Mosquitoes are the uninvited guests that show up to every backyard gathering, ready to turn you into their next meal. Instead of dousing yourself in chemical sprays, why not let nature do the work? These mosquito-repelling plants look great, smell amazing, and keep the biting pests at bay. Let’s make your yard a no-fly zone.
1. Lavender: A Fragrant Mosquito Repellent
Lavender doesn’t just smell incredible; it also keeps mosquitoes away. The plant’s natural oils are unpleasant to these pesky insects, making it a great addition to patios, walkways, or garden beds.
Bonus: It attracts bees and butterflies while giving your yard a fresh, relaxing aroma. Mosquitoes hate it, but your nose will love it.
2. Citronella Grass: Nature’s Bug Spray
Citronella is the main ingredient in most mosquito repellents, so why not grow the real deal? This tall, lush grass releases a strong citrus scent that mosquitoes can’t stand. It thrives in warm climates and does best in pots or garden borders. For extra protection, crush the leaves to release even more mosquito-fighting power.
3. Marigolds: A Bright and Bug-Free Garden
These cheerful flowers do more than add color to your garden. Marigolds contain pyrethrum, a natural insecticide that repels mosquitoes, aphids, and other pests. I planted marigolds near my vegetable garden last year, and for once, I wasn’t eaten alive while picking tomatoes. Talk about a win-win.
4. Basil: Delicious in the Kitchen, Tough on Mosquitoes
Fresh basil is a must for summer salads and homemade pesto, but it also keeps mosquitoes at bay. The strong aroma confuses their tiny bug brains, making it harder for them to locate their next snack. Place basil pots near doorways or outdoor seating areas for easy access to both mosquito control and Italian-inspired meals.
5. Lemon Balm: A Minty Mosquito Deterrent
Lemon balm smells like a mix of citrus and mint, which mosquitoes absolutely loathe. This fast-growing herb is perfect for garden borders or containers, and it even has the bonus of soothing bug bites if you rub the leaves on your skin. It’s basically the plant equivalent of a mosquito’s worst nightmare.
6. Rosemary: Keeps Pests Away While Making Your Meals Better
Rosemary adds depth to roasted veggies and grilled meats, but it also serves as a natural bug repellent. Mosquitoes can’t stand the scent, making it a great choice for herb gardens or outdoor cooking spaces. Throw a few sprigs on the grill, and you’ll not only season your meal but also keep the bugs away.
7. Catnip: More Than Just a Treat for Cats
Catnip is famous for making cats go wild, but it also happens to be a powerful mosquito repellent. Studies have shown that catnip is even more effective than DEET, the active ingredient in most bug sprays. I planted some near my patio, and while my cat was thrilled, the mosquitoes got the hint and left me alone.
8. Peppermint: Fresh Scent, No Biting Insects
Peppermint smells fantastic, grows like crazy, and makes mosquitoes disappear. The strong menthol aroma overwhelms them, so they steer clear. As a bonus, crushing peppermint leaves and rubbing them on your skin provides a natural cooling effect. It’s refreshing for you and miserable for mosquitoes.
9. Eucalyptus: A Powerful Natural Repellent
Eucalyptus is well-known for its ability to clear sinuses, but it also clears mosquitoes out of your yard. The strong scent confuses and repels them, making it a great addition to any landscape. If you crush the leaves, you’ll release even more of its bug-repelling oils, keeping your outdoor space bite-free.
10. Geraniums: Beauty and Mosquito Control in One
Geraniums provide vibrant blooms while working overtime to keep mosquitoes at bay. The lemon-scented varieties, in particular, are highly effective. I lined my front porch with geraniums last summer, and not only did my yard look incredible, but I also enjoyed mosquito-free evenings. A win for aesthetics and comfort.
Jamie is the founder of The Backyard Pros. When he was 15 years old he started working at a garden centre helping people buy plants, gardening products, and lawn care products. He has real estate experience and he is a home owner. Jamie loves backyard projects, refinishing furniture, and enjoys sharing his knowledge online.