Garden Torches for Bugs

Citronella garden torches repel mosquitoes.

The most effective type of garden torch for bugs is a citronella torch. These garden torches look stylish and repel biting insects, without resorting to foul smelling chemical insect repellent sprays.

Features

Citronella oil comes from a type of grass with a pleasant lemon scent. When used in conjunction with a garden torch, the citronella repels certain insects without resorting to harsh chemicals. The torches themselves also come in several styles to match any garden decor, including stainless steel torches and bamboo tiki torches.

Considerations

Citronella is known to repel certain insects, including mosquitoes, biting flies and fleas, but not all insects are affected. The flame of a citronella garden torch may attract other insects, like moths, which are not known to be repelled by citronella.

Warning

Although citronella has been used in skin products like bug repellent for years, pure citronella oil should not be applied to the skin because it may increase the heart rate of some people, according to CBC News. Avoid allowing the citronella oil to come in contact with bare skin.

References

• CBC News: Citronella
• National Public Radio: Why Are Moths Attracted to Flame?; Debbie Elliott; Aug. 18, 2007
• University of Kentucky Extension: Mosquitoes- Practical Advice for Homeowners