The Best Plants to Keep Mosquitoes Away

Imagine a quiet summer day. The afternoon sun is playing peekaboo with the clouds. It’s the perfect temperature to sit outside with a glass of your favorite ice-cold drink. Your back is reclined, your feet are kicked up, and for a moment all your worries float away. Suddenly, that Zen moment is rudely interrupted by a buzzing. Then you notice a welt on your leg. One mosquito bite quickly turns into a few in a matter of minutes. Just when you think your backyard is no longer a haven from these pests, there’s some good news.

There are several plants known for their mosquito-repellent properties. While you might not have them in your backyard right now – they are widely available at most nurseries and home improvement stores. Before you get started, it’s important to note that not all the plants mentioned will provide complete protection and some could also be harmful to pets if eaten. One example is citronella. It can help keep mosquitoes at bay, but the result can be deadly for dogs if enough is ingested.

Recommended Plants for Mosquito-Repellent Properties

• Citronella: well-known plant used in mosquito repellents. It contains citronella oil, which has a strong scent that masks mosquito attractants. Citronella grass or Citronella geranium are popular options.
• Catnip: a member of the mint family and contains a compound called nepetalactone, which mosquitoes find repellent. It can be effective at repelling mosquitoes, but keep in mind that it might also attract cats.
• Marigolds: have a distinct smell that mosquitoes dislike. Their bright flowers also add beauty to your garden. French marigolds and Mexican marigolds are commonly used for mosquito control.
• Lavender: has a calming fragrance that humans find pleasant, but mosquitoes tend to avoid. Planting lavender can help deter mosquitoes and provide a lovely scent to your outdoor space.
• Basil: a culinary herb that emits a strong aroma, which can help repel mosquitoes. Planting basil in your garden or keeping potted basil plants near seating areas may help keep mosquitoes at bay.
• Lemon balm: has a citrusy scent that mosquitoes find unpleasant. Crushing the leaves can release the aroma and enhance its mosquito-repellent properties.
• Rosemary: an aromatic herb that can be effective in repelling mosquitoes. Its woody scent is known to deter mosquitoes when planted in outdoor areas.

Just remember while these plants may provide a level of mosquito deterrence, their effectiveness can vary depending on your climate, location, and species of mosquito. You will still want to remove any standing water and contact your local Mosquito Squad for proactive protection against mosquitoes throughout the year.