9 Plants to Keep Mosquitoes Away from Your Yard and Repel Them

Mosquito repellent plants for home

Summer is a season for outdoor fun, but the presence of mosquitoes can ruin the experience. These blood-sucking insects are not only irritating but also can transmit dangerous diseases. Mosquito repellents that contain DEET or other chemicals can be effective, but they can also have harmful side effects on humans and the environment. Fortunately, there are natural ways to keep mosquitoes away from your yard. In this article, we will explore nine plants that repel mosquitoes and discuss how to incorporate them into your landscape.

Why Repel Mosquitoes Naturally?

Chemical mosquito repellents contain potentially harmful ingredients that can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs. Long-term exposure to these chemicals has also been linked to health problems such as cancer, reproductive disorders, and neurological damage. Additionally, many mosquito repellents are harmful to the environment, especially aquatic life. Natural mosquito repellents, on the other hand, are safe for humans, pets, and the environment. They also have other benefits, such as adding fragrance and beauty to your garden.

The Science Behind Mosquito Repellent Plants

Firstly, it’s important to understand the science behind mosquito-repellent plants. Mosquitoes are attracted to the carbon dioxide we exhale, as well as certain scents we emit. Mosquito-repellent plants produce strong scents that mask our scent, making it difficult for mosquitoes to locate us.

Plants that Repel Mosquitoes

1. Citronella: This plant is one of the most popular natural mosquito repellents. Its strong lemony scent masks the human scent that attracts mosquitoes. You can grow citronella in pots or plant it in your garden. Keep in mind that the plant needs full sun and well-drained soil.
2. Lavender: Lavender is not only a beautiful plant, but it also repels mosquitoes. Its scent is calming to humans but unappealing to mosquitoes. You can plant lavender in a sunny location with well-drained soil.
3. Basil: Basil is an excellent herb that repels mosquitoes and has culinary uses. You can grow it in pots or in your garden. Basil needs full sun and regular watering.
4. Lemon Balm: Lemon balm has a citrusy scent that repels mosquitoes. It is also a hardy perennial that can thrive in partial shade.
5. Catnip: Catnip contains a natural insect repellent called nepetalactone, which is ten times more effective than DEET. However, catnip can attract cats, so it’s best to plant it in an area away from your outdoor living spaces.
6. Marigolds: Marigolds are a hardy annual that repels mosquitoes and other insects. They have a strong smell that mosquitoes find unpleasant. You can plant them in pots or in your garden.
7. Rosemary: Rosemary is a fragrant herb that repels mosquitoes and other insects. It also has culinary uses. You can plant it in a sunny location with well-drained soil.
8. Peppermint: Peppermint has a refreshing scent that repels mosquitoes. It is also a hardy perennial that can tolerate partial shade.
9. Garlic: Garlic is a natural mosquito repellent that you can plant in your garden. It contains sulfur compounds that repel mosquitoes. Keep in mind that garlic needs well-drained soil and regular watering.

How to Incorporate Mosquito-Repellent Plants into Your Landscape

To incorporate mosquito-repellent plants into your landscape, follow these tips:

• Identify areas where mosquitoes are most active, such as standing water, damp soil, or shaded areas.
• Plant mosquito-repellent plants in these areas, either in pots or in the ground.
• Group plants together to create a barrier that mosquitoes cannot cross.
• Plant fragrant plants, such as lavender and rosemary, near outdoor living spaces to enjoy their scent while repelling mosquitoes.
• Use plants as a natural border around your patio, deck, or outdoor seating area.
• Plant mosquito-repellent plants in combination with other plants to create a diverse and visually appealing landscape.

By incorporating mosquito-repellent plants into your landscape, you can reduce your reliance on chemical insecticides and create a beautiful and healthy outdoor environment.

Other Mosquito Repellent Strategies

In addition to incorporating mosquito-repellent plants into your outdoor space, there are other strategies you can use to keep mosquitoes away.

1. Remove Standing Water

Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so removing any sources of standing water in your yard can help reduce the mosquito population. This includes emptying any containers that hold water, such as flower pots, bird baths, and gutters.

2. Use Mosquito Nets

If you’re spending time outdoors in an area with a high mosquito population, consider using mosquito nets. Mosquito nets are particularly useful for sleeping outdoors or camping.

3. Wear Mosquito Repellent Clothing

Certain types of clothing can also repel mosquitoes. Look for clothing that contains permethrin, a mosquito-repellent chemical. Alternatively, you can spray your clothes with mosquito repellent sprays.

Conclusion

Mosquitoes can make outdoor activities unpleasant and pose a health risk. While chemical insecticides can be effective, they can also be harmful to humans, pets, and the environment. Natural mosquito repellents, such as plants, are a safe and effective alternative. In this article, we discussed nine plants that repel mosquitoes and how to incorporate them into your landscape. By planting these natural mosquito repellents, you can create a healthy and beautiful outdoor environment that you can enjoy all summer long.