If you want to get rid of whiteflies from your garden, mint is the plant of your choice. The herb contains essential oils that give off a scent that whiteflies don't like. You, on the other hand, will probably find the smell pleasant. Try it out and see for yourself how effective it is against pests.
How does mint get rid of whiteflies from the garden?
Mint can repel whiteflies from your garden because its essential oils emit a scent that is unpleasant to the pests. Plant mint species such as peppermint, Indian mint, horsemint or catnip in a sunny or partially shaded location.
Planting mint
Location
- sunny to partially shaded
- permeable soil
- no waterlogging
- High water requirement in intense sunlight
- ideal underplanting of fruit trees
- Can also be cultivated in a pot on the balcony or on the windowsill
Attention: Mint spreads rapidly and develops an extensive root system. In this way, the plant displaces both weeds and other plants with less assertiveness.
Variety
Mint comes in numerous types. The best known is probably peppermint, which symbolically embodies the typical aroma. The great thing about this natural control agent is that mint can also be used culinary. The different types vary in taste. Which variety you use to combat whitefly is rather irrelevant. The following species are particularly recommended:
- Indian Mint
- Horsemint
- or catnip
Catnip has another benefit for pet owners. The four-legged friends love both the taste and the smell and love to nibble on the stems. Catnip is like candy for your cat.
All year round protection
Unless you grow your mint in a pot, you will unfortunately have to do without the herb in the winter. Free ride for the whitefly? Hardly likely! Dry the leaves and stems and rub them into fine powder with a mortar. You can use this to fill scented sachets that you hang up around your home.
By the way: Mint not only repels whiteflies, but also keeps ants away.
