Mosquito Repelling Plants: 14 Plants That Keep Mosquitoes Away

Mosquito Repelling Plants: 14 Plants That Keep Mosquitoes Away

A person planting citronella in a pot.A person planting citronella in a pot.

By Alice Knisley Matthias

Updated on Sep. 04, 2024

Enjoy a mosquito-free summer with these 14 plants that naturally repel mosquitoes. Learn how to strategically place them around your yard and patio for optimal protection.

Introduction: Creating a Mosquito-Free Oasis

Summer evenings outdoors can be ruined by pesky mosquitoes. Instead of relying on chemical-laden repellents, consider a natural solution: mosquito repelling plants. These plants contain natural oils and scents that mosquitoes find unpleasant, helping you create a more enjoyable outdoor experience. This guide will discuss 14 effective plants that repel mosquitoes and provide tips for maximizing their effectiveness.

14 Effective Mosquito Repelling Plants

1. Citronella

The classic “mosquito plant,” Citronella Geranium (Pelargonium citrosum), emits a strong citrus scent that mosquitoes avoid. While effective in small areas, its potency is less than pure citronella oil.

2. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus trees contain potent essential oils that deter mosquitoes. While growing a full tree might not be feasible for everyone, strategically placed potted eucalyptus plants can help keep mosquitoes at bay.

3. Lavender

Known for its calming fragrance, Lavender (Lavandula) also repels mosquitoes. Its beautiful purple blooms add an aesthetic appeal to your garden while keeping those pesky insects away.

4. Peppermint

The strong scent of Peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) is another natural mosquito repellent. Its rapid growth habit allows for ample coverage, and its leaves can even be crushed and rubbed on the skin for added protection.

5. Mojito Mint

Similar to peppermint, Mojito Mint (Mentha x villosa) offers a refreshing scent that mosquitoes dislike. Plus, you can use its leaves to make delicious mojitos!

6. Basil

This culinary herb doubles as a mosquito repellent. Crushing basil leaves releases their potent aroma, effectively deterring mosquitoes.

7. Marigold

Marigolds (Tagetes) are known for their bright colors and ability to repel various insects, including mosquitoes. Their distinct odor disrupts mosquitoes’ sense of smell.

8. Lantana

Lantana’s vibrant flower clusters not only attract butterflies but also repel mosquitoes. Its aromatic leaves release a scent that mosquitoes find offensive.

9. Bee Balm

Bee Balm’s (Monarda) showy flowers and strong fragrance are attractive to pollinators but repellent to mosquitoes. Planting it near patios and seating areas provides a natural mosquito barrier.

10. Lemongrass

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) contains citronella oil, a well-known mosquito repellent. Crushing the leaves and rubbing them on the skin provides an extra layer of protection.

11. Rosemary

Rosemary’s (Salvia rosmarinus) woody scent is pleasant to humans but unpleasant to mosquitoes. It thrives in containers and can be easily placed near outdoor gathering spaces.

12. Parsley and Cilantro

Both Parsley and Cilantro emit scents that mosquitoes avoid. While Cilantro is more heat-sensitive, Parsley offers a more robust and longer-lasting repellent.

13. Allium

Members of the Allium family, like onions and garlic, possess a pungent odor that repels mosquitoes. Planting them strategically around your yard creates a natural mosquito deterrent.

14. Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm’s (Melissa officinalis L.) lemony scent, similar to citronella, effectively repels mosquitoes. Crushing the leaves and applying them to the skin provides additional protection.

Maximizing Mosquito Repellent Plant Effectiveness

Strategically position plants around patios, decks, and other outdoor living areas. Ensure proper sunlight and watering for healthy plant growth, maximizing their repellent properties. Eliminate standing water sources to further reduce mosquito breeding grounds.

Conclusion

By incorporating these mosquito-repelling plants into your landscape, you can create a more enjoyable and mosquito-free outdoor environment. Enjoy the natural beauty and fragrance of these plants while keeping those pesky insects at bay. Consider a combination of plants for a multi-layered defense against mosquitoes.

Citronella plant are natural mosquito repellent with it scented natureCitronella plant are natural mosquito repellent with it scented nature