What Plants Keep Mosquitoes Away
As summer approaches and we start spending more time outside, mosquitoes are the last thing anyone wants to deal with. These insects can quickly turn a pleasant evening into an itchy ordeal. While chemical repellents are readily available, many people prefer natural solutions to keep mosquitoes at bay. Luckily, there are several plants known for their ability to repel mosquitoes effectively. Some plants that naturally repel mosquitoes include:
Lavender
Known for its delightful fragrance and calming properties, lavender is a beautiful addition to any garden or outdoor space. Not only does it add aesthetic appeal, but it also repels mosquitoes with its scent.
Citronella
This well-known mosquito repellent is often used in candles and sprays, but you can also plant citronella grass in your yard to keep mosquitoes away. The strong aroma masks other scents that attract mosquitoes, making it an effective natural repellent.
Marigolds
These vibrant flowers not only add a pop of color to your garden but also help deter mosquitoes. Marigolds contain pyrethrum, a natural insect repellent commonly found in commercial mosquito repellents.
Rosemary
A staple herb in many kitchens, rosemary is also known for its mosquito-repelling properties. Planting rosemary bushes around outdoor seating areas can help keep mosquitoes at bay while providing fresh herbs for cooking.
Basil
Another cooking herb that doubles as a mosquito repellent, basil emits a strong scent that mosquitoes find unpleasant. Planting basil in pots and placing them near entryways or outdoor gathering spots can help deter mosquitoes.
Catnip
While cats may love it, mosquitoes hate it. Catnip contains a compound called nepetalactone, which has been found to be even more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET, the active ingredient in many commercial repellents.
Lemon Balm
Similar to citronella, lemon balm emits a citrusy scent that repels mosquitoes. Planting lemon balm in pots or as a ground cover can help create a mosquito-free zone in your garden.
Peppermint
The strong scent of peppermint is known to deter mosquitoes as well. Planting peppermint around outdoor seating areas or using peppermint oil as a natural repellent can help keep mosquitoes away.
Garlic
While you may not want to plant garlic directly in your garden, consuming garlic regularly can actually make you less attractive to mosquitoes. Incorporating garlic into your diet or taking garlic supplements may help reduce your risk of mosquito bites.
Lemon Verbena
Another lemon-scented herb, lemon verbena emits a fragrance that mosquitoes find unpleasant. Planting lemon verbena in pots or using its leaves to make a natural mosquito repellent spray can help keep these pests at bay.
Professional Mosquito Control
While incorporating these mosquito-repelling plants into your garden or outdoor space can help keep mosquitoes away without the use of harmful chemicals, it’s not guaranteed to work. If you’re noticing a lot of mosquitoes around your home, it’s best to call a local pest control company to get rid of them so you can enjoy your outdoor spaces this summer.