PEST GUARD GARDEN COLLECTION™ — 6 Live Pest-Repelling Native Plants, Chemical-Free Outdoor Barrier

What is the PEST GUARD GARDEN COLLECTION™?

The PEST GUARD GARDEN COLLECTION™ is a curated set of six live pest-repelling plants in 1-gallon containers, selected for their documented insect-repelling compounds and their cultural roots in Louisiana traiteur garden tradition. Planted around your home, porch, or garden beds, these plants create a continuous, self-renewing chemical-free pest barrier — no reapplication, no refills, no synthetic pesticides.

Plants Included & Active Compounds

• Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) — continuous citronellal and geraniol release from living foliage; same compounds as citronella candles but self-renewing; USDA-documented mosquito deterrent
• White Sage (Salvia apiana) — thujone and camphor in leaf oils; documented insect neurotoxins; releases repellent compounds when brushed or in heat
• Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) — eucalyptol (1,8-cineole) repels mosquitoes and flies; NC State University studies confirm efficacy against Aedes aegypti
• Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) — linalool in flowers and foliage repels mosquitoes, moths, and flies; also attracts beneficial pollinators
• Basil (Ocimum basilicum) — estragole and eugenol compounds repel aphids, mosquitoes, and whiteflies; effective companion plant for vegetable gardens
• Louisiana Wax Myrtle (Morella cerifera) — Gulf South native shrub; nootkatone and myricetine in leaf wax are EPA-registered insect repellent compounds; used by Cajun and Creole communities for generations as a living mosquito barrier; grows to 10–15 ft as a privacy hedge

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these plants actually repel insects? Yes — all six plants contain documented insect-repelling compounds in their foliage, flowers, or root systems. Efficacy is highest when plants are brushed, pruned, or in warm conditions that volatilize their essential oils.

Will they grow in my climate? All six plants are selected for Gulf South and USDA Hardiness Zones 8–10 (Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Texas). Lemongrass is annual in Zone 8; all others are perennial.

How do I plant them for maximum pest control? Plant lemongrass and wax myrtle along fence lines and property edges. Place sage, rosemary, and lavender near seating areas and entry points. Use basil in vegetable garden beds as a companion plant.

Is the Wax Myrtle native to Louisiana? Yes. Morella cerifera (Southern Wax Myrtle / Bayberry) is native to the Gulf Coast and has been used in Louisiana for generations as a natural insect barrier and for bayberry wax candle-making.

Where are the plants grown? Grown and shipped from Louisiana by Big Mamou Enterprises / Real Time Cajun in partnership with regional native plant nurseries.

Ideal Planting Locations

Porch perimeters • Fence lines • Entry paths • Patio borders • Vegetable garden edges • Pool surrounds • Outdoor dining areas • Bayou and waterfront properties

Préparé avec intention en Louisiane — Big Mamou Enterprises / Real Time Cajun.