How to Repel Mosquitoes Naturally With Garden Plants

Gardening can lose much of its appeal when pesky mosquitoes hover nearby. Before resorting to commercial bug repellents, try incorporating one of these plants into the landscape. Not only are they attractive to look at, they may just help to cut down on the number of uninvited guests in the garden.

Why These Plants Repel Mosquitoes

Certain plants contain compounds that are highly repugnant to mosquitoes. Usually the compound is related to the scent produced by the plant when its oils are released into the air. This means that simply planting may not often be enough for total effectiveness. While the plants will release their scent into the air, taking other measures to release the compounds into the air can make the plants even more effective.

Crushing the leaves of the plant and rubbing them directly on skin or clothing is one option, however always check to make sure that the plant will not cause an allergic reaction. Try rubbing the plant on a small patch of skin before applying more widely. Another effective measure can come from drying the leaves and placing the dried bunches outside. Another option is infusing the crushed leaves into a liquid and making a homemade bug repellent.

Even though the presence of these herbs isn’t always enough to repel mosquitoes, it’s still a wise idea to plant these natural repellents around the yard- especially around areas like a back patio or deck that is often frequented. Having the plants outside will encourage their use.

If the climate is such that keeping these plants outdoors isn’t an option, potting indoors and using the leaves as a natural deterrent can also be effective.

Plants that Repel Mosquitoes

The most popular plant for repelling mosquitoes is citronella grass. This is the plant from which citronella oil, used in various insect repellents and candles, is derived. The grass releases a type of camphorous oil that mosquitoes can’t stand. While citronella grass is effective at repelling mosquitoes, it’s not always a plausible choice. Citronella grass is a tropical plant, making it difficult to grow in cooler climates. It can also grow to heights of 6 feet. However, if kept at bay with regular mowing (which will also help to circulate the oils into the atmosphere) it can be a good option.

The most effective use of citronella grass comes from applying the liquid from the crushed leaves directly to the skin. The process should be repeated every 1-2 hours for maximum effectiveness. Another plant that exudes a scent similar to citronella is horsemint. This plant grows wild in much of the Eastern United States, and has additional health properties due to the high levels of thymol found in its oil.

One of the most highly effective treatments against mosquitoes can be found from the catnip herb. The oil from the leaves of this plant commonly grown because of its effect on cats can also help ward off mosquitoes. As with citronella grass, the most effective treatment comes from crushing the leaves and placing the liquid directly onto the skin. Catnip is also highly effective when crushed leaves are infused into an oil.

Rosemary is another herb that can be effective at deterring mosquitoes. Most commonly recognized as a culinary herb, rosemary produces a camphor-like oil that can repel mosquitoes. Unfortunately, rosemary is a tropical plant and often doesn’t fare well in cooler climates, but it can be cultivated indoors. Rosemary oil can be used to make a natural repellent by mixing 4 drops of oil with 1/4 cup of olive oil. A few other herbs that may be helpful in treatment against mosquitoes include lavender, lemon balm or lemongrass, and peppermint.

Marigolds are a hardy plant with vibrant colors that add brilliance to any garden. Not only do they serve as a deterrent to mosquitoes, they are also valuable for their use in keeping aphids away and are often placed near rose bushes for that reason. Another plant known as Ageratum contains coumarin, a scent that drives mosquitoes away. Ageratum is a low-growing plant and works great as an edging plant around the borders of gardens or patios.

Several species of plants have been termed “mosquito plants”. A genetically engineered member of the geranium family has earned this title. The plant combines the hardy qualities of the geranium plant with properties of citronella. The result is a plant that will survive harsher climates and produces a sweet, lemony scent that may drive mosquitoes away. Opinions as to the effectiveness of this plant are mixed.

Gardening can be stress and pest free with a little smart planning and some mosquito repellent plants!

Sources:

gomestic.com, “Five Plants That Repel Mosquitoes” (Sept. 2, 2010)

wildernesscollege.com, “Plants That Repel Mosquitoes” (Sept. 2, 2010)

thefrugallfe.com, “Mosquitoes in Your Garden? Try Planting These!” (Sept. 3, 2010)

gardenguides.com, “Outdoor Plants That Repel Mosquitoes” (Sept. 3, 2010)

mosquitoinfo.info, “Five Plants That Naturally Repel Mosquitoes” (Sept. 3, 2010)