Mosquitoes can be a constant nuisance, especially during warm seasons. While chemical repellents are effective, many people prefer natural alternatives that are both eco-friendly and safe. One of the best ways to keep mosquitoes at bay is by planting certain flowers and herbs in your garden. These plants emit scents or contain compounds that mosquitoes dislike, making them great additions to any outdoor space. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best plants to grow to repel mosquitoes.
Why Use Plants to Repel Mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes are not only irritating but can also carry diseases like malaria, dengue, and Zika virus. Using plants to repel mosquitoes provides a natural way to reduce their numbers without harming the environment. Many plants contain essential oils, compounds, or fragrances that act as natural mosquito repellents. By adding these plants to your garden, you can enjoy a pest-free outdoor space while avoiding the harmful chemicals found in commercial repellents.
The 12 Best Plants To Repel Mosquitoes Naturally
1. Citronella Grass (Cymbopogon nardus)
Citronella is one of the most famous natural mosquito repellents. The plant contains citronella oil, which mosquitoes find unpleasant. This oil is often used in candles and sprays designed to keep mosquitoes away. Growing citronella grass in your garden will help ward off these pests naturally. It’s important to note that citronella grass needs plenty of sunlight and warm temperatures to thrive.
2. Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
Lavender is not only a beautiful flower but also a natural mosquito deterrent. The strong fragrance of lavender helps repel mosquitoes and other insects. You can grow lavender in pots or directly in the ground. The best part is that lavender attracts pollinators like bees, which helps your garden thrive while keeping mosquitoes at bay. Lavender requires full sun and well-drained soil to grow.
3. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)
Marigolds are a favorite among gardeners for their vibrant color and ability to repel mosquitoes. They contain a compound called pyrethrum, which is used in many insect repellents. Marigolds also help deter other pests, such as aphids, making them a great companion plant for your garden. These flowers are easy to grow and thrive in full sun.
4. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, has a strong lemon scent that mosquitoes dislike. It’s easy to grow and can spread quickly, so you may want to plant it in containers to prevent it from overtaking your garden. Lemon balm requires full sunlight but can tolerate some shade. You can use the leaves to make a natural mosquito repellent by rubbing them onto your skin.
5. Bee Balm (Monarda spp.)
Bee balm, also known as bergamot, is another fragrant plant that mosquitoes tend to avoid. The plant contains essential oils that help repel mosquitoes, along with attracting bees and butterflies. Bee balm grows best in well-drained soil and can thrive in partial sunlight. It’s a beautiful plant that adds color and fragrance to your garden while helping keep mosquitoes away.
6. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
Catnip is often associated with cats, but it’s also an excellent mosquito repellent. The plant contains a compound called nepetalactone, which is more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET, the active ingredient in many commercial repellents. Planting catnip in your garden can help keep mosquitoes away, but be careful if you have cats, as they may be drawn to the plant.
7. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Rosemary is another herb that mosquitoes avoid. The plant has a strong, aromatic scent that many insects find repellent. It’s perfect for cooking, too, as it adds flavor to many dishes. Rosemary grows well in full sun and can tolerate drought conditions once established. You can plant it in pots or directly in the garden to help reduce mosquito activity.
8. Geraniums (Pelargonium spp.)
Certain types of geraniums, particularly citronella geraniums, have mosquito-repelling properties. The plant’s leaves contain citronella-like oils, making it an effective natural deterrent. Geraniums are easy to grow and thrive in both sun and partial shade. They are also known for their beautiful flowers, adding a pop of color to your garden while keeping mosquitoes away.
9. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Basil, commonly used in cooking, is also a powerful mosquito repellent. The plant contains essential oils, including eugenol, that repel mosquitoes and other insects. Basil is easy to grow in pots or in the ground and thrives in warm, sunny environments. You can even rub the leaves on your skin to enjoy its mosquito-repellent benefits.
10. Garlic (Allium sativum)
Garlic is known for its many health benefits, but it also has mosquito-repelling properties. When garlic is crushed, it releases sulfur compounds that mosquitoes find unpleasant. Growing garlic in your garden can help keep these pests away. While garlic doesn’t have a strong scent when growing, the natural compounds are released when the plant is crushed or disturbed.
11. Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)
Pennyroyal is another member of the mint family that mosquitoes dislike. It has a strong minty aroma that repels mosquitoes and other pests. Pennyroyal can be grown in containers or in the ground but should be used with caution, as it can be toxic to pets if ingested in large amounts. Pennyroyal prefers partial shade and well-drained soil.
12. Scented Geraniums (Pelargonium graveolens)
Scented geraniums are a type of geranium that emits a strong fragrance. They contain citronella-like oils that mosquitoes find unpleasant. These plants are easy to grow in pots or directly in the garden and can tolerate both sun and partial shade. Scented geraniums also come in a variety of fragrances, such as lemon, rose, and mint, allowing you to pick a scent that suits your preferences.
How to Use These Plants Effectively
Simply planting mosquito-repelling plants in your garden isn’t always enough to keep the pests away. To maximize their effectiveness, consider the following tips:
Plant in Clusters: Planting several mosquito-repelling plants together will create a stronger deterrent. Mosquitoes are more likely to avoid areas where the scent is concentrated.
Use in Containers: If you don’t have a garden, consider planting these plants in pots or containers. Place them near windows, doorways, or outdoor seating areas to create natural mosquito barriers.
Crush the Leaves: For added protection, crush the leaves of some plants, like lemon balm or basil, and rub them on your skin. This releases the oils that repel mosquitoes.
Combine with Other Mosquito Control Methods: While plants can help reduce mosquito populations, they work best when combined with other control methods, such as eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed.
Conclusion
Growing plants to repel mosquitoes is a simple and natural way to protect yourself from these pesky insects. From citronella grass to lavender and basil, there are many plants that emit scents or oils that mosquitoes find unpleasant. By planting these mosquito-repelling plants in your garden, you can enjoy a more pleasant outdoor experience while minimizing your exposure to harmful chemicals. Try incorporating some of these plants into your garden, and enjoy a mosquito-free space all season long.
