The backyard is the place for summer gatherings. Whether it’s a barbecue with friends or an evening spent sipping on cocktails, nothing can ruin a good time faster than pesky mosquitoes. But what if you had some handyman help in controlling these unwelcome visitors? That’s right – plants! With the right combination of flora and foliage, you can keep the bugs away.
Picture this: You’re lounging in your backyard after a long day at work. The sun is setting and all that stands between you and a peaceful night is an army of mosquitoes. No need to worry! With these 17 plants, you can create an effective barrier against those pesky biters.
From herbs to flowers, there are plenty of choices when it comes to mosquito-free gardens. For instance, lavender has been used for centuries to repel bugs, while marigolds are known for their bright colors and insect-deterring power. All you need is a few pots or some soil to get started – no green thumb required!
What Are The Best Plants To Repel Mosquitoes?
Looking for a way to keep mosquitoes away from your outdoor living space? Plants are an easy, natural solution. Here’s what you should know about the best plants to repel mosquitoes.
First off, you’ve probably heard of citronella. This oil-producing plant has a strong smell that repels mosquitoes and other insects. It grows well in sunny areas and comes in various forms, such as candles or torches, sprays and plants. Citronella is one of the most popular mosquito repellent plants around.
Other great mosquito repelling plants include marigolds, lavender, basil and catnip. Marigolds have a distinct smell that keeps pesky bugs away while adding a beautiful splash of color to your garden or yard. Lavender is another fragrant flower known for its ability to repel mosquitoes; it’s also great for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Basil is often used as an herb in cooking but its strong scent also helps ward off insects like mosquitos and flies. Finally, catnip is part of the mint family and is known for its effectiveness in keeping bugs at bay with its pungent smell.
These plants are all easy to grow in pots or directly outdoors depending on your area’s climate conditions – plus they make great additions to any garden! So if you’re looking to keep those annoying mosquitos away without any harsh chemicals or excessive noise, these plants could be just the thing for you!
Citronella
Okay, let’s look at one of the most popular choices for keeping mosquitoes away: citronella. It’s an aromatic herb that can be planted in your garden and it’s known for its strong scent. Citronella has been used for centuries to repel mosquitos and other pests. The smell works as a natural deterrent, so you don’t have to worry about using any harsh chemical sprays or powders.
Plus, citronella is easy to grow if you want to go the DIY route. You can even buy citronella oil online or at your local garden center if growing it isn’t an option. All you need to do is add the oil to a spray bottle and spritz it around your outdoor areas when mosquitos start buzzing. Just make sure you keep it away from any open flames!
Citronella is a great choice if you want a natural way of keeping mosquitos away from your home without having to use any harsh chemicals. And once you get the hang of growing it, you won’t have an issue with pesky bugs anymore! Now let’s take a look at catnip—another plant with mosquito-repelling properties…
Catnip
With the summer months just around the corner, many people are looking for ways to keep mosquitoes away from their gardens. If you want a natural solution that won’t require harsh chemicals, catnip can be your go-to plant. Let’s explore why this herb is an effective way to deter buzzing insects.
Imagine a garden bursting with greenery and vibrant colors – and no mosquitoes in sight! Catnip provides a great way to turn this vision into reality. It’s an aromatic herb with a strong smell that deters its four-legged winged foes. Plus, it’s easy to care for, needing only moderate sunlight and occasional watering. This makes it an ideal choice for those who don’t have much time to spend gardening.
Catnip is also safe for pets and humans, making it a much better option than chemical repellents that can be harmful if ingested. In addition, its scent helps make outdoor spaces more inviting by creating a pleasant atmosphere. So if you’re looking for an easy way to make your garden mosquito-free without compromising on the aesthetics, catnip could be the answer you’ve been searching for!
The benefits of catnip don’t stop there – marigolds are another excellent choice when it comes to keeping mosquitoes at bay…
Marigolds
Ah, Marigolds! The flower of choice for those hoping to drive away those pesky mosquitoes. What a wonderful flower they are! So bright and cheerful that you can’t help but smile when you see them.
But don’t be fooled by their simple beauty – these flowers pack a punch. Not only do they brighten up any garden, but they also act as natural mosquito repellents. Plant some around your outdoor areas, and soon enough you’ll have an insect-free zone to enjoy with friends and family.
Plus, marigolds are easy to grow, so you don’t have to be an experienced gardener to get great results. And since mosquitoes are always looking for water, it doesn’t hurt to add a few plants near standing water sources like ponds and birdbaths. Then sit back, relax and enjoy your bug-free space!
With its impressive ability to keep mosquitoes at bay and its vibrant colors, marigolds just might be the perfect plant for your outdoor needs. We may need another herb in our arsenal though…let’s move onto basil next…
Basil
It’s almost like fate that the next plant to keep mosquitoes away is basil! It’s a great herb for cooking, but did you know it can also keep pesky insects away? Let’s explore this aromatic herb and how it can help you enjoy your space without those buzzing pests.
Basil has a unique smell that repels mosquitoes – this is why it’s commonly used worldwide to keep them at bay. It’s not just the smell that helps though, basil also contains oils that have natural insect-repelling properties. Here are some ways you can use basil to fight off mosquitoes:
• Plant Basil: Growing Basil in your garden provides an ongoing source of mosquito-repellent aroma. • Pot Basil: If you don’t have space to grow a full garden, potting some basil plants gives off their scent and still keeps your patio mosquito-free. • Sprinkle Basil: Sprinkling dried or fresh basil leaves around areas where mosquitoes are active can help repel them from entering your outdoor living spaces. • Place Oils: Placing essential oils made from basil in areas around your home can also act as a natural repellent against these pests.
Making sure you have enough of this wonderful herb around means less time swatting away bugs and more time enjoying the outdoors! So if you’re looking for an easy, natural way to keep mosquitoes away, adding some basil should do the trick!
Lavender
Ready to keep those pesky mosquitoes away? Keep reading to learn how lavender can help! This flowery herb has a lot of potential when it comes to keeping unwanted pests away. Let’s explore the possibilities:
• A natural repellent: Lavender oil is effective at deterring mosquitoes, as well as other insects like flies and moths. • Aromatic appeal: Not only does lavender smell great, but its fragrance will help keep the bugs away. • Plant it near doors and windows: Place potted lavender plants near doorways and windows to prevent mosquitos from entering your home. • A garden addition: Add some lavender to your garden for an added layer of protection against pests. • Easy-to-care-for plant: Lavender is an easy-to-grow herb that doesn’t require much maintenance or special attention.
Lavender is the perfect solution for anyone looking for an easy and attractive way to keep mosquitoes out. It’s a beautiful addition to any outdoor setting, with the added benefit of keeping bugs at bay! Now let’s take a look at another plant that makes a great mosquito repellent—rosemary!
Rosemary
Rosemary, a flowering evergreen shrub, is the seventh plant that can help keep mosquitoes away. With over 1,500 species of rosemary, this fragrant herb is beloved for its culinary uses and its ability to repel insects. Did you know that rosemary has been used as an insect repellent since the 1700s?
Rosemary grows best in warm and sunny climates but can also thrive in cooler temperatures. The plant reaches heights of up to five feet and can be easily grown in containers or planted directly into soil. To ensure maximum mosquito-repelling effects throughout your garden, it’s important to keep rosemary plants well maintained with regular watering and pruning.
For those who are looking for an easy-to-care-for plant that doubles as a natural mosquito repellent, rosemary is an ideal choice. Not only does it smell great and look beautiful, but it also keeps away pesky bugs! By taking just a few simple steps to care for your rosemary plants, you’ll be able to enjoy their beauty while keeping mosquitoes at bay. With a transition like this one into garlic, you won’t have any problem keeping the bugs away!
Garlic
Did you know that garlic is used in many traditional recipes around the world? That’s right – this plant is more than just a tasty addition to your favorite dish. It can also be used as an effective mosquito repellent! Here’s how you can use garlic to keep the bugs away.
Garlic is known to repel mosquitoes because of its strong smell, and it can be used in many different ways. One way is to cut up garlic and spread it around areas where mosquitoes are present, such as doorways and windowsills. This will create an unpleasant smell for the pests, making them less likely to come near you. Another way to use garlic is by boiling it and then spraying the mixture on plants in your garden or backyard. This will help keep mosquitoes away from these areas too.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-use way to keep mosquitoes out of your home or garden, garlic should be at the top of your list! Not only does it have a strong odor which can repel mosquitoes, but it doesn’t require any special equipment or chemicals – just some chopped-up cloves and boiling water! With garlic on your side, you’ll be able to enjoy outdoor activities without worrying about pesky mosquito bites.
Mint is another great natural repellent when it comes to keeping mosquitoes away – let’s take a look at how this powerful herb works.
Mint
Mint is another plant that you can use to help keep pesky mosquitoes away. It’s easy to grow and maintain, and it smells great too! Plus, it’s a natural insect repellent. Mint has an aromatic oil that helps to repel mosquitoes. Plant mint around the edges of your yard and near any areas where you might be entertaining. That way, when you’re enjoying your outdoor space, the mint will be working hard to keep those pesky bugs at bay.
You’ll want to make sure that you don’t plant too much of this herb in one spot, as it can be invasive. Plant them in small patches throughout your garden or yard and trim it back regularly so that it doesn’t become overgrown. Mint is also fairly easy to care for; just water it regularly and trim back the stems when they get too tall or leggy.
Mint is a versatile herb that not only helps repel mosquitoes but also looks great in your garden or yard. So if you’re looking for a natural solution to keep those annoying bugs away while adding some color and texture to your outdoor space, then give mint a try! And with its pleasant aroma, everyone will be sure to enjoy their time outdoors even more.
Speaking of aromatics, alliums are another option for mosquito control with their delightful smell…
Alliums
Back in the days, when mosquito-borne diseases were a problem, mankind tried to find solutions. One of them was to plant plants that will repel the mosquitoes away from our homes. Alliums are one of those plants that serve this purpose perfectly!
These garlic-family relatives come in many varieties and offer a range of options for your garden. Planting alliums can be an easy way to create a mosquito-free zone in your yard—and it’s just as easy to maintain them too! All you need is some soil, water, and sunlight and you’re good to go.
Alliums can also add an attractive look to your outdoor areas. They come in many shapes and sizes, ranging from tall spires of purple blooms to low mounds of greens. Plus, they add texture and depth while keeping mosquitoes at bay!
TIP: If you have limited space or don’t want to buy multiple types of alliums, try using containers or planter boxes filled with allium bulbs or seeds – this way you can easily move around the plants depending on where you need a mosquito repellent effect most!
Peppermint
Peppermint is like a breath of fresh air. It’s refreshing, invigorating and, as an added bonus, it can keep mosquitoes away! Here are 3 reasons why peppermint is a great choice for keeping pesky bugs at bay:
- The strong scent of peppermint oil is known to make mosquitoes buzz off.
- Planting peppermint around the perimeter of your outdoor living area will help repel mosquitoes in the surrounding areas.
- You can even create your own bug repellent by blending several drops of peppermint oil in a spray bottle filled with water.
If you want to keep those pesky insects away while adding some extra pizzazz to your outdoor space, try planting some peppermint! Don’t forget that you can also use this herb inside your home to freshen up the air and drive away any unwanted guests. With its pleasant aroma and practical uses, peppermint is an ideal addition for any backyard or garden. And now, onto lemon balm…
Lemon Balm
With over three hundred species, lemon balm is one of the most versatile and useful plants for keeping mosquitoes away. It has a strong, lemony scent that repels mosquitoes and other insects, making it an excellent choice for home gardens. Lemon balm is also easy to grow and maintain – around 70% of the time, the plant will grow back after the winter season.
Lemon balm is an attractive addition to any outdoor space. Its bright green foliage stands out in most flower beds and makes a great contrast with other plants. The herb can also be used in cooking or as a tea when harvested fresh from your garden. Plus, its leaves have antiseptic properties and can be used to treat minor skin irritations like bee stings or bug bites.
When planting lemon balm, make sure you give it plenty of room and sunshine. Plant it in well-drained soil near the back of your flower bed so it won’t get crowded by other plants. Be sure to water regularly but don’t let it sit in soggy soil – this can cause root rot or fungus growth. With proper care, lemon balm will reward you with years of mosquito-repelling beauty! Moving on, let’s take a look at floss flowers…
Floss Flowers
Floss flowers are the bee’s knees when it comes to keeping mosquitoes away. They’re a pretty, low-maintenance option that can really help you take control of your outdoor space. As an added bonus, they even attract pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds!
These charming plants have a sweet scent that naturally repels mosquitoes, but their delicate blooms also add color and texture to any landscape. Plant them in containers near entryways or around seating areas to maximize the effectiveness of their mosquito-repelling properties. And don’t forget: floss flowers need plenty of sunlight and regular watering for optimal growth and maintenance.
If you’re looking for an easy way to keep pesky mosquitoes away from your home and garden, then floss flowers should be on your list! You’ll love their vibrant colors, sweet fragrance, and the fact that they help keep pests at bay – all without harsh chemicals or sprays. Plus, with just a little bit of care you can enjoy these beautiful blooms year after year.
Lemongrass
The next plant that can help you keep mosquitoes away is lemongrass. This tall, grassy-looking plant has citronella oil in its leaves and stem, which mosquitos don’t like. You can grow it in your garden or even on your windowsill indoors, as long as it gets plenty of sunlight. It’s also easy to maintain – just remember to water it regularly and trim the tops occasionally.
Planting lemongrass near entryways, patios, and other outdoor areas will create a natural mosquito repellent barrier. Plus, this fragrant herb has a variety of uses in cooking and herbal remedies – so even if you don’t have pesky bugs around your home, it’s still a great addition to any garden!
But be warned: while lemongrass is an effective way to repel mosquitoes from your property, it won’t get rid of them completely. To make sure all the critters are gone for good, invest in some chemical repellents or traps too.
TIP: Planting a few pots of lemongrass near doorways and windows will help keep those buzzing bugs at bay!
Lemon Thyme
The last plant on our list to keep mosquitoes away is lemon thyme. It’s the icing on the cake, if you will. Lemon thyme is a great way to repel pesky mosquitoes while adding a delicious flavor to your dishes.
Unlike other mosquito-repelling plants, lemon thyme works by emitting a citrus scent that mosquitoes don’t like. It also has an added bonus of being an edible herb, so you can add it to your favorite recipes for extra flavor and aroma. Plus, it grows in both sun and shade, making it a versatile addition to any garden or patio area.
Lemon thyme is easy to take care of and requires very little maintenance. When planting, make sure you use well-draining soil and give plenty of water during dry periods. Additionally, prune off any dead branches or stems to maintain its shape and size – this will help the plant stay healthy and productive over time. All in all, lemon thyme is an excellent choice for keeping pesky mosquitos away while adding some flavorful herbs to your meals!
Conclusion
Finally, we’ve made it to the end of our exploration into plants that keep mosquitoes away! We’ve discussed 17 different types of plants – from citronella to floss flowers – that can be used in your backyard or garden to repel them.
For those looking for a fast-acting solution, citronella and catnip are the best choices as they contain natural oils that will have an immediate effect on those pesky bugs. Marigolds, basil, rosemary, lemon balm and lemongrass are also great options if you want something long lasting.
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, then planting lemon thyme around your home is probably the way to go. It’s easy to maintain and will help keep mosquitoes away all season long! So why not give these plants a try today? With their delightful fragrances and profound pest-repelling powers, you won’t regret it.