Natural ways to keep your garden tick-free: Plants to avoid and embrace

Garden enthusiasts often struggle with ticks—not only are they irritating, but they also carry dangerous diseases. The good news is that there are natural ways to combat these parasites. However, once they appear in the garden, consider removing certain plants.

Ticks are a common problem in gardens and parks, especially in spring and summer. Their bites are unpleasant and can cause serious diseases, such as Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis.

Although chemical insecticides can be used, remember that they can harm animals and the environment.

In the fight against ticks, it is best to start with proper garden care and selecting the right plants.

To reduce the risk of tick presence, keep the garden clean. Ticks like moist and shady places, so regularly trimming the lawn, shrubs, and removing leaves and branches can significantly reduce their number. Below is a list of plants that can be an ideal shelter for ticks.        

• Ferns – A moist environment promotes the development of ticks. Regular trimming and maintaining spaces between them can help.
• Ground cover plants – These create moist, secluded places for ticks, so keeping them clean is important.
• Shrubs and thickets—Dense plants are excellent shelters for ticks. They should be regularly trimmed to ensure good air circulation.
• Tall grasses – Ticks like to reside in tall grass, so it's worth trimming it regularly.
• Deciduous trees – A large number of hanging branches favour tick hiding. Regularly trimming branches and removing fallen leaves is necessary.

Here is a list of plants that can help in the fight against these stubborn parasites:    

• Lavender – Not only does it smell great, but it also repels ticks, mosquitoes, and moths.
• Rosemary – Its aromatic properties effectively repel ticks and other pests.
• Eucalyptus – A tree with a strong scent whose essential oil can be used in the garden.

Garlic – Effectively repels ticks, making it an excellent choice for minimising their presence in the garden.

Red myrtle – Contains natural substances that repel ticks, making it ideal for planting in the garden.

Black pepper, catnip, wormwood, mugwort, and buttercup can provide additional support in protecting the garden from ticks. Use these natural methods to enjoy a beautiful garden free of unwanted guests.