Ground Cover That Repels Mosquitoes: Keep Your Yard Mosquito-Free

The Problem: Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are not only annoying, but they can also carry diseases like Zika virus, dengue fever, and West Nile virus. If you're someone who loves spending time outdoors, you know how frustrating it can be to constantly swat away mosquitoes. Fortunately, there are natural ways to keep these pests at bay. One of the most effective methods is to use ground cover plants that repel mosquitoes.

What Is Ground Cover?

Before we dive into which ground cover plants repel mosquitoes, let's talk about what ground cover is. Ground cover plants are low-growing plants that spread across the ground, forming a dense mat. They can be used to cover bare soil, prevent erosion, and add visual interest to your yard. Some common types of ground cover include creeping phlox, thyme, and sedum.

15 Ground Cover Plants That Repel Mosquitoes

Here are 15 ground cover plants that repel mosquitoes:

1. Marigolds

Not only do marigolds have beautiful orange or yellow flowers, but they also repel mosquitoes. The flowers contain a chemical called pyrethrum, which is commonly used in insect repellents.

2. Citronella Grass

Citronella grass is a popular choice for mosquito repellent candles, but you can also plant it as a ground cover. The plant contains citronellol, which is a natural insect repellent.

3. Lemon Thyme

Lemon thyme is a fragrant herb that repels mosquitoes. It contains a compound called citronellol, which is also found in citronella grass.

4. Pennyroyal

Pennyroyal is another herb that repels mosquitoes. It has a strong minty scent, which mosquitoes don't like.

5. Catnip

Catnip is known for its effects on cats, but it also repels mosquitoes. The plant contains nepetalactone, which is a natural insect repellent.

6. Lavender

Lavender is a beautiful and fragrant plant that repels mosquitoes. It contains linalool, which is a natural insecticide.

7. Basil

Basil is another herb that repels mosquitoes. It contains a compound called eugenol, which is a natural insect repellent.

8. Rosemary

Rosemary is a fragrant herb that repels mosquitoes. It contains camphor, which is a natural insect repellent.

9. Garlic

Garlic is not only delicious in your meals, but it also repels mosquitoes. When crushed, garlic releases a compound called allicin, which is a natural insecticide.

10. Mint

Mint is a fragrant herb that repels mosquitoes. It contains a compound called menthol, which is a natural insect repellent.

11. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is a tree that repels mosquitoes. The leaves contain a compound called cineole, which is a natural insect repellent.

12. Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a fragrant herb that repels mosquitoes. It contains citronellal, which is a natural insect repellent.

13. Sage

Sage is a fragrant herb that repels mosquitoes. It contains thujone, which is a natural insecticide.

14. Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums are beautiful flowers that repel mosquitoes. They contain pyrethroids, which are commonly used in insecticides.

15. Peppermint

Peppermint is a fragrant herb that repels mosquitoes. It contains a compound called pulegone, which is a natural insect repellent.

How to Plant Ground Cover That Repels Mosquitoes

Now that you know which ground cover plants repel mosquitoes, here's how to plant them:

1. Choose a sunny spot in your yard where you want to plant ground cover.
2. Remove any existing weeds or grass from the area.
3. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
4. Dig holes for each plant that are slightly larger than the root ball.
5. Place the plant in the hole and fill in with soil.
6. Water the plant thoroughly.

FAQs

1. Will these plants completely get rid of mosquitoes?

No, while these plants can help repel mosquitoes, they will not completely get rid of them.

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

It depends on the plant and your climate. Most of these plants prefer well-draining soil and don't like to be overwatered.

3. Can I use these plants indoors to repel mosquitoes?

Yes, some of these plants can be grown indoors in pots. However, make sure to provide them with enough sunlight and proper drainage.

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

Yes, some of these plants can also repel other insects like flies and ants.

5. Can I use essential oils from these plants as a mosquito repellent?

Yes, you can use essential oils from some of these plants as a mosquito repellent. However, make sure to dilute the oil properly and do a patch test before using it on your skin.

Ground cover plants that repel mosquitoes are a natural and effective way to keep your yard mosquito-free. Not only do they add visual interest to your yard, but they also have the added benefit of repelling pests. By planting some of these ground cover plants, you can enjoy spending time outdoors without constantly swatting away mosquitoes.