Mosquitoes, those tiny but infuriating insects, are not only a nuisance but also carriers of various diseases. As the warmer seasons roll in, so does their presence, leaving us seeking effective ways to keep them at bay.
You may have taken to burning repellent candles or providing houseguests with cans of insect repellent as they arrive, but what else can you be doing to repel mozzies? Well, believe it or not, certain plants have mosquito repelling properties. These mosquito repellent plants are great to plant in your garden for added protection.
So, what plants repel mosquitos? Read on to see our list of 10 mosquito repellent plants.
1. Citronella
Citronella is perhaps the most well-known mosquito-repelling plant. Its distinct lemony fragrance comes from its essential oils, which mask the scents that attract mosquitoes. Citronella candles and sprays are popular choices, but having potted citronella plants in your outdoor space can be just as effective.
2. Lavender
It may sound hard to believe since the scent is so heavenly to us humans, but mosquitoes can’t stand the smell of this herb. Keep bugs at bay by planting the lavandin variety, which has a high concentration of camphor. Bonus: It also keeps moths and flies away!
3. Marigolds
Want an outdoor mosquito repellent plant that is also stunning to look at? Look no further than the marigold. This flower comes in a variety of bright colours including vibrant yellows through to deep oranges. The marigold flower is also edible and can be added to summer salads to brighten them up. Plant these flowers in pots or directly in the ground.
4. Peppermint
This member of the mint family boasts health benefits, a lovely smell, and its oils can eliminate any pests lurking around.
5. Rosemary
Rosemary is a versatile herb that not only enhances culinary dishes but also deters mosquitoes. Its strong aroma can mask the scent of humans and prevent mosquitoes from finding their hosts. Burning rosemary sprigs in outdoor fire pits can also create a mosquito-repelling smoke.
6. Basil
Make a delicious pizza and keep mosquitoes away? It sounds like a win-win!
Basil is perfect at doing both. It keeps away both mosquitoes and flies. It can be planted in a container or seeded directly into your garden.
There are several types of basil you can grow, including sweet basil and Genovese basil, but both work at keeping mosquitoes at bay. Just keep in mind that basil likes to be kept damp but also needs plenty of sun and good drainage.
7. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm, with its citrusy scent, is another excellent choice for repelling mosquitoes. It belongs to the mint family and produces aromatic oils that mosquitoes dislike. Crushing its leaves and rubbing them on your skin can provide a natural and effective mosquito repellent.
8. Catnip
With a bit of a reputation for being popular with the kitties, catnip’s use as an insect repellent is often overshadowed, but it’s fantastic for keeping mozzies away. This plant has a chemical called nepetalactone that mosquitos hate. Plant it around your garden to help keep mosquitoes at bay.
9. Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemums contain a natural insecticide called pyrethrin, which is commonly used in mosquito repellent sprays and coils. Their bright and colorful blooms add beauty to gardens while keeping mosquitoes away.
10. Lemon Eucalyptus
Lemon eucalyptus is a plant known for its high concentration of citronellal, a compound with strong mosquito-repelling properties. This plant’s leaves can be crushed and applied to the skin to provide a natural and effective barrier against mosquitoes.
