Many gardeners want to enjoy their outdoor spaces without the constant buzz and bites of mosquitoes. Fortunately, nature offers a wide range of plants that can help keep these pests at bay. From fragrant herbs to vibrant flowers, certain plants release scents and oils that mosquitoes find unpleasant. Whether you’re planting in beds, borders, or containers, these mosquito-repelling options are easy to grow. Here are some of the most effective choices to consider.
1. Marigolds
Marigolds are bright and cheerful flowers that naturally repel mosquitoes. They produce pyrethrum, a compound used in many insect repellents. The scent of marigolds keeps mosquitoes, whiteflies, and even aphids at bay. These flowers are easy to grow in garden beds or containers and do well in full sun. Plant marigolds around the edges of patios or near doors and windows. Their strong smell acts as a natural barrier. Plus, they attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
2. Lavender
Lavender is not only beautiful and fragrant but also a powerful mosquito deterrent. Its strong floral scent, produced by the essential oils in its leaves and flowers, repels mosquitoes. Lavender thrives in sunny spots with good drainage. It can be grown in garden borders, pots, or as a hedge. The plant’s calming aroma is pleasant to people but bothersome to mosquitoes. Dried lavender can also be used indoors to keep bugs away. Regular pruning helps the plant stay healthy and productive.
3. Citronella Grass
Citronella grass is one of the most well-known natural mosquito repellents. This tall, clumping grass contains citronellal, a natural oil that mosquitoes find unpleasant. When the leaves are crushed, they release a strong lemony scent that helps keep mosquitoes away. It grows well in warm climates and needs full sun and well-drained soil. Citronella grass can be planted in garden beds or large containers. It is often used as a natural alternative to chemical repellents. For best results, plant it near outdoor living areas.
4. Basil
Basil is a versatile herb with a strong aroma that repels mosquitoes. Its essential oils, especially eugenol, are effective at keeping mosquitoes away. Basil grows well in warm weather and needs plenty of sunlight and water. It can be planted in containers, garden beds, or windowsills. Crushing the leaves helps release more of the mosquito-repelling scent. This herb is easy to grow and can also be used fresh in cooking. Keep basil near outdoor seating areas for added protection.
5. Catnip
Catnip, a member of the mint family, is known for its ability to repel mosquitoes. It contains nepetalactone, a natural oil that, in some lab studies, has been shown to repel mosquitoes more effectively than DEET. While cats love it, mosquitoes stay far away from its scent. Catnip grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. It can spread quickly, so it’s a good idea to plant it in containers. This hardy plant also attracts pollinators like bees. Avoid planting near vegetable beds, as it can be invasive.
6. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm gives off a light lemon scent that mosquitoes dislike. This herb contains citronellal and other compounds that keep mosquitoes at bay. Lemon balm is easy to grow and does well in both sun and partial shade. It spreads quickly, so many gardeners grow it in pots. Crushing the leaves before placing them around your yard can increase their effect. It also works well in herbal teas and natural remedies. Keep it trimmed to prevent overgrowth.
7. Peppermint
Peppermint is a fragrant herb that mosquitoes try to avoid. Its strong menthol scent irritates mosquitoes’ senses, making them stay away. Peppermint prefers moist soil and partial to full sun. It can be grown in pots or garden beds, but it spreads fast and can take over. Crushed leaves release more of the repelling oils. You can also make a peppermint spray by mixing its essential oil with water. The plant also deters ants and spiders.
8. Nasturtium
Nasturtiums are bright, cheerful flowers that also act as natural mosquito repellents. Their peppery scent discourages mosquitoes and other pests. These plants grow easily from seed and prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Nasturtiums can trail over containers or climb up trellises. They also repel aphids, whiteflies, and squash bugs. The leaves and flowers are edible and add color to salads.
9. Sage
Sage has a powerful scent that deters mosquitoes. Its oils contain compounds like thujone and camphor that repel bugs. Sage thrives in well-drained soil and full sunlight. Burning dried sage leaves is an old trick to keep mosquitoes away during outdoor gatherings. The smoke carries the scent that drives mosquitoes off. Sage can also be used fresh in cooking. It is a low-maintenance plant and adds texture to garden beds.
10. Lemongrass
Lemongrass contains high amounts of citronellal, the same oil found in citronella grass. Its strong lemon scent repels mosquitoes effectively. This tropical plant likes warm weather and full sun. Lemongrass can grow several feet tall and makes a striking addition to borders or pots. Crushing the stalks releases more of the repelling oils. It is also used in cooking and teas. Be sure to give it space, as it needs room to grow.
11. Bee Balm
Bee balm, also known as Monarda, repels mosquitoes with its minty aroma. The plant produces natural oils that mosquitoes find unpleasant. Bee balm thrives in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. It attracts beneficial insects like bees and butterflies while keeping pests away. The bright flowers add color to any garden. It’s best to divide the plant every few years to prevent overcrowding. Bee balm also resists deer and rabbits.
12. Garlic
Garlic is known for its strong smell, which mosquitoes dislike. The sulfur compounds in garlic act as natural repellents. Planting garlic around the garden can help reduce mosquito activity. It grows best in full sun with loose, well-drained soil. Some gardeners also use garlic sprays to keep pests away. While it won’t eliminate mosquitoes entirely, it can make your yard less inviting. Garlic is also useful in the kitchen.
13. Pennyroyal
Pennyroyal is a small herb in the mint family that keeps mosquitoes away. Its strong scent is effective, but it should be used with extreme caution. Pennyroyal is highly toxic to pets and people if ingested and is not suited for areas with children or animals. This plant grows well in full sun to partial shade. It can be used in dried sachets or planted around outdoor areas. Avoid using its oil directly on the skin.
14. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus trees and shrubs produce a sharp, menthol-like scent. The oil extracted from eucalyptus leaves is a common ingredient in mosquito repellents. Eucalyptus grows best in warm climates with full sun. Some varieties can grow very large, while others stay small and shrubby. Crushing the leaves releases more of the mosquito-repelling oils. It’s best planted away from the home due to its size. Eucalyptus also has other medicinal uses.
15. Lemon Thyme
Lemon thyme is a low-growing herb that smells like lemon. It contains thymol, a compound known to repel mosquitoes. This plant does well in full sun and dry soil. It makes a good ground cover or edging plant. Rubbing the leaves between your fingers releases more scent. Lemon thyme is also edible and can be used in cooking. It’s a great choice for rock gardens and borders.
16. Allium
Allium plants, including ornamental onions and garlic relatives, give off a strong smell that repels mosquitoes. Their tall flower heads also add interest to the garden. Alliums grow well in sunny locations with well-drained soil. The scent comes from sulfur compounds in the bulbs and leaves. They are low maintenance and resistant to pests and deer. Planting them around the garden can help reduce mosquitoes. Alliums bloom in late spring to early summer.
17. Bay Laurel
Bay laurel is a shrub whose leaves are often used in cooking. The plant also helps deter mosquitoes due to its aromatic oils. Bay laurel grows best in mild climates and can be pruned into neat shapes. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Crushing or burning the leaves enhances its mosquito-repelling effects. The plant can be grown in containers or as a hedge. Keep it away from frost-prone areas.
18. Tansy
Tansy is an old-fashioned herb with a strong, bitter scent that mosquitoes dislike. It contains thujone and other compounds that make it a natural insect repellent. Tansy grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. It can be invasive, so it’s often grown in pots or controlled beds. The bright yellow flowers add visual interest. Tansy should not be ingested, as it can be toxic in large amounts. Use with care around pets.
19. Clove Plant
The clove plant produces flower buds that are used as a spice, but it also repels mosquitoes. The plant contains eugenol, an essential oil with mosquito-repelling properties. Clove plants prefer tropical climates and rich, moist soil. Because clove thrives in warm, humid conditions, most gardeners use its essential oil in sprays rather than grow the plant directly. The oil is also used in homemade repellents. Use caution, as the oil is strong and can irritate skin.
20. Wormwood
Wormwood is a silver-leaved plant with a strong, bitter scent. Its aroma helps keep mosquitoes and other pests away. Wormwood contains thujone and other compounds that repel insects. It grows well in dry, sunny spots and is drought-tolerant. The plant can be used in dried sachets or planted around outdoor seating areas. Keep it well away from herbs or vegetables, as it may inhibit their growth. Wormwood should not be ingested in large amounts.
21. Geranium (Especially Citronella-Scented Varieties)
Citronella-scented geraniums release a lemony scent that mosquitoes dislike. These plants are easy to grow in pots or garden beds. They do best in full sun and well-drained soil. Crushing the leaves helps release the mosquito-repelling oils. Geraniums also produce colorful flowers that brighten up any yard. Be sure to bring them indoors during cold weather. Regular pruning keeps them bushy and healthy.
22. Agastache (Anise Hyssop)
Agastache, also known as anise hyssop, repels mosquitoes with its licorice-like scent. The plant attracts bees and butterflies while keeping pests away. It grows best in sunny locations with well-drained soil. Agastache is drought-tolerant and blooms throughout summer. Its tall spikes of flowers add height and color to the garden. Crushing the leaves releases more scent. It is also used in teas and herbal remedies.
23. Mexican Mint Marigold
Mexican mint marigold smells like tarragon and keeps mosquitoes at bay. The plant contains natural oils that bugs dislike. It thrives in warm, sunny climates and does well in both containers and garden beds. The bright yellow flowers appear in late summer and fall. This plant is also deer-resistant and easy to maintain. Prune it regularly to encourage bushy growth.
24. Chamomile
Chamomile produces a gentle, apple-like fragrance that repels mosquitoes. The plant contains compounds like alpha-bisabolol that help deter bugs. Chamomile grows well in full sun and light, sandy soil. It can be planted in beds, borders, or pots. The flowers can also be dried and used in herbal teas. Regular deadheading promotes continuous blooming. It attracts beneficial insects while keeping mosquitoes away.
25. Rosemary
Rosemary is a woody herb that produces a strong, pine-like scent. This aroma helps keep mosquitoes away. The plant’s essential oils contain compounds like cineole and camphor that insects dislike. Rosemary grows well in warm, dry climates with lots of sunlight. It can be shaped into hedges or grown in pots. Adding a few sprigs to a fire pit or grill releases mosquito-repelling smoke. Its evergreen nature makes it useful year-round.
A Yard That Bugs Will Want to Avoid
Creating a mosquito-free yard does not have to rely on harsh sprays or synthetic products. With the right mix of plants, you can enjoy a beautiful and functional garden. Try combining a few of your favorites to build a layered defense that fits your style and climate. Just be sure to check which plants are safe for your pets and what climate zone they are in before planting. With a little planning, your outdoor space can become a more pleasant place to relax all season long.