Mosquitoes are not only annoying during the summer months, but they can also spread diseases like Zika, West Nile virus, and malaria. While chemical repellents offer some relief, they often come with unwanted toxins. Luckily, nature provides us with several plants that effectively keep mosquitoes away without the harmful side effects. By integrating these plants into your garden or patio, you can enjoy a beautiful, insect-free outdoor space all summer long.
Here are eight plant varieties known to repel mosquitoes effectively:
- Lavender
Lavender is celebrated for its soothing scent, but mosquitoes can’t stand it. The strong fragrance interferes with the mosquitoes’ ability to detect carbon dioxide and lactic acid—the substances that attract them. Planting lavender in your garden adds a vibrant touch with its purple blooms, while naturally warding off mosquitoes. - Marigold
Marigolds are cheerful, easy-to-grow flowers that contain pyrethrum, a compound commonly used in insect repellents. The distinctive smell of marigolds repels mosquitoes, and they also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, which help control other garden pests. - Citronella
Citronella is probably the most well-known mosquito repellent plant. The oil extracted from citronella grass is a key ingredient in many commercial repellents. By planting citronella around your outdoor spaces, you can establish a natural mosquito shield that enhances your garden’s look while keeping insects at bay. - Basil
Basil isn’t just for cooking; it’s also an effective mosquito repellent. The strong scent of basil leaves keeps mosquitoes away. Grow basil in pots on your patio or in your garden, and you’ll enjoy its fragrant leaves in your meals while keeping bugs away. - Catnip
Catnip contains nepetalactone, a compound that has been shown to be more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET, the active ingredient in many chemical repellents. Planting catnip in your garden can help create a powerful, chemical-free defense against mosquitoes. - Rosemary
Rosemary is another herb that serves a dual purpose: it adds a flavorful touch to your cooking and helps repel mosquitoes. Its woody aroma is unpleasant to mosquitoes, making it a great addition to your garden or patio. You can even use rosemary clippings to make a homemade mosquito repellent spray. - Mint
The refreshing scent of mint is a favorite among humans but not mosquitoes. Planting mint around your outdoor spaces can help keep these pests away. However, mint can spread quickly, so it’s best to grow it in pots to prevent it from overwhelming your garden. - Allium
Alliums, such as garlic and onions, produce a pungent odor that mosquitoes—and many other pests—find unpleasant. These plants not only deter mosquitoes but also add an interesting, decorative element to your garden.
By incorporating these eight mosquito-repellent plants into your garden or patio, you can reduce the need for chemical repellents while creating a more attractive and insect-free environment. These plants offer a natural, effective way to keep mosquitoes at bay, letting you enjoy a peaceful, pest-free summer.