Gardeners across the UK are being urged to put rosemary plants in their gardens and by patio doors this autumn to help deter spiders.
Spider mating season typically kicks off in early September and lasts until mid-October or early November. It’s the time of the year when the creepy crawlies head indoors in search of shelter, warmth and a mate, and will find their way inside through any cracks, gaps and crevices they can find. While some easy solutions to help keep them out simply require closing doors and windows, and sealing up any obvious gaps, there are some other natural deterrents you can make use of to keep them at bay.
According to experts, putting rosemary plants in your garden and by your patio doors can deter spiders from entering as they don’t like the pungent smell.
Spiders have a highly sensitive sense of smell and dislike strong aromas as the scents can overwhelm and confuse the chemoreceptors on their legs, which they use to sense their environment and find their way.
When they encounter a strong odour, it disrupts their ability to sense its environment causing it to avoid the area altogether. As such, utilising the strong scent of rosemary in both your home and garden is an effective way to keep the creatures out.
Landscaping Expert Andy McLaughlin at RF Paving said: “The key to repelling spiders in your home starts in the garden. If you create an outdoor space that’s unappealing to them with nowhere to hide or nest, they’re more likely to look elsewhere.
“Of course, you can adopt methods within the home to help make it a spider-free zone, but tackling the issue at the source means you can relax with the reassurance that any creepy crawlies steer clear of your indoor space.
“Planting the right foliage in your garden can help deter spiders, as particular scents can act as repellents. Plants such as basil, rosemary, and thyme have strong scents and create an unpleasant environment for spiders, as the essential oils are overpowering.
“For extra security, plants should be placed close to entryways to prevent them from slipping through doors and windows.”
As well as introducing rosemary plants to your garden, experts also recommend creating a homemade rosemary spray to enhance the smell to keep spiders away.
Simply boil some fresh sprigs of rosemary in water and, when cooled, spray the mixture on your patio, around your patio doors and other entry ways, as well as around your home, and this should do the trick. If you can’t get hold of any rosemary, other natural herbs like basil or peppermint are also effective.
Experts at Sloane and Sons Garden Benches said: “Spiders often steer clear of certain natural scents, making essential oils an excellent deterrent.
“Spraying a mixture of water and peppermint oil, for instance, can keep spiders off your furniture. This natural remedy is not only effective but also adds a fresh aroma to your patio. You can also explore other essential oils like rosemary or basil, depending on your scent preference.”
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