10 Plants That Can Help Keep Mosquitoes Away

Mosquitoes: A Pesky Problem

Mosquitoes are known for their itchy bites and ability to spread diseases. While there are many ways to repel mosquitoes, such as using insecticides or mosquito nets, another effective method is through the use of plants. Certain plants contain natural chemicals that can act as mosquito repellents, making them a great addition to any garden or outdoor space.

10 Plants That Repel Mosquitoes

Here are ten plants that can help keep mosquitoes at bay:

Lavender

Lavender is not only beautiful and fragrant, but it also contains compounds called linalool and linalyl acetate, which have been shown to repel mosquitoes. Plant lavender in a sunny spot with well-draining soil, and enjoy its lovely scent while keeping mosquitoes away.

Citronella Grass

Citronella is a common ingredient in many mosquito-repelling candles and sprays, and for good reason – it works! Citronella grass is a tall, perennial plant that can grow up to six feet tall. Its strong lemony scent masks other scents that attract mosquitoes, making it an effective natural repellent.

Basil

Not only is basil a delicious herb to cook with, but it can also help keep mosquitoes away. The oils in basil, particularly eugenol and citronellol, have been shown to be effective at repelling mosquitoes. Plant basil in a sunny location and harvest the leaves regularly to encourage growth.

Peppermint

The menthol in peppermint leaves has been shown to repel mosquitoes, making it a great addition to any garden. Peppermint also has many health benefits, from aiding digestion to reducing stress.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a member of the mint family and is known for its lemony scent. It contains citronellal, which has been shown to repel mosquitoes. Lemon balm is easy to grow and can be used in teas or as a culinary herb.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a fragrant herb that not only adds flavor to dishes but can also help keep mosquitoes away. The oils in rosemary, particularly eucalyptol and camphor, have been shown to act as mosquito repellents.

Catnip

Catnip is a member of the mint family and contains nepetalactone, a compound that has been shown to be more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET, a common ingredient in insect repellents. However, be warned – catnip may attract cats to your garden!

Marigolds

Not only are marigolds pretty to look at, but they also contain pyrethrum, a natural insecticide that can repel mosquitoes. Plant marigolds in pots or in the ground around your outdoor space to keep mosquitoes away.

Pennyroyal

Pennyroyal is a member of the mint family and contains pulegone, a compound that has been shown to repel mosquitoes. However, pennyroyal oil can be toxic if ingested, so use caution when handling this plant.

Lemongrass

Like citronella grass, lemongrass has a strong lemony scent that can mask other scents that attract mosquitoes. It contains citral, which has been shown to repel mosquitoes.

How to Use These Plants

There are many ways to use these mosquito-repelling plants. Here are a few ideas:

Plant Them in Your Garden

One of the easiest ways to use these plants is to simply plant them in your garden or outdoor space. This not only adds greenery and beauty to your space but can also help keep mosquitoes away.

Use Them in Pots

If you don't have a garden, you can still enjoy the benefits of these plants by planting them in pots. Place the pots around your outdoor space to repel mosquitoes.

Make an Insect-Repelling Spray

You can make your own insect-repelling spray using essential oils from these plants. Simply mix a few drops of the oil with water and spray it around your outdoor space.

The Bottom Line

While there are many ways to repel mosquitoes, using plants is a natural and effective method. By planting these ten mosquito-repelling plants in your garden or outdoor space, you can enjoy a mosquito-free summer.

FAQs

1. Are these plants safe for pets?

Most of these plants are safe for pets, but some, such as pennyroyal, can be toxic if ingested. It's always best to do your research before planting any new plants around your home.

2. How often do I need to harvest these plants?

Harvesting the plants regularly can encourage growth and keep them healthy. For herbs like basil and peppermint, you can harvest the leaves as needed for cooking. For other plants, such as marigolds and lavender, deadheading spent flowers can encourage new growth.

3. Can I use these plants indoors?

Yes, many of these plants can be grown indoors as well. Just make sure they are placed in a sunny location and have well-draining soil.

4. Can I use these plants to repel other insects?

While these plants are primarily effective at repelling mosquitoes, some, such as citronella grass and lemongrass, may also help repel other insects like gnats and flies.

5. Do these plants actually work?

Yes, studies have shown that these plants contain compounds that can act as natural mosquito repellents. While they may not be as effective as chemical insecticides, they are a natural and safe alternative.