The battle against mosquitoes can sometimes feel never-ending, particularly during the warmer months when these pesky insects thrive. Instead of resorting to chemical-laden repellents, why not harness the power of nature itself? In this post, we’ll explore a selection of mosquito-repelling plants that beautify your outdoor spaces and help keep those bloodsuckers at bay. Say goodbye to bothersome mosquito bites and embrace a serene haven, courtesy of these natural guardians.

We shared a list of 15 mosquito-repelling plants on our Pinterest and are highlighting 6 of our favorites in this post:

Citronella: Citronella is perhaps one of the most well-known mosquito-repelling plants. Its strong lemony fragrance masks the scents that attract mosquitoes, effectively deterring them from your outdoor areas. Citronella thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it ideal for sunny patio areas. You can even order Citronella plants directly on Amazon!

Lavender: The delightful fragrance of lavender not only captivates our senses but also repels mosquitoes. Its calming scent is loved by humans but despised by these pesky insects. Plant lavender in sunny areas with well-draining soil to enjoy its mosquito-repelling properties. Bonus: lavender’s beautiful purple blooms add a touch of elegance to your garden. Amazon has a set of 4 lavender plants available or you can usually find these at any Home Depot, Lowe’s, or local garden center.

Lemon Balm: Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, emits a refreshing citrusy scent that naturally repels mosquitoes. It’s easy to grow and can be planted in pots or directly in the ground. Lemon balm thrives in partial shade and moist, well-draining soil. Crush a few leaves and rub them on your skin for added protection during outdoor gatherings.

Marigold: Marigolds are not only vibrant and cheerful, but they also possess natural mosquito-repelling properties. Their distinct scent helps deter mosquitoes and other insects from invading your outdoor space. Plant marigolds in sunny areas with well-draining soil to enjoy their pest-repelling benefits while adding a burst of color to your garden.

Catnip: Catnip, a member of the mint family, may attract your feline friends, but it repels mosquitoes like magic. Its potent essential oils, nepetalactone, is highly effective in deterring mosquitoes. Plant catnip in well-drained soil and enjoy watching your cats play while keeping the mosquitoes away.

Rosemary: Rosemary, a versatile herb, not only adds flavor to your culinary endeavors but also acts as a natural mosquito repellent. Its woody aroma and high essential oil content make it an effective deterrent for mosquitoes. Plant rosemary in full sun and well-draining soil, and you’ll have a double benefit of culinary delight and mosquito control.

These 6 plants are a great start in combatting mosquitos and can be combined with others like basil, lemongrass, and tansy. Companies like SeedsNow sell a variety pack with seeds of 15 plants that help to repel mosquitos to make it easy.

Incorporating mosquito-repelling plants into your outdoor spaces allows you to reclaim your evenings and enjoy the tranquility of nature without constant mosquito harassment. While these plants can help reduce mosquito populations, it’s important to remember that they may not provide complete protection. Consider combining them with other preventive measures like removing standing water, using fans, and wearing appropriate clothing.

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