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Choice - this selection reflects the best that is available in insect repellent herbs for all types of annoying pests

• balm of gilead - moths, silverfish
• dogs bane - cats, dogs
• feverfew - most insects
• lads love - mosquitoes, moths ,cabbage moth
• lavender - silverfish, moths, disinfectant
• penny royal - ants, fleas, mosquitoes
• pennyroyal lawn - as above
• pyrethrum - aphids, mites, sucking insects
• rue - as above
• tansy - ants, flies, mosquitoes, borers, aphids
• wormwood - fleas, slugs, mosquitoes, cabbage moth
• wormwood tree - as above

Planting - prepare soil ready for planting.An organic based fertiliser or compost to promote strong growth should be mixed in with the soil.

Place plant in hole, and back fill making sure base of stem is not below ground level.

Once planted, water in well. Periodically feed with a liquid based or compost fertiliser.

Harvest - how does it work?

• the scent from the sap or oil in the plant is the active part that insects react to
• these scents can be released from the plant by cutting and bunching some leaves, or making up a insect repellent pot puree

Where to use

• to achieve the best results pick bunches of insect herb and hang near your doors or windows
• also plant in containers or hanging baskets at your back door or BBQ, remember to bruise foliage to release oils

When to fertilise

• herbs are gross feeders generally
• when picked, nutrition must be replaced
• use an organic compost to top dress your herbs when needed

Design - insect free gardening. This is a natural approach to insect repellents. With a bit of effort anyone can set up an insect garden which will achieve good results. Pergolas and BBQ areas are good places to start your insect repellent garden.

Source: Herb Herbert's Guide

Traditional Medical Herbs

Choice - the popularity of using herbs for health has grown considerably in the last few years. Many minor ailments are reputed to benefit from the application of certain herbs. Below are listed a few herbs that suit old world remedies.

• aloe vera - known as the burn plant
• car grass - vitamin supplement for cats
• catnip - for stress
• comfrey - sprains, bruises
• elderberry - for colds
• garlic - for colds and flu

If you are going to try some herbal remedies, make sure you can identify the varieties with complete confidence before you proceed.

Planting - prepare soil ready for planting. An organic based fertiliser or compost to promote strong growth should be mixed in with the soil.

Place plant in hole, and back fill making sure base of stem is not below ground level.

Once planted, water in well. Periodically feed with a liquid based or compost fertiliser.

Harvest - when to crop

• before flowers are fully open
• before heat of the sun is the best time
• most herbs have better flavour when fresh
• drying is only recommended for seasonal available

How much to crop

• young plants, take only tips, this will encourage your plant to bush
• older plants , the usual rule of thumb is cut to one half, and if doing a hard annual prune your plant can be cut by two thirds

When to fertilise

• herbs are gross feeders generally
• when picked nutrition must be replaced
• use an organic compost to top dress your herbs when needed - mainly at the end of winter to encourage spring growth

Design - many different combinations can be planted together for different affects, all it takes is your imagination.

Source: Herb Herbert's Guide