11 Plants That Repel Mosquitoes And Other Insects
Summertime... the season of pool splashes and beach tanning, barbeques with family and
friends, and just generally more time spent outdoors.
Whether you're up and about on a hike or sitting and relaxing on a lawn chair, you will inevitably
face our least favorite outdoor nuisance: the mosquito.
You've got plenty of options when it comes to repelling these bad boys.
There are sprays and candles, and even bug zappers.
But wait…
Not only do bug sprays smell horrible, they can be harmful to your health.
And that buzz of a bug frying in a bug zapper is rather disturbing.
When it comes to citronella candles, you might want to opt for the real thing instead of
having to light up each time.
That's right; citronella is a plant!
Well then, let's start there as we look at our list of plants that repel mosquitoes and
other insects.
Number 1 – Citronella
Mosquitoes are attracted to humans due to various appealing aromas, including the smell
of carbon dioxide in our breath and compounds in our sweat.
So, if you're a sweaty Sally with sweet sweat, you may have found that mosquitoes are especially
attracted to you.
Also, mosquitoes are attracted to warm bodies, making us look especially appetizing during
the summer.
Citronella is used in mosquito repellants and candles because its potent scent masks
the smell of carbon dioxide that mosquitoes are attracted to.
As a more natural alternative to sprays or candles, you can also grow citronella in a
planter and place it strategically near gathering areas to repel mosquitoes.
Number 2 – Lavender
Another plant with a very distinct aroma that can repel mosquitoes and other insects is
lavender.
In addition to being great for relaxation of the mind, you can also enjoy the relaxation
of the skin - since lavender deters insects.
Interestingly, while it repels mosquitoes, fleas, flies, and spiders, it happens to attract
butterflies and bees, so be careful!
Number 3 – Peppermint
It's not quite clear how effective chewing ‘peppermint gum' is against mosquitoes - but
in other forms, it's quite helpful.
As an essential oil, peppermint doesn't only repel mosquitoes but it provides itch relief
from their bites.
It's safe for the skin and also repels spiders.
As a plant, it's a fast-grower that you'll need to keep an eye on because it can become
invasive.
Number 4 – Basil
If your summertime dinners include some homemade pesto or perhaps a Caprese salad, your basil
can serve double-duty!
Its natural aroma is constantly being released, so no need to cut, crush, or otherwise prepare
the leaves in any way.
They're just over there repelling some mosquitoes and adding tasty freshness to your food.
Basil also repels flies and is toxic to mosquito larvae, so you can put a basil plant near
some standing water to prevent mosquitoes from laying their eggs there.
Number 5 – Catnip
While it repels mosquitoes, termites, and cockroaches, catnip attracts…
You guessed it, cats.
Among the chemicals in catnip that make it work is one called nepetalactone.
This compound, among others, is what makes catnip more effective than DEET, which is
a common ingredient in mosquito repellent.
The plant itself is easy to care for but can be invasive if planted in a garden, so make
sure to contain it.
Number 6 – Garlic
Sure, it doesn't smell as sweet and relaxing as lavender, but garlic's unique aroma is
also a mosquito repellant.
Just consuming it can provide some mosquito protection benefit, but the more effective
way would be to rub the juice directly on your skin.
It's probably not the best choice if you're scoping out a new mate at your friend's barbecue,
but if you aren't fond of other people anyway, it could be just what you need to keep those
bloodsuckers at bay.
Number 7 – Rosemary
Rosemary is like that girl from high school who had it all together.
It can boost the flavor of many dishes, it repels mosquitoes, vegetable bugs, and flies;
and as an oil, it can be beneficial for the skin and hair.
If you're having a bonfire night, you can throw some rosemary into the fire.
Its aroma will diffuse the repellant through the smoke.
Be warned though, that rosemary also attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.
And not necessarily in that order.
Number 8 – Sage
You might be more familiar with sage in different spiritual or cultural rituals like smudging.
Like rosemary, sage repels mosquitoes and ticks when burned.
So, throw some of that into your fire pit while you're at it.
Number 9 – Marigold
Marigold is a bright and beautiful plant, commonly used in ‘edging’ for vegetable
gardens due to its repellant properties.
In addition to mosquitoes, marigolds also repel deer and rabbits.
So, if you're extra protective of your growing veggies, this could be a good barrier.
Not only do they have a strong fragrance, but they are also edible.
Their light and citrusy taste make them a fresh addition to salads, soups, or herb butters.
Number 10 – Lemongrass
Lemongrass, also known as lemon verbena, has a high concentration of an oil used in mosquito
repellants called citral.
Lemongrass has a lot of health benefits, so you may be familiar with it as a lemongrass
tea or its use in soups and other dishes.
However, it should be noted that lemongrass has been shown to cause birth defects, so
pregnant women and new moms should stay away from this one.
Number 11 – Scented Geranium
Citronella Geraniums have a light lemony scent and deter mosquitoes and flies.
Their beautiful blooms come in vibrant hues, which make them great for decorating.
Part of their mosquito repelling superpower includes a small amount of citronella oil.
For best results, crush the plant's leaves and apply them to your skin.
That's it for our list of common plants that repel mosquitoes and other insects.
Were there any that we missed?
Share in the comments below.
Now get out there and enjoy the great outdoors - mosquito-free, naturally!
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