Mosquito repellent flowers and plants
12 Mosquito Repellent Plants | Garden Design
What are the best plants to keep mosquitoes away? Plant these 12 plants in your garden for their colorful and fragrant display, plus their ability to keep uninvited bugs out. By Christine Yoo Updated 6/1/2022
Most insect-repelling plants do so with their natural fragrances, which keep annoying mosquitoes away and introduce wonderful scents throughout your garden. If you don't want to douse yourself or your garden in chemical bug sprays you can grow some of these plants to help keep mosquitoes away naturally. Plant these plants in areas where guests will be often such as by a seating area or a doorway.
Grow these 12 plants to naturally repel mosquitos:
Sweet Romance® lavender. Photo by: Proven Winners
1. Lavender
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Have you ever noticed that insects or even rabbits and other animals have never decimated your lavender plant? It is because of their lovely fragrance, which comes from its essential oils that are found on the leaves of the plant. It is even argued that lavender oil hinders a mosquito’s ability to smell! This plant is very tough and drought-resistant once established, and only needs full sun and good drainage. And while it can endure many climates, it thrives in warmer areas. Read more about growing lavender.
Plant type: Perennial
Zones: 5-11, depending on type
Bloom time: Summer to fall
Buy lavender from Proven Winners.
Marigold flowers.
2. Marigold
Marigolds, an easy-to-grow annual flower, emit a smell that deters mosquitoes. Grow them in pots and place them near your patio or entrance to your home to keep bugs out. Marigolds are also a popular addition to borders and vegetable gardens. According to NYBG, not only can they keep away mosquitoes, but they also dissuade aphids, thrips, whiteflies, Mexican bean beetles, squash bugs, and tomato hornworms. Read more about growing marigold flowers.
Plant type: Annual
Bloom time: Late spring until frost
Citronella grass.
3. Citronella Grass (Lemon Grass)
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Known for its distinct smell, citronella grass (or lemon grass) is the most commonly used natural ingredient in mosquito repellants. In fact, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden recommends lemon-scented plants such as citronella grass to keep mosquitoes at bay. And the good news is that the living plant is the most effective at repelling pests. This low-maintenance plant does best in large planters because it cannot withstand frost, but in warmer climates, can be planted directly a sunny area in the ground.
Plant type: Usually grown as an annual
Zones: 9-11
Buy lemon grass from Proven Winners.
'Cat's Meow' catmint. Photo by: Proven Winners.
4. Catmint
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Catnip (catmint) can be found thriving almost anywhere. It is from the mint family and grows abundantly both as a commercial plant and as a weed. It is very easy to take care of and may even start to invade other areas of your garden. However, if you are willing to forgo this plant’s insidious nature, they are amazing mosquito repellants and another recommendation from the BBG. In a study at Iowa State University, catmint was found to be ten times more effective than DEET, the chemical used in most insect repellants. Read more about growing catmint plants.
Plant type: Perennial
Zones: 3-8
Bloom time: Early summer to fall
Buy catmint from Proven Winners.
Rosemary.
5. Rosemary
Another great mosquito repellant is rosemary. Both the New York Botanical Garden and PlantShed recommended this plant. Rosemary is an herb that many of us are very familiar with and their woody scent is exactly what keeps mosquitoes as well as cabbage moths and carrot flies away. They do best in hot and dry climates and thrive in containers, which may be ideal for areas with winters. They can also be pruned into all sorts of shapes and sizes and make great borders or decorations. While the pests stay away you can enjoy the herb’s scent and also use it to season your cooking.
Plant type: Perennial herb
Zones: 7-10
Amazel Basil® sweet Italian basil. Photo by: Proven Winners.
5. Basil
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Basil is another herb that can also double as a pest repellent. The pungent smell the basil leaves give off are what keep pests at bay. And since all kinds of basil work to keep flies and mosquitoes at bay, feel free to explore and find the right types of basil to mix into your garden. This herb likes to be kept damp, needs good drainage, and enjoys lots of sun. You can plant basil in containers or in the garden, alone or with other flowers, as long as both plants meet the same requirements. Read more about growing basil.
Plant type: Usually grown as an annual
Zones: 10-11
Bloom time: Summer to frost
Buy basil from Proven Winners.
Scented geranium. Photo by: Proven Winners.
7. Citronella / Scented Geranium
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Scented geraniums are also a popular mosquito-repelling plant. Recommended by PlantShed, BBG, and NYBG, the favored scent seems to be lemon scented, which is reminiscent of citronella grass. The strong fragrance keeps several types of pests away. These fast-growing plants like warm, sunny, and dry climates, but if you are in a cold-climate area, they can be grown in planters with constant pruning. Read more about growing geraniums.
Plant type: Usually grown as an annual
Zones: 10-11
Bloom time: Spring to fall
Buy citronella (mosquito plant) from Proven Winners.
'Pardon My Cerise' bee balm. Photo by: Proven Winners.
8. Bee Balm
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Want to attract good bugs like bees and butterflies, while deterring the bad ones? Then bee balm, also known as Monarda or horsemint, is the plant for you. Simply crush its leaves to release the fragrant oils. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy colorful flowers, in shades of red, pink, lavender, white, or purple, all summer long. Read more about growing bee balm.
Plant type: Perennial
Zones: 4-8
Bloom time: Mid to late summer
Buy bee balm from Proven Winners.
Mint.
9. Mint
Mint is an excellent nontoxic option for keeping mosquitoes, flies and even ants away. The more pungent the aroma, the less bugs you’ll have. Grow it in pots on your patio where it can be easily reached if you want to drop a leaf or two in your afternoon tea. You can even dry the leaves and use them inside your home as a natural pest control method.
Plant type: Perennial herb
Zones: 3-8
Artist® Blue floss flower. Photo by: Proven Winners.
10. Floss Flower (Ageratum)
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This attractive annual flower makes great bedding or container plants. Floss flower contains coumarin, a chemical that helps repel mosquitoes—but also makes it toxic if ingested by pets or humans. Read more about growing floss flower.
Plant type: Usually grown as an annual
Zones: 9-10
Bloom time: Planting to hard frost
Buy floss flower from Proven Winners.
Sage. Photo by: Proven Winners.
11. Sage
If you love gathering around a fire pit in your backyard, then plant some sage nearby. Toss some of the plant into the flames and its earthy smell will ward off bugs. Sage can also be dried and used to make homemade bug spray.
Plant type: Perennial
Zones: 5-8
Allium 'Millenium'. Photo by: Proven Winners.
12. Allium
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These bulbs, which include garlic and onions, release a strong fragrance that mosquitoes don’t like. You’ll enjoy the whimsical globe-shaped flowers of allium that seem to float atop long slender, stems. Read more about growing allium bulbs.
Plant type: Bulb
Zones: 3-8, depending on variety
Bloom time: Planting to hard frost
Buy allium plants from Proven Winners.
We consulted with the New York Botanical Garden, Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and Plantshed for the best plant options.
More Natural Ways to Keep Mosquitoes Away
In addition to growing the plants listed above, you should also practice good mosquito control in your garden so that the pests don’t get out of hand. The best thing you can do is prevent water from collecting and becoming stagnant; mosquitoes can lay hundreds of eggs even in a tiny spoonful of standing water. Mosquito rings can be used virtually anywhere you have standing water — rain barrels, birdbaths, water gardens, ponds — even animal watering troughs. They contain a naturally occurring bacterium (Bt israelensis) that kills mosquito larvae.
There are also other natural products available that can help ward off mosquitoes in your garden. These include, citronella torches and candles, as well as essential oils derived from the plants listed here.
The Importance of Mosquito Control
Throughout the years, mosquitoes have transmitted many diseases including malaria, dengue, yellow fever, encephalitis, and more recently the West Nile and Zika viruses. Mosquitoes are even to blame for heartworm in dogs. So it isn’t just about the annoyance or the itchy bite, it is a health concern for your family and pets.
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By
Jamie McIntosh
Jamie McIntosh
Jamie McIntosh has written about gardening and special occasion flowers for the Spruce since 2011. She has more than 20 years of experience caring for flowers and plants. She was a feature writer for Organic Gardening at Suite101, where she won awards for her writing.
Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process
Updated on 11/01/22
Reviewed by
Mary Marlowe Leverette
Reviewed by Mary Marlowe Leverette
Mary Marlowe Leverette is one of the industry's most highly-regarded housekeeping and fabric care experts, sharing her knowledge on efficient housekeeping, laundry, and textile conservation. She is also a Master Gardener with over 40 years' experience; writing for over 20 years.
Learn more about The Spruce's Review Board
Fact checked by
Emily Estep
Fact checked by Emily Estep
Emily Estep is a plant biologist and fact-checker focused on environmental sciences. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and a Master of Science in Plant Biology from Ohio University. Emily has been a proofreader and editor at a variety of online media outlets over the past decade.
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The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
More than almost any other creature, mosquitoes can ruin our enjoyment of the outdoors. If chemical repellents aren't your bag, consider growing garden plants that repel mosquitoes naturally due to the scent of their natural oils. One plant you will not find on this list is the citronella plant Pelargonium x citrosum, which was debunked as a mosquito buster by a Florida A&M study.
Merely growing these mosquito-repelling plants isn't a standalone way to deter pests. You need to increase the insect-repelling power of the plants by releasing their essential oils. Add some cuttings from the plants to the grill (most relevant when the plants are known for their culinary value). Chop the leaves and stems of the plants and scatter them on your lawn and around the outdoor living areas. If you're pressed for time before going outdoors, just add some stems of the plants to areas with foot traffic to release some mosquito-repelling oils with every step you take.
Do Mosquito-Repelling Plants Actually Work?
Biting insects that feed on blood (such as mosquitoes and ticks) locate their targets by sensing the odors and gases given off by warm-blooded creatures. Sweat and the carbon dioxide given off by breathing are key attractors. Garden plants that have strong scents can help to camouflage the scents that these insects use to target their victims, thereby confusing the bugs and protecting us from bites.
But it's rarely enough to simply fill your landscape with growing plants of these types and hope that mosquitoes will vanish. In most cases, you'll need a more concentrated form of the plant's scent, which can be obtained by burning or crushing the leaves to release the essential oils that produce the odor.
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The tiny white flowers of Callicarpa americana aren't much to look at, but the vibrant magenta berry clusters make this small shrub stand out in the landscape. Beautyberry plants are a member of the Lamiaceae family, which includes many mints. The fragrant oils released by crushing the leaves of the beautyberry repel mosquitoes, and the berries often last long into the winter to attract and feed songbirds and small mammals.
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The same plants that drive your cat to distraction can simultaneously protect Felix from mosquito bites. Join the kitty for a romp through the Nepeta plants, often called catmint, whose leaves are edible for your human guests as well. Spread some clippings around the pool and patio for a more bite-free relaxation zone. Try the 'Walker's Low' cultivar, which tolerates dry soils and blooms from late spring to mid-summer.
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Somehow, the natural oils in Cymbopogon citratus manage to smell like real lemons, only better. Lemongrass is a staple in some Asian cultures' cooking, and its delicate fragrance lends a citrus note to some perfumes as well. Lemongrass is a tender plant, and won't survive the winter below zone 9, but it grows quickly in container culture. Coarsely chop the strappy leaves of this plant and strew them around your deck during your next gathering, both for mosquito-repelling power and for the pleasing aroma.
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04 of 19
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Marigold plants have a unique odor that can only be described as pungent. These mosquito-repelling annuals are easy to grow from seed and make a handsome addition to the flowering vegetable garden, where they might even repel other insect pests like nematodes. The substance in marigolds that gives them their insect-repelling power is pyrethrum, the same substance used in many organic insecticides.
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05 of 19
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Grow mint (Mentha spp.) and you can achieve that perfect mint mojito, and then sip it outdoors without the buzzkill of mosquitoes. All types of mint plants repel mosquitoes, and there are more varieties than you thought. Explore the subtle differences between spearmint and peppermint, or marvel at just how much the chocolate mint plant smells like a candy dish. All mint varieties grow and spread like wildfire, so harvest them with abandon in your pursuit to banish mosquitoes.
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Although lavender growers covet the purple flower spikes for their fragrance, the sweet soapy perfume of lavender permeates the foliage as well, not just the flowers. It's a fact that mosquitoes do not like this smell, and the pleasing nature of lavender fragrance means you can rub the plants on your skin as a kind of natural repellent.
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People have used rosemary, Rosmarinus officinalis, as natural pest control for years, as insects shy away from its piny scent. Rosemary-laden smoke from a grill is particularly effective at banishing mosquitoes from an outdoor area, and it will do double-duty in flavoring your meats as well. Rosemary does need full sun to prevent needle drop, but it prefers to dry out between waterings.
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08 of 19
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Lantana (Lantana camara) flowers have such a potent effect against mosquitoes a scholarly journal published a report about it. The Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association (yes, there is such a journal) shares that "lantana flower extract in coconut oil provided 94.5 percent protection from Aedes albopictus and Ae. aegypti" mosquitoes. In fact, the study found this oil preparation protected the users from mosquitoes for an average of two hours. What a bonus that lantana flowers are so easy to grow in warm sunny locales, and attract butterflies as well.
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09 of 19
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Fennel plants (Foeniculum vulgare) are often left out of the herb garden in favor of more compact plants, but fennel plants have multiple uses in addition to their mosquito-repellent properties: The feathery plants are as ornamental as any tall garden grass, the chopped leaves are delicious in salads and soups, and the leaves host swallowtail butterfly caterpillars in the garden. Bronze fennel is especially lovely and will self-seed to produce a handsome colony for the following season.
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As a native tree in Australia, the eucalyptus tree (Eucalyptus cinerea) can soar to 60 feet tall after several years. Because it's a tender plant that won't survive a hard freeze, the better alternative for many gardeners is to grow the eucalyptus as a potted plant. For short-term potting, choose a quick-growing species like E. globulus subsp. bicostata, which will give you many fragrant leaves to harvest for mosquito repelling. For a plant that will live for several years in a pot, choose a slow-growing eucalyptus like E. vernicosa. Eucalyptus plants like full sun and rich soil.
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The fast-growing leaves of the basil plant are as repugnant to mosquitoes as they are a delicious addition to our pestos and salads. Not all basil types are created equal when it comes to repelling mosquitoes, and the extra-spicy Thai basil, with its narrow foliage and cinnamon scent, has the best ability to fend off the insects. All basil plants need full sun and warm growing temperatures, which make them great companion plants for tomatoes.
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Thyme continues the list of savory herbs that repel mosquitoes. Plant thyme between stepping stones in the garden, where your steps will crush some leaves and release the mosquito-repelling oils.
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The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Scented geraniums include many varieties of Pelargonium (garden geranium) bred for their pungent scent. Those with a lemon scent are known to be best for repelling mosquitoes and other insects. Scented geraniums are perennial in warmer climates but are more often grown as annuals. They are especially popular as potted plants.
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The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
It might surprise you to know that this perennial plant, famous for attracting pollinating insects such as bees and butterflies, has the opposite effect on mosquitoes and other pesky insects. But that's the case with bee balm (Monarda spp.) For best results, crush a few leaves to release the scented oils.
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The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Ageratum, commonly known as floss flower, contains a chemical known as coumarin, which can repel mosquitoes just by growing in the garden. Planting ageratum around a patio or in pots on your deck will help discourage mosquitoes. The same chemical makes the plant toxic, though, so be wary if you have pets that like to chew on plants. Ageratum was once primarily a low bedding plant, but there are now cultivars such as 'Blue Horizon' that grow to heights of 2 feet or more, giving you more options for using them in your gardening.
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The Spruce / Kara Riley
Sage (Salvia officinalis) is a perennial herb with a semi-shrubby growth habit. It has a pungent yet pleasant odor that mosquitoes avoid. Leaves tossed into a fire pit will keep bugs away for hours. Over time, garden plants can become woody and sparse; prevent this by dividing the plants every few years.
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The Spruce / Letícia Almeida
Allium, also known as ornamental onion, are perennial bulbs that share a scent similar to table onions, garlic, and chives, which are also members of the same family. Along with repelling mosquitoes and other pests, allium plants add an exotic appeal through their unusual, globe-shaped flower clusters. These plants are mildly toxic, however, so be careful if you have pets that like to gnaw on plants. Allium is among a small handful of plants that repel mosquitoes simply by their presence in the garden.
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Another member of the Allium family of plants, garlic works in the same way as ornamental allium, offering some protective value against mosquitoes merely by growing in the garden. Like other members of the allium family, garlic is toxic to animals, so make sure your pets don't gnaw on the leaves, flowers, or bulbs.
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The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) is a spreading ground cover plant closely related to spearmint. Its scent is similar to that plant, and is so repugnant to mosquitoes that this species is sometimes called mosquito plant. It is not an especially attractive garden specimen, but it makes for an easy-care, effective ground cover, emitting a bug-repelling scent whenever you step on it. This is one of the most effective of all bug-repelling plants, but avoid growing it where pets might chew on it—the oils are toxic.
Article Sources
The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Cilek JE, Schreiber ET. Failure of the "mosquito plant", Pelargonium x citrosum 'van Leenii', to repel adult Aedes albopictus and Culex quinquefasciatus in Florida. J Am Mosq Control Assoc. 1994;10(4):473-476.
Dua VK, Gupta NC, Pandey AC, Sharma VP. Repellency of Lantana camara (Verbenaceae) flowers against Aedes mosquitoes. J Am Mosq Control Assoc. 1996;12(3 Pt 1):406-408.
7 affordable plants for mosquitoes in the country
Summer, for most, is the time for vacations and the summer season. But at the same time, this is the time of active activity of many harmful insects. Mosquitoes are the most famous type of blood-sucking pests that can ruin any vacation. Fortunately, experienced gardeners have found a way out of this situation. Thanks to the variety of flowers and plants, this problem has become solvable. Some representatives of flower beds are really able to fight back even the most persistent bloodsuckers. Let's consider them in more detail. And now is the time to think about what to plant in your area so that mosquitoes do not annoy. nine0003
TOP plants against mosquitoes
1. Bird cherry
The leaves and flowers of bird cherry secrete phytoncides, which kill and repel not only mosquitoes, but also midges, horseflies, flies. Therefore, having planted a couple of her bushes in your garden, you can forget about the bites on the skin. If you are going on a hike or a picnic, then the best solution would be to grind the bird cherry leaves into a pulp and apply on the face and hands. Its smell will certainly make the bloodsuckers stay as far away as possible. nine0003
2. Citronella
This plant has a strong lemon scent that repels mosquitoes. Summer time is the best for planting in flower beds and large pots. In winter, it will continue to grow without problems in a warm room.
3. Marigold
These beautiful flowers, like bird cherry, emit substances that are unpleasant for mosquitoes and midges. nine0005 It is enough to put a small pot of marigolds in the room so that the "winged enemies" fly around it. When planted in your garden, they will also give the desired effect.
4. Basil
Combine business with pleasure by planting brown or lemon basil in your garden. Mosquitoes hate its smell, but it will be a great seasoning for your favorite dishes.
5. Garlic
Mosquitoes do not tolerate garlic phytoncides. This plant can be grown in bunches in different places. Then the mosquitoes will be less disturbing. Garlic can also be placed on a table or bedside table at night so that bloodsuckers do not interfere with sleep.
6. Lavender
Growing this shrub in the garden will protect against midges and midges in the evening. Pick the lavender flowers and pat dry. Wrapped in a cloth bag, put next to your pillow at night and sleep peacefully. nine0003
Calendula against mosquitoes
The bright petals of calendula have won the hearts of many flower growers. They are great for growing in the country, as well as at home on the windowsill, because they are considered unpretentious. The main advantage of calendula is that many insects, including mosquitoes, do not tolerate it.
There is a huge variety of plants that can protect against flying pests and for this it is not necessary to buy expensive creams and sprays. Just expand your garden and enjoy the delicious scents of the shrubs. You can also smear the skin with essential oils based on these flowers and herbs. nine0003
15 plants that will drive mosquitoes away from the site. Photo - Botanichka
Even the warmest warm evening in the country can be ruined by annoying mosquitoes - constant companions of summer country life. The chemical industry has come up with hundreds of drugs that repel mosquitoes. In one way or another, they are all effective, but they have significant drawbacks - they are toxic to varying degrees, cause allergies, and in most cases are contraindicated in young children.
Lavender will drive mosquitoes away from the site. © bonnieheathestateHowever, nature itself, having created mosquitoes (they are an important part of the food chain), also took care that they do not interfere with our lives. To do this, in her arsenal there are many plants that repel insects with their smell. In this publication, we will talk about the 15 most effective plants - "mosquito repellents" that can be successfully grown even in the middle lane.
1. Ageratum
Ageratum. © Mauro NogueiraMany commercial mosquito repellants use coumarin, a substance secreted by the annual ageratum plant. Delicate decorative bushes of small size will decorate your flower beds (today varieties have already been bred not only with blue, but also with pink, white and lilac flowers) and will become a reliable protection against annoying insects. However, do not rub the skin with the leaves and flowers of ageratum. This may cause allergies. It is enough just to plant a flower (or better not one) in the sun or in partial shade. Ageratum is not a picky plant, it is content with poor soils. nine0003
2. Angustifolia lavender
Lavender. © Marc NovakowskiVery pretty perennial with needle-like leaves and delicate white, pink, blue or purple flowers. Lavender angustifolia winters well in the middle zone, is unpretentious in care, grows on poor soils and does not require watering. Lavender bushes are ideal in group plantings, it can also be grown in containers. A person can feel the pleasant smell of this plant only by touching it or cutting off the branches. But mosquitoes are more sensitive to its aroma and consider it disgusting for themselves. It has been noticed that mosquitoes do not fly in the immediate vicinity of lavender plantings (a meter and a half). nine0003
3. Peppermint
Peppermint. © Neil GoldsteinThe well-known peppermint, a fragrant perennial up to 80 cm high, is one of the most popular medicinal plants grown in our gardens. It is also widely used in cooking and cosmetics. Since ancient times, our ancestors planted peppermint near windows and front doors to the house, in particular, and due to the fact that this plant repels mosquitoes well. The strongest menthol flavor comes from peppermint, which grows in loose fertile soils in sunny corners of the garden. But it can also grow in the shade, however, it will smell, and, accordingly, it will be weaker to repel mosquitoes. nine0003
4. Melissa officinalis (lemon mint)
Melissa officinalis (lemon mint). © 3g.163Outwardly, lemon balm does not differ much from mint - it has a branched stem and grows a little higher in height. But its main difference is the smell. Melissa officinalis has a strong spicy aroma with light notes of lemon. But, like the menthol smell of peppermint, it is an excellent mosquito repellent. Melissa is ideal for sunny places in your site. It can also grow in partial shade. nine0003
5. Catnip or catnip
Catnip or catnip. © Amber ChristianOne of the benefits of this mint is that it grows like a weed on its own. That is, it does not require any care. However, many gardeners consider catnip to be a weed. But we must give him credit: he does an excellent job of repelling mosquitoes. If you decide to rub your skin with the leaves or flowers of this plant to be safe, be careful - all the cats in the area will show you increased attention, because they just love catnip! The reason for this is the substance nepetalactone, which this plant is rich in. It is also the source of the lemon flavor characteristic of this variety of mint. nine0003
6. Lemon Monarda
Lemon Monarda. © Kristi WoodLemon Monarda belongs to the same family as Peppermint. But, unlike her, it is an annual plant. By the way, the only flyer in the Monard family. Its leaves and flowers contain essential oils that repel insects, including mosquitoes. And lemon monarda can be easily attributed to giant annuals. After all, in just one season it reaches 120 cm in height. Likes well-lit areas with loose fertile soil. nine0003
7.
Pennyroyal or Ombalo Ombalo or pennyroyal. © Phil SmithA perennial plant of the mint genus, reaching a height of 20-40 cm. It is easily distinguished from other types of mint by its compact size and creeping shape. It does not have the winter hardiness characteristic of most relatives, therefore, in central Russia, flea mint (another name for the plant) is grown as an annual. An indispensable ingredient in Georgian tkemali sauce and a good natural insect repellant. Not only mosquitoes, but also flies, fleas and moths. nine0003
8. Salvia officinalis
Salvia officinalis. © Sergeeva InguzaHippocrates called this plant "sacred grass". Its use in medicine is so widespread today that it seems that there are far fewer diseases that it does not cure than those that it does. Hippocrates did not write anything about the properties of sage to repel mosquitoes (at least we do not know about this), however, in gardening it has long been noticed that mosquitoes do not favor planting medicinal sage. More precisely, its tart aroma does not allow insects to determine the smell of a person who is near the plant. Salvia officinalis is a perennial plant. It grows in one place without a transplant for 8 years. Likes soil of neutral acidity and good light. nine0003
9. Ceylon citronella or lemongrass
Ceylon citronella or lemongrass. © technologychaobanCeylon citronella oils are often used to create mosquito repellents. The plant has a very strong lemon smell, which also does not repel mosquitoes so much as it does not allow these insects to smell the smell of a person nearby. Lemongrass is a perennial grass with a low level of winter hardiness. That is, in a temperate climate, it can only be grown as a tub culture, bringing the pot into the house or greenhouse along with the first significant cooling. nine0003
10. Fragrant Basil or Camphor Basil
Fragrant Basil or Camphor Basil. © flora cyclamAn annual herbaceous plant known as a kitchen spice to almost all inhabitants of the Earth. But few people know that the essential oil of this plant has been used in medicine for many years. For example, it is part of the well-known "Bronholitin" (it is prescribed for coughing). The name itself, "camphor basil", speaks of what substance this herb is rich in. Camphor repels ants, moths and mosquitoes. nine0003
11. Lemon verbena
Lemon verbena. © Marisa EstebanEvergreen shrub with a large crown. In the people it is considered a magical plant that can protect against the evil eye and damage. But today, of course, it is more used in cooking, cosmetology and medicine than in the rites of white magic. It has a pleasant smell that mosquitoes do not want to be friends with. It also repels other insects - a dried sprig of verbena is often placed in a closet as a prophylaxis against moths.
12. Marigolds
Marigolds. © Natureluvah2Bright and colorful marigolds are traditionally used in our flower beds. Very often they can be seen in the beds. Adherents of organic farming claim that these flyers effectively protect cultivated plants from many harmful insects and other pests. Their smell is so rich and specific that it repels not only mosquitoes, but also some people who simply cannot stand it. But in vain, because these are surprisingly decorative and unpretentious flowers. nine0003
13. Wormwood
Wormwood. © Top Remedii NaturisteAnother herb with a very strong odor that mosquitoes don't like. Wormwood is a perennial herbaceous plant of silver color, reaching up to 1.5 meters in height. One of the oldest medicinal plants known to mankind. It grows freely on forest edges, along roads, in neglected areas. Cultivated commercially for essential oil. Often found in gardens and gardens as a weed. However, many gardeners today, in order not to follow her into the forest, grow wormwood specially in their area. In addition to its medicinal properties, it protects cultivated species from many pests and diseases. nine0003
14. Pontic sagebrush
Pontic sagebrush. © Christophe RamonetUnlike wormwood, this plant is very decorative. Therefore, it can often be found in gardens as an element of various landscape compositions.