Summer is great season to spend some time outdoors, enjoying the fresh air and sunshine in the backyard. Even though there are many benefits to being outside, it’s possible that you don’t feel like doing that so frequently given the fact there are mosquitoes that can easily ruin your quality time. However, there are several plants which can help keep mosquitoes away while also adding a special look to your home garden landscape. Check out these 11 mosquito repellent plants and their qualities!
Catnip
This is a useful plant to keep mosquitoes away due to a natural chemical called nepetalactone. Which is also a chemical that attracts felines, so if you have cats in your home, they will enjoy it a lot.
Have you already seen these 10 Things Every Pet Owner Needs? They’re such fun and practical gadgets!
Basil
Most people love the fragrance basil has, but both mosquitoes and flies hate it. Grow them in sunny areas - or near natural water sources, if you have them in your home - and enjoy the mosquito-free experience.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm helps keep mosquitoes away and has a lemony scent that’s very pleasing. However, it’s an invasive species and it grows quickly, so if you’re getting it for your garden, make sure to plant it in a pot.
Aside from being a natural repellent, lemon balm has a plethora of other uses - for example, preparing a tea with it will promote a better night’s sleep. Healthy Green Savvy has an article about it.
Rosemary
This plant needs to get full sun, whether it’s inside or outside. The live plant by itself already works as a natural repellent, but you can also burn it and stay near the smoke to keep insects away from you. In addition, when Rosemary’s burning it adds a lovely smell to the place.
Citronella
You’ve probably already heard about - or even used yourself - citronella candles. Well, citronella grass is even more effective! Find a sunny spot in your garden and the strong smell will help mask the mosquito attractants.
Geranium
Being very similar to citronella, it also carries the quality of being an attractive decorative piece. They usually blossom better in a warm, sunny and dry climate, but can be grown in planters in cold areas too.
Lavender
Either by its scent or because it adds so much to your backyard view, lavender is one of the most well-known and loved plants out there. Its scent prevents mosquitoes from coming to your garden, but it's most effective when rubbing the plant against your skin to release the oils.
Mint
Mint prevents mosquitoes from getting near you, and can be used in tea for keeping you warm on chilly nights. What else could you ask for? In case you’re wondering, here are 10 more reasons to grow mint in your garden.
Marigolds
These beauties are natural repellents and have and added bonus of preventing insects from feeding on your tomato plants! They’re also one of the best options to keep mosquitoes from entering your house - just place potted marigolds near doors and windows.
Did you know indoor plants can help improve the air quality at home? Read more about it!
Pennyroyal
As with marigolds, the pennyroyal plant can be used both indoors and outside - your patio landscape design will be incredible! When you’re going to stay out during times you’re likely to be exposed to mosquitoes bites, keep crushed pennyroyal stems in your pockets and you’ll be safe from itchy welts.
Garlic
Though eating it won’t be of any help to prevent mosquito bites, growing it in your garden will do the trick. The smell of garlic keeps mosquitoes away, and you’ll be growing your own cooking ingredient at home.
Which of these will you add to your garden? Tell us in the comments below and find more Lifestyle & Health inspiration for a better summer.
