Three Effective DIY Hacks to Keep Spiders Away from Your Home
As the warmer months approach, many Brits eagerly anticipate the sunshine, but with it comes an influx of pesky bugs, particularly spiders. You may have noticed these eight-legged creatures becoming more visible as they venture into your gardens and homes. With the arrival of fresh air through open windows, spiders often find their way into our living spaces, especially in the corners of our living rooms. Instead of relying on expensive chemical solutions, there are natural and effective methods to keep these critters at bay.
Graham Smith, a gardening expert from LBS Horticulture, has shared several pet-safe plants that can help repel spiders effectively. Here are some of his top recommendations:
Basil
Basil is not only a flavorful addition to your culinary creations but also a powerful spider deterrent. Currently available for around £1.50 at Sainsbury’s, this herb emits a strong, fragrant scent that naturally repels spiders. Consider placing a shop-bought basil plant in a sunny spot within your home, particularly around entry points, to maximize its insect-repelling properties.
Mint
Mint is another excellent option for keeping spiders at bay. To create a natural spider repellent, soak fresh mint leaves in water for a few hours. Then, transfer the mixture into a spray bottle. Spritzing this mint-infused solution around your home can help deter spiders, as they tend to avoid the strong scent.
Rosemary
Renowned for its distinctive piney aroma, rosemary is not only a popular seasoning but also a formidable spider repellent. Graham notes that spiders are believed to avoid rosemary plants due to their intense scent. Utilize this to your advantage by positioning rosemary plants both indoors and outdoors to keep these pests at a distance.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is another aromatic herb that spiders tend to dislike. Graham suggests placing a potted lemon balm on a sunny windowsill. However, he cautions against fertilizing the plant, as this can diminish the strength of its scent, which is crucial for repelling unwanted visitors.
Sage
Sage is a staple herb in Italian cuisine, known for its rich antioxidant benefits, but it also serves a dual purpose as a spider deterrent. Its earthy, musky aroma is strong enough to keep spiders away. To enhance its effectiveness, avoid using fertilizer, as it can weaken the scent’s potency. Plant sage in well-drained soil and ensure it receives ample sunlight to maximize its aromatic properties.
Dill
Graham also emphasizes that spiders strongly dislike the scent of dill. However, he advises those interested in this herb to grow it exclusively in pots, which can help contain its growth and make it easier to manage.
Eight Must-Have Plants to Brighten Up Your Garden
In addition to the herbs mentioned, Nick Hamilton, owner of Barnsdale Gardens, has shared some of his favorite plants and flowers that can enhance the beauty of your garden, borders, and pots:
- Tricyrtis: This stunning plant features orchid-like, spotted flowers that add an exotic touch to any garden. Surprisingly resilient, it thrives in various conditions.
- Penstemon: Known for its ability to bloom from summer through autumn, Penstemon flourishes in sun or semi-shade, producing an array of colorful, tubular flowers.
- Luzula sylvatica ‘Marginata’: With evergreen leaves edged in yellow, this plant is a versatile ground cover that thrives in both sun and shade, making it ideal for challenging spots.
- Eryngium x zabelii ‘Big Blue’: A stunning, nectar-rich plant that attracts beneficial insects, it looks beautiful even in winter with its dried flower heads.
- Sarcococca hookeriana ‘Winter Gem’: This compact, evergreen shrub offers a delightful winter scent and a lovely backdrop for summer flowers.
- Cornus sanguinea ‘Anny’s Winter Orange’: This dwarf version of ‘Midwinter Fire’ showcases colorful stems that create a striking winter display.
- Rosa ‘Noisette Carnee’: A well-behaved climbing rose perfect for arches or pergolas, it features blush-pink flowers with a captivating clove scent.
- Sanguisorba hakusanensis ‘Lilac Squirrel’: This unique plant provides an unusual look in the garden with its shaggy lilac tails, thriving in moisture-retentive soil.