The Fresh-Smelling Plant That'll Help Keep Lizards Out Of Your Garden
Lizards — some people love them, while others dread the sight of them. If you are in the latter group, you may want to deter them from your yard. Although lizards can be beneficial to your garden because they help with pest control, it is understandable if you want to naturally keep them away. Sometimes, you just don't want to deal with them flitting and running around your yard. To deter lizards from your garden, consider experimenting with planting peppermint (Mentha x piperita). Although there is no scientific research that backs this up, some people say that the smell from peppermint plants is overwhelming to lizards, and this means that they will not come near it.
Peppermint is a type of mint that is a cross between watermint and spearmint. Suitable to grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 5 to 9, peppermint can grow to a height and spread of 2 feet. It is often used for a fragrant ground cover to deter pests. However, it does spread rapidly and will usually outcompete other garden plants, so you may prefer to plant it in containers and dot these pots around your yard to help stop lizards from coming in.
How to look after a peppermint plant
Peppermint is pretty tolerant of different conditions, thriving in most soils except for those that are too dry. It can be grown in shadier spots, only needing around three hours of sun a day. If you do decide to plant it in pots, opt for a container that is around 12 to 16 inches wide to give it enough space to grow happily. When planting your peppermint in the container, use multipurpose compost that is fertile and well-draining. Ensure the pot you're planting your peppermint in has good drainage.
When it comes to ongoing care, you should water it regularly throughout the growing season. It is also helpful to cut the plant back after flowering, as this will encourage fresh, healthy growth. Peppermint is generally pest and disease free. However, it can suffer from rust, powdery mildew, and insect damage. Keep an eye on your herb for signs of any of these issues. If you are growing peppermint freely in your garden, staying on top of control is essential. Dig up any shoots that appear as soon as you can, taking out all of the roots. Once it has settled in, you can grow peppermint plants from cuttings to protect more of your yard from lizards.