7 Best Plants To Deter Mosquitoes Naturally

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7 Best Plants To Deter Mosquitoes Naturally

Are you tired of using chemical-filled mosquito repellents? Do you want to try a natural approach to deterring mosquitoes instead? Fortunately, there are several plants that can repel these pesky insects and make your outdoor time more enjoyable. Keep reading to find out the best plants to deter mosquitoes naturally.

1. Citronella

Citronella is a common ingredient in commercial mosquito repellents, as it is an effective mosquito deterrent. This plant has a distinct fresh scent that masks other attractants to mosquitoes, making it difficult for them to locate their prey. You can crush citronella leaves to release oils, or you can buy already-made citronella candles or sprays.

What is Citronella?

Citronella is a type of grass that belongs to the Cymbopogon genus. There are around 50 different species of this plant, and they have been used traditionally in Asian cuisine and for medicinal purposes.

How does it repel mosquitoes?

Citronella contains a compound known as citronellal, which is effective at repelling mosquitoes. When citronella oil is applied to the skin or burned, it creates a barrier between you and mosquitoes, making it difficult for them to locate you.

Where to plant citronella?

Citronella thrives in warm climates and needs to be planted in full sun. It can also grow in pots as long as it has good drainage. Place citronella plants on your patio, doorstep or garden area where you spend most of the time.

2. Lavender

Lavender is another popular plant that can help repel mosquitoes and other annoying insects. The scent of lavender is pleasing to humans but keeps mosquitoes away. This plant has several benefits, such as aiding in relaxation and reducing anxiety.

What is Lavender?

Lavender is a flowering plant that belongs to the mint family. This plant is famously known for its sweet floral fragrance and purple blossoms.

How does it repel mosquitoes?

Lavender contains linalool and linalyl acetate compounds which are effective at repelling mosquitoes. The scent of lavender overpowers their senses, making it difficult for them to locate their prey.

Where to plant lavender?

Lavenders prefer well-drained soil and full sunlight. It can also be planted in pots or containers, making it ideal for small spaces like apartments, patios or balconies.

3. Peppermint

Peppermint is a fragrant herb that has many health benefits. Its strong menthol smell is not attractive to mosquitoes, making it an excellent natural mosquito repellent.

What is Peppermint?

Peppermint is a hybrid herb with a minty aroma. Its leaves contain menthol, which is what gives peppermint its distinct flavor and scent.

How does it repel mosquitoes?

The strong scent of peppermint oil masks other attractants and makes it difficult for mosquitoes to detect their prey. Additionally, the high content of menthol in peppermint oil irritates mosquitoes, leading them to avoid the area around it.

Where to plant peppermint?

Peppermint thrives in moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. Be cautious when planting peppermint in your garden because it can spread and take over other plants nearby.

4. Marigolds

Marigolds are not only a beautiful addition to any garden, but they can also help keep mosquitoes away. This plant blooms with vibrant colors that are attractive to bees and butterflies, while simultaneously producing a fragrance that mosquitoes find irritating.

What are Marigolds?

Marigold is a member of the sunflower family, and there are over 50 species of marigolds. It's an easy-to-grow plant, which makes it a favorite among gardeners.

How do they repel mosquitoes?

Marigolds contain pyrethrum, which is a natural insect repellent. The scent of marigolds masks other attractants to mosquitoes, leading them away from the area.

Where to plant marigolds?

Marigolds prefer sunny areas and well-drained soil. Plant them in containers or garden beds along with other compatible plants such as tomatoes or peppers.

5. Lemongrass

Lemongrass has a citrusy scent that is not appealing to mosquitoes, making it an effective mosquito repellent. Besides keeping mosquitoes away, lemongrass is also beneficial for digestion and stress relief.

What is Lemongrass?

Lemongrass is a tropical grass that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is widely used in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine.

How does it repel mosquitoes?

Lemongrass contains citronella, which is a natural insect repellent. The scent of lemongrass overpowers the scent of carbon dioxide and lactic acid emitted by humans that attract mosquitoes.

Where to plant lemongrass?

Lemongrass thrives in warm, humid conditions and usually planted in pots. Place them near doorways and windowsills in your home or patio.

6. Catnip

Catnip is another natural mosquito repellent that most people don't know about. This plant contains nepetalactone, which has been found to be ten times more effective than DEET (a commonly used mosquito repellent) in repelling mosquitoes.

What is Catnip?

Catnip is a member of the mint family and is widely known for its effect on cats. It can also be used in traditional medicine to relieve anxiety and promote relaxation.

How does it repel mosquitoes?

Catnip contains nepetalactone, which is a natural mosquito repellent. The scent of this compound overwhelms mosquitoes, making it difficult for them to locate their prey.

Where to plant catnip?

Catnip prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Plant them close to sitting areas on your deck or patio.

7. Basil

Basil is a fragrant herb that's popular in Italian cuisine. Its strong smell makes it hard for mosquitoes to smell and detect heat and carbon dioxide given off by humans.

What is Basil?

Basil is an annual herb that belongs to the mint family. It has a distinctive aroma and flavor and is used in many types of dishes globally.

How does it repel mosquitoes?

Basil contains eugenol, which is present in several commercial insect repellents. The fragrance of basil masks other attractants, which confuses mosquitoes, leading them away from the area.

Where to plant basil?

Basil needs plenty of light and good drainage to thrive. It can be grown in pots or garden beds and usually works best when planted near tomatoes, peppers or rosemary.

Adding these plants to your backyard or patio not only adds natural beauty but also aids in mosquito control. Make your outdoor spaces more enjoyable with a touch of nature.

FAQ

1. Do these plants completely repel mosquitoes or just deter them?

   • These plants are effective at deterring mosquitoes from entering the area. Although they may not entirely eliminate mosquitoes, it significantly reduces their number.

2. Can these plants work indoors too?

   • Yes, some of these plants like citronella, peppermint, and lavender can be grown in pots or placed near windowsills and doorways inside your home.

3. What other natural ways can I repel mosquitoes?

   • Besides these plants, there are many other natural ways to deter mosquitoes such as using essential oils, lighting a candle, and wearing mosquito-repelling clothing.

4. How do I care for these plants?

   • Each of these plants has different growing requirements. Consult with your local nursery or horticulturist on how to care for them best.

5. Do I need to crush these plants to release the oils that repel mosquitoes?

   • Crushing the leaves of these plants releases the oils which help in repelling mosquitoes but not mandatory.

6. Are these plants safe for pets?

   • Not all the plants mentioned above are suitable for pets, and you should consult with your veterinarian before planting any of them.

7. Can I use these plants as culinary herbs?

   • Yes, most of these plants have culinary uses, and you can use them as a substitute for spices like basil (in pesto) and lemongrass (in soups).