7 Plants That Naturally Deter Mosquitoes

It’s so nice to be outside during the summer, but mosquitoes can have you running back indoors. While you can buy the candles, most of the time, they don’t smell that great.

Into landscaping and gardening? You already know plants offer several benefits, and bug repellant is yet another advantage of planting the right thing.

If you’re looking to deter mosquitoes naturally, there are several plants known for their ability to repel these pesky insects.

7 Plants that can Help Keep Mosquitoes at Bay:

1. Citronella

Citronella is a well-known mosquito-repelling plant. Its strong scent masks the mosquito attractants, making it harder for them to find their targets. You can plant citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus) or use citronella candles or essential oil derived from citronella in outdoor areas.

2. Lavender

Lavender not only has a pleasant fragrance but also repels mosquitoes. Plant lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) in your garden or place dried lavender indoors to help keep mosquitoes away.

3. Marigold

Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) contain a compound called pyrethrum, which is often used in insect repellents. Their bright and colorful flowers can also add beauty to your outdoor space while deterring mosquitoes.

4. Catnip

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) contains a compound called nepetalactone, which has been found to be more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET, a common synthetic mosquito repellent. Keep in mind that catnip may attract cats, so be cautious if you have feline companions.

5. Basil

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a herb that not only adds flavor to your dishes but also repels mosquitoes. Plant basil in your garden or in pots near outdoor seating areas to help deter mosquitoes.

6. Rosemary

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a fragrant herb that mosquitoes tend to dislike. Plant rosemary in your garden or place potted rosemary near windows or outdoor gathering areas.

7. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a member of the mint family and emits a strong lemon scent that mosquitoes find unpleasant. Plant lemon balm in your garden or crush the leaves and rub them on your skin as a natural repellent.

Remember that while these plants can help deter mosquitoes, their effectiveness may vary depending on factors such as the mosquito species and the specific conditions in your area. It’s also worth noting that planting a few mosquito-repelling plants may not completely eliminate mosquitoes, so it’s important to employ other mosquito control measures as well, such as removing standing water and using screens or mosquito nets.