At a Glance Summary of plants that are pet-safe for dogs, cats, and birds (you can click below for more info):
- Basil (lemon basil and cinnamon basil varieties)
- Lemon balm
- Rosemary
- Lavender
- Peppermint
- Catnip
BASIL
Safe for human consumption and typically a hardy, easy-to-grow plant that also naturally deters mosquitoes and annoying house flies! Unlike most other insect-repelling herbs, basil doesn’t have to be crushed or ground in order to release the scent and oils that keep mosquitoes at bay. There are a wide variety of basil plants, all of which provide some relief from the flying pests, but LEMON BASIL and CINNAMON BASIL are the most effective.
CATNIP
Although catnip is feline favorite and enjoyed by some dogs, mosquitoes absolutely hate catnip! Some studies have actually shown catnip to be several times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET- isn’t that cool and non-toxic to humans. Catnip is easy to grow and can be planted in pots strategically placed around the yard and seating areas to keep bugs at bay. Keep in mind that while you may be repelling mosquitoes, you might also be attracting the neighborhood cats.
LAVENDER
In addition to being a colorful and fragrant addition to your garden, lavender repels. Lavender can be planted right in the ground in your garden, or grown in pots on your deck, porch, or windowsill. If you are like me and striving for a pest AND weed-free yard, you may elect to grow lavender in pots so that if it does not thrive in one area of your yard, you can easily move it or compost it.
LEMON BALM
Also known as HORSEMINT, lemon balm is another hardy, easy-to-grow plant that naturally repels mosquitoes. This plant has the added benefit of growing well in both sunny spots or in the shade (and this versatility is a big plus for many Bay Area gardens especially along the 80-corridor where the amount of available sunlight can vary greatly throughout the day). Like citronella, lemon balm gives off a strong citrusy scent that mosquitoes despise, but unlike citronella, lemon balm is safe to have around pets. Some recommend growing it in a pot and placing the plant in the center of your patio table or beside entryways, and around the yard to keep the area clear of mosquitoes. It may also be worth mentioning that bees and butterflies are not deterred by the scent and will continue to pollinate your garden.
PEPPERMINT
Due to its strong, minty aroma, many insects, including mosquitoes, steer clear of peppermint plants. Please note: peppermint has a tendency to grow aggressively, so you may benefit from planting them in pots and strategically placing them around sitting areas, on windowsills, and near entryways, instead of planting in the ground. Bonus to people: The leaves can be used to add flavor to teas and other delicious minty recipes!
ROSEMARY
Rosemary is quite versatile: it is safe for human consumption and a popular seasoning AND it naturally and safely repels fleas, mosquitoes, and some other flying insects. It is suggested that you plant rosemary in pots to protect your herb garden from insects and around the perimeter of your yard to keep insects away while at the same time attracting butterflies (who can pollinate your garden).
Click here to read our tips blog entry that provides a list of PET-SAFE FLOWERS and definitely educate yourself about some TOXIC PLANTS FOR PETS
Sources:
https://orchidrepublic.com
https://bouqs.com,
https://www.dogingtonpost.com,
https://www.wagnwoofpets.com,
https://www.usatoday.com
