Pests on the rise: the time of mosquitoes has arrived.
Mosquito repellent also works in a biological way.
We reveal which plants are suitable for this.
Munich - The higher the temperatures and the humidity, the more comfortable mosquitoes feel.
While the dry but cool April and May weeks had slowed down the relatively annoying insects, things will look different in Germany in June 2021.
“This is exactly the ideal weather situation for mosquitoes to be happy and everything that is there to hatch,” says biologist Aljoscha Kreß, analyzing the current meteorological situation and its effects.
Mosquito repellent: Humid and humid weather causes populations to rise suddenly
The scientist from the Hessian State Office for Nature Conservation, Environment and Geology (HLNUG) predicts a "sudden increase in populations" for the German Press Agency (dpa) for the next few days and weeks. It was quite cold in the spring, which is why the domestic mosquito is currently still a bit behind. According to the biologist, that will change soon.
What the little animals with the shrill humming like best: humid and humid weather.
And that's where the little insects are currently finding optimal conditions.
What attracts mosquitoes even more is sweat (for example people who play sports outdoors), especially in areas with high humidity.
Areas with standing water and rivers are predestined for this.
In 2019, the situation in Germany was particularly pronounced in this regard.
In any case, more and more animal species are also feeling at home in countries like Germany due to climate change and its consequences.
A very small and yet potentially dangerous animal has settled in here: the tiger mosquito.
Mosquitoes: Small pests can also be fought with plants
Incidentally, the life expectancy of a species common in this country - the common mosquito - is seven days. What many people do not know: Mosquito repellants cannot only be used with household remedies, chemical products or pest control using ultrasound. The pests can also be kept in check with biological aids: plants.
There are some types of plants that the insects like to keep their distance from.
Nature not only has numerous medicines, but also insect repellants on offer.
The oil of the rapeseed plant contains fatty acids, which let the sucking tormentors die.
Chrysanthemums produce the active ingredient pyrethrum, which has been shown to be an effective insecticide.
In addition, intense natural smells of lemon (lemon balm, lemongrass) or lavender keep mosquitoes away.
Mosquito repellent: Various plants are designed to reduce the risk of mosquito bites
The practical: certain aromas that people usually find pleasant have a repellent effect on mosquitoes. Peppermint, basil or lavender - which are said to have a calming effect - are also said to keep certain insects away. In addition to mosquitoes, this also includes moths, spiders, fleas and bedbugs. Incidentally, other plants that protect against insects are frankincense, spiced laurel, bergamot or sage. Incidentally, the portal
Praxisvita.de
reports on a somewhat surprising preventive
measure
: the tomato plant is also said to have a repellent effect on mosquitoes.
The above-mentioned biologist Kreß gives further tips that have to do with plants: “The most important thing is to make your surroundings free of breeding waters for mosquitoes. They are really in every trivet, in every watering can that is not upside down, in window pan coasters or clogged rain gutters. Care should be taken to keep them free from standing water. That has the greatest effect. "
(PF)
