When food is served in summer, many insects are not far away. Even small crumbs on the ground or dried juice residues are an attractive meal for ants, flies or wasps. Mosquitoes are attracted by the human smell.
Strongly scented herbs keep many insects away
drive away mosquitoes
The stinging insects can be kept at a distance with certain aromas. We recommend a colorful arrangement of herbs and ornamental plants that you put in pots and place on the balcony or terrace. Sage, lemongrass, tomatoes, bergamot or fragrant geraniums have proven their worth. If you want to keep mosquitoes away, use lemony flavors. Citronella oil, extracted from lemongrass, is suitable for vaporizing in fragrance lamps.
deter ants
Strong-smelling herbs and spices such as laurel, cloves or chervil help against ants. Planted potted herbs have a lower deterrent effect than essential oils. When used correctly, baking soda helps against ants.
Eliminate ant trails:
- lay out fresh herbs on the floor
- Spread dusty substances such as baby powder or baking soda thickly
- Distribute coffee grounds as an alternative
- Eliminate ant scents with vinegar or lemon juice
scare away wasps
These insects can be easily repelled with smoke. Incense sticks show good effects regardless of the scent. Equally effective is the smell of simmering coffee grounds. To do this, put some powder in a fireproof bowl and set it on fire. The rising mist exudes an aroma pleasant to humans and keeps wasps away from the table. Fresh sprigs of lavender or a pot of basil will reduce wasps.
repel houseflies
It takes a lot of discipline to get rid of flies outdoors. Rinse used dishes immediately and be careful not to leave breadcrumbs or sweet drink stains on the table. Houseflies are attracted to smells. Like mosquitoes, insects do not like strong smells. Essential oils for fragrance lamps such as peppermint, lavender, eucalyptus or basil scare off uninvited guests.
tips
You can keep annoying fruit flies away from the food with a self-made trap. Fill a bottle with water and add a few dashes of vinegar and dish soap. The insects fly into the bottle opening and drown in the liquid.