ALDI is selling a £3 product that will keep flies out of your home all summer long, and make your house smell amazing.
Summer is finally here, and according to the Met Office, it’s set to be a scorcher.
However, although there are so many positives to summer, from warm weather to longer days, it also has its downsides, such as the emergence of irritating pests.
House flies can be an incredible annoyance at this time of year, as they sneak in through open doors and windows.
Chasing them around with rolled-up newspapers and makeshift fly swatters can seem an endless task, and can ruin your summer’s evening.
However, according to experts, a quick and easy way to get rid of them is to plant pest-repelling herbs in the garden.
Although lavender is one of the most beloved scents for humans, flies can’t stand the scent of it.
Therefore, if you plant the fragrant flower near the entrance to your home or on the windowsill, it will act as a barrier against flies.
Plus, lavender also attracts bees, which will give your garden a wildlife boost.
Anyone wanting to try out this simple hack won’t have to fork out much, as Aldi is launching a lavender plant for just £3.79.
The bargain bloom will be available at stores across the UK from June 12, so flower fans had better set their alarms to be in with the chance of snagging the product.
Another plant that flies hate the scent of is cooking staple basil.
Purchasing a pot and placing it on the windowsill will keep the insects at bay.
Plus, you can pull of a leaf or two and add it to pastas, pizzas or salads to enhance their flavour.
Mint is another plant that flies can’t stand due to its sharp refreshing scent.
Plus, it works great as an addition to summer cocktails such as mojitos.
Keep pests out all summer
IF you want to ensure that your home is pest free this summer, here’s what you need to know.
Hornets and wasps – hate the smell of peppermint oil so spraying this liberally around your patio or balcony can help to keep them at bay.
Moths – acidic household white vinegar is effective for deterring moths. Soak some kitchen roll in vinegar and leave it in your wardrobe as a deterrent.
Flying ants – herbs and spices, such as cinnamon, mint, chilli pepper, black pepper, cayenne pepper, cloves, or garlic act as deterrents.
Mosquitoes – plants, herbs and essential oil fragrances can help deter mozzies inside and out. Try eucalyptus, lavender and lemongrass.
How to Care for Lavender
To get the most out of your lavender, plant it in a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
Once it’s settled in, it won’t need much watering – in fact, it prefers to stay on the dry side.
French lavender typically flowers from late spring into early autumn, with a peak bloom period between May and September.
Some varieties, like Lavandula stoechas “Papillon” and “Tiara”, are known for their continuous flowering from late spring to early autumn.
After French lavender flowers, you should trim the spent flower stalks to encourage more blooms and keep the plant compact.
You can also prune the plant back in late summer or early spring to rejuvenate it and prevent it from becoming woody.
