing about this natural combatant is that mint can also be used culinary. The different types vary in taste. Which variety you use to control whitefly is rather irrelevant. The following types are particularly recommended:
- Indian mint
- horsemint
- or catnip
Catnip has another benefit for pet owners. The four-legged friends love both the taste and the smell and love to nibble on the stems. Catnip is like candy for your velvet paw.
Year-round protection
Unfortunately, unless you're growing your mint in a pot, you'll have to forgo the herb over the winter. Free ride for the white fly? Hardly likely! Dry the leaves and stems and grind them into a fine powder with a mortar and pestle. You can use it to fill scented sachets that you hang up in your home.
By the way: mint not only drives away whiteflies, but also keeps ants away.