10 Plants That Ward Off Mosquitoes Naturally

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Ward Off Mosquitoes Naturally - 10 Plants You Can Use

Mosquitoes are one of the most annoying insects that can ruin a beautiful evening spent outdoors. To keep them away, many people resort to toxic chemical sprays and repellents. But did you know that there are plants that can naturally repel mosquitoes without the need for harmful chemicals? Here we will discuss 10 such mosquito-repelling plants that you can use in your yard or garden.

Why use natural mosquito repellents?

Using natural mosquito repellents has several advantages over chemical sprays:

• They are eco-friendly and don't harm the environment.
• They are safer for humans and pets as they don't contain harsh chemicals.
• Many plant-based repellents have additional benefits like medicinal properties.

Benefits of using plants to repel mosquitoes

Apart from being effective at repelling mosquitoes, many of these plants also have a range of other benefits:

• Aesthetic appeal: Many of these plants are attractive and can add to the beauty of your garden.
• Improved air quality: Some of these plants can help purify the air around them.
• Culinary uses: Several of these plants are commonly used in cooking and can be an excellent addition to your spice garden.

Overview of 10 mosquito-repelling plants

Here are some of the best natural mosquito repellent plants that can keep mosquitoes at bay:

1. Catnip

What is Catnip?

The Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip, is a herb with a strong fragrance that is primarily used to attract cats. However, it is also an excellent mosquito repellant.

How does it repel mosquitoes?

Catnip contains nepetalactone, a compound that mosquitoes find offensive. It is 10 times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET, the most commonly used insecticide.

How to use it to repel mosquitoes?

Rub crushed catnip leaves on your skin or clothes to repel mosquitoes. You can also plant catnip in your garden to keep mosquitoes from coming near your outdoor space.

2. Citronella

What is Citronella?

Citronella is an oil derived from lemongrass plants. It has a citrus-like aroma and is widely used as a natural mosquito repellent.

How does it repel mosquitoes?

Citronella masks the scents that attract mosquitoes, making it difficult for them to locate their human targets.

How to use it to repel mosquitoes?

Burn citronella candles or lamps on your patio or porch to keep mosquitoes away. You can also apply citronella oil to your skin or clothing.

3. Lavender

What is Lavender?

Lavender is a flowering plant known for its calming fragrance. Besides its soothing properties, it also has mosquito-repelling abilities.

How does it repel mosquitoes?

The scent of lavender is unpleasant for mosquitoes, and it effectively keeps them away.

How to use it to repel mosquitoes?

Plant lavender shrubs around your garden, grow them in pots, or use lavender-scented candles or essential oils to repel mosquitoes.

4. Marigolds

What are Marigolds?

Marigolds are annual flowers that bloom in bright colors. They are naturally hardy and can grow in various soil types.

How do they repel mosquitoes?

Marigolds contain Pyrethrum, a natural insecticide that mosquitoes find toxic.

How to use them to repel mosquitoes?

Plant marigolds around your garden or near outdoor seating areas to keep mosquitoes away. You can also use marigold extract in sprays or lotions.

5. Peppermint

What is Peppermint?

Peppermint is an herb known for its fresh, minty aroma. It has many health benefits, including its effectiveness as a mosquito repellent.

How does it repel mosquitoes?

The smell of peppermint interferes with the mosquitoes' sense of smell, making it difficult for them to locate their human targets.

How to use it to repel mosquitoes?

Apply peppermint essential oil to your skin or clothes, burn peppermint candles, or plant the herb in your garden.

6. Rosemary

What is Rosemary?

Rosemary is a fragrant herb used in cooking and natural medicine. It is easy to grow, drought-resistant, and has potent mosquito-repelling properties.

How does it repel mosquitoes?

Rosmarinic acid, a compound found in rosemary, is effective at repelling mosquitoes.

How to use it to repel mosquitoes?

Use rosemary essential oil as a natural mosquito spray or plant the herb in your garden.

7. Sage

What is Sage?

Sage is a herb with grey-green leaves and purple flowers. It is commonly used in cooking and is also an effective mosquito repellent.

How does it repel mosquitoes?

The strong scent of sage makes it difficult for mosquitoes to locate their human targets.

How to use it to repel mosquitoes?

Burn sage leaves or sage essential oil to repel mosquitoes. You can also rub crushed sage leaves on your skin or plant the herb in your garden.

8. Basil

What is Basil?

Basil is a fragrant herb commonly used in Italian cuisine. It contains compounds that are toxic to mosquitoes, making it an excellent natural repellent.

How does it repel mosquitoes?

The essential oils found in basil have potent mosquito-repelling properties.

How to use it to repel mosquitoes?

Plant basil in your garden or patio, apply cooking or essential oil to your skin, or burn basil leaves to ward off mosquitoes.

9. Lemongrass

What is Lemongrass?

Lemongrass is an herb with thin, long leaves and a lemon-like fragrance. It is known for its medicinal benefits, including as a natural mosquito repellent.

How does it repel mosquitoes?

Lemongrass contains citral, a compound that disrupts the mosquitoes' nervous system, making it challenging for them to sense their human prey.

How to use it to repel mosquitoes?

Use lemongrass essential oil in a diffuser, apply topically to your skin or clothing, or plant the herb in your garden.

10. Garlic

What is Garlic?

Garlic is a pungent bulb vegetable used in various cuisines worldwide for its flavor and health benefits. It is also an effective mosquito repellent.

How does it repel mosquitoes?

Garlic contains allicin and other sulfur compounds offensive to mosquitoes that effectively repel them.

How to use it to repel mosquitoes?

Crush garlic cloves and apply the juice to your skin, mix garlic oil with lotion or body spray, or plant garlic in your garden to keep mosquitoes away.

Using natural mosquito repellents is an excellent way to keep yourself safe from disease-carrying insects while protecting the environment. The above-mentioned plants are easy to find and grow, do not contain harsh chemicals, and offer many additional benefits.

Considerations when using plant-based mosquito repellents

Like any other insect repellent, plant-based mosquito repellents have their limitations:

• They might not be as effective as chemical sprays.
• They need frequent reapplication, especially if you sweat heavily or spend prolonged periods outside.
• Be mindful of potential allergic reactions or skin sensitivity before using.
• Some people might find the strong scents of these plants unpleasant.

Final thoughts and recommendations for plant selection

Choose plants that are native to your area and appropriate for your soil and climate. Consult with a local nursery that can provide advice on plant selection and gardening needs specific to your location. Planting a combination of different herbs and flowers can maximize the benefits of natural mosquito repellents while enhancing the look and feel of your outdoor space.

Here are some commonly asked questions about using natural mosquito repellent plants:

Are these plants safe for pets and children?

Most of the plants discussed here are safe for pets and children. However, consult with a vet or pediatrician beforehand if you have concerns. As with any new product, start with a small amount, and observe if there is any adverse reaction or allergy.

How often do I need to replant the mosquito-repelling plants?

Some plants such as lavender or rosemary are perennial, meaning they will come back year after year. Others, like marigolds or basil, are annuals that will require replanting each year.

Can these plants be used indoors?

Yes! Many of these plants, including catnip or lemongrass, can also be grown indoors in pots or as houseplants.

How effective are natural mosquito repellent plants versus chemical repellents?

Natural mosquito repellent plants might not be as potent as chemically-based products but offer a safer, eco-friendly alternative for those who prefer not to use harsh chemicals.

What other techniques can I combine with plant-based repellents?

You can also use fans, mosquito nets, or citronella candles to enhance your mosquito protection.

How many plants do I need to protect my outdoor space from mosquitoes?

The number of plants needed depends on the size of the area you want to protect. As a general rule, it's recommended to plant enough to create a dense barrier around the perimeter of the space.

Are these plants easy to take care of?

Most of the plants discussed here are easy to care for and low-maintenance. However, make sure to water them regularly and provide adequate sunlight specific to their needs.

Can I eat or cook with any of the mosquito-repelling plants?

Many of these plants have culinary uses and add interesting flavors to dishes. However, make sure to research how to cook with each plant appropriately.

Are there any negative environmental impacts of using these plants?

Using natural mosquito repellent plants has several environment-friendly benefits such as reduced carbon footprint and less toxic waste. However, some plants can be invasive, so ensure to grow the correct variety of plants in the correct environment.

Where can I find and purchase natural mosquito repellent plants?

Most nurseries, hardware stores, or gardening centers sell these plants. You can also find them online or from local farmer's markets.