Natural Cat Deterrents for Garden Beds and Growing Lavender & Rosemary

Keeping Cats Out of Flower Beds—No Sprays Needed

An organic gardener with asthma shares a simple, effective method: scatter chopped lemon peels in beds and containers. Refresh monthly in early spring and add peels as you use lemons. Orange peels work similarly for fire ants. No chemicals, no respiratory irritation.

Growing Lavender and Rosemary Successfully

Lavender (Lavandula spp.)

• Soil: Lean, alkaline, extremely well-drained (add grit or sand).
• Sun: Full sun (6+ hours).
• Water: Drought-tolerant once established; water deeply but infrequently.
• Pruning: Trim after flowering to shape and prevent woody centers.

Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)

• Soil: Similar to lavender—well-drained, slightly alkaline.
• Sun: Full sun.
• Water: Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid wet feet.
• Hardiness: Zone 7+; in colder zones, grow in pots and overwinter indoors.

Spider Note

Spiders are beneficial predators of aphids and other pests. Their webs indicate a healthy ecosystem. If webs become excessive, gently relocate spiders rather than eliminate them.