5 Plants to Deter Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes can turn a pleasant outdoor experience into an itchy nightmare. Fortunately, several natural plants can help you keep these pests away. From the lemony scent of citronella grass to the fragrant allure of lavender, these garden additions offer both beauty and functionality. Discover how you can create a mosquito-free environment using nature's own repellents.

Citronella Grass: Nature's Mosquito Repellent

If you've used mosquito repellent or citronella candles, you're likely familiar with citronella grass. This lemon-scented plant is a favorite for natural mosquito repellents. Simply sitting near citronella grass can help keep mosquitoes at bay. Additionally, you can crush the leaves and rub them on your skin, but always test a small area first to avoid allergic reactions.

When shopping, be sure to buy citronella grass, not citronella plant, as the latter is not as effective. If growing citronella grass is challenging, citronella candles are a good alternative. The most effective candles contain 5-10% citronella oil.

Although citronella grass is technically a perennial, it acts as an annual in Ontario's climate. Plant it in containers during summer since it cannot withstand frost. Beyond repelling mosquitoes, citronella grass also deters whiteflies and other pests that dislike its lemony scent.

Catnip: More Than Just a Cat Treat

Catnip, a member of the mint family, is another natural mosquito repellent. Some studies suggest that catnip oil is even more effective than DEET, a common chemical in commercial bug sprays. Nepetalactone, the active ingredient in catnip, repels mosquitoes, cockroaches, and flies.

Catnip is easy to grow and requires minimal care, needing only adequate sunlight. You can harvest and dry the leaves for tea or as a treat for cats. However, be aware that catnip might attract cats to your garden, which could be a downside for some.

Lavender: Fragrant and Functional

Lavender is beloved for its relaxing scent and is also effective at deterring mosquitoes and other insects. Plant lavender in pots near doorways or windows to prevent insects from entering. For best results, apply lavender directly to the skin, but test a small patch first for allergies.

Lavender is easy to grow, thriving in poor soil with minimal watering. It self-seeds, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners. You can mix lavender oil with coconut oil for a natural bug repellent or dry the flowers to create a homemade bug spray.

Marigolds: Colorful Mosquito Deterrents

Marigolds, popular springtime flowers, also repel mosquitoes with their scent. Planting marigolds in vegetable gardens can protect your plants from pests, especially tomatoes. These hardy flowers grow in various soil types and thrive with plenty of sunshine.

Marigolds produce seeds prolifically, allowing you to grow more plants from a single one. For optimal mosquito prevention, plant marigolds around windows and entrances.

Geraniums: Attractive and Effective

Geraniums, often found in gardens and indoors, are natural mosquito repellents. Their lemon-scented leaves deter mosquitoes, earning some varieties the nickname "mosquito geranium." Geraniums are easy to grow and require 4-6 hours of daily sunlight.

To ensure your geraniums last through the winter, plant them in pots to bring indoors. Geraniums can be propagated through cuttings or allowed to grow as houseplants. For best results, place geraniums near seating areas or entry points and rub the leaves on your skin to repel mosquitoes.

Tips for a Mosquito-Free Yard

1. Eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in shallow water. Regularly empty water from gutters, flowerpot saucers, and other containers. Keep ponds clean to prevent mosquito attraction.

2. Use Candles: Lighting candles, whether citronella or standard, can deter mosquitoes, as they dislike smoke.

3. Create Tent Areas: Use nets or tents to cover outdoor seating areas and prevent bug interference.

4. Attract Bats: Bats are natural mosquito predators. Install bat houses and provide a food source to attract them to your yard.

5. Wear Protective Clothing: Light-colored clothing that covers your arms, legs, and feet can help prevent mosquito bites.