Living with pets does not mean that you have to live with fleas too. As people are growing more health-conscious they are making decisions that not only impact the environment but the lives of their families and pets too, in a positive way. More and more, natural pest control methods are preferred over toxic chemical applications. Enter plants! Knowing which ones to choose and where to add them around your house and property, will naturally help control and repel those little bloodsuckers. Often these very same houseplants that repel fleas, also deter mosquitos as well as ticks.
While you make these plants part of your flea repelling arsenal, please keep in mind that we are not veterinarians. Your friendly vet should be consulted first before you embark on a flea treating regimen or protocol for your beloved pets.
Houseplants that repel fleas
The high season for fleas is usually during the summer months. Prepping properly for this season will go a long way to help mitigate bad flea infestations. Your modus operandi should include carefully selected houseplants that repel fleas, placed strategically in and outside the home. Special attention should be given to entrances and areas your pets most frequent. Plants that are most effective at keeping fleas at bay are mainly fragrant herbs. Here is your essential list of go-to houseplants that repel fleas:
Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
Chamomile (Asteraceae)
Citronella (Cymbopogon)
Chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum)
Eucalyptus (Myrtaceae)
Lavender (Lamiaceae)
Lemon Grass (Cymbopogon)
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
Oregano (Lamiaceae)
Marigolds (Calendula officinalis)
Mint (Mentha)
Rosemary (Salvia Rosmarinus)
Sage (Salvia officinalis)
Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
Where to put your flea- repelling houseplants
The first place you can focus on is the entrance into the house. Concentrate most of your houseplants that repel fleas, in these areas. You can spruce it up by placing your plants in attractive pots suitable for an entrance. Since fleas are known to be high jumpers, filling the window sills with some potently fragrant herbs, like lavender, can help keep them at bay. Lastly, managing any flea infestation also requires your pets to be flea-free. Add more flea repeller plants in the garden areas that your pets frequent the most. Be mindful of plants that may be toxic to animals when ingested. These include eucalyptus, citronella, rue, pennyroyal, wormwood, tansy, fleawort, and sweet bay.
Last thoughts on houseplants that repel fleas naturally
If you are looking into natural ways to help free your pet of fleas consider electronic flea combs or non-toxic flea powders and sprays. These are great alternatives that help keep your pet healthy and happy. In addition to using houseplants that repel fleas in and around the house, you may want to consider Diatomaceous earth. It is also used as a natural means of pest control. There are two ways to use it:
- Sprinkle on carpets or areas where you found fleas. Then you can let sit for about 12 hours before you vacuum. Repeat when necessary or when flea eggs are most likely to hatch.
- As a natural flea powder for dogs, mix the herb Neem (in dry powder form) and the diatomaceous earth. Experiment a little by adding other dry herbs known to repel fleas into the mix. Rub the powder into your pet’s fur to repel fleas.
Disclaimer: Your pets are precious. Check with your veterinarian before giving your pet any of these herbs and before starting any form of flea control! This article was not written by a veterinarian. When it comes to the welfare of your pets, it is better to speak to your vet directly in order to make an informed decision.
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