Plants Against Mosquitoes: Natural Ways to Keep the Bugs at Bay

The Problem with Mosquitoes

As summer approaches, many people are excited to spend more time outdoors. However, one pesky problem that comes with warmer weather is the presence of mosquitoes. Not only do they leave itchy bites, but they can also carry diseases such as West Nile virus and Zika virus. While there are plenty of insect repellents available on the market, some people prefer more natural solutions. Luckily, there are several plants that can help repel mosquitoes.

Why Use Plants?

Using plants to repel mosquitoes is not only a natural solution, but it can also be more cost-effective than buying commercial products. Additionally, some people may have sensitivities to chemicals found in insect repellents. By using plants, you can avoid these potentially harmful substances while still keeping mosquitoes away.

The Best Plants for Repelling Mosquitoes

While there are many plants that claim to repel mosquitoes, some are more effective than others. Here are some of the best plants to consider:

Citronella

Citronella is perhaps one of the most well-known plants for repelling mosquitoes. It contains citronellal, which has been shown to have mosquito-repelling properties. You can buy citronella candles and oils, but planting the actual plant in your yard may be even more effective.

Lavender

Not only does lavender smell great, but it can also help repel mosquitoes. Its scent is known to be calming, but it also has insect-repelling properties. You can plant lavender in your yard or even make a DIY mosquito repellent spray using lavender essential oil.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm, also known as Melissa officinalis, is a member of the mint family. Its leaves contain citronellal, which makes it an effective mosquito repellent. Additionally, lemon balm has been shown to have antiviral properties, so it may help protect against diseases carried by mosquitoes.

Marigolds

Marigolds are not only beautiful flowers to add to your garden, but they can also help repel mosquitoes. Their strong scent is said to mask the smell of humans, making it harder for mosquitoes to find their prey.

Basil

Basil is another herb that can help repel mosquitoes. It contains eugenol, which is a natural insecticide. Plus, it's easy to grow and can be used in cooking as well.

How to Use Plants to Repel Mosquitoes

Simply planting these mosquito-repelling plants in your yard can help keep mosquitoes away. However, there are other ways to use them as well. Here are some ideas:

Making a Mosquito-Repelling Spray

You can make your own mosquito-repelling spray using essential oils from the plants mentioned above. Simply mix a few drops of the essential oil with water and put it in a spray bottle. Spray it on your skin or around your outdoor living space.

Burning Candles

Citronella candles are readily available at most stores, but you can also make your own. Simply melt beeswax and add citronella essential oil. Pour the mixture into a candle mold and let it cool. You can then light the candle outside to help keep mosquitoes away.

Creating a Mosquito-Repelling Garden

If you have a large yard, consider creating a mosquito-repelling garden. Plant the plants mentioned above, as well as other mosquito-repelling plants such as rosemary, catnip, and garlic. Not only will it help keep mosquitoes away, but it will also create a beautiful outdoor space.

Other Ways to Keep Mosquitoes Away

While using mosquito-repelling plants can certainly help, there are other steps you can take to keep mosquitoes away. Here are some ideas:

Eliminate Standing Water

Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water, so eliminating any sources of standing water around your home can help reduce the mosquito population. This includes items such as bird baths, clogged gutters, and kids' toys left outside.

Wear Protective Clothing

When spending time outdoors, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to help protect your skin from bites. You can also treat your clothing with permethrin, which is an insecticide that repels mosquitoes.

Use Fans

Mosquitoes are weak flyers, so using fans can help keep them away from you. Set up fans around your outdoor living space to create a breeze.

FAQs About Plants Against Mosquitoes

1. Are these plants safe for pets?

Most of the plants mentioned above are safe for pets, but some may cause stomach upset if ingested in large amounts. It's always a good idea to supervise your pets when they're outside and make sure they don't eat any plants they shouldn't.

2. Do these plants require a lot of maintenance?

Not necessarily. Most of the plants mentioned above are fairly easy to grow and require minimal maintenance. However, it's always a good idea to research the specific plant you're interested in growing to make sure it's right for your climate and soil type.

3. Can these plants be grown indoors?

Some of the plants mentioned above, such as basil and lavender, can be grown indoors. However, they may not be as effective at repelling mosquitoes as they would be outdoors.

4. Do I need to use all of these plants to repel mosquitoes?

Not necessarily. While using multiple mosquito-repelling plants can be helpful, even just using one or two can make a difference.

5. Are there any downsides to using plants to repel mosquitoes?

While using plants to repel mosquitoes is generally safe and effective, it's important to remember that no method is foolproof. Additionally, some people may have allergies to certain plants, so it's important to test out any new products or plants before using them regularly.