We all know that certain plants can repel pests from your home. For example, the smell of peppermint is known to repel cockroaches naturally. But did you know that certain plants can also attract pests? Pest control services recommend that you keep a close eye on these plants to avoid pest infestations.
1. Peonies
According to National Geographic, there are about 20 quadrillion ants on the planet. These tiny insects adore the sweet nectar found in peonies. Homeowners who regularly experience ant problems should avoid putting peonies inside and, they might also want to avoid planting them in outdoor gardens. If ants run out of nectar, they’ll come into your home searching for food.
2. Indoor Citrus Trees
Citrus trees are commonly started indoors before being moved outside. Many of these trees are left inside to ensure proper growing conditions. However, both indoor and outdoor trees can attract a range of pests. Fruit flies are the most common pests seen around these trees. You may also attract whiteflies, aphids, caterpillars, mites, and grasshoppers. If you have sweet fruit, ants will also be attracted to your home.
3. Hostas
Hostas are a popular outdoor plant. This is one of the few varieties of plants that tends to thrive on neglect. Their minimal maintenance requirements are appealing, but they also attract certain pests. Leef beetles love to munch on the leaves of hostas, and you may also discover worms, aphids, and other tiny pests that eat leaves. Yearly pesticides and pest control services can help protect your garden from being taken over by beetles. Over time, these beetles may wind up in your home.
4. Vegetable Gardens
Growing your own food is a great way to stay healthy, but a diverse garden can attract a little of everything. Bugs might eat your berries, and you may find holes in strawberries from worms. Rats and cockroaches that come to your yard will discover an all-you-can-eat buffet. Fruit flies, white flies, rodents, beetles, caterpillars, and many other pests will make their way into your garden if possible. Proper maintenance and countermeasures can prevent this.
Specific measures can help keep pests at bay. For example, the pungent smell of mint leaves may repel mice and roaches, and windchimes can help scare away small critters. However, the most effective way to keep your home and yard pest-free is by working with pest control services. Contact Essential Pest Control today to discover how we can help.