5 Plants That Repel Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes can put a damper on any outdoor activity. Unfortunately, with the mosquito population growing every year, along with the threat of West Nile virus, most of us tend to stay indoors during the summer months when mosquitoes are at their peak. Instead of being sent indoors, enjoy your garden even more by growing plants that will actually repel mosquitoes. Not only will you grow your garden, you can also enjoy it mosquito-free. Below you will find 5 plants that will repel mosquitoes while adding charm to your flower garden.

Marigolds: Marigolds are lovely annuals that are short, compact, plants that make great bedding plants. They bloom various colors of yellow, gold, and red. They are great for beds, containers and hanging baskets and go great on the patio in small containers to help rid the mosquitoes. In addition to mosquitoes, Marigolds work great to prevent other pests such as Aphids.

Catnip: The best of the best! Catnip has actually been proven to be many times stronger then DEET and therefore, is one of the mosquito-repellent plants on the market.

Mosquito Plant: The Mosquito Plant, also known as Citronella is another great plant for repelling mosquitoes. They are more of a foliage plant with a light Citronella scent that is actually used to make products containing Citronella. They can be planted in beds or in containers to be placed around your yard and sitting areas.

Horsemint: Horsemint works much like the Mosquito Plant. It, too, puts off a smell that Mosquitoes will avoid. While it’s not a smell that will bother you as the person planting or sitting next to it, it will detour the mosquitoes.

Ageratum: Another lovely bedding plant for detouring mosquitoes is Ageratum. It blooms pale blue and white flowers and is great for bedding plants. Ageratum produces Coumarin which is commonly found in commercial repellents but it is not dangerous and therefore makes a great mosquito repellent.

In addition to planting these plants in your garden and on your patio, you can plant them near doors, kids play areas, sitting areas and other areas that you wish to repel mosquitoes. They will add a lovely curb appeal while also protecting you and your family from the dangers that can be caused by mosquitoes.

For extra mosquito repellent, pick the blooms off of the plants, crush them between your fingers and rub on your clothes, arms and other exposed areas. While none of the plants are poisonous you should avoid the mouth, eyes and other sensitive areas.