Believe or not, termites are responsible for over $5 billion in property damages every year. Yes, you read that right – billion with a “B!” Termites are one of the worst and certainly the most destructive pests a home can face.
If you’re one of the wise homeowners out there looking to try everything possible to repel termites from your property, you’ve come to the right place. Plants are stronger than you may think, there’s even plants that repel cockroaches!
Many seasoned gardeners and lawn care experts swear by the ability of these 5 plants to ward off termites.
However, be aware that there isn’t a lot of scientific research to back that claim up. A conventional termite and pest control treatment is still the best way to make sure your home is protected from these pests.
That being said, enough evidence and personal experiences have shown that adding these plants to your termite treatment plan is definitely worth trying. For best results, be sure to plant several of whichever plants you choose.
You’ll also want to keep the plants grouped around your home’s foundation as well as near any possible access points such as windows, doors, and other openings.
1. Catnip
That’s right – catnip isn’t just for cats! Catnip plants contain a natural insect repellent known as nepetalactone that is said to help fend off several pest species.
In fact, research done by the USDA Forest Service revealed that oils taken from catnip plants successfully repelled termites and in high enough concentrations the oil could even kill termites.
There are multiple ways to use catnip for termite control. One of the most common ways people utilize catnip is by simply planting it around infested areas or in preventative spots around your home’s exterior.
However, people also commonly use catnip essential oils to treat infested areas as well as for termite prevention.
2. Vetiver Grass
It’s likely that you’re unfamiliar with the ornamental bunch grass known as vetiver grass, but it’s closely related to lemongrass. Due to its deep root system, vetiver grass is famous for it’s ability to stop erosion, but it turns out those deep roots are useful in other ways.
Vetiver grass roots contain several insect repelling compounds, most notably the chemical known as nootkatone. Research done by Louisiana State University found that nootkatone is effective against termites underground.
To make use of vetiver grass as a termite deterrent, plant this ornamental grass in bunches around your home’s exterior and specifically near any areas where termites are or may infest.
3. Mint
If you’re a fan of termite-free homes and mojitos, planting mint just might change your life. The scent of this highly aromatic plant is strong enough to ward off a few different types of pests, including termites.
The minty smell is so overwhelming to termites that it’s actually painful to them.
We probably don’t need to tell you how to use mint for your mojitos, but if you’d like to utilize this plant for termite control simply plant it in bunches near your foundation, entry points, or near any already infested areas.
4. Garlic
Garlic is another good natural repellent for termites with the added benefit of keeping your home free of vampires as well.
Garlic contains amino acids that can be converted to a compound called “allicin” when the garlic is crushed. Allicin has been shown to be an excellent termite repellent.
In fact, a study done by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Agricultural University showed that a garlic extract could even exterminate termites. For use at home, place crushed garlic or a simple garlic extract (like the one used in the above research study) around your property.
Whether you have a termite or vampire issue, garlic is certainly worth a try.
5. Marigolds
Many seasoned gardeners swear by the use of fragrant marigolds to repel termites and other pests like cockroaches and ants. Many gardeners even plant marigolds between their crops to help deter invading insects from infesting the plants.
If you’d like to use marigolds as part of your termite control plan, choose one of the more aromatic varieties of marigold. Then simply plant these attractive flowering plants around your home near your foundation and any entry points.
Help with Pest Infestations
Gecko Green is a locally owned lawn care and pest control company that has been proudly serving the North Texas area for over 20 years.
Backed with the best products and equipment, our expert technicians have both the knowledge and experience to skillfully care for any home and yard.
Whether you’re in need of seasonal lawn maintenance, treatment for pest infestations, tree and shrub care, or even mosquito control, Gecko Green has the expert team that you can trust.
