When the seasons change and you’re eager to spend more time outdoors, it’s not just the sunshine that makes your backyard barbeques enjoyable – it’s also a relief from the pesky mosquitoes. These tiny terrors are not only annoying but also pose significant health risks. As humans, we unknowingly emit an aroma that attracts these insects, making our presence irresistible to them. This pungent scent is just one reason why mosquitoes are drawn to us.
Our body chemistry, including carbon dioxide emitted through breathing and compounds in our sweat, makes us a delectable snack for these bloodthirsty bugs. While humans aren’t the only warm bodies that attract mosquitoes, we remain their prime target when available. Instead of relying on chemical-laden insect repellents, consider incorporating mosquito-repellent plants into your landscaping.
These natural wonders can thrive in pots and sit comfortably beside your outdoor furniture, effectively repelling these unwanted visitors.
14 Mosquito Repellent Plants
The sensory properties of many plant species can evoke distinct emotions in humans, while simultaneously deterring certain insects. A prime example is lavender, whose fragrance is often associated with feelings of calmness and serenity in people. Interestingly, this same aroma appears to have a repellent effect on mosquitoes, highlighting the unique ways in which different organisms respond to the same stimulus.
Basil
Basil’s multifaceted charm extends beyond its culinary uses, as it possesses a natural ability to repel mosquitoes. Its pungent aroma is notorious for driving these pesky insects away, making it an effective and effortless solution. Moreover, basil contains toxic compounds that are detrimental to mosquito larvae, rendering them unable to lay eggs. By strategically placing one or two plants near areas with standing water, you can create a natural barrier against mosquitoes.
This dual benefit of basil makes it an attractive addition to any outdoor space, providing both flavorful pesto sauce and mosquito-deterrent properties.
Lavender
The allure of lavender lies in its calming aroma, which is often incorporated into products like lotions and candles to promote relaxation after a long day. Beyond its pleasant scent, lavender also has the unique ability to repel unwanted insects, including mosquitoes, moths, fleas, flies, and even spiders. This herb’s natural charm extends to butterflies and bees, attracting them to your garden.
Interestingly, lavender can be applied directly to the skin, offering an additional benefit: it not only keeps mosquitoes at bay but also helps deter bed bugs when used before bedtime.
Bee Balm
Bee balm, also known as wild bergamot and horsemint, is a multi-talented plant that offers a range of benefits for your yard and your health. Not only does it repel mosquitoes naturally, but it’s also a popular attractant for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The herb has culinary uses too, featuring in jellies, teas, and salad garnishes. When planted in your garden, bee balm adds vibrant color and texture to your outdoor space.
From a medicinal standpoint, the plant is gentle on the skin and its oil can be used safely. You can also dry the leaves to brew tea that’s been shown to combat fungal infections. With its versatility and practical uses, it’s no wonder bee balm is a sought-after addition to many gardens.
Lemon Balm
While bee balm is a lovely addition to any garden, its minty counterpart, lemon balm, offers a range of benefits that make it an attractive alternative. As a natural stress reliever and digestive aid, this versatile herb can be used in teas, salads, and even as a flavorful addition to cocktails. Additionally, lemon balm has natural insect-repelling properties, making it effective against mosquitoes and fleas.
However, gardeners must exercise caution when planting lemon balm, as its invasive tendencies can quickly lead to an overgrowth of the surrounding area. To enjoy its benefits without sacrificing control, consider growing lemon balm in containers, allowing for a controlled spread while still reaping its numerous advantages.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass boasts an impressive concentration of citral, a potent oil often employed in mosquito repellents. This natural ingredient not only repels flies but also exhibits toxicity towards mosquito larvae, making it a valuable addition to your outdoor arsenal. Beyond its insect-repelling properties, lemongrass is equally prized for its culinary applications – think aromatic soups like tom kha gai and soothing herbal teas.
Its versatility in both the kitchen and outdoors makes lemongrass an attractive option for anyone seeking a multi-purpose ingredient.
Citronella
Citronella plants are a familiar sight in many insect repellents and candles, thanks to their potent scent that overwhelms other attractants like carbon dioxide emissions from our bodies. While they can grow quite large, citronella is surprisingly adaptable to container life, making it an accessible choice for even the most novice gardeners. With minimal maintenance required, you won’t need to break a sweat to keep mosquitoes at bay.
Just be mindful of frosts, as temperatures below a certain threshold will prove fatal to this plant.
Peppermint
When cultivating peppermint, it’s crucial to contain its growth by keeping it in a separate pot or container rather than allowing it to spread freely in the garden bed. On the one hand, peppermint oil is an effective natural repellent against mosquitoes, making it a valuable asset for outdoor enthusiasts during the peak summer months. Additionally, when used topically, peppermint oil can provide relief from the discomfort associated with itchy mosquito bites.
Furthermore, this versatile herb also possesses the ability to repel unwanted eight-legged visitors, namely spiders.
Rosemary
Rosemary, a staple herb in many kitchens, offers a unique flavor profile that pairs well with chicken dishes. However, its benefits extend beyond culinary uses. This versatile herb has natural insect-repelling properties that can be harnessed for personal protection. For instance, you can burn rosemary to create an aromatic smoke that keeps insects at bay. When doing so, exercise caution and maintain a safe distance from the smoke to avoid any potential discomfort.
Alternatively, you can opt for topical application of rosemary oil, allowing its insect-repelling properties to work directly on your skin.
Sage
Beyond its aromatic culinary uses, sage has been revered for centuries in various cultures for its spiritual properties. In certain rituals, bundles of sage are burned to cleanse and ward off unwanted energies. This potent herb also holds a practical advantage: its pungent aroma can repel mosquitoes, making it an excellent addition to backyard fire pits or fireplaces. The sweet scent not only fills the air but also keeps these pesky insects at bay.
Sage’s insect-repelling properties extend beyond mosquitoes – it’s also known to deter ticks, a significant concern for both human and animal health. In fact, incorporating sage into your outdoor spaces can create a welcoming atmosphere for hummingbirds, making it an attractive addition to gardens and backyards. For those who prefer a more intimate connection with this herb, applying sage oil to the skin is another option.
Whether you’re seeking spiritual balance or practical pest control, sage’s multifaceted benefits make it a valuable addition to your life.
Catnip
Catnip, a herb that drives felines wild, has a secret superpower – it repels mosquitoes! The key compound responsible for this phenomenon is nepetalactone, the same chemical that sends cats into a frenzy. In fact, studies suggest that catnip’s mosquito-repelling prowess rivals that of DEET, a common ingredient in insect repellents. While DEET has raised health concerns, a natural alternative like catnip offers a safer and more effective solution.
By incorporating catnip plants into your garden, you’ll create a potent barrier against mosquitoes for an extended period. Just be mindful of your feline friends’ enthusiasm – they love to rub and roll in it, so plant it in a cat-friendly zone. Just remember that cats have no qualms about destroying garden beds to get their paws on the stuff!
Garlic
Garlic’s reputation for warding off vampires has led many to wonder: could its pungent properties also be effective against mosquitoes? While it may not have the same dramatic effect as garlic’s supposed ability to repel bloodthirsty creatures, consuming garlic or applying its juice directly to the skin can still provide some mosquito-repelling benefits. The strong smell emitted by garlic is known to deter many insects, including mosquitoes.
By incorporating garlic into your routine – whether through consumption or topical application – you may find that these pesky bugs are less likely to buzz around you.
Floss Flower
Floss flowers, also known as Mexican paintbrush or blueweed, are a hidden gem in many gardens. The unique characteristic of these flowers is their ability to contain coumarin, a chemical used in mosquito repellents. This makes them an excellent addition to any garden bed, not only for their visually striking fuzzy blooms but also for their practical benefits.
The flowers come in a range of colors including blue, pink, white, and purple, allowing you to add a pop of color and texture to your outdoor space. What’s more, these flowers have natural pest-repellent properties that can help deter flies, rabbits, and deer from causing damage to your garden beds. While they may not be as flashy as some other flowers, floss flowers also attract beneficial pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds.
Just remember to appreciate their beauty without attempting to use them as a makeshift insect repellent – the chemical isn’t safe for human skin.
Marigold
Marigolds are a common sight in many garden beds, serving as a popular edging plant for both landscaping and vegetable gardens. But what makes them truly unique is their culinary appeal. These annual flowers boast a strong fragrance that translates to a light and citrusy taste when used in salads, herb butters, or soups. Their flavor profile is further enhanced by the presence of pyrethrum, a compound found within the plant that also happens to be a natural insect repellent.
Geraniums
Geraniums, with their subtle lemon aroma, serve as a natural deterrent against various pests in both homes and gardens. Their mosquito-repelling properties make them an effective addition to outdoor spaces, while also keeping flies at bay. The large, vibrant blooms of geraniums lend themselves perfectly to decorative landscaping and ornamental purposes.
The citronella content within scented geraniums further enhances their mosquito-deterring abilities.
This same scent, however, can also attract butterflies to the garden – a welcome sight for any gardener, as these pollinators play a crucial role in facilitating the growth of other flowers and plants.
Selecting Mosquito Repellent Plants
To deter mosquitoes from bothering you and your loved ones, consider incorporating some mosquito-repelling plants into your outdoor space. You may already be familiar with many of these species, which can thrive in gardens and even be used in various culinary applications. By planting a few of these varieties in your garden beds or containers, you’ll be creating a natural barrier to keep those pesky mosquitoes at bay.
