Mosquito Repellent Plants: The 10 Best Natural Plants for Your Garden
Summer evenings are best spent outdoors — unless mosquitoes have other plans. Instead of dousing yourself in chemical sprays, why not turn your garden into a natural mosquito barrier? Many plants not only beautify your space but also help repel mosquitoes with their natural oils and scents. Here’s a guide to the 10 best mosquito repellent plants and how to use them effectively.
1. Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus)
Why it works: Citronella is one of the most common natural ingredients in mosquito repellents. Its strong citrus aroma masks other scents that attract mosquitoes.
How to use:
Plant in large containers near seating areas.
Crush a few leaves and rub on your skin (test for allergies first).
Grow in full sun with well-draining soil.
2. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Why it works: The calming scent of lavender repels mosquitoes, moths, and flies. It also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.
How to use:
Plant in sunny borders or pots.
Hang dried lavender bundles near doors or windows.
Rub essential oil or fresh flowers on pulse points.
3. Marigold (Tagetes spp.)
Why it works: These vibrant flowers contain pyrethrum, a compound used in many insect repellents.
How to use:
Grow marigolds in garden beds or window boxes.
Place pots near entrances and outdoor seating.
Combine with herbs like basil for added effect.
4. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Why it works: Basil emits a pungent smell that mosquitoes dislike, especially lemon basil and cinnamon basil.
How to use:
Grow in pots around patios and windowsills.
Crush leaves and leave them on outdoor tables.
Use fresh leaves in salads and cooking (double benefit!).
5. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
Why it works: Closely related to citronella, lemongrass contains citronellal and geraniol—both mosquito-repelling compounds.
How to use:
Grow in large containers or garden edges in warm climates.
Use in teas or Thai cuisine for extra flavor.
Keep near sunny entryways for best effect.
6. Mint (Mentha spp.)
Why it works: The menthol aroma confuses and repels mosquitoes. It’s also great for deterring ants and flies.
How to use:
Plant in containers (can become invasive in beds).
Crush leaves and place them around outdoor areas.
Use leaves in iced tea or cocktails for freshness.
7. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Why it works: Its woody scent deters mosquitoes and other bugs, and it’s ideal for grilling!
How to use:
Plant in well-drained soil with full sun exposure.
Burn sprigs in the firepit to create aromatic smoke.
Infuse into oils for DIY bug repellent sprays.
8. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
Why it works: Studies show catnip is up to 10x more effective than DEET at repelling mosquitoes.
How to use:
Grow in pots to control spreading.
Crush leaves and rub on exposed skin.
Watch out — your cats might love it too much!
9. Bee Balm (Monarda didyma)
Why it works: Also called wild bergamot, bee balm emits a citrusy, spicy scent mosquitoes dislike.
How to use:
Plant in flower beds to attract bees and hummingbirds.
Use petals in teas or salads.
Great for creating pollinator-friendly mosquito control.
10. Sage (Salvia officinalis)
Why it works: When burned, sage produces a fragrant smoke that wards off insects, especially mosquitoes.
How to use:
Grow in herb gardens with lots of sun.
Dry bundles and toss on the firepit or grill.
Crush leaves and use them in rubs or marinades.
DIY Tip: Make a Natural Mosquito-Repelling Garden Spray
Here’s a simple recipe using some of the plants above:
Ingredients:
1 cup fresh lavender, basil, and mint (any combo)
2 cups water
1 tbsp witch hazel or vodka
Optional: a few drops citronella or eucalyptus essential oil
For Complete Cooking STEPS Please Head On Over To Next Page Or Open button (>) and don’t forget to SHARE with your Facebook friends
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