Mosquitoes can turn a perfect outdoor gathering into an itchy nightmare in minutes. Those pesky buzzing intruders seem to find us no matter what we do. But chemical sprays aren't your only defense against these bloodthirsty pests.
Nature offers a beautiful solution: plants that naturally repel mosquitoes. These fragrant botanicals keep bugs at bay and enhance your garden with delightful scents and visual appeal. From patio containers to garden borders, strategically placing these plants creates a natural mosquito barrier around your outdoor living spaces.
1. Citronella Grass
Citronella grass is the most famous mosquito-repelling plant, and for good reason. This tall, grassy plant contains natural oils that mask the scents mosquitoes are attracted to, making it difficult for them to locate you. The lemon-scented leaves release their fragrance when crushed or brushed against, creating an invisible barrier against these flying pests.
Growing citronella requires warm conditions as it thrives in zones 9-11. Plant it in containers around seating areas on your patio or deck for best results. The plant can reach 5-6 feet tall, creating an impressive natural screen that doubles as mosquito protection.
2. Lavender
Lavender's sweet fragrance might please humans, but mosquitoes find it offensive. This Mediterranean herb contains naturally occurring compounds that disrupt mosquitoes' sensitive smell receptors. Its gorgeous purple blooms make it a beautiful addition to any garden while serving as an effective pest deterrent.
Plant lavender in sunny spots with well-draining soil for optimal growth. Once established, it's drought-tolerant, making it an easy-care option for busy gardeners. For maximum mosquito-repelling benefits, brush your hand against the plants when sitting nearby to release more of their protective scent.
3. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm contains high levels of citronellal, a compound similar to what's found in commercial mosquito repellents. This vigorous perennial herb emits a pleasant lemony scent that humans love but mosquitoes avoid. The bright green leaves can be crushed and rubbed on skin for quick relief when you're already outside.
Growing lemon balm is almost too easy. It spreads readily and can take over garden spaces if not contained. Consider planting it in pots or areas where its spreading habit won't be problematic. Regular harvesting helps keep the plant bushy and full of fresh, mosquito-repelling foliage.
4. Catnip
Catnip might drive your feline friends wild, but it drives mosquitoes in the opposite direction. Research from Iowa State University found that catnip can be ten times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET, the chemical used in many commercial repellents. The plant contains nepetalactone, which activates a specific receptor that triggers a fear response in mosquitoes.
This easy-growing perennial thrives in full sun to partial shade and average soils. For maximum effectiveness, plant catnip near seating areas or entrances. Once you've added this plant to your garden, be prepared for neighborhood cats to visit!
5. Basil
Basil isn't just for pasta sauce - it's also a powerful mosquito deterrent. This culinary herb emits a strong scent without being crushed or disturbed, making it continuously effective against mosquitoes. The oils in basil leaves contain compounds that kill mosquito eggs on contact when extracted.
Growing basil near doorways or outdoor dining areas provides culinary benefits and pest protection. It prefers full sun and consistent moisture. For best results, place potted basil plants on tables during outdoor meals to create a mosquito-free dining experience.
6. Rosemary
Rosemary's woody scent does double duty in the garden by seasoning your food and repelling mosquitoes. This Mediterranean herb contains natural oils that mosquitoes find particularly offensive. The needle-like leaves release their strong aroma when heated by the sun or near grills and fire pits.
Plant rosemary in well-draining soil with full sun exposure. Once established, it's drought-tolerant and can form impressive shrubs in warmer climates. Toss a few sprigs onto hot coals or a campfire during outdoor gatherings to increase their mosquito-repelling properties through the smoke.
7. Marigolds
Marigolds contain pyrethrum, a compound used in many commercial insect repellents. These bright annual flowers emit a distinctive scent that mosquitoes find repulsive. Their vibrant orange and yellow blooms add cheerful color to your garden while keeping pests at bay.
Place potted marigolds near patios, windows, and doorways to maximize their protective benefits. They thrive in sunny locations and bloom continuously from spring until frost with minimal care. As a bonus, marigolds also help repel other garden pests like aphids and nematodes.
8. Peppermint
Peppermint contains natural compounds that mosquitoes find intensely unpleasant. This vigorous herb creates a cooling sensation around it that mosquitoes actively avoid. Crushing the leaves releases even more of their potent oils, providing immediate relief in mosquito-prone areas.
Growing peppermint requires some caution due to its invasive nature. Plant it in containers to prevent spreading, or dedicate an area to grow freely. Regular harvesting encourages new growth and increases the plant's mosquito-repelling properties throughout the growing season.
9. Lemongrass
Lemongrass naturally contains citronella oil, making it an excellent mosquito repellent. This tropical grass grows in tall, attractive clumps that add architectural interest to gardens while providing practical pest control. The strong citrus scent masks the human odors that attract mosquitoes.
Plant lemongrass in full sun locations with well-draining soil. In colder climates, grow it in containers that can be overwintered indoors. Besides repelling mosquitoes, lemongrass makes an excellent addition to soups, teas, and Asian-inspired dishes.
10. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus contains compounds that repel mosquitoes while providing a refreshing scent. This fast-growing tree has distinctive silver-blue foliage that adds ornamental value to landscapes. The oil extracted from eucalyptus leaves is a common ingredient in natural insect repellents.
In most regions, eucalyptus is best grown in containers since it can reach enormous heights in suitable climates. Place potted eucalyptus plants on patios or near seating areas to benefit from their mosquito-repelling properties. Dried leaves can also be scattered around outdoor living spaces for continued protection.
11. Pennyroyal
Pennyroyal emits one of the strongest mosquito-repelling scents in the mint family. This low-growing perennial forms dense mats of foliage that release their potent aroma when stepped on or brushed against. Just walking through a patch of pennyroyal releases enough scent to repel mosquitoes from the area temporarily.
This plant spreads vigorously by both seeds and runners, making containment important. Consider planting pennyroyal between stepping stones or in areas where foot traffic will release its mosquito-repelling oils. Note that pregnant women should avoid handling pennyroyal as it contains compounds that may be harmful during pregnancy.
12. Garlic
Garlic's sulfur compounds create an environment that mosquitoes actively avoid. When planted throughout the garden, garlic creates an invisible barrier against these biting insects. As an added benefit, these compounds are absorbed into your skin when you consume garlic, potentially making you less attractive to mosquitoes from the inside out.
Plant garlic cloves in fall for early summer harvesting. The plants need little care and can be tucked between ornamentals or vegetables throughout the garden. For immediate protection, crush a clove and rub it on exposed skin (though you might repel more than just mosquitoes with this method).
13. Floss Flower (Ageratum)
Floss flower contains coumarin, a compound used in commercial mosquito repellents. These charming blue blooms emit a scent that interferes with mosquitoes' ability to locate their prey. The fuzzy flowers add wonderful texture and color to gardens while providing practical pest protection.
Plant ageratum in borders, containers, or as bedding plants in full sun to light shade. They bloom continuously from spring until frost with minimal maintenance. For best mosquito protection, place these plants near seating areas, where their scent can create a protective bubble around your outdoor living space.
14. Sage
Sage has been used for centuries to repel insects, including mosquitoes. This aromatic herb produces oils and compounds that create an environment mosquitoes avoid. Burning dried sage leaves (similar to smudging) produces a smoke that drives mosquitoes away from outdoor gatherings.
Grow sage in full sun with well-draining soil. It forms an attractive woody perennial with gray-green leaves and purple flowers that attract beneficial pollinators. During outdoor events, toss bundles of sage leaves onto the coals of a grill or fire pit to increase their mosquito-repelling effects.
15. Bee Balm
Bee balm contains natural thymol, a compound with strong mosquito-repelling properties. This native perennial produces stunning flowers that attract beneficial pollinators while deterring unwanted pests. The fragrant foliage releases its scent when brushed against, creating an aromatic barrier against mosquitoes.
Plant bee balm in full sun to partial shade with consistent moisture. It spreads gradually to form impressive clumps that add height and color to garden beds. Regular division every few years keeps plants vigorous and increases their mosquito-repelling effectiveness.
Creating Your Mosquito-Repelling Garden Oasis
Combining several mosquito-repelling plants creates a more effective natural barrier than using just one variety. Consider creating dedicated container groupings for patios and decks or establishing border plantings around the perimeter of outdoor living spaces. The layered approach ensures continuous protection as different plants release their protective compounds.
Remember that even the most effective mosquito-repelling plants work best when their leaves are disturbed to release essential oils. Place them where they'll be brushed against or plant them near fans that can help disperse their scents. And while these plants significantly reduce mosquito activity, combining them with other protective measures like eliminating standing water and using fans outdoors provides the most comprehensive protection against these persistent pests.
Grow your own natural bug defense with 10 Amazing Herbs That Repel Unwanted Insects.