10 Plants That Naturally Keep Mosquitoes Away

Enjoying time outdoors during warmer months can often be interrupted by the unwelcome presence of mosquitoes. While there are many commercial products available, incorporating certain plants into your garden, patio, or balcony can be a natural and aromatic way to help deter these pests. The essential oils and strong scents produced by these plants are often unpleasant to mosquitoes, encouraging them to keep their distance.

Citronella Grass

Perhaps the most famous natural mosquito repellent, citronella grass is the source of the citronella oil commonly found in repellent candles, sprays, and lotions. The plant itself has a strong, distinct aroma that helps mask the scents that attract mosquitoes, such as carbon dioxide and lactic acid. This makes it harder for them to find you.

For best results, plant citronella grass in large pots and place them around your patio, deck, or other outdoor seating areas. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Keep in mind that the living plant is not as potent as the extracted oil, so planting several can increase its effectiveness.

Lavender

The delightful, calming scent of lavender is beloved by many people, but it's a major deterrent for mosquitoes and other flying insects. The fragrance is produced by the essential oils found on the leaves of the plant. The plant's effectiveness comes from its ability to overwhelm a mosquito's sense of smell.

Lavender is a hardy, drought-tolerant plant that enjoys full sun and dry soil. It can be planted in garden beds, borders, or containers. For an added benefit, you can rub the flowers on your skin to release the oils, though it's always wise to test a small area for any skin sensitivity first.

Marigolds

Marigolds are cheerful, easy-to-grow annuals that add a vibrant pop of color to any garden. They also contain pyrethrum, a compound used in many commercial insect repellents. The scent from both the flowers and the leaves is what keeps mosquitoes, aphids, and even some types of beetles at bay.

Plant marigolds in pots to place near patios and entrances, or use them as a border around your vegetable garden to protect your other plants. They thrive in sunny locations and require minimal care, making them an excellent choice for beginner gardeners.

Rosemary

This fragrant herb is not only a fantastic addition to many culinary dishes but also an effective mosquito repellent. Its woody scent is potent enough to keep mosquitoes, cabbage moths, and carrot flies away. The plant is most effective when the leaves are gently bruised or when cuttings are burned.

Rosemary prefers hot, dry weather and well-drained soil, making it a great choice for container gardening or for planting in sunny garden spots. You can place pots of rosemary strategically around your seating areas to create a protective barrier.

Basil

Another popular culinary herb, basil, is also known for its ability to repel mosquitoes. The strong aroma emitted by its leaves is what pests find offensive. There are many varieties of basil, and some, like lemon basil and cinnamon basil, have particularly strong scents that are very effective.

Basil is easy to grow in containers or in a garden bed. It loves sunlight, heat, and moist, well-drained soil. Placing a few pots of basil on a porch or outdoor dining area can help keep your gatherings mosquito-free while providing fresh herbs for your meals.

Mint and Peppermint

The crisp, refreshing scent of mint is another fragrance that mosquitoes dislike. Peppermint, a type of mint, is considered one of the most effective varieties due to its high concentration of repellent compounds. The strong aroma can help confuse mosquitoes and keep them from landing.

Mint plants are known for being aggressive spreaders, so it's often recommended to grow them in pots to keep them contained. Place containers of mint on your patio or near windows to deter insects. The leaves can also be crushed and rubbed on the skin for a temporary repellent effect.

Catnip

While famous for its effect on cats, catnip is also a formidable mosquito repellent. Research has shown that nepetalactone, the essential oil in catnip that cats find so attractive, is significantly more effective at repelling mosquitoes than many commercial chemical repellents. The plant is part of the mint family and shares its easy-to-grow characteristics.

Catnip can be planted in garden beds or containers. Be aware that it may attract neighborhood cats. If that is a concern, consider planting it in hanging baskets or areas that are less accessible to felines. It's a hardy plant that thrives in full sun or partial shade.

Lemon Balm

A member of the mint family, lemon balm has a gentle, lemony scent and contains high levels of a compound called citronellal. This compound has similar properties to citronella and is a known mosquito repellent. It is a fast-growing plant that can quickly fill an area, providing a lush green appearance.

Because it can be invasive, many gardeners prefer to grow lemon balm in pots. This also allows you to move it around your outdoor space as needed. To use it, simply crush a few leaves in your hands to release the fragrant oil.

Scented Geraniums

Scented geraniums, particularly the lemon-scented variety, are popular plants for repelling mosquitoes. Their leaves emit a strong fragrance when brushed against or crushed, which helps to deter various pests. These plants are beautiful, with attractive leaves and delicate flowers.

They are best grown in containers in sunny, warm spots. You can place them on balconies, patios, and along walkways where you might brush past them, releasing their scent. Regular pruning will help them maintain a full, bushy shape and produce more fragrant leaves.

Ageratum (Floss Flower)

Ageratum, also known as floss flower, secretes a chemical called coumarin, which is widely used in commercial mosquito repellents. These attractive annuals produce clusters of fluffy flowers in shades of blue, pink, and white, making them a lovely addition to any garden bed or container.

While the plant repels mosquitoes, it is important to note that the leaves should not be crushed or rubbed on the skin as they can cause irritation. Simply having the plants nearby is enough for them to be effective. They prefer rich, well-drained soil and can be grown in full sun or partial shade.