10 Mosquito Repellent Plants To Put in Your Garden This Summer
Summer is the time of year when mosquitoes come out in full force. While there are many commercial and natural mosquito repellents, there’s nothing like having your own mosquito-repelling garden. If you’re looking for a way to keep the bugs away without spraying yourself and your kids every time you step outside, this post is for you.
We’ve rounded up a list of 10 mosquito-repellant plants that you can put in your garden this summer. There’s something for everyone, including herbs, flowers, shrubs, and trees. These plants deter mosquitos and look beautiful in your garden. They can also provide you with delicious fruits, vegetables, and herbs. If you are looking for a natural mosquito repellant, you are in the right place.
Types of Plants With Mosquito-Repelling Qualities
- Catnip: This member of the mint family can repel mosquitoes more effectively than many commercial bug sprays.
- Lemon balm: This herb has some of the same components as catnip and can repel mosquitoes more effectively than DEET.
- Citronella grass: The oil extracted from this grass is the main ingredient in citronella candles and mosquito fogger machines. Planting this grass in your garden can distract mosquitoes from your home.
- Basil: Often used as a culinary herb and for decorative purposes, basil’s pungent scent also deters mosquitos.
- Marigold: An attractive flower with bright petals, marigolds also give off a scent that repels mosquitoes and other bugs.
- Lavender: Not only does lavender bring a pleasant fragrance to your garden, but it also keeps pests away due to its camphor smell.
- Peppermint: Another member of the mint family, peppermint has been known to keep numerous insects at bay due to its strong scent.
- Lemon thyme: The strong lemony smell of lemon thyme makes it an effective insect repellent.
- Garlic: The smell and taste of garlic keep mosquitoes away effectively.
- Rosemary: The oils released by rosemary can repel mosquitos and keep your yard free from annoying bugs.
Guidelines for Planting and Caring for Your Plants
- Always use organic soil when planting these plants in your garden, as it will help promote growth and provide additional protection against parasites, fungi, and diseases that may attract insects.
- Ensure it gets enough water, but do not over-water the garden, as this can cause root rot or attract other pests or mosquitos.
- When needed, use mulch around the base of each plant to retain moisture and create a microclimate around it for optimal growth conditions.
- All these plants require full sunlight for optimal growth, so ensure they are planted in an area that receives plenty of sunshine throughout the day. You can also place them near a window with direct access to sunlight if space is limited indoors.
- Deadhead any faded flowers or dying leaves regularly to encourage new growth and aid in plant development for better pest control.
Disadvantages of Using Plants as Mosquito Repellent
Using plants as natural mosquito repellent offers several benefits, but there are drawbacks associated with using them as protection against mosquito bites. These plants have inconsistent efficacy and limited coverage area depending on location. The potency and effectiveness vary based on the type of plant being used, so it may take some trial and error before you find one that works best for you. You may spend more time researching and experimenting than you would if you purchased a traditional mosquito fogger machine with DEET or another type of chemical repellent. Some of these plants take years to grow, so patience is essential when taking this approach. Many of these plants also require specific growing conditions or regular maintenance.
Additional Tips for Keeping Mosquitoes Away
- Trim trees or bushes near your house to minimize nesting sites for mosquitoes. Keep grass mowed short so larvae won’t have a place to breed.
- Empty any standing water around your property because even small amounts can breed disease-carrying pests.
- Install screens on windows to block entry into your home. If you do not have screens, ensure all doors remain closed when not in use.
- Consider using a fan outside to create a wind effect which can make it difficult for mosquitos to land nearby.
- Use citronella candles or incense sticks around your patio area. They create a subtle scent that repels mosquitos without being too overpowering.
- Wear breathable clothing that covers arms and legs when outdoors. Clothing fibers like cotton are less attractive to mosquitos than synthetic fibers like polyester or nylon.
Summer is one of the most enjoyable times of the year, but pesky mosquito bits can ruin it. A few common plants in your garden can help repel mosquitos naturally without harmful chemicals. All it takes is patience and knowledge about caring for these plants. With these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a mosquito-free summer.