20 Plants That Repel Mosquitos Naturally And Smell Great Too

Although there are many exciting things to anticipate as the weather becomes warmer, there are also a few unpleasant aspects to endure during the summer months. Specifically, there are mosquitoes which have the ability to quickly transform a tranquil outdoor experience into an irritating and uncomfortable ordeal. Therefore, it’s worth growing plants that repel mosquitos both indoors and outdoors. These plants not only enhance the aesthetics but also help you fight against irritating bug bites.

#1. Basil

 

When it comes to plants that repel mosquitos, basil, the culinary superstar, moonlights as a mosquito deterrent. This fragrant herb emits oils that repel mosquitoes. Plant it in well-drained soil, bask it in sunlight, and watch it thrive.

#2. Lavender

Incorporate lovely lavender into your garden designs to help deter mosquito bites. The best insect repellents are those with higher levels of camphor. You can crush flower buds and leaves and apply them over your skin to benefit from their bug-busting properties.

#3. Marigolds

Marigolds are a cheerful addition to any garden design, whether they are planted in planting beds or pots. These vibrant annuals add wonderful color throughout the season. You might be surprised to learn that marigolds emit chemical pesticides that provide them powerful effects against a variety of insects, including mosquitoes.

#4. Sage

Sage, known for its culinary uses, also has mosquito-repelling qualities. Its aromatic oils ward off mosquitoes. Sage thrives in well-drained soil and sunlight. It benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape and ensures a fragrant, mosquito-free environment.

#5. Garlic

Beyond its culinary prowess, garlic deters mosquitoes with its pungent aroma. Plant garlic in well-drained soil, providing ample sunlight. Don’t forget to regular watering and harvesting to keep your garlic plants robust while naturally repelling mosquitoes.

#6. Mint

Mint, a refreshing herb, doubles as a mosquito repellent. Its strong scent masks attractants for mosquitoes. You should keep it apart from your other herbs if you are not planting it in a pot. Plus, mint grows best in full sun to moderate shade on moist but well-drained soil.

#7. Alliums

Alliums, including onions, garlic, and chives, emit a potent scent that repels mosquitoes. Because alliums are tall plants, they look great next to mailboxes or on either side of your front or back doors.

#8. Catnip

Catnip is not only a feline favorite but also a mosquito’s enemy. Its essential oil nepetalactone repels mosquitoes effectively. Grow catnip as a filler in your garden or in little pots tucked in among your other houseplants to gently ward off mosquitoes. You can dry the leaves and give them as a treat if you have cats.

#9. Rosemary

Another herb that is worthwhile to grow to help drive mosquitoes away is rosemary. The leaves resemble needles and are abundant in oil. To release the smell, just run your fingertips along a branch. Another way is to crush leaves and apply them to clothing to release their skeeter-repelling qualities.

#10. Lemongrass

Growing lemongrass is highly recommended due to its vibrant green foliage, lemon flavor, and ability to repel mosquitoes. Lemongrass yields citronella oil, which is commonly utilized in numerous potent insect repellents.

#11. Citronella

Citronella, famous for its use in candles, is a natural mosquito repellent when grown as a plant. You can plant it in well-drained soil and sunlight to enjoy a mosquito-free outdoor space. Regular pruning enhances its effectiveness in repelling mosquitoes.

#12. Bee Balm

Bee balm (Monarda), adored for attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, is also highly regarded for keeping mosquitoes away. Compared to other plants that repel mosquitos, it doesn’t require crushing of the leaves or blossoms in order to release the volatile oils, which are the chemical components that give the leaves their aroma and prevent insects.

#13. Catmint

It has been scientifically proven that catnip essential oil repels mosquitoes ten times more successfully than DEET. The decorative cousin of catnip, catmint unfolds fragrant leaves and lovely blossoms. Although catmint is less appealing to cats than catnip, it still has anti-mosquito properties.

#14. Mums

Chemical components found in chrysanthemums function as organic pesticides. After processing, these substances are called pyrethrum. It’s a preferred natural pesticide for controlling bedbugs, fleas, ants, ticks, and silverfish.

#15. Thyme

Thyme has a great ability to keep mosquitoes away, especially red creeping thyme. Crushing the leaves is the key to releasing the volatile oils. All you have to do is scatter crushed stems about patio furniture or dab the leaves on your skin or clothes.

#16. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is prized for the silvery beauty it lends to cut flower arrangements, but it also makes a gorgeous, low-maintenance, fragrant container plant. Its potent mosquito-repelling properties stem from its signature eucalyptus scent.

#17. Lantana

The smell of lantana is effective at keeping mosquitoes away. Aromatic chemicals found in leaves are released when plants get sunlight. You can create a natural barrier against mosquitoes by surrounding your outdoor living areas with a few pots of lantana.

#18. Hummingbird Mint

Hummingbird mint, also referred to as anise hyssop, draws hummingbirds as well as butterflies, bees, and other helpful creatures. With its aromatic foliage, it repels mosquitos and other insects naturally. This plant comes in a range of hues, including purple tones.

#19. Wormwood

Wormwood, or Artemisia absinthium, is a reliable source of silvery backdrops that bring out the color of flowers in bouquets or garden arrangements. Because of the scent, insects, including mosquitoes and even certain animals avoid it.

#20. Lemon Verbena

Lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora) is one of your best defences against mosquitoes since it smells like lemons. Its leaves have a pleasant, citrus scent. it is easy to cultivate and well-behaved in the garden and can thrive if given heat and sunlight.

Growing mosquito-repelling plants is the easiest way to enjoy your garden or patio without having to spray yourself with chemicals or light candles that barely work. You don’t need a green thumb to grow these plants. Most of them are easy to care for and can thrive in pots or containers. You can place them around your outdoor space, or even indoors, to create a mosquito-free zone. So don’t let mosquitos ruin your summer. Take action today and get some of these 20 plants that repel mosquitos.