There’s nothing worse than mosquitoes ruining your summer nights! While commercial repellents are loaded with chemicals that aren't great for your health, there are natural solutions to keep pests away. One effective method is using mosquito-repellent plants.
Mosquitoes generally avoid plants that emit essential oils and citrus scents. Our ancestors used these natural repellents long before chemical versions were invented. Historically, hazel trees were popular on farms for repelling horseflies and mosquitoes. Before mosquitoes start to bite this warmer season, consider adding these helpful plants to repel those unwelcome pests!
Lemongrass
Lemongrass is one of the best-known mosquito repellents for your garden. This perennial, easy-to-grow, self-propagating plant can repel mosquitoes all year round with its lemony scent. Lemongrass emits a stronger fragrance than products containing lemongrass, making it perfect for pots or directly in your garden soil.
Catnip
Known for being a cat’s favorite, catnip also contains natural oils that repel mosquitoes. Studies have shown that catnip is 10 times more effective than commercial repellents. It's easy to grow in pots and gardens, but be careful not to plant it near your flowers, vegetables, or herbs, as your feline friend might cause some damage.
Marigold
Marigolds are stunning mosquito repellents! Their bold gold and orange flowers contain pyrethrin, an ingredient found in commercial repellents. Plant marigolds around your garden beds and in balcony pots to keep mosquitoes at bay.
Lemon Balm
Part of the mint family, lemon balm is extremely effective as a mosquito repellent. It’s a resilient plant that spreads quickly, so it's advisable to grow it in pots. Lemon balm is perfect for table centerpieces and exudes a sweet, lemony fragrance. As a bonus, you can dry the leaves for a delicious herbal tea.
Lavender
Lavender is well-known for its pleasant, relaxing fragrance, but it's also an effective mosquito repellent. Plant lavender on the edges of your windows, in pots, or in your garden or flower beds to protect against mosquitoes. The flowers can also be used to scent your home or for herbal tea.
Basil
Basil is a must-have if you love to cook and hate mosquitoes. This herb repels mosquitoes and can be used in everyday meals. Varieties like lemon basil and cinnamon basil are particularly effective. Basil is hardy and should be kept snipped. In winter, snip some stems and place them in bulb planters.
Rosemary
Rosemary, with its blue flowers, is perfect for lamb or fish dishes and also repels flies and mosquitoes. This plant is a beautiful and functional addition to your garden.
Pennyroyal
Pennyroyal produces a beautiful flower and repels fleas, mosquitoes, and gnats. It's also ideal as a ground cover. Crush several leaves and spread them around the tabletop or under chairs to aid mosquito repellent. However, be cautious, as Pennyroyal is toxic to cats and dogs.
Sage
Sage is used in many cultures for cooking and ceremonies. Burning sage, or smudging, can cleanse the air and repel mosquitoes. Burn sage in a bundle or the stems to keep mosquitoes away.
For a thriving garden, check out this blog post on bee-friendly plants!