Here's What You Should Plant In Your Garden To Keep Mosquitoes Away
If you're one of those people who attracts mosquitos in the warmer months, you'll need every tool on hand to keep them at bay. Spritzing yourself with insect repellent is just the start. You might consider investing in an outdoor bug lamp, burning incense near your windows and doors, or spraying outdoor repellent on your lawn. But what if you want to naturally deter mosquitoes from hanging around your property?
As it turns out, many garden plants ward off mosquitoes. Certain strong-smelling flowers, herbs, and grasses may act as repellent simply because mosquitoes don't like their scents, per ProFlowers.
It should be noted, however, that some gardening fanatics think plants do very little to discourage mosquitoes from swarming your skin, via Gardener's Path. Still, others believe you can crush or burn parts of the plant to produce a stronger deterrent. Whether or not you choose to decorate your house, porch or yard with strong-scented greenery, it's important to know which plants might have the added repellent benefit.
Citronella, lavender, marigolds, and more may all deter mosquitoes
The first plant you should consider adding to your garden is citronella grass. Also known as lemongrass, citronella is a common ingredient in bug spray and has a distinct, sharp, and somewhat lemony smell, via Garden Design. Citronella grass is a low-maintenance plant that does well in a warm, sunny area and a large planter. According to Gardener's Path, you should beware of leafy green plants that smell like lemongrass and are labeled as "citronella plants." These are actually a variety of geranium and will not do much to ward off mosquitoes.
Lavender is another beautiful addition to your garden with an anti-mosquito scent, as explained by ProFlowers. This vibrant purple herb also repels moths, fleas, flies, and spiders. Lavender plants are a little more finicky than citronella grass, requiring full sun and scarce watering.
Marigolds, which grow annually and require little maintenance, may also prevent a huge mosquito party in your yard. These flowers add a splash of color to gardens and look beautiful near an entryway. As an added bonus, marigolds may even deter aphids, white flies, Mexican bean beetles, squash bugs, and tomato hornworms, per the New York Botanical Garden (NYBG).
Other mosquito-deterring plants to add to your collection include:
By setting a few of these potted plants in your outdoor seating areas, you may help reduce the number of bug bites this season.