How to Use Plants to Repel Mosquitos

Although it's natural for most of us to reach for a spray can when we hear that familiar high-pitched buzz, going “green” with our bug repellents is both better for us and the environment. Using plants to repel or discourage mosquitoes from attacking bare summer skin is easy, once you know which of Mother Nature’s flora do it best. It’s also a colorful way to decorate a porch or patio. For relief from mosquitos, here are the plants to collect at your local garden center.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Catnip plant
• Basil plant
• Rosemary plant
• Lemon and citronella grass
• Marigolds
• Mosquito plants
• Oleander blooms

1. 

   Pot up some marigolds. Marigolds are colorful and come in a variety of shapes and bloom sizes. The smell, unpleasant to the human nose, also repels mosquitos. Place the bright flowers on an outdoor eating table and at the entrances to your home to send mosquitoes on their way.

2. 

   Plant some catnip near bedroom windows and your patio. This felted herb plant not only hypnotizes the kitties, but keeps mosquitos far away. Tall-growing with small white and purplish flowers, this bushy perennial can also be dried and supplied to friends with cats when mosquito season is through.

3. Create a mosquito-free zone by bordering your patio with plenty of mosquito plants. The lemon scent will be pleasing for you, as will the peace and quiet of a pest-free evening. Somewhat hard to find in some areas, these plants can also be obtained online.

4. 

   The flower of the oleander tree has a beautiful smell for such a poisonous bloom, but mosquitos don’t seem as fond. Although not available in some areas, oleander blooms have been touted as an effective deterrent and are easy to place on the patio table. The bright-red flowers are worth the trouble of caring for your tree or bush, so find a type available in your zone.

5. 

   Plant some lemon grass. Lemon and citronella grasses are both ornamental and effective in repelling mosquitoes. Available widely, these tall, elegant grasses will make a terrific addition to your planting bed. Place them near window sills and doorways.

6. 

   Pot up some herbs. Rosemary and basil have had some rumored effectiveness on mosquitos and well, heck, they both smell great and can be used to season your cooking as well. Place on your picnic table and pluck some leaves to release the scent. Mint has also been used. A few crushed leaves on the patio should help protect you for hours.

Tips & Warnings

• Eliminate standing water from your outdoor living areas. Even the smallest amount of standing water, such as in a bird bath or in a plant saucer, will create a perfect home for mosquito larvae.

• Get a number of different mosquito-repelling plants to ensure you find some that work effectively for you.

Resources

• Gardening Forum: Mosquito-Repellant Plants
• Information on the Oleander Tree