Mosquito Repellent Plants: Creating Shade and Keeping Bugs at Bay

Are you tired of being bitten by pesky mosquitoes? Are you looking for a natural solution to keep them at bay? Look no further than your own backyard! Mosquito repellent plants not only provide shade and beauty to your outdoor space, but also naturally repel mosquitoes. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best mosquito repellent plants that create shade and help keep bugs at bay.

The Benefits of Mosquito Repellent Plants

Mosquito repellent plants are a great way to keep mosquitoes at bay without resorting to chemicals or pesticides. Not only do these plants naturally repel mosquitoes, but they also add beauty to your outdoor space. Additionally, many mosquito repellent plants have other benefits, such as providing shade, improving air quality, and attracting beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.

Creating Shade with Mosquito Repellent Plants

One of the main benefits of using mosquito repellent plants in your outdoor space is that they can create shade. This is especially important during the hot summer months when you want to enjoy your outdoor space but don't want to be exposed to direct sunlight. Here are some of the best mosquito repellent plants that can create shade:

1. Citronella Grass

Citronella grass is one of the most well-known mosquito repellent plants. It has a distinct lemon scent that naturally repels mosquitoes. In addition to its mosquito-repelling properties, citronella grass can also grow up to 6 feet tall, making it an excellent choice for creating shade.

2. Catnip

Catnip is another great mosquito repellent plant that can create shade. It has a strong scent that mosquitoes hate, and it can grow up to 3 feet tall. Additionally, catnip is a member of the mint family, so it has a refreshing scent that can be enjoyed by humans.

Mosquito Repellent Plants for Your Garden

In addition to creating shade, mosquito repellent plants can also be used in your garden to keep mosquitoes at bay. Here are some of the best mosquito repellent plants for your garden:

1. Lavender

Lavender is a beautiful and fragrant herb that naturally repels mosquitoes. Its purple flowers add beauty to any garden, and its scent is loved by humans but hated by mosquitoes.

2. Marigolds

Marigolds are another great mosquito repellent plant that can be used in your garden. They have a strong scent that mosquitoes don't like, and their bright orange and yellow flowers add color and beauty to your outdoor space.

Mosquito Repellent Plants for Indoor Use

Mosquito repellent plants aren't just for outdoor use – they can also be used indoors to keep mosquitoes at bay. Here are some of the best mosquito repellent plants for indoor use:

1. Rosemary

Rosemary is a fragrant herb that is commonly used in cooking. However, it also has mosquito-repelling properties and can be grown indoors in a sunny window.

2. Basil

Basil is another herb that is commonly used in cooking but also has mosquito-repelling properties. It can be grown indoors in a sunny window and is a great addition to any kitchen.

Other Mosquito Repellent Plants

In addition to the plants mentioned above, there are many other mosquito repellent plants that you can use in your outdoor space. Here are some additional options:

1. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a member of the mint family and has a lemony scent that naturally repels mosquitoes. It can grow up to 2 feet tall and is a great addition to any outdoor space.

2. Peppermint

Peppermint is another member of the mint family that can naturally repel mosquitoes. It has a refreshing scent that humans love but mosquitoes hate.

FAQs

1. How do mosquito repellent plants work?

Mosquito repellent plants work by emitting a scent that mosquitoes find unpleasant. This scent masks the carbon dioxide and other scents that attract mosquitoes, making it difficult for them to find their target.

2. Can mosquito repellent plants be used indoors?

Yes, many mosquito repellent plants can be grown indoors in a sunny window. Some examples include rosemary, basil, and lemon balm.

3. Are there any downsides to using mosquito repellent plants?

While mosquito repellent plants are generally safe and effective, they may not work for everyone. Additionally, some people may be allergic to certain plants, so it's important to test them before using them extensively.

4. Do mosquito repellent plants only repel mosquitoes?

No, many mosquito repellent plants also have other benefits. For example, lavender can improve sleep quality and reduce stress, while marigolds can repel other pests like aphids and whiteflies.

5. How do I care for mosquito repellent plants?

The care requirements for mosquito repellent plants will vary depending on the type of plant. However, most mosquito repellent plants prefer well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Be sure to water them regularly and fertilize as needed.


Mosquito repellent plants are a natural and effective way to keep mosquitoes at bay while adding beauty and shade to your outdoor space. Whether you're looking for plants to use in your garden or indoors, there are many options to choose from. By incorporating these plants into your outdoor space, you can enjoy the great outdoors without the annoyance of pesky mosquitoes.