7 Plants That Will Repel Ticks From Your Illinois Yard

Cicadas aren't the only creatures lurking in your yard this spring and summer, ticks are back too. The often unseen backyard nuisance can be kept from your outdoor fun with these 7 plants, according to the experts.

As the warm summer sun beckons us to the outdoors, a sinister threat lurks in the grass:

Ticks.

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I shudder at the mention of these tiny creatures. Memories of my dogs over the years and the panic of finding a tick burrowed in my children's skin, the fear of Lyme disease looming.

Ticks symbolize more than just pests; they embody a threat to our family's health and well-being. With each application of bug spray and thorough tick check, we battle against these tiny adversaries, determined to protect our loved ones from harm.

I don't mind putting on an EPA-approved repellant but they usually don't smell very good, so I save it for when I know we'll be spending a fair amount of time in wooded areas.

Our yards are still a haven for ticks, and this year there's a new threat. The Asian longhorned tick has now been spotted in Illinois. Since its introduction to the U.S. in 2017, it had only been reported in 19 states, now 20.

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The Asian longhorned tick does pose a threat to livestock, as for humans and other animals, the experts are working on that answer.

As for now, here are some things you can do to repel ticks and keep them from your yard.

7 Plants That Repel Ticks and Keep Them Away from Your Yard

According to Tom's Guide.

1. Lavender

It contains a non-toxic compound called linalool, which is found in most insect repellents.

2. Garlic and Onions

3. Rosemary

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4. Wormwood

5. Marigold

6. Lemongrass

It's the citronella oil in the leaves and stems.

7. Chrysanthemums

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Tom's Guide offers detailed reasons why these are great choices and the science behind their repelling qualities. They also warn that some of these plants are toxic to pets if ingested, so be mindful of where you place them.