Scented geraniums exude an intense aroma of lemon, roses or mint. The popular balcony and terrace plants not only look attractive, they can also be used in a variety of ways. For example, the essential oils obtained from the leaves of Pelargonium citrodorum or Pelargonium crispum are used in the food and cosmetics industries, but also repel annoying insects such as wasps or mosquitoes.
Are scented geraniums effective against wasps?
Scented geraniums can help ward off wasps, but do not guarantee 100% protection. Varieties such as “Lillibet”, “Mückenbrecher”, “Lemon Fancy” and “Orange Fizz”, which contain essential oils that can repel wasps, are particularly effective.
Essential oils are said to repel wasps
The intense scent of scented geraniums does not come from the pretty flowers, but from the leaves. These contain glands filled with essential oils, which the plant uses to ward off pests - so the scented geranium (especially the lemon scented geranium) is a completely natural weapon against various insects. But the intense scent not only serves to defend plants, but is also intended to reduce evaporation. In this way, the scented geranium has adapted perfectly to the living conditions of its South African homeland.
Do scented geraniums really help against wasps?
Basically, it is by no means a marketing ploy, as many gardening enthusiasts suspect. However, scented geraniums do not work as reliably against wasps as one might hope; especially when the animals are particularly hungry for the fresh, sweet cakes on your coffee table in late summer. The plants, strategically placed around seating areas, can help to repel the annoying wasps, but you probably won't be able to report 100% success.
Particularly recommended varieties
The varieties of lemon-scented geranium (Pelargonium x citrosmum, Pelargonium crispum or Pelargonium citronella) are considered particularly effective against wasps, but also those of the oak-leaf geranium (Pelargonium quercifolia), which smells of pine needles, or the rue geranium (Pelargonium abrotanifolium). Recommended varieties are above all:
- “Lillibet”
- “Mosquito Repellent”
- “Lemon Fancy”
- “Orange Fizz”
- “Princess Ann”
- “Royal Oak”
What else helps against the pests
However, instead of surrounding yourself with scented geraniums, you can also fight wasps, mosquitoes, flies, etc. naturally in other ways.
- Set up bowls with water and a few drops of scented geranium oil (Pelargonium crispum).
- Cut fresh lemons into slices and stud them with cloves.
- Arrange the lemon slices on a pretty plate and place them strategically.
- The essential oils of other plants also repel wasps, including: Lavender, peppermint, rosemary, thyme, basil or garlic.
- You can use this to create an interesting, wasp-resistant balcony plant.
Tip
By the way, scented geraniums not only help against wasps, they are also edible.
