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16X12 Tuesday LESSON 724 மூன்று கூடைகள் திபிதகTIPITAKA from FREE ONLINE eNālāndā Research and Practice UNIVERSITY through http://sarvajan.ambedkar.org-Dhammapada Verse 388 Annatarabrahmana Pabbajita Vatthu-He Who Had Discarded All Evil Is Holy-Natural Ways to Repel Mosquitoes
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16X12 Tuesday LESSON 724 மூன்று கூடைகள் திபிதகTIPITAKA
from FREE ONLINE eNālāndā Research and Practice UNIVERSITY through
http://sarvajan.ambedkar.org-Dhammapada Verse 388 Annatarabrahmana Pabbajita Vatthu-He Who Had Discarded All Evil Is Holy-Natural Ways to Repel Mosquitoes


Verse 388. He Who Had Discarded All Evil Is Holy

By barring-out badness a ‘brahmin’ one’s
called
and one is a monk by conduct serene,
banishing blemishes out of oneself
therefore one’s known as ‘one who has left home’.

Explanation: One who has got rid of sinful action is called
brahmana. One of serene senses is called samana. A person is called
pabbajita because he has done away with all his faults.

Note: brahmano, samano, pabbajito: a brahmin, a monk a wandering
ascetic. These are all categories of priests in the religious landscape
of the Buddha’s day. They pursued a multitude of religious paths.
Here the Buddha explains who a real priest, monk or a brahmin is.



Dhammapada Verse 388
Annatarabrahmana Pabbajita Vatthu

Bahitapapoti brahmano
samacariya
1 “samano” ti vuccati
pabbajayamattano malam
tasma “pabbajito
2” ti vuccati.

Verse 388: Because he has discarded evil he is
called a ‘brahmana’; because he lives calmly he is called a ’samana’; and
because he gets rid of his impurities he is called a ‘pabbajita’.


1. samacariya: lit., living calmly, i.e.,
practising for eradication of moral defilements.

2. pabbajita: one who leaves the household life
for the homeless life of a recluse; in Buddhism it means one who has given up
the impurities of the household life to become a bhikkhu.


The Story of a Brahmin Recluse

While residing at the Jetavana
monastery, the Buddha uttered Verse (388) of this book, with reference to a
brahmin ascetic.

Once there was a brahmin ascetic
in Savatthi. One day, it occurred to him that the Buddha called his disciples
pabbajita bhikkhus and since he also was a recluse, he should also be called a
pabbajita. So he went to the Buddha and posed the question why he should not be
called a pabbajita. The Buddha’s answer to him was this: “Just because
one is a recluse one does not automatically become a pabbajita; a pabbajita must
have other qualifications also.”

Then the Buddha spoke in verse as
follows:

Verse 388: Because he
has discarded evil he is called a ‘brahmana’; because he lives calmly
he is called a ’samana’; and because he gets rid of his impurities he
is called a ‘pabbajita’.

At the end of the discourse the brahmin attained Sotapatti Fruition.

Most effective tips for eradication of mosquitoes




To know how to deal with mosquitoes, you must understand them, their
habits and their habitats. Then, look around to see why they’re after
you. You may live in a swampy area where standing water is the perfect
breeding ground for mosquitoes - or you may be doing or wearing
something to attract the pests, such as wearing perfumes when you’re
outdoors.

Mosquitoes prey on us because they need the protein from our blood to
produce their eggs. They zero in on us like a fighter plane because they
locate us by our body temperatures. With the blood they gather from us,
female mosquitoes may produce up to 3,000 eggs during their lifetime.

The worldwide havoc that mosquitoes wreak each year is devastating. In
some parts of Africa, a child dies from a mosquito bite every 30 seconds
— and in the United States, encephalitis, dog heartworm and malaria
affect the population each year at an alarming rate.

There are ways to discourage and even kill mosquitoes before they invade
your space and body. Various techniques, including plants and lotions
can help, as can ridding your area of objects and spaces that harbor the
perfect breeding ground for these dreadful blood bandits.


Natural Ways to Repel Mosquitoes

Products
are readily available on the shelves that can repel
mosquitoes, but many may contain toxic chemicals. For whatever reason,
some people are allergic to these ingredients - and they may be
detrimental for certain conditions like pregnancy.

Natural products are the best way to avoid mosquitoes.
These include

cedar oil, rosemary oil, citronella oil and eucalyptus
oil. All of these plant oil derivatives can be found online or at many
health food stores. Be aware that these products must be applied to the
skin more often than those containing DEET.


Best Tips to Repel Mosquitoes Before They Bother You

To prevent mosquitoes from choosing your area as a habitat, you can:

  • Remove all standing water from around your home. Beware of old
    tires and other discarded containers such as wading pools, cups, buckets
    and barrels.

  • Use mosquito nets around bedding. Mosquitoes are most active at night, so protect yourself while you sleep.

  • Repair window and door screens. Choose screens made from a finely-woven mesh.

  • Mosquitoes are attracted to lights, so don’t turn the bright ones on too early.

  • Fill tree holes with sand or mortar.

  • Mosquitoes need water to lay their eggs and breed. If you can
    remove or prevent stagnant water, mosquitoes will have to go elsewhere.


Plants That Repel Mosquitoes

Planting mosquito-repelling bushes and
herbs around your house is a natural way to prevent mosquitoes from
invading your area - and your body.

Some of the most effective plants that you can find at almost any home and garden store or online are:

  • Citronella Grass -
  •  A tropical plant that’s harvested for repellant sprays and citronella
    candles can be effective if you live in a tropical climate. If not, you
    can purchase products made from citronella oil.

  • Rosemary -


  • You
    may use this herb to provide an interesting flavor to dishes you
    prepare, but rosemary can also repel mosquitoes. Since they’re mostly a
    tropical plant, you can place them in pots around your deck or patio and
    bring them inside during winter months.

  • Mosquito Plants -
  • Gardeners’ Notes:

    Rating Author Comment
    Positive LolaMarigolda On Feb 1, 2012, LolaMarigolda from Glen Saint Mary, FL wrote:

    Mosquitoes
    tend to flock to me. I can pull off a few leaves, crush them and then
    rub them over my arms and legs and the bugs leave me alone. Depending
    on your location, best results are obtained via the method I described.

    Finding one in this area is a major pain as they go fast, but we are now
    to the point that we are going to start some cuttings off the current
    plant (and get those into our greenhouse).

    Positive dyzzypyxxy On Sep 22, 2011, dyzzypyxxy from Sarasota, FL (Zone 9b) wrote:

    Such
    pretty foliage and a lovely scent, it’s worth it even if it doesn’t
    keep bugs away. But, I have had some success with rubbing the crushed
    leaves on my ankles and arms, then tuck the leaves in my hatband. I
    think you must crush the leaves to release enough citronella to keep
    bugs away.

    This year my huge plant will produce enough cuttings to plant a whole
    border along the side of the screened pool - maybe that will deter the
    no-see-ums from coming through the screen.

    Positive kristindarin On Jun 21, 2011, kristindarin from Wake Forest, NC wrote:

    It
    was purchased this year to help my 2 kids from getting numerous bites.
    I placed it at their swing set and we have no bits. Waiting to cut
    parts to make new plants.

    Positive XxMissMexX On Jun 17, 2011, XxMissMexX from Hopkins, MN wrote:

    I
    bought one of these plants this spring and am happy to see that you can
    make cuttings for it, like spider plants. Also interesting were the
    ways to use it as a repellent - crushing the leaves, brewing a mix - as
    my daughter is unfortunately very reactive to mosquito bites and I hate
    spraying her down with chemicals. I will probably start some cuttings
    today!

    Positive kotori83 On May 26, 2011, kotori83 from San Antonio, TX wrote:

    I’ve
    grown citronella plants for years now. I don’t rely on it to repel
    insects, I rely on it to smell simply divine. I live in San Antonio, so
    it grows very well in the heat of our summers, however during the winter
    they surely die unless brought inside. I grow my citronella in
    thoroughly cleaned 5 gallon paint buckets with coconut substrate (same
    stuff I use for all my reptiles)… and they love it, probably because
    coconut drains very well and its pH neutral.

    About this plant and cats:

    I can comment on its toxicity to felines however I know for a fact it
    does not repel them in any way whatsoever, I regularly find cats
    sleeping on my porch lying under the shade of the citronella plants.

    Positive muttlover On May 7, 2011, muttlover from Quincy, IL (Zone 5b) wrote:

    I
    try to buy this every year as an annual outside potted plant. It does
    not overwinter in IL unless you take it inside and I have cats who might
    eat this poisonous plant. I don’t think it works as a deterrent to
    mosquitos (at least not my tough skeeters) but it’s nice and vining and
    has interesting foliage and survives a shady porch. The only thing is -
    I have to buy it early from a plant nursery because it gets sold out
    around here really fast.

    Positive erjeffery On May 6, 2011, erjeffery from Baton Rouge, LA (Zone 9b) wrote:

    A
    tough plant, I have this in the ground beside my garage and carport in
    partial sun/shade. It endures dry ground and inattention well. It
    grows tall (2-3 ft.) and will fall over if not staked. I can’t vouch
    for mosquito-repellant properties, but the smell is terrific and strong,
    with a slightly more bitter fragrance than lemon scented geraniums.
    Plant this where you sit outside in the evenings or when it rains - the
    scent alone is worth the effort.

    Neutral tcgch On Jun 27, 2010, tcgch from Rowlett, TX wrote:

    When
    I bought this plant it was big, healthy and smelled great. Now not so
    much. I have it planted outside by the pool. It gets sun until noon then
    shade the rest of the day. I water regular. Have other plants planted
    around it and they are doing fabulous. The Mosquito plant (citronella
    Plant) however has turned brown, leaves are falling off and looks very
    sick. Please help, I really want this plant to survive. It may or may
    not repell, but it smells really good. Any advise?

    Positive bsimpson1972 On Jun 26, 2010, bsimpson1972 from Chicago, IL (Zone 6a) wrote:

    One
    of “Grandma’s houseplants”, that everyone should have! Give it lots of
    light, water and food and it will thrive. Pinching is essential, if you
    want a bushy plant. Stake it, if necessary. One of the easiest
    houseplants, one can have.

    Negative gpr1 On Dec 4, 2009, gpr1 from Denton, TX wrote:

    My
    vet advises this plant is poisonous to cats. I had hoped to over-winter
    my two huge citronella pot plants in her atrium-like waiting room, but
    she said, “Absolutely not, because it is poisonous to cats.”

    Positive mrs_colla On Nov 18, 2009, mrs_colla from Marin, CA (Zone 9b) wrote:

    I saw an old decrepid plant, ready to give up, and took a little piece of it and plunked it in the ground.
    The thing grew like heck! I had to prune it so much, I finally gave it away. It grows too big in the ground.
    But, it can live with not too much water, it blooms all summer and never gets sick or bugged.
    If you have room for it, or the lust to prune several times a season, go ahead and plant it.

    Positive angsaidso On May 29, 2009, angsaidso from Owego, NY wrote:

    Just
    an FYI … you can actually grow cutrtings from this plant by tossing
    them in a cup of water!! I have rooted numerous cuttings by clipping
    them off the stems of the plant at an angle and just tossing them in
    water. They take a while to get going, but once they go, they grow VERY
    long roots and take off in soil right away. :-) Easier than having them
    rot in a pot, but you have a longer wait. They also do not wilt up or
    lose leaves during this process either. :-)

    As for mosquitoes, I don’t know if it works or not. I was given this
    plant when it got too big for my neighbor to deal with. It is growing in
    a gallon pot inside (I live in NYS) and grows all year long. But I do
    let it dry out pretty good between waterings.

    Peace ~ Ang

    Positive Shweetie30 On Apr 16, 2009, Shweetie30 from Mableton, GA wrote:

    Smells
    wonderful! Just purchased this plant today for the first time at a
    local plant sale. The lady who sold it to me said to use it in your
    sugar bowl. Put a couple of leaves in the sugar bowl, add some sugar,
    then another leaf or two, and keep layering it. Supposedly it will give a
    delightful flavor to your sugar!

    Positive dimar7a On Feb 20, 2009, dimar7a from Quincy, MA wrote:

    we
    love this plant.i,m not sure if it repels bugs,but it smells great. we
    have had this plant for 3 years now.I have cutting,s going in a vase now
    for spring. I also put cuttings in the garden during the summer,they do
    great. have never had a problem with them taking over.also does not
    flower very often,but the foliage and sent is why i grow them

    Positive olesagegrouse On Feb 16, 2009, olesagegrouse from Casper, WY wrote:

    I’ve
    had a citronella scented geranium (in a container) for eight years now,
    can readily testify to its virtues as an insect repellant. Fresh
    leaves, slightly macerated, have been placed on inside windowsills, kept
    mosquitos at bay even when leaves dried out. When working in the yard,
    I macerate leaves, rub them on arms and back of neck: flying, biting
    critters stay away!
    Fire ants, when visiting Puerto Rico every winter, were AWFUL at times!
    One summer, I placed several citronella leaves in a small jar of cider
    vinegar, let it “brew” in hot sun for several weeks. Took it to P.R.,
    would rub feet/ankles with it before going into “fire ant country”,
    NEVER got bitten thereafter.
    My plant’s cut back to 5 inches in height every fall, cuttings started
    then in deep styrofoam cups. When several inches tall, pinching back
    begins. By June, plants are lovely little bushes that have just
    bloomed, or are about to.
    To have a true “bug deterrant”, it MUST BE the citronella, NOT the
    lemon-scented! There IS a differance in cultivars and what they’re ment
    to do.

    Positive capejafreem On Feb 16, 2009, capejafreem from Hyannis, MA wrote:

    I’ve
    grown this plant on my deck, on Cape Cod, for many years. I don’t
    count on it to repel insects, but I do rely on it to offer a delightful
    refreshing scent as I brush past it. In the fall, I cut the plant back
    and root the cuttings. Mother and babies survive in a sunny window, so
    that by the following spring I have our new supply of fragrant and
    pretty plants to beautify our deck.

    Positive joy112854 On Feb 16, 2009, joy112854 from Crestview, FL wrote:

    Last
    Spring I bought two of these and two geraniums, as I live in hot and
    humid Florida where mosquitoes frequent. I placed one of the four in
    each corner of my 12 x 30 decks in pots. I didn’t have any problems
    with the mosquitos as long as I stayed on the deck. As far as being
    hard to kill, that is not so, they grew really well all Spring and
    Summer, I did not get any blooms, just foilage. Come winter, they died.
    I will again buy four more to add to my deck this Spring/Summer again.
    joy112854

    Neutral steadycam3 On Feb 15, 2009, steadycam3 from Houston Heights, TX (Zone 9a) wrote:

    Today
    February 14, 2009 I saw these plants for sale at Wal-Mart here in
    Houston. Citronella geranium. Ive never grown them but used citronella
    oil as a child to repel mosquitoes so I was curious.

    Positive JaxFlaGardener On Apr 24, 2008, JaxFlaGardener from Jacksonville, FL (Zone 8b) wrote:

    I’m
    growing this plant in sandy soil in mostly sun. In my climate, it has
    shown no sign of becoming invasive. In fact, it seems to be struggling a
    bit, but has returned again this spring and is currently flowering. I
    enjoy brushing up against the leaves and releasing the scent when I am
    in the area where it is planted. If you want it to repel mosquitoes,
    you probably need to stir up the odor by moving the plant around, or
    brushing against it, or crushing a few of the leaves (as was suggested
    above). That would help get the light citronella odor moving around in
    the air.

    Jeremy

    Positive vader_fan On Mar 28, 2008, vader_fan from Austin, TX wrote:

    I
    love the scent. Mine don’t grow well, they are pretty much the same
    size as when I bought them months ago. I’m sure it’s user error as I am
    not the best gardner in the world. I do bring them in when I have
    guest over and “squish” them a little to bring out the scent then put
    them back outside… they are also effective at removing grease smells
    for seafood smells if you put them in the kitchen a couple of days.

    Positive Kieferkk On Nov 18, 2007, Kieferkk from La Marque, TX wrote:


    I have had several of these plants, but none of them ever looked like
    the first one I bought. It had the shape of a small Christmas tree and
    it really smelled good. All of the other plants I got at large
    hardware stores,were called “Citrosa” as if someone had developed
    these plants themselves. They were more open than the first tightly
    packed plant that I had. I usuall take concentrated garlic caps to ward
    off mosquitos, but when I forget, I could always take a few leaves to
    rub on me, and they would go away. I have had some last outside in a
    5gal bucket into the third year. I used cloning powder and gel to get
    new plants. A branch broke off so I stuck it in the pot and it took off.
    I think that lack of good care and getting root bound has caused my
    plants to die on me. I found the website for a supplier of organic
    plant supplies that I use to put on my plants years ago, and now I
    believe that this won’t happen again. Gardens Alive! Laweranceburg
    Indiana. Between citrosa plants and lemongrass,the bugs leave me alone;
    that is all I use.

    Negative eldn829 On May 27, 2007, eldn829 from Harrisburg, PA wrote:

    This
    plant takes over if you don’t keep on top of it. My suggestion is to
    keep it potted. You can’t kill it…I’ve been trying for two years.

    Positive NacMacFeegle On Apr 14, 2007, NacMacFeegle from Springfield, VA (Zone 6b) wrote:

    It’s
    a great scented plant. The dried leaves go well in potpurri. As for
    its mosquito repelling nature- I think it highly depends on whether YOU
    are more appetizing to the mosquito than this plant is disgusting to the
    bug. Allow me to explain: I had one on the side table to my adirondack
    chair on my patio in VA. I could sit in the chair and get eaten alive
    as if the plant was invisible. When my parents were visiting my father
    sat there all day and not one bite. Mom says that at home the bugs go
    after him and not her- but clearly they prefer me to him. So yes, it
    REPELS mosquitos just like a watch repels water- doesn’t mean you can
    wear the watch swimming ;-)

    Positive Tnkmcclain On Sep 23, 2006, Tnkmcclain from Tulsa, OK wrote:

    I
    LOVE this plant. I will be the first to admit that, as for a mosquito
    repellent, it fails miserably. But I bought one 2 years ago, and it’s
    lovely. I read that they are sometimes used as bonsai. I can see why.
    Mine is potted,and has lived outside in the Summer, and inside in the
    Winter. I am thrilled to finally find out about planting the cuttings.
    I would love them all over my house. They smell fresh and lemoney to
    me. Get past the “insect repellent”, they are beautiful, aromatic house
    plants, or an interesting addition to your outside potted (I recommend
    potted) garden.

    Positive soulbloom On Aug 18, 2006, soulbloom from Richmond, VA wrote:

    I
    will give this plant a positive even though it doesn’t work as
    advertised. Mosquitoes probably laughed at me when I proudly introduced
    them to my backyard. I’ve sat two large plants on both sides of me
    while I was sitting and a mosquito still landed on me. I don’t feel too
    let down cus the mosquitoes around here don’t really respond to much
    repellant unless its in excess. I do like the smell and shape of this
    plant however. Its strong and everyone always ask what it is when they
    see or smell it.

    Negative Larabee On Oct 20, 2004, Larabee from Houston, TX wrote:

    Don’t
    buy this plant to keep the mosquitos away, like I did. It won’t work.
    I even got bitten up while I was potting this plant! I keep it by my
    back door but it really doesn’t repel bugs at all.

    That said, it’s easy enough to care for and the leaves are unusual
    enough that they add interest to my container herb garden, so I won’t
    get rid of it. But I wouldn’t buy it again.

    Positive rosiespics On Aug 24, 2004, rosiespics from Fairfax, VA wrote:

    This
    is actually my sister’s experience using the mosquito plant to drive
    away the bugs. My sister lives in Hong Kong and people mostly do not
    install screens for their windows.

    Before my sister got the plant, she reported that “I would not have been
    able to sleep through the night in summer without the AC on and the
    windows closed because of the mosquitoes. Now I have no problem with
    sleeping with windows open.”


    Positive egstewart1 On Jul 15, 2004, egstewart1 from Beaufort, SC wrote:

    I
    purchased a small plant this year, so far it seems to be working to
    keep the giatn mosquito population down on my patio. The plant soes seem
    to be turning brown around the edges though so I moved to more shade
    and I will see how it does. I’m going to try a cutting and put pne on my
    front porch, will comment if and when I get results.

    Negative CatskillKarma On Jul 8, 2004, CatskillKarma from West Kill, NY wrote:

    I
    have never had any trouble finding this plant at nurseries here in the
    Catskills–perhaps because we have an incredible number of bugs. For
    years I kept a plant hanging near my front door every summer, purchasing
    a new one each year. It has never thrived, whether it was a wet year or
    a dry year, hot or cool. Nor did it do anything to reduce the insect
    population near the door. Other pelargoniums do better–the
    nutmeg-scented flourished last year, and the rose-scented varieties also
    seem happy.

    Neutral ccranford On Jun 2, 2004, ccranford from Plainview, AR wrote:

    I
    had seen these 3 plants at a local nursery and didn’t buy them. They
    were 3.99 each and didn’t know anything about them. Later I got to
    thinking about it and decided I really did want them, so I sent my
    husband to get them today. He bought them for 2.00 each. I came to
    this web site to check them out and see positive output about them. I
    am excited to get them in the ground. We live at the lake and have lots
    of mosquitos. I feel like I made a really great purchase after I see
    the comments here. I will report on them later.

    Positive sg_sunny On Mar 2, 2004, sg_sunny wrote:

    I
    don’t see any seeds so I’ve tried to do stem-cutting. I cut the top
    5-10cm off and pot it in soil. I did it for 3, 2 survived and is
    growing well. Soaking the stem in water before potting in soil didn’t
    work as the ends get rotted. I watered the soil thoroughly, especially
    in Singapore’s hot hot hot weather.

    Neutral Trish70 On Dec 8, 2003, Trish70 from Eccles, WV wrote:

    I bought 2 small plants in spring of 2003 and planted them in a medium pot.
    They have really grown very well,I brought the pot in before the first
    frost, and it took off even more .It grew to about 2feet tall and for no
    reason its starting to die. I have watered with miricle grow and
    keeping my fingers crossed.
    Its not completely dead but any suggestiond is gladdly appreciated.I
    love the scent it gives and the beautiful green foligue. Its a very hard
    plant to find so i dont want to loose it. thanks to any one who can
    help
    Trish

    Positive babycake On Jul 29, 2003, babycake wrote:

    I
    have one plant outside my door, in my garden. The scent is wonderful,
    and I haven’t had any bugs all summer. Heavy rains this spring created
    an abundant mosquito population and I havn’t been bitten once. The
    plant was bought at 1 foot high; is now 5 feet and climbing.

    Positive creekperson On Jul 18, 2003, creekperson from East Liverpool, OH wrote:

    I
    bought this plant and was given a free sample of “OFF” that is made
    from this plant. It works, not only the lotion but the plant itself. I
    put the plant under a lamp on the deck of my pool and no mosquitos (or
    other bugs) came around, and we all know what a light brings outside out
    night.

    The plant has taken off so well, it’s 2 times the size it was in 4 weeks. I would buy more but can’t find them now.

    Neutral CaraRose On Jun 5, 2003, CaraRose wrote:

    I
    just contacted my local garden shop. They said that any of the scented
    geraniums (which is what this is) will repel insects because of the high
    concentration of essential oils. She suggested that anyone have trouble
    finding this species also try “Snowflake” because the plant’s leave get
    very large.

    Positive Citrosa On Apr 21, 2003, Citrosa wrote:

    I
    have had great success with this plant. I plant them every year and the
    mosquitos run for the hills. My only problem is the plant are getting
    harder to find each year.

    Positive redhen On Apr 17, 2003, redhen from Weatherby Lake, MO (Zone 5b) wrote:

    I
    bought two of these last summer and put on my patio. They do seem to
    work. I brought them in the house this winter and they took off, they
    also made the room smell great!

    Positive tkm0904 On Apr 17, 2003, tkm0904 wrote:

    I
    got this as a small little plant approx. 6 mos ago. Now it is big
    & bushy (been repotted twice & actually needs it again.) I’m
    afraid if I put it in the ground it would grow into a great big tree.
    It really does work to keep the mosquitos away & I just love the
    smell of it. When I water & spray the leaves it becomes especially
    fragrant.

    Positive lupinelover On Jan 19, 2003, lupinelover from Grove City, OH (Zone 6a) wrote:

    The
    foliage of this is very aromatic. It can be used as an insect
    repellent, or in cooking; it gives off a wonderful citrus flavor.
    Flowering is uncommon due to viruses, but as more plants are grown using
    tissue-propagation, the chances of flowering increase, allowing seeds
    to form.

    Seed will not come true to the named cultivar, varying amounts of scent and leaf-shape will occur.

    Regional…

    This plant has been said to grow in the following regions:

    Meridianville, Alabama
    Mobile, Alabama
    Orange Beach, Alabama
    Clarksville, Arkansas
    Little Rock, Arkansas
    Morrilton, Arkansas
    Amesti, California
    Brea, California
    Castro Valley, California
    Laguna West-lakeside, California
    Sacramento, California
    San Anselmo, California
    Sand City, California
    Solana Beach, California
    Stockton, California
    Yosemite Lakes, California
    Brandon, Florida
    Coral Springs, Florida
    Country Club, Florida
    Glen Saint Mary, Florida
    Gulf Gate Estates, Florida
    Haverhill, Florida
    Jacksonville, Florida
    Keystone Heights, Florida
    Pembroke Pines, Florida
    Rockledge, Florida
    Seminole, Florida
    Mableton, Georgia
    Phillipsburg, Georgia
    Rest Haven, Georgia
    Honolulu, Hawaii
    Kailua, Hawaii
    Kihei, Hawaii
    Chicago, Illinois
    Jacksonville, Illinois
    Long Beach, Indiana
    Wichita, Kansas
    Old Jefferson, Louisiana
    Cambridge, Massachusetts
    Hyannis, Massachusetts
    Quincy, Massachusetts
    Hopkins, Minnesota
    Canton, Mississippi
    Scotch Plains, New Jersey
    , New York
    Binghamton, New York
    Utica, New York
    Chapel Hill, North Carolina
    Vale, North Carolina
    Wake Forest, North Carolina
    Calcutta, Ohio
    Lafayette, Ohio
    Massillon, Ohio
    Edmond, Oklahoma
    Lotsee, Oklahoma
    Beaufort, South Carolina
    Forestbrook, South Carolina
    North Augusta, South Carolina
    Swansea, South Carolina
    Knoxville, Tennessee
    Austin, Texas (2 reports)
    Barton Creek, Texas
    Conroe, Texas
    Corpus Christi, Texas
    Denton, Texas
    Houston, Texas (3 reports)
    Huntsville, Texas
    La Marque, Texas
    Paige, Texas
    Round Rock, Texas
    Rowlett, Texas
    San Antonio, Texas (2 reports)
    Santa Fe, Texas
    East Highland Park, Virginia
    Springfield, Virginia
    Kalama, Washington
    Bolivar, West Virginia
    Eccles, West Virginia
    Antelope Hills, Wyoming
  • These plants are attractive and can be purchased online - although some
    garden stores may carry them. There is disagreement on whether these
    plants actually repel mosquitoes, but it’s worth a try.

  • Catnip -

    Picture of catnip plants.

    Picture of catnip plant.



  • It’s
    the same herb used to stuff those little cat toys and it can also be
    planted around your deck or patio. Some claim that it’s better than DEET
    for repelling mosquitoes.

  • Marigolds -


  • marigold




    11


    marigold picture
    Red/Yellow
    Marigolds
    marigold picture
    Maroon/Yellow
    Marigolds
    marigold picture
    Orange
    Marigolds
    marigold picture
    Orange/Yellow
    Marigolds

    marigold picture
    Yellow
    Marigolds

    marigold picture
    Red/Yell/Orange
    Marigolds

    marigold picture
    Light Red/Yellow
    Marigolds

    marigold picture
    Yellow/Red
    Marigolds

    marigold picture
    Maroon
    Marigolds

    marigold picture
    Red
    Marigolds

    marigold picture
    Bright Orange
    Marigolds

    marigold picture
    Other
    Marigolds
  • These colorful little flowers produce a scent that naturally repels
    mosquitoes. Plant them between your garden plants as they’ll also
    protect them from other types of insects.

Planting herbs and certain plants in your yard and garden is a great way to beautify your area while repelling pesky mosquitoes.


Other Methods to Repel Mosquitoes

Some other ways to repel mosquitoes include:

  • Exercise indoors when mosquitoes are prevalent. Mosquitoes hone
    in on body temperature — and it automatically rises when you exercise.

  • Avoid salty foods and those containing high amounts of potassium.

  • Don’t wear dark clothing when in a mosquito-infested area.

  • Don’t wear lotions or perfumed products that contain floral fragrances.

Just because a product is natural doesn’t mean it’s safe, so be sure that you know if you’re sensitive to it before using.

Keep Mosquitos Away…with Plants.

The leaves of the following must be crushed to release the aroma. Otherwise mosquitoes can’t smell them.


  • * Horsemint has a scent similar to
    citronella and  grows wild in most of the Eastern United States, from
    Mexico, Texas up to Minnesota to Vermont. It is partial to sandy soils
    and will grow in USDA Zones 5-10.
  • * Marigold is a sun-loving annual used by organic gardeners to keep aphids away.
  • * Citronella Geranium (Also called
    mosquito plant) A genetically engineered geranium hybrid, easily grown
    as a potted plant. The jury is out on its mosquito repellent
    effectiveness. But, since it’s attractive, it can’t hurt.
  • * Agastache Cana is another form of mosquito plant.
    Its common names include Texas hummingbird mint, bubblegum mint, giant
    hyssop, or giant hummingbird mint. It’s usually hardy in USDA Zones
    5a-9a.
  • * Catnip is one of the most powerful
    mosquito repellant plants. Recent studies have shown that it is ten
    times more effective than DEET at repelling mosquitoes. Crush a few
    leaves and rub on your skin and clothing to enhance the effect.

Another plant, ageratum, contains coumarin. But don’t rub it on your skin.

If you’re a gardener who disrupts swarms of mosquitoes every time you step foot into your garden, try incorporating some of these plants/herbs:

  • •    Citronella
  • •    Rosemary (crush this and rub on your skin for protection outside of the garden, too)
  • •    Lemongrass
  • •    Lemon Thyme
  • •    Lavender (questionable)
  • •    Basil
  • •    Thyme
  • •    Penny royal garlic
  • •    Rue



How to Grow a Pest Repellent Herb Garden

  1. 1
    Look out for the specific qualities of herbs that repel insects.
    When selecting herbs, you should be looking for herbs that contain
    phenols, naphthalene, pyrethrum and citronella. All of these chemical
    components are replicated synthetically or derived naturally in quite a
    number of commercially available products that repel pests.

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  2. 2
    Select your herbs.
    The following herbs are good choices to begin with. Each herb shown here
    is accompanied by an explanation of its pest repellent qualities:

    • Wormwood, southernwood [Artemisia sp.] - lovely silvery, bushy appearance that repels moths, intestinal worm, slugs, and flies.[1]
    • Rue [Ruta graveolens] - repels cats.[2] It is also good for controlling fleas and Japanese beetle.[3]
    • Tanacetum genus (pyrethrum, tansy, feverfew) - repels moths, flies, ants, mice, mosquitoes, cockroaches, mites and bedbugs. Tansy is a strong herb suitable for growing around doorways to act as an insect deterrence.[4] Pyrethrum is great made into a spray. Feverfew (pictured) is a good insect repellent and is also used for treating insect bites.[5] The fact that feverfew is usually pest-free says something positive about its pest abilities.[6]
    • Lavender - repels flies, silverfish fleas; add to sachets and hang in the wardrobe.[7] Santolina (Cotton Lavender) has the strongest insect repellent properties and can be mixed with English lavender in sachets.[8]
    • Mint - repels flies, fleas, mice, rats and ants. Mountain mint rubbed on pants can deter chiggers and ticks.[9] An endangered mint plant from Florida, Disceranda frutescens, has been found to be a very powerful insect repellent; try and grow some![10]
    • Catnip - mosquitoes. It is even said that the essential oil in catnip, nepetalactone, is 10 times more effective than DEET![11]
    • Thyme - deters insect pests and also helps with preventing musty odours; use in sachets, both flowers and leaves.[12]
    • Lemongrass - contains citronella - run the long grassy leaves and stalk on the skin to repel mosquitoes.[13]
    • Basil - fly and mosquito repellent; grow near outdoor eating areas.[14]
    • Sage - deters a variety of insects. Hang dried bundles in the house and at doorways.[15]
  3. 3
    Design your pest-repellent garden.
    Make a design that will ensure an attractive herbal arrangement in your
    garden, as well as easy access for harvesting. You may choose to
    deliberately design a herb garden space; or you may choose to plant the
    herbs here and there throughout your garden, as space and design wishes
    permit. Take care with mint - it is probably best planted in a pot to
    cure its tendency to spread across your garden. Planting in pots is also
    fine and is especially useful when you would like the move the plants
    to different areas of the garden. And don’t forget the value of growing
    these herbs near your outdoor entertaining area - this will add extra
    punch to the work being done by your citronella candles!

  4. 4
    Harvest and use.
    There are numerous ways to use the plants. These are just a few
    suggestions; it is likely you will come up with many more of your own:

    • Harvest, dry and use in sachets for drawers, wardrobes, storage boxes etc.
    • Harvest, dry and use hanging from curtain rods in the laundry, kitchen area or from clothes hanging rods.
    • Keep live herbs growing in pots near doorways to discourage the
      entrance of pests such as flies and mice; plant mint near any areas of
      the house where you feel mice might be tempted to enter (and seal any
      holes!).
    • Plant rue near a garden bed that you don’t want cats messing about
      in; be careful though, as some plants do not tolerate the presence of
      rue (e.g., basil).
    • Make water-based sprays - follow a suitable recipe.

    photo

    Mosquito Catcher Plant

    A rare plant, whose flowers are like containers in which mosquitoes
    and insects are trapped. It was one of the plants displayed at the
    vast collection - display and sale - at the Siolim Festival of Plants
    and Flowers, a three-day affair which began today i.e. August 25,
    2012. One of my friends reminded me that it is called the
    “pitcher” plant…. the flower resembles a pitcher.

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