Annoying gnats can ruin your pond's atmosphere.
Pesky swarms of gnats detract from a pond's quiet and peaceful environment. To repel gnats -- as well as mosquitoes, flies and other annoying insects -- you can plant society garlic, lemongrass and mint near the water's edge. Many natural pest repellants use garlic, lemongrass and mint essential oils, since their scents repel unwanted flies. Does this Spark an idea?
Society Garlic
Society garlic, or silver lace, is not actual garlic, but a flowering plant with a strong garlic scent. Since the odor of garlic repels gnats, society garlic is an ideal, pond-friendly alternative to regular garlic. As an additional bonus, the sweet-smelling flowers attract butterflies. The plant thrives well in sunny pond environments, and should be planted in the early spring.
Lemongrass
You can purchase lemongrass plants from many grocery stores and transplant them around your pond. The plant is easy to grow, and survives best in warm, sunny areas. In addition to repelling gnats, you can use lemongrass to season seafood and soups.
Mint
Any variety of mint can adapt to pond environments. If you grow mint close to the water's edge, its roots will grow into the underwater soil and help to clean your pond. As with lemongrass, you can use mint leaves to flavor your food and teas. Beware, in some environments mint can be invasive.
Tags: lemongrass mint, your pond, garlic lemongrass, garlic lemongrass mint, pond environments