Plants That Keep Flies and Mosquitoes Away

The Importance of Natural Pest Control

Are you tired of being attacked by flies and mosquitoes when you're trying to enjoy your time outdoors? You're not alone. These pesky insects can be a nuisance, but did you know that there are plants that can help repel them? Using natural pest control methods can be a great way to keep your outdoor living spaces enjoyable without the use of harmful chemicals. In this blog post, we'll dive into 15 different plants that can help keep those flies and mosquitoes at bay.

1. Lavender

Overview

Lavender is a popular plant known for its fragrant purple flowers, but it's also great for keeping bugs away. Flies and mosquitoes are repelled by the scent of lavender, making it a perfect addition to your garden or patio.

Care and Maintenance

Lavender thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. It's relatively easy to care for and requires minimal watering once established. Pruning your lavender plant back in the spring will encourage bushier growth and more flowers.

2. Citronella Grass

Overview

Citronella grass is commonly used in candles and sprays as a mosquito repellent, but having the actual plant can work wonders as well. This plant releases a strong citrusy aroma that repels mosquitoes and other flying insects.

Care and Maintenance

Citronella grass prefers full sun and moist soil. It's a fast grower and should be pruned regularly to keep it from becoming too large.

3. Marigolds

Overview

Marigolds are a colorful addition to any garden and can help keep mosquitoes away. The scent of marigolds is unappealing to mosquitoes, making it a natural repellent.

Care and Maintenance

Marigolds prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They're relatively easy to care for and require regular watering.

4. Basil

Overview

Basil not only adds flavor to your favorite dishes, but it can also help repel flies and mosquitoes. The pungent aroma of basil is said to be unappealing to these insects.

Care and Maintenance

Basil prefers full sun and moist soil. It's an annual plant, so it will need to be replanted each year.

5. Catnip

Overview

Catnip is a member of the mint family and is known for its intoxicating effect on cats. But did you know that it can also repel mosquitoes? The essential oil in catnip called nepetalactone is what gives it its bug-repelling properties.

Care and Maintenance

Catnip prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It's a fast grower, so it will need to be pruned regularly to keep it from becoming too large.

6. Lemongrass

Overview

Lemongrass is a popular herb in Asian cuisine, but it's also great for keeping bugs away. The strong citrusy scent of lemongrass is a natural insect repellent.

Care and Maintenance

Lemongrass prefers full sun and moist soil. It's a fast grower and will need to be pruned regularly to keep it from becoming too large.

7. Peppermint

Overview

Peppermint is known for its refreshing scent, but it can also help repel flies and mosquitoes. The strong aroma of peppermint is said to be unappealing to these insects.

Care and Maintenance

Peppermint prefers partial shade and well-drained soil. It's a fast grower and will need to be pruned regularly to keep it from becoming too large.

8. Chrysanthemums

Overview

Chrysanthemums are a popular fall flower, but they can also help keep mosquitoes away. The natural insecticide found in chrysanthemums called pyrethrum makes it a great repellent.

Care and Maintenance

Chrysanthemums prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They're relatively easy to care for and require regular watering.

9. Rosemary

Overview

Rosemary is a popular herb used in cooking, but it can also help repel flies and mosquitoes. The strong aroma of rosemary is said to be unappealing to these insects.

Care and Maintenance

Rosemary prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It's a slow grower, so it doesn't require as much pruning as some of the other plants on this list.

10. Eucalyptus

Overview

Eucalyptus is a popular essential oil used for its soothing properties, but it can also help repel mosquitoes. The oil found in eucalyptus leaves called eucalyptol is what makes it a great bug repellent.

Care and Maintenance

Eucalyptus prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It's a fast grower and will need to be pruned regularly to keep it from becoming too large.

11. Geraniums

Overview

Geraniums are a popular bedding plant, but they can also help keep mosquitoes away. The scent of geraniums is said to be unappealing to these insects.

Care and Maintenance

Geraniums prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They're relatively easy to care for and require regular watering.

12. Sage

Overview

Sage is a popular herb used in cooking, but it can also help repel flies and mosquitoes. The pungent aroma of sage is said to be unappealing to these insects.

Care and Maintenance

Sage prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It's a slow grower, so it doesn't require as much pruning as some of the other plants on this list.

13. Mint

Overview

Mint is a popular herb used in drinks and desserts, but it can also help repel flies and mosquitoes. The strong aroma of mint is said to be unappealing to these insects.

Care and Maintenance

Mint prefers partial shade and moist soil. It's a fast grower and will need to be pruned regularly to keep it from becoming too large.

14. Alliums

Overview

Alliums are a family of plants that includes onions, garlic, and chives. The pungent aroma of these plants is said to be unappealing to mosquitoes.

Care and Maintenance

Alliums prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They're relatively easy to care for and require regular watering.

15. Nasturtiums

Overview

Nasturtiums are a colorful addition to any garden, but they can also help keep bugs away. The peppery scent of nasturtiums is said to be unappealing to insects like aphids and whiteflies.

Care and Maintenance

Nasturtiums prefer partial shade and moist soil. They're relatively easy to care for and require regular watering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do these plants really work?

Yes, these plants have been proven to repel flies and mosquitoes. However, it's important to note that they won't completely eliminate the problem. Using a combination of natural pest control methods is your best bet for keeping bugs away.

2. Are these plants safe for pets?

Most of the plants on this list are safe for pets, but there are a few that can be toxic if ingested. It's always a good idea to research each plant before adding it to your garden if you have pets.

3. Can I use these plants indoors?

Yes, many of these plants can be grown indoors as well. Just make sure they're getting enough light and water.

4. Do I need to plant all of these plants to keep bugs away?

No, you don't need to plant all of these plants. Choose a few that you like and that will grow well in your climate.

5. Can I use these plants in addition to other pest control methods?

Yes, using a combination of natural and chemical pest control methods can be effective in keeping bugs away.

In there are many plants that can help keep flies and mosquitoes away. Using these natural pest control methods is a great way to keep your outdoor living spaces enjoyable without the use of harmful chemicals. Remember to research each plant before adding it to your garden, and don't forget to combine them with other pest control methods for maximum effectiveness.