25 Best Plants That Repel Mosquitos

The sound of mosquitos is annoying. This insect also causes lots of dangerous diseases to human health.

Scientists at Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington show that mosquitos cause infectious diseases, malaria, dengue fever, and many other diseases.

Many people buy mosquito sprays at supermarkets because they are fast and convenient. Yet, they are not safe, especially for children.

A study in 2002 found that children can be sensitive to chemicals in insect spray due to their small body size and immature immune systems.

Therefore, to increase your garden’s natural resistance to pests and avoid using spray, you can grow some plants to kill mosquitos.

The following post is the 25 best plants that repel mosquitos naturally you can grow at home.

Although they do not guarantee 100% effectiveness, these plants are safe for your health and beautify your living space.

#1. Citronella Geraniums

Citronella Geraniums
Citronella Geraniums

Citronella geraniums contain citronella oil to ward off mosquitos.

“Citronella is by far the most popular plant that repels mosquitos,” says garden expert Carmen Johnston.

This plant grows in both partial and full sun, so you can put it in a container or the corner of your garden.

 

#2. Lavender

Lavender
Lavender

If you love fragrances, grow lavender at the entrance. Its natural oils can inhibit their sense of smell.

Although distilled essential oil is more effective, having a lavender bush in your garden can control pests.

This plant makes your home colorful with silvery foliage and purple blooms. It reaches heights of 16 to 20 inches and widths of 12 to 16 inches.

 

#3. Marigold

Marigold
Marigold

It’s interesting to look at Marigold every morning! It gives vibrant blooms and offers mosquito repellents naturally.

In a study conducted in Malibu Campus Packed, scientists said that pyrethrum in marigolds releases a strong scent that deters mosquitos and other pests.

Plant them in pots or around your garden borders to keep mosquitos away at bay and add charm to your outdoor space.

 

#4. Basil

Basil
Basil

Basil is famous for its culinary uses. However, few know it is a natural mosquito repellent with aromatic oils.

Varieties like lemon, cinnamon, and African blue basil are effective against these pests. Simply rub basil leaves on your skin before going outdoors.

This herb lives in full sun and well-draining soil. You can plant it in a small pot for daily meals and anti-mosquitos.

 

#5. Peppermint

Peppermint
Peppermint

Peppermint’s aroma freshens the air and removes mosquitos well.

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Thanks to menthol, people produce peppermint extract to keep mosquitos away. Simply, you can make a DIY spray by mixing water and peppermint leaves.

Planting peppermint is easy. It thrives in moist soil and partial shade and reaches heights of 12 to 35 inches.

 

#6. Allium

Allium
Allium

Allium, also called ornamental onion, gives a scent like onions, garlic, and chives.

Its natural aroma deters mosquitos and other pests. Besides, alliums add exotic charm with their globe-shaped flower clusters.

However, these plants are mildly toxic, so don’t let your pets access them.

 

#7. Rosemary

Rosemary
Rosemary

Have you ever considered using rosemary to kill mosquitos? Yes. This plant with needle-like leaves can do it.

Crush its leaves and rub them on clothing or add stems to your fire pit for mosquito-repelling smoke.

This fragrant herb lives in warm and dry climates. It requires full sun and you can grow it right in your garden.

 

#8. Catnip

Catnip
Catnip

In a study done by the American Chemical Society, scientists prove catnip is about 10 times more effective than DEET to repel insects.

This plant is fast-growing like mint. It has a distinct aroma and flourishes in Zones 4 to 9.

Consider putting catnip in containers or garden patches to welcome your guests.

 

#9. Garlic

Garlic
Garlic

The next summer, try to grow garlic. Garlic has a potent aroma and flavor which can get rid of mosquitos.

This plant emits a garlicky scent that keeps mosquitos at bay within a 20-foot radius.

Garlic is also a herb with many health benefits. Therefore, you can grow garlic directly in the garden for regular use.

 

#10. Lemon Verbena

Lemon Verbena
Lemon Verbena

Does your house own any lemon verbena? Its leaves have a lemony scent to get rid of mosquitos.

Crushing the leaves releases a sweet citrus aroma. Simply rub the leaves on your skin or clothing to keep the pests at bay.

This easy-to-grow herb grows in sunny and warm conditions. In particular, you can make use of lemon verbena for delicious tea.

 

#11. Geranium

Geranium
Geranium

If you love the beauty of geraniums, try to put them in your backyard. With a lemon scent, they can repel mosquitos successfully.

When crushed, their leaves release chemical compounds that insects find unappealing.

These plants come in various forms and sizes, with fragrances ranging from rose to peppermint. It’s suitable for warmer climates.

 

#12. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus

If you love arranging flowers, you are familiar with eucalyptus. Besides, this plant serves as a natural mosquito repellent.

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Its classic aroma, rich in terpenoid compounds, keeps pests at bay.

To maximize its use, warm the leaves by placing the plant in full sun. Consider using silver drops if you prefer planting in containers.

 

#13. Mint

Mint
Mint

Are you interested in Mint? This is a powerhouse in pest control because it releases potent oils.

Rub them on skin or clothing, or put some leaves into pockets for anti-mosquitos. You can choose varieties like pineapple mint, spearmint, or peppermint.

To control its spread, you should grow it in pots. This herb also adds flavor to drinks and dishes.

 

#14. Lemongrass

Lemongrass
Lemongrass

Lemongrass has vibrant greenery and a refreshing citrus scent. It packs a punch against mosquitos with its high citronelal content.

Scatter leaves around your outdoor space. The heat from the sun helps lemongrass deter mosquitos.

 

#15. Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemums are not just pretty flowers, they’re also natural insect repellents.

Thanks to pyrethrum, they discard mosquitos easily. Plant chrysanthemums in your garden to enjoy their daisy-like blooms while keeping insects away.

 

#16. Sage

Sage
Sage

Looking for an effective way to kill mosquitos? Sage is your answer. It is a culinary herb and anti-mosquitos plant.

Crush its aromatic leaves and apply them to skin or clothing. Also, burning sage creates a mosquito-deterring smoke, perfect for outdoor gatherings.

This herb prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Regular pruning keeps it fragrant and remains mosquito-free.

 

#17. Thyme

Thyme
Thyme

Thyme boasts strong mosquito-repelling qualities. By crushing its leaves, you release the oils that deter mosquitos.

You can also scatter crushed stems around outdoor seating areas or apply the leaves directly to your skin. Burning thyme leaves provides up to 90% mosquito protection for 90 minutes.

 

#18. Pennyroyal

Pennyroyal
Pennyroyal

Pennyroyal has the nickname “mosquito plant”. It gives off an aroma deterring mosquitos.

This plant is among the strongest bug deterrents. However, you should let pets avoid pennyroyal because its oils are toxic to them.

 

#19. Floss Flower

Floss Flower
Floss Flower

Think about planting floss flowers in your outdoor space. They naturally deter mosquitos with their coumarin content and provide purple colors for your garden.

However, this chemical can be toxic. You should keep your pets away from the plants.

 

#20. Variegated Plectranthus

Variegated Plectranthus
Variegated Plectranthus

Variegated Plectranthus is known as Madagascar spur flower or Swedish ivy.

Whenever splashed with water, it emits a strong odor that repels mosquitos and other insects.

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Simply planting it in your garden can help naturally deter mosquitos and create a pleasant outdoor environment.

 

#21. American Beautyberry

American Beauty berry
American Beautyberry

It’s hard to resist the vibrant magenta berry clusters of American Beautyberry.

While its tiny white flowers are simple, crushing the leaves releases fragrant oils that naturally get rid of mosquitos.

Additionally, the berries exist in winter, providing food for songbirds and small mammals. This plant will enhance your life.

 

#22. Fennel

Fennel
Fennel

Don’t underestimate fennel! People often use fennel for culinary.

Moreover, fennel can repel mosquitos. So it is a dual-purpose plant.

This plant thrives in full sun. Although it is like an ornamental grass, it has the benefit of deterring pests.

 

#23. Wormwood

Wormwood
Wormwood

Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) offers a striking silver backdrop in your garden.

Its leaves emit a potent scent described as antiseptic or putrid. They can repel insects and critters, including mosquitos.

 

#24. Bee balm

Bee balm
Bee balm

Your garden will attract more pollinators if has bee balm. Bee balm stands out for removing mosquitos.

Unlike other insect-deterring plants that require crushing, bee balm naturally releases fragrances disliked by mosquitos as it grows and blooms.

 

#25. Lantana

Lantana
Lantana

Beautify your garden with lantana. This plant emits a strong scent when touched.

Its aromatic compounds are released in sunlight, creating a natural barrier against mosquitos with 27 to 42 percent protection.

Lantana develops in full sun with regular moisture in pots or in planting beds.

 

25 Best Plants That Repel Mosquitos
25 Best Plants That Repel Mosquitos

Applying plants that repel mosquitos naturally adds beauty to your living space and keeps mosquitos away. Follow us for more tips about nature’s wonders.

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