Chrysanthemums are colorful, permanent bloomers and are among the most popular garden and balcony flowers. Many gardeners also know the typical smell of chrysanthemums. We tell you what this smell has to do with chrysanthemum pest control.
Do chrysanthemums work against ticks?
Chrysanthemums areeffective against ticks because they contain pyrethrins. These substances, also called pyrethrum, are also used for many insect repellents. You can recognize pyrethrum by the typical smell of chrysanthemums.
How can I protect myself against ticks with chrysanthemums?
Pyrethrins are contained in theflowers of chrysanthemums and can repel ticks. A distinction is made between two different mechanisms of action. On the one hand, the characteristic smell alone drives away many insects. When they come into contact with the poison, the insects are initially paralyzed. As a result, most of these animals die.
How to use chrysanthemums against ticks
For pest control, thepetals of the chrysanthemums are crushed These can be ground up in a killer. Alternatively, an aqueous extract can be made from the flowers. Because pyrethrins dissolve poorly in water, the plant components have to soak in water for a long time. You can improve this by adding alcohol.
What are the risks of pyrrhinating chrysanthemums?
Even though pyrethrum is a natural pesticide, it hassignificant side effects on various animals and humans. Cats cannot tolerate pyrethrins and can die from them. This also applies to aquatic creatures such as fish and amphibians. In humans, the toxic dose is significantly higher. However, contact with the skin can cause irritation in sensitive people. The advantage of natural pyrethrins is that they break down quickly in sunlight. Nevertheless, you should carefully consider the use of pyrethrins against ticks.
Tip
Feverfew as an alternative
In addition to chrysanthemums, feverfew also contains pyrethrins. These are contained in flowers and the root. The effects of these substances correspond to those of chrysanthemums.
