The Best Plants to Have for Your South Florida Yard

 

One of the best things about living in South Florida is the ability to spend time outdoors all year round. Spending time outdoors, however, is dependent on two things: the Florida weather and pesky mosquitos, no-see-ums, and other biting insects. While you can’t control the weather, there are steps you can take to keep biting insects at bay. Here are some of the best plants to have for your South Florida yard.

Citronella

Few plants are as associated with mosquito repelling as citronella grass. The distinct smell of citronella is an effective mosquito-deterrent – so much so that the scent commonly features in repellant candles. Citronella is a straightforward plant to both grow and maintain and does especially well in warm climates – such as South Florida.

Marigolds

These easy-to-grow plants are an excellent way to keep mosquitos at bay. Marigolds emit a pungent odor which deters not only mosquitos but also various other beetles and bugs, including Mexican bean beetles, squash bugs, aphids, hornworms, and whiteflies. Marigolds look great and make the perfect addition to pots, or as a border around yards, patios and porches.

best plants for your front yardHerbs

These pretty-smelling plants are an excellent choice for far more than merely lawn decoration. Many of the herbs that you find in the kitchen are also noted to be effective natural repellents. The reason for their effectiveness is their aroma deters mosquitos – driving them away and keeping your yard safe.

Lavender

Keeping lavender as a houseplant or in your garden will naturally deter mosquitoes, moths, flies, and even fleas. Some other strong-smelling plants, such as basil, thyme, and garlic are great options as well, though the scent of lavender will keep pesky slugs, snails, and cabbage moths from destroying your garden or backyard.

Catnip

Also known as catmint, this species of plant thrives in nearly every climate on the planet. Catnip, a member of the mint family, is easy to maintain and offers impressive mosquito-repelling abilities. According to research by Iowa State University, catnip is ten times as effective as DEET. Now all you have to worry about is deterring those neighborhood cats!

Chrysanthemums

These flowers provide vibrant bursts of colors in flower beds, so it can be hard to imagine that such pretty florals could also be such effective bug killers. The key ingredient that acts as a natural pesticide is pyrethrum, which works wonders against many common garden pests such as:

  • Japanese beetles
  • Root-knot nematodes
  • Spider mites
  • Harlequin bugs
  • Ants
  • Roaches
  • Ticks
  • Lice
  • Fleas
  • Bedbugs
  • Silverfish

best florida hedge plants for your yardCall SWAT Mosquito Systems®️ Today

Chrysanthemums aren’t just for colorful gardens. At SWAT Mosquito Systems®️, we utilize a biodegradable Chrysanthemum-based spray for our mosquito repellent systems. We are dedicated to providing comprehensively effective-yet-safe mosquito repellant systems for your home or business.

With our unique, one-of-a-kind mosquito misting system, we have helped eliminate mosquitoes, no-see-ums, flies and other biting insects that have plagued South Florida residents for years. Call SWAT Mosquito Systems®️ today, at 1-866-900-SWAT and say goodbye to unwanted pests.