Are mosquitoes ruining your sleep? Are you annoyed of your itchy, red skin due to mosquito bites? Are you looking out for natural ways to repel them?
We all know that mosquitoes are very irritating and sometimes they can be very dangerous for you. But, don’t worry! We are here to help you out! We have compiled a list of plants that repel mosquitoes naturally so that you don’t need to use any harsh chemical sprays that can have side-effects.
It is said that mosquitoes and other biting insects, are attracted to certain odors in human skin. The below listed plants will naturally repel those pesky mosquitoes by masking the human odor with their fragrance. By doing this, you’re not only keeping bothersome insects at a minimum, but also introducing pleasant scents all throughout your patio or garden.
You just need to grow any of the below listed plants in areas where you want a mosquito-free zone and enjoy your time with friends and family. This is the best way to get rid of insects naturally, without harming our environment.
Easy To Grow Plants That Repel Mosquitoes Naturally
1. Citronella Plant
You might have read the name Citronella on some mosquito repellent oils, candles because it’s one of the most common ingredients used in them. However, you may not know that citronella oil is actually derived from Citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus.) This beautiful perennial grass (mosquito repellent natural) emits a strong aroma that masks other scents, and deters mosquitoes.
Citronella plant is really easy to grow, and can grow to a height of 5-6 feet. You can grow these plants in pots or containers and place it around the patio or a porch. When you are looking out to purchase citronella, make sure you search for the true varieties – Citronella Winterianus or Cybopogon Nardus.
2. Marigolds
There is no doubt in saying that Marigolds make our landscape more attractive and they are mostly found in flower beds and containers during the hot summer season. However, you may not know that Marigold is also one of the plants that repel mosquitoes.
It has been used by various gardeners in the vegetable garden to keep away other insects because their distinct smell is unbearable to them. So, just plant a few marigolds in pots or containers and place them where you want a mosquito-free zone.
3. Plant Horsemint If You Live Near A Coast Or In Dry Climates
Horsemint, also known as Beebalm is an adaptable perennial plant that can withstand sandy soil, dry weather and salty air. It is a mosquito repellent plant that works in the same way as citronella plant. Beebalm deters mosquitoes by giving off a strong incense-like smell, which masks the smell of its usual hosts.
You can plant these natural mosquito repellent plants in pots so that you can move them to a seating area whenever you want instant relief from annoying mosquitoes. These plants are a great way of repelling mosquitoes naturally.
4. Catnip
Catnip is a wonderful mosquito repellent plant that can be enjoyed by your cats, if you have one. According to a 2010 study, researchers discovered that catnip is nearly ten times more effective than DEET, the ingredient usually found in bug repellents.
If you have cats around your garden, you need to ensure that Catnips are not planted nearby other vegetables, herbs or flowers. Cats will certainly roll around in their favorite plant and crush everything near it.
5. Rosemary
Rosemary is a woody, perennial herb that is often used to flavor fish or lamb dishes. However, many of you might not know that it is one of the plants that keep mosquitoes away.
It will serve a dual purpose in your herb garden – Repel bugs like mosquitoes and at the same time, it can be used for cooking. It will also attract beautiful butterflies to your garden!
6. Basil
Basil is a common herb that is used in cooking and for making medicines. You can enjoy various mouth-watering pesto dishes and all together keep mosquitoes at bay, with this insect-repelling herb. You don’t even have to crush the Basil leaves to reap its benefits; simply plant it in your garden.
Cinnamon basil and Lemon basil are the best varieties to repel unwanted pests as they emit strongest fragrances. It also has essential oils that can be extracted to be used as a spray to deter mosquitoes and flies.
7. Lavender
Many insects, like Mosquitoes don’t like the fragrance of lavender and due to this trait; it is a welcome addition to numerous gardeners. When these plants bloom, they look really beautiful and add grace to your garden.
You can use lavender leaves to make your own natural insect repellent. You don’t need to buy any chemical mosquito repellents when you have your own natural deterrent.
8. Pennyroyal plants
It is a perennial herb that was widely used in ancient times, but is not as common today. The pretty Pennyroyal flower acts as a natural mosquito repellent and is also used for culinary uses.
If you like butterflies flying in your garden, then you’re going to love this plant because they attract a plethora of adorable butterflies.
9. Lemon Thyme
Lemon thyme is a hardy herb that can adapt to dry, rocky or shallow soil and will thrive in your garden as long as these are in sunny locations. Lemon Thyme will not deter pesky mosquitoes on its own. You’ll have to crush the leaves of the plant to release its chemicals, which will repel those nasty mosquitoes.
10. Clove Tree
Clove tree or Syzygium aromaticum is a tree that can be beneficial in repelling mosquitoes. This tree isn’t very tall and only requires partial shade to full sun. The oil extracted from the plant can be used to deter mosquitoes naturally and quickly.
11. Nodding Onion
Nodding Onion (Allium cernuum) is a perennial plant whose juices can be extracted via blending or grinding. This juice can be applied directly onto the skin to keep mosquitoes at bay.
The juice of Nodding Onion will not irritate your skin, so you can apply it without having a second thought.
12. Ageratum
Ageratum, also known as Flossflowers, is a low-lying annual ornamental plant that emits a smell which is offensive for mosquitoes. The mosquito repellent plant secretes a chemical compound called coumarin, which is extensively used for commercial purposes.
This plant can thrive in partial or full sun and doesn’t require rich soil. Ageratum leaves can be crushed to increase the emitted smell, but it isn’t advisable to crush the leaves with direct skin contact.
13. Wormwood
Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) is a perennial plant that has rather silvery foliage. This is a unique plant that has a pungent smell and can help keep mosquitoes away. Make sure you don’t rub this plant on your skin because it may cause irritation.
14. Vanilla Leaf
Vanilla Leaf (Achlys Triphylla) has been used by many tribes as an insect repellent. You can crush Vanilla leaves and apply directly onto your skin to keep away mosquitoes from you.
15. Garlic
Garlic is well known for its therapeutic properties, but you may not know that they can help to keep away mosquitoes naturally. So, it is undoubtedly a good deal for you to plant some garlic plants in your garden.
16. Cadaga Tree
Cadaga Tree (Eucalyptus Torelliana) emits scent, which acts as a barrier for mosquitoes. So, simply plant some Cadaga trees in an area where mosquitoes are not wanted.
17. Pineapple weed
Pineapple Weed (Matricaria matricarioides) is a common weed that can be found almost everywhere. It is closely related to chamomile and has a pleasant smell. You can use fresh or dry weed and rub it over your skin to keep mosquitoes away from you.
Some Additional Tips To Keep Mosquitoes Away
It is good for you and the environment, if you have chosen a natural way to keep mosquitoes at bay by using plants that repel them. In addition to using these plants, you can follow some other tips that can be helpful for you.
You may not know that mosquitoes are more attracted towards people that have been eating processed, sugary foods. They are less attracted towards people who eat more of a natural diet such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
The exact reason for it is not known, but we can assume that the processed food diet makes our blood chemistry and odor more attractive to mosquitoes.
It will be better, if you chose to stay away from processed, sugary foods during mosquito season. Moreover, it has been noted that diets high in onions and garlic help in reducing the attraction of mosquitoes.
Closing Words
If you have read the complete article, then you must have selected any of the listed plants that repel mosquitoes for your garden or pots.
It’s really good on your part that you have been searching out for natural ways to get rid of mosquitoes instead of chemical ways.
Don’t forget to share this article with your friends, if you find it beneficial.
GO GREEN & GET RID OF MOSQUITOES!
