When warm evenings beckon you outdoors, the last thing you want is a cloud of mosquitoes spoiling the mood. Luckily, nature has given us a stylish solution. Some plants not only bring beauty, fragrance, and texture to your garden, but they also help keep those pesky insects at bay.
Here are our top picks for plants that repel mosquitoes, and look effortlessly good doing it.
Lavender
The scent of calm - and a natural mosquito deterrent.
Lavender’s soothing fragrance isn’t just good for your nerves. Its essential oils are a natural mosquito repellent, making it a must-have for outdoor spaces. Beyond its functionality, lavender offers striking silvery foliage and elegant purple blooms that look incredible in clusters or planted in rustic pots.
Citronella Grass
The classic choice, straight from the source.
Most mosquito-repelling candles and sprays are made from citronella oil, but why not go straight to the source? Citronella grass has a fresh, citrusy fragrance that mosquitoes can’t stand. Its tall, arching blades also add a lush, architectural element to your garden or patio.
Rosemary
Herb, seasoning, and mosquito shield in one.
This hardy herb is not only delicious in your cooking but also useful as a natural insect deterrent. Rosemary thrives in warm, sunny conditions and looks particularly stylish in terracotta pots or clipped into neat, fragrant hedges. Burn a few sprigs in your outdoor firepit for an extra mosquito-repelling boost.
Marigolds
Bright blooms with hidden strength.
Cheerful, golden marigolds add a splash of sunshine wherever they’re planted - but their secret superpower lies in their fragrance, which mosquitoes find unpleasant. Plant them along pathways or in low pots around your seating areas for both beauty and protection.
Basil
A kitchen essential that doubles as a garden protector.
Fresh basil isn’t just perfect for tossing into salads and sauces. Its pungent aroma naturally repels mosquitoes, making it ideal for outdoor dining spaces. Place basil pots close to your table setting and enjoy both the scent and the convenience of fresh leaves at arm’s reach.
Catnip
Your cat will love it - mosquitoes won’t.
Catnip contains nepetalactone, a compound shown to be more effective than some chemical repellents. Its soft, leafy green foliage makes it a lovely filler plant, while giving your feline friends something to purr about. Just be prepared for extra cat visitors if your garden is popular with the neighbourhood pets.
Style Tip: Potting Plants with Purpose
These mosquito-repelling plants aren’t just practical - they’re stunning when styled in the right planters. Cluster lavender and rosemary together in neutral-toned pots for a Mediterranean feel, or mix marigolds and basil in bright terracotta for a lively, kitchen-garden aesthetic. By choosing pots that complement your plants, you’ll create a space that’s both beautiful and functional.
Mosquitoes don’t have to dictate your summer nights. With the right mix of plants, you can design an outdoor sanctuary that’s as stylish as it is comfortable. From fragrant herbs to vibrant blooms, these natural repellents let you enjoy long evenings under the stars - without the buzz and bites.
