When implementing natural methods of pest prevention, pet owners have to be careful. Unless you do plenty of research in advance, you could end up dotting your landscape with foliage that is harmful to both pests and your furry friends. Below are a few plants to keep in mind for effective, pet-friendly results. 

A Guide to Pet-Friendly Plants That Double as Pest Control 

1. Lavender

Lavender is one of those triple-threat plants that are a wonderful addition to any landscape. Not only does it smell nice and introduce a stunning accent of color, it also wards off many common pests. This includes moths, mosquitoes, flies, and fleas, none of which are fans of lavender's unique scent. Your pets won't mind it at all, though, and you can even apply extracted oil to further repel mosquitoes.  

2. Rosemary

Whether you choose to plant it on or around your patio or as part of your landscape bed, rosemary offers many benefits. It wards off mosquitoes and an assortment of insects known to harm vegetation, but is also harmless to pets. 

3. Catnip

Cat nip can be used to shoo away fleas and mosquitoes. Owners know the power it holds over their feline family members, which is a plus. Just be wary of where you plant it, especially if you don't want to have other neighborhood cats roaming through your garden. 

The only thing better than a pest-free landscape is the knowledge that you're looking out for your pets in the process. Residents throughout Columbia, MO, have turned to the expert landscaping contractors at The Gardener since 1990. They handle everything from tree planting to the installation of retaining walls, and they always leave their clients with stunning results. Check out their website for further information about their services, and call (573) 446-0802 to schedule a consultation today.