Mosquitoes can turn over any out-of-door space into an unendurable place , making it difficult to enjoy lovesome even or loosen up in your garden . or else of relying on chemical substance atomiser , why not useplants that fight off mosquitoesnaturally ? Many plants produce strong scents and essential crude oil that mosquitoes find unappealing , help to create a mosquito - free environs while tot up beauty to your landscape .
From fragrant herbs to vibrant flowers and hardy shrubs , there are a assortment ofplants that fight off mosquitoeseffectively . Some study by emitting potent odour that cut off mosquito senses , while others curb raw insect - repelling compound like citronellal , linalool , or pyrethrum . Whether you prefer potted plants on your terrace or garden beds filled with mosquito - repelling verdure , these industrial plant declare oneself a safe and eco - friendly direction to keep mosquitoes at bay .
In this guide , we ’ll explore the35 safe plants that repel mosquitoes , double-dyed with pictures and turn tips . Whether you experience in a warm or cool climate , there ’s a industrial plant that suit your needs . Discover which mosquito - repelling plant life knead well for your space and delight a more comfortable , pestilence - free outdoor experience .
Different Types of Plants That Repel Mosquitoes
Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus)
make love as the “ mosquito works , ” citronella Gunter Grass emit a unattackable citrus tree scent that repel mosquitoes . Its natural vegetable oil are commonly extracted and used in louse repellant products , but the live plant life itself can also help deter mosquitoes when placed in outside spaces .
Often used in candles and sprays , citronella is a popular choice for mosquito ascendancy . However , keeping the real plant in gardens , patio , or near seating surface area can provide ongoing protection . Its strength increases when leaves are crushed , turn more of its rude oil .
Citronella grass grows better in USDA zones 10 - 12 , fly high in lovesome , humid climates with plenty of sunlight . It requires well - drain dirt and regular watering but is relatively low - upkeep . In cooler regions , it can be grown in container and moved indoors during wintertime .
Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
The pleasant floral scent of lavender is a innate mosquito repellent . It contains linalool , a chemical compound bed to disrupt mosquito gumption and subjugate their ability to detect potential hosts . Additionally , lavender attracts good pollinator such as bee and butterflies while hold pests away .
This versatile plant is often used in sachets , oils , and dried bouquets for its calm aroma . When planted in garden or near entryways , lavender provides a fragrant barrier against mosquito . Crushing the leaves or flowers releases more of its essential oils , increase its effectiveness .
Lavender thrive in USDA zones 5 - 9 and prefers well - draining , flaxen soil withfull sunexposure . It is drought - tolerant once install and requires minimum maintenance , making it an excellent plus to both cosmetic and operative landscapes .
Marigold (Tagetes spp.)
Marigolds contain pyrethrum , a natural compound that is commonly used in insect repellents . This makes them an efficacious pick for deterring mosquitoes and other garden pests . Their bright , cheerful flowers also raise the aesthetic appealingness of any garden space .
These hardy plants are ideal for planting around patios , door , and veggie gardens to keep mosquitoes at bay . Their hard aroma enactment as a natural deterrent , and they can be grown in pots or flat in garden bed for added versatility .
Marigolds are worthy for USDA zones 2 - 11 , making them one of the most adaptable mosquito - repellent plant . They thrive in full Lord’s Day and well - draining soil , bloom from late spring to fall with minimum care postulate .
Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
The potent scent of basilrepels mosquito , make it a great dual - purpose herb for both culinary and pest control purposes . Unlike some other mosquito - repelling plant , sweet basil does not require crush to free its rude oils — its fragrance alone is enough to keep mosquitoes away .
Basil is easygoing to originate in hatful or garden beds , urinate it a convenient addition to out-of-door seating areas . It copulate well with other herbs and veg , avail to create a natural , mosquito - free surround . Fresh basil leaves can also be used in homemade insect repellents .
This herbaceous plant prefers USDA zones 10 - 11 but can be grown each year in cooler climates . It prosper in warm temperature with regular watering and well - draining soil , shit it an excellent choice for both gardeners and family cooks .
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Rosemary raise a woody , aromatic odour that mosquitoes dislike , making it a great addition to outdoor space . This evergreen plant herbaceous plant is not only utilitarian for repelling insects but also tally flavor to various mantrap , making it a functional and fragrant garden plant life .
It works well as a hedging , ground top , or potted plant , providing continuous mosquito ascendance throughout the grow season . Burning dry out rosemary sprigs in fire perdition or outdoor grill can further raise its mosquito - repelling properties .
Rosemary grows good in USDA zones 7 - 10 , thriving in well - draining soil and full sun . It is drought - tolerant and requires short upkeep , making it an fantabulous low - effort plant for both gardens and container ontogeny .
Peppermint (Mentha × piperita)
Its menthol odour dissuade mosquitoes while also serving as a lifelike curative for bite . The strong aroma confuses mosquitoes and keeps them from find human scent , relieve oneself it an excellent selection for gardens and outdoor spaces . Additionally , crushed peppermint gum parting can be applied to mosquito bite to soothe itching and irritation .
Peppermint grows sharply , spreading apace through underground runners . To prevent it from overtaking garden beds , it is considerably contained in pots or raise planters . Regular trimming helps maintain its build and boost shaggy-haired growth , assure a fresh supply of leaves .
Thriving in USDA zones 3 - 11 , peppermint is a hardy plant that adapts to various climate . It prefers damp , well - draining stain and fond to full sunlight . With its mosquito - repelling properties and culinary benefits , peppermint is a versatile plus to any garden .
Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
Catnip contains nepetalactone , a compound that has been set up to be more in force than DEET in repelling mosquitoes . This natural deterrent works by interfering with mosquitoes ’ sensory receptors , making it difficult for them to site humans . While it keeps mosquitoes away , it also appeal cats , which have a go at it to wander in its fragrant leave-taking .
Easy to grow and quick to circularise , catnip is a low - maintenance works that thrive in various conditions . It can be uprise in garden beds or containers , with even pruning urge to command its rapid ontogenesis . dry out the leaves and using them in homemade repellent sprays enhance their effectiveness .
suited for USDA zone 3 - 9 , catnip is a hardy perennial that tolerates drought and hapless grime consideration . It prefers full sun but can grow in partial shade . Beyond its mosquito - repelling welfare , catnip also serve well as a calming herbal teatime ingredient for man .
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
Lemon unction emits a strong lemony aroma that mosquitoes quash . The plant ’s born citronellal message is responsible for its effectiveness as an insect repellant . When leaves are crushed , the scent intensifies , get it a utilitarian plant to have near seating country or garden pathways .
This herb is know for its vigorous growth and can become trespassing in garden beds . To prevent it from fan out uncontrollably , it is well grown in pots or designate garden spaces . even pruning keeps it compact and advertise sweet development .
Lemon balm develop well in USDA zones 4 - 9 and thrive in full to partial sun . It prefers fat , well - draining stain and regular watering . In addition to repelling mosquito , lemon balm is often used in teas and herbal remedies for its tranquillize essence .
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
Related to citronella , lemon grass has a high-pitched citronellal subject matter that repels mosquitoes . The works ’s fresh , citrusy odour mask human olfactory perception , create it an good natural barrier against these blighter . Lemongrass is also unremarkably used in cooking , adding flavour to various dish .
This grandiloquent , grassy plant requires warm climates and full Dominicus to thrive . It is best grow in clusters along garden borders or in large pots that can be strike indoors during colder calendar month . To maximize its mosquito - repelling properties , the foliage can be crushed or used in homemade spraying .
Best suited for USDA zones 9 - 11 , lemongrass thrives in well - drain filth with frequent watering . In cool region , it can be grown as an annual or winter indoors . With its double - purpose usance as a mosquito repellent and culinary herb , lemon grass is a worthful plant for gardens and patios .
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.)
Eucalyptus grow an oil with a impregnable smell that sustain mosquitoes aside . The all-important oil educe from eucalyptus leaves are wide used in commercial-grade worm repellent . Even as a live plant , it let go of a refreshing aroma that naturally deters mosquito and other cuss .
It can be grown as a tree or shrub , depending on the variety and climate . Dwarf eucalyptus tree mintage work well in container , while larger form make excellent wraith trees in gardens . Pruning encourages bushier growth and helps moderate its size .
prefer USDA zones 8 - 11 , eucalyptus thrives in warm climates with full sunlight and well - draining ground . It is drought - kind once established , want minimal upkeep . With its mosquito - repelling benefits and aromatic leaf , eucalypt is a bully addition to outdoor landscape .
Allium (Allium spp.)
genus Allium plant , including onions , garlic , and chives , give rise a strong odor that repels mosquito . Their pungent sense of smell break up mosquito sensory receptors , making it unmanageable for them to locate likely hosts . Additionally , Allium are known to deter other garden pesterer , such as aphid and dinero insect .
Besides their mosquito - repelling property , alliums are wide used in cooking , tally flavour to various dishes . They are well-off to grow in gardens and can be implant around vegetable beds to help protect crops from harmful insects . Their flowers also attract beneficial pollinators , promote a healthy garden ecosystem .
genus Allium species thrive in USDA zones 3 - 9 , opt well - draining land and full sun exposure . They are comparatively down - maintenance , requiring only casual lachrymation once established . With their dual benefit for pest control and culinary exercise , alliums are an excellent pick for any dwelling house garden .
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Thyme , in particular lemon thyme , contain carvacrol , a chemical compound have it away for its mosquito - repelling property . When the leaves are trounce , the scent becomes more potent , provide an effective born roadblock against mosquitoes . In gain to repelling insects , thyme is commonly used as a culinary herbaceous plant with a distinct , aromatic relish .
For heighten mosquito protection , fresh thyme leave of absence can be rub directly onto the skin . This free all important petroleum that act as a natural louse repellant . Thyme is also a greatcompanion plantfor vegetable gardens , aid to keep pests aside while improving soil health .
Thyme grows best in USDA zones 5 - 9 , thriving in well - draining , arenaceous soil with full sun pic . It is drouth - tolerant and expect minimum care , making it an easy addition to herb gardens , rock gardens , or container plantings .
Geranium (Pelargonium spp.)
sealed varieties of geraniums , in particular sweet-scented geranium ( Pelargonium citrosum ) , emit a strong citrus - like fragrance that helps repel mosquito . Often commercialize as “ mosquito plants , ” these geraniums hold back raw oil that mosquito find unpleasant , making them a democratic option for patios and gardens .
Geraniums are easy to grow in pots , leave them to be placed near seat areas for lend protection . Their attractive flowers add smasher to outdoor blank while attend a functional purpose . Regular pruning helps asseverate their shape and encourages uninterrupted blooming .
These plants are best suited for USDA zones 9 - 12 , thriving in warm , sunny conditions . While they are perennial in warm climates , they can be rise as yearbook in cooler regions or brought indoors during winter . Their mosquito - repelling properties and ornamental appeal make them a worthful gain to any garden .
Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis)
Bay laurel leaves get a spicy , aromatic scent that mosquito find unpleasant . This evergreen shrub not only helps keep mosquito at bay but also repels other pests such as cockroach and ants . Its foliage are commonly used in cooking , sum up relish to soup , stews , and sauces .
This plant can be maturate as a small tree or lop into a bush , making it suitable for various landscaping purposes . It thrives in muckle , allow for easy drive indoors during colder months . Dry embayment leave can also be placed around the home to dissuade insects .
Bay laurel is better suited for USDA zona 8 - 11 , choose well - draining stain and full to partial Lord’s Day . It is drought - tolerant once establish and ask occasional pruning to maintain its shape . With its dual - purpose use as a mosquito repellent and culinary herbaceous plant , bay laurel is a hard-nosed and attractive plant to grow .
Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
Wormwood contains absinthin , a potent compound that in effect rebuff mosquito . Its unattackable , bitter scent create an unwelcoming surround for many louse , making it a useful works for natural pest control . However , it should be used with circumspection , as its chemicals can inhibit the growth of nearby plant .
While wormwood is not normally develop for culinary use , it has been historically used in herbal medicinal drug and as an ingredient in absinthe . It thrives in ironical , well - drain soil and requires minimal watering , make it a low-toned - alimony plus to gardens .
Wormwood is well - suited for USDA geographical zone 4 - 9 , tolerating miserable land conditions and drought . It should be planted in isolated areas or container to prevent it from negatively bear on other plants . With its strong mosquito - repelling properties , wormwood is a enceinte selection for garden borders or out-of-door seats areas .
Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)
Pennyroyal is a appendage of the mint family known for its strong odour , which effectively repel mosquito . Its essential oil color contain natural compound that dissuade various louse , give it a popular option for natural cuss control . The plant can be crushed to release its fragrancy , heighten its effectivity in repelling mosquito .
Despite its benefit , pennyroyal is toxic to pets and world if ingested in large quantities . It should be planted cautiously in areas where animals and children can not well get at it . Due to its vigorous increase substance abuse , it is best grown in containers to forbid it from circularize uncontrollably .
Pennyroyal thrives in USDA zones 6 - 9 , preferring moist , well - drain soil and full to partial Lord’s Day . It need regular pruning to maintain its contour and further smart growth . With proper tending , it serves as an excellent mosquito deterrent while add up greenery to gardens and patios .
Clove (Syzygium aromaticum)
Clove trees give rise essential oil rich in eugenol , a brawny natural chemical compound that force back mosquito . The hard , spicy aroma interrupt mosquitoes ’ power to detect human being , make it an effective natural repellent . cleave essential oil is often used in homemade sprays for additional protection .
by from its insect - repelling properties , Eugenia aromaticum is wide known for its culinary and medicative uses . Dried flower bud are used as a spiciness in various dish , while clove oil is assess for its antiseptic and pain - relieving qualities . The Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree itself has glossy green parting and fragrant bloom , adding beaut to landscapes .
garlic clove trees are well suited for USDA zones 9 - 12 , thriving in warm , tropic climates with well - drain grunge . They require full sun and steady tearing to establish strong roots . With its multiple benefits , clove is a valuable plant for both useable and aesthetic purposes .
Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)
Clary salvia has a pleasant , herbaceous aroma that naturally repulse mosquitoes and other insects . The plant produces gravid , colorful bloom spike that draw in pollinators while deterring pests . It is also known for its use in aromatherapy , where its essential oils assist reduce focus and promote relaxation .
This works is well-heeled to originate and thrives in a variety of territory condition . It can be imbed in garden bed , borders , or containers . To maximise its mosquito - repelling properties , invigorated or dry out parting can be placed around outdoor seating areas , or the oil can be used in homemade sprays .
Clary sage is well grown in USDA zones 5 - 9 , preferring well - run out soil and full sun . It is drought - kind once establish and requires minimum care . With its dual routine as a natural insect repellant and an redolent herbaceous plant , clary sage is a beneficial addition to any garden .
Mexican Marigold (Tagetes lucida)
Mexican marigold emits a nipping scent that fight off mosquito and other undesirable insects . This variety of marigold arrest innate insecticidal properties , making it a utile companion plant for veg garden . It also dish up as a beautiful ornamental flower with bright yellow blooming .
gardener often use Mexican marigold as a natural barrier to protect crop from plague . It is commonly plant along garden edges or in pots near out-of-door seating areas . When farewell or flowers are crushed , their effectivity as an insect repellant increase .
Mexican marigold expand in USDA zones 8 - 11 , requiring full sun and well - draining soil . It is relatively low - upkeep , permit drouth weather once found . With its three-fold role as a mosquito deterrent and garden enhancer , it is a with child choice for pest control and decoration .
Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)
scented fern contains thujone , a natural compound that efficaciously beat back mosquitoes . Its bright yellow button - like flush and fern - like leafage add visual solicitation to garden while serving a operable intent in pestilence ascendancy . The plant life has historically been used as a natural louse repellent in homes and garden .
Despite its benefits , tansy can be toxic if ingested , so it should be planted cautiously in orbit by from darling and children . It is well used as a border industrial plant or in hold garden spaces . The dried flowers and leaves can also be place indoors to help repel dirt ball .
Tansy is well - suit for USDA zones 3 - 9 , produce best in full Lord’s Day with well - draining grease . It is drought - resistant and need minimum care , making it an well-heeled addition to any garden . With its potent mosquito - repelling prop , tansy is a practical alternative for natural pest control .
Agastache (Agastache spp.)
Commonly referred to as “ giant hyssop ” or “ hummingbird mint , ” Agastache emits a strong , minty bouquet that naturally repels mosquitoes . The redolent oil in its leaves help keep pests by , make it a with child addition to outdoor gardens and patio .
away from its mosquito - repelling benefit , Agastache is extremely attractive to pollinators like bees , butterflies , and hummingbird . Its tall , coloured prime spikes make a visually appealing garden while supporting local ecosystem . It is also used in herbal teas for its comfort dimension .
Agastache thrives in USDA zone 5 - 10 , preferring well - run out soil and full sun . It is drouth - broad once established and require minimum precaution , making it an excellent choice for low - upkeep gardens .
Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
teatime Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree is well known for its herculean antibacterial and insect - repelling properties . The essential oil extracted from its leaves is wide used to deter mosquitoes and soothe bug bites . When grown as a flora , it provides a innate means to keep mosquito at bay .
This tree prosper in fond , humid clime and can be grown outdoors in desirable zones or as an indoor potted plant life in colder regions . unconstipated pruning aid keep up its physique and encourages new maturation .
Tea tree diagram grows best in USDA zones 9 - 11 , requiring full sunshine and well - draining grunge . It is relatively hardy and can tolerate episodic drouth conditions , making it a hard-nosed summation to gardens focus on natural cuss control .
Pitcher Plant (Nepenthes spp. & Sarracenia spp.)
Unlike traditional mosquito - repelling plants , pitcher plant are carnivorous and actively capture and compilation mosquitoes . These unique plants practice ambrosia and smell to entice insects into their twirler - shaped traps , where they are unable to escape .
pitcherful plant are excellent for nurseryman looking for a lifelike elbow room to subdue mosquito population . They require specific mature condition , admit eminent humidness , acidic soil , and coherent moisture . They are often develop in bog gardens or containers with check environments .
Depending on the metal money , pitcher flora can thrive in USDA geographical zone 6 - 11 . Some varieties prefer warm , tropic climate , while others can withstand cooler temperatures . With their alien visual aspect and mosquito - control ability , ewer plants are a enthralling addition to any garden .
Rue (Ruta graveolens)
Rue is a strong - scented herb that naturally repels mosquito . Its pungent aroma makes it an effective deterrent against various insects , including flies and emmet . The industrial plant has a recollective account of medicative and ornamental uses , often grown as a perimeter plant in garden .
Despite its welfare , rue contains sap that can make skin soreness when endanger to lineal sunlight . It should be care with care , and glove are commend when dress or harvesting the plant . Rue also has symbolic and diachronic import , often colligate with trade protection and healing .
This hardy plant thrive in USDA zone 6 - 11 , require well - draining territory and full to partial Lord’s Day . It is drouth - tolerant and uprise well in poor soil conditions , making it a humiliated - maintenance addition to insect - repelling gardens .
Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum)
Sweet woodruff has a mild , hay - like bouquet that intensifies when its leaves are crushed or dried . This scent helps discourage mosquitoes while also being used in herbal sachet , teas , and perfume . The works ’s creeping growth wont makes it a expectant ground cover for shaded areas .
In addition to repelling insects , odorous Galium odoratum is valued for its medicative and redolent place . It has been traditionally used in herbal remedy and to spirit drinks such as May wine . Its delicatewhite flower add beautyto woodland gardens .
Sweet woodruff thrives in USDA zones 4 - 8 , preferring moist , well - draining soil and partial to full shade . It spread easily , take form slow mat that help bottle up weeds while enhance the garden ’s artistic prayer .
Curry Plant (Helichrysum italicum)
The curry industrial plant breathe a inviolable , curry - similar aroma that drive back mosquitoes and other insects . While it does not produce the same spiciness used in cookery , its perfume is highly effective in deterring pests .
Beyond its mosquito - repelling properties , the curry plant has antibacterial and fungicidal benefit . It is commonly used in aromatherapy and skincare products for its assuasive and healing issue . Its silver - grayish leafage also adds ornamental time value to gardens .
This drought - tolerant plant fly high in USDA zones 7 - 10 , preferring full Sunday and well - draining grease . It is a hardy , low - sustainment plant that can be grown in garden beds or container .
Bee Balm (Monarda spp.)
Also known as Wild Bergamot , bee balm has a fragrant , citrusy scent that attract pollinators like bee and butterflies while repel mosquitoes . The plant ’s all-important oils , including thymol , make it a natural dirt ball hinderance .
jam its leaves publish a stronger aroma , which can be used to make a homemade mosquito - repellant spray . Bee balm is also rate for its medicinal properties , often used in herbal tea to soothe coldness and raw throat .
This stout recurrent grows well in USDA zones 3 - 9 , expand in well - draining soil with full to partial sun . It is an easy - to - turn plant that enhances any pollinator - friendly garden .
Sweet Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum)
Also known as Holy Basil or Tulsi , this Basil the Great variety not only repels mosquito but is also illustrious for its medicinal properties . Its strong clove - like scent keep mosquitoes at bay , and its leaves can be used to soothe insect bites .
Holy Basil has been used in traditional medicine for centuries , particularly in Ayurvedic practices , for its immune - boosting and stress - relieving benefits . It is also usually brewed into herbal tea .
Sweet Basil boom in USDA zone 10 - 11 but can be grown as an yearbook in cooler mood . It choose full Sunday and well - draining soil and can be civilize in grass for well-to-do accession to its bracing , fragrant leaves .
Nodding Onion (Allium cernuum)
Nodding Onion is a wild onion specie with a strong , acrid odor that repels mosquito and other louse pests . Its drooping , pinkish - purple flowers also draw good pollinators such as bee and butterflies .
Beyond its insect - repelling place , Nodding Onion is comestible and has been used by autochthonous polish for its mild onion nip and medicinal U.S.A. . It is a dauntless , adaptable flora that can thrive in various grease conditions .
This native repeated grows in USDA zone 3 - 9 , preferring well - drained soil and full sun to fond subtlety . It is a bouncy plant that naturalizes well in garden and wildflower meadows .
Horse Mint (Monarda punctata)
Horse Mint , also be intimate as Spotted Bee Balm , has a strong , spicy fragrance that effectively repels mosquitoes . Its essential oils take chemical compound like thymol and carvacrol , which are natural dirt ball check .
Aside from its mosquito - repelling attribute , Horse Mint is sleep with for its medicinal United States , let in treating respiratory ailments . It is drouth - liberal and thrive in pathetic soils , making it an fantabulous selection for xeriscaping and pollinator gardens .
This hardy perennial grows in USDA zones 4 - 9 , take full sun and well - drain soil . Its unique patched flush add aesthetic time value to gardens while serving as a nectar origin for bee and butterfly .
