Are buzzing mosquitoes turning your backyard oasis into an itchy nightmare? We’ve all been there—trying to enjoy a warm evening only to have mosquitoes swoop in like they own the place.
But fear not, because Mother Nature has got your back! Imagine sipping lemonade on your porch, the evening breeze flowing, and no mosquitoes in sight.
Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it doesn’t have to be. I’ve discovered 20 amazing plants that naturally repel mosquitoes—and they don’t just keep bugs away.
Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or just kicking back on a quiet night, these plants will let you enjoy the great outdoors without constantly swatting at the air. Trust me, your backyard will thank you!
1. Basil
Apart from being just a culinary delight, it’s also a stealthy mosquito repeller. Imagine plucking fresh basil for your pesto while keeping mosquitoes at arm’s length.
Its pungent aroma confuses and repels the pesky insects. I planted basil near my kitchen window, and it keeps both the mosquitoes and gnats away.
Plus, it’s always within reach when I need herbs for cooking. An all-natural solution that’s both practical and delicious!
2. Mint
Mint’s refreshing aroma is delightful for us but repulsive to mosquitoes.
What do you think would be a result of planting mint around your garden? A delightful fragrance wafting in the air and far fewer mosquito bites!
Mint grows abundantly, making it a perfect ground cover. It’s also fantastic for adding a little zest to your summer drinks. An aromatic barrier against mosquitoes while doubling as a cocktail garnish? Count me in!
3. Marigold
One of the best gardener’s trusty ally against mosquitoes. Their bright blooms act as a bold warning sign for these pests.
Planting marigolds around your vegetable garden, and it’s like having a built-in mosquito fence. The strong scent deters mosquitoes and other garden pests too.
Bonus: They add a pop of color to any landscape, enhancing the garden’s beauty while protecting it. It’s a win-win for both your eyes and your skin!
4. Rosemary
Not only is it just for flavoring your roast chicken—it’s also a mosquito’s nemesis. I’ve grown rosemary on my balcony, where its robust scent wards off unwanted winged guests.
It’s hardy and doesn’t require much attention, perfect for the not-so-green-thumbed among us. Plus, it’s handy for cooking.
Just brush against the plant to release its invigorating aroma, creating a mosquito-free zone where you can relax and enjoy your meal al fresco!
5. Lemon Balm
A close relative of mint, is another plant mosquitoes can’t stand. Its citrusy scent is invigorating to us but dreadful to mosquitoes.
Planting it along your backdoor, will make entering your home is like passing through a citrusy shield! It’s easy to grow and can even be brewed into a calming tea.
Lemon balm serves as both a protective plant and a refreshing herbal remedy. Who knew mosquito defense could be so relaxing?
6. Sage
Mosquitoes despise the earthy aroma that sage emits. I discovered its repelling powers during an outdoor barbecue, where burning a little sage in the fire pit kept the flies away.
The smoke creates an aromatic barrier that mosquitoes dare not cross. Plus, its leaves can be used in teas or cooking.
Sage is truly an all-around herb that protects while spicing up your dishes. It’s like nature’s very own mosquito smoke bomb!
7. Catnip
Catnip is a feline favorite but a mosquito’s foe. Its active ingredient, nepetalactone, is highly effective at repelling mosquitoes.
You can also make a homemade catnip spray, and it will turn your patio into a no-fly zone. While cats will love rolling around in it, mosquitoes will keep their distance.
Beyond repelling pests, catnip can entertain your kitties for hours. A plant that doubles as a pet toy and insect repellent? It’s a win for both you and your furry friends!
8. Citronella
Another superstar of mosquito-repelling plants. Its strong lemony scent is like kryptonite to mosquitoes. Wouldn’t it be nice just planting something near my patio, and voilà! Your summer nights transformed.
As the sun sets, the aroma fills the air, creating an invisible barrier against those buzzing nuisances. Citronella is also easy to grow in pots.
So, even if you don’t have a garden, a few of these plants can still work their magic on your balcony. Say goodbye to chemical sprays!
9. Garlic
Not only is it just for warding off vampires; it sends mosquitoes packing too. I once read about garlic’s repelling properties and decided to try planting it around my garden.
To my amazement, the mosquitoes vanished! The sulfur compounds in garlic create an odor they can’t stand.
Besides its repellent qualities, garlic is a kitchen staple. It’s a potent and practical addition to any garden, offering both culinary value and a pest-free environment.
10. Peppermint
It’s refreshing scent is universally loved, except by mosquitoes. It serves as a great barrier if you plant it along your garden path, and it will become a game-changer.
The invigorating smell not only lifts your spirits but also drives mosquitoes away. Peppermint oil can be used as a natural insect repellent on the skin.
It’s a versatile plant that doesn’t just repel pests but also flavors your teas and desserts. Keeping mosquitoes at bay never smelled (or tasted) so good!
11. Lavender
Not only does it smells divine but also acts as a natural mosquito deterrent. Its calming scent is a real treat for humans, but mosquitoes? Not so much.
Just sprinkle dried lavender around your living room, and it will work wonders indoors as well! The charming purple blooms double as a feast for the eyes and a curse for mosquitoes.
Plus, lavender oil can be used on the skin for added protection. Who knew staying bug-free could smell this good?
12. Thyme
This is a small but mighty mosquito repeller. Its earthy aroma is a natural deterrent. Don’t overlooked this humble herb, because after planting it, you will notice a dramatic decrease in mosquito visits.
Thyme is perfect for window boxes or garden edges. It’s also a culinary asset, infusing dishes with its unique flavor.
This tiny plant packs a powerful punch against mosquitoes, making outdoor dining more enjoyable. The secret weapon against those buzzing intruders!
13. Eucalyptus
With its potent scent that is driving the mosquitos away, Eucalyptus is a natural mosquito deterrent. If you can, place eucalyptus oil diffusers around your home, creating an invisible barrier mosquitoes don’t cross.
The fresh, invigorating smell purifies the air, turning any room into a mini eucalyptus forest. Its oil can also be used topically for added protection.
Eucalyptus is a tall tree with a big impact, offering both aesthetic beauty and functional mosquito control.
14. Geranium
Don’t you love when flowers are more than just pretty flowers, but they’re mosquito repellents. Their strong fragrance is unappealing to mosquitoes.
I’ve adorned my balcony with colorful geranium pots, and they’ve been a vibrant shield against bites. Besides adding a splash of color, their scent keeps the area bug-free.
Geranium oil is also a natural insect repellent for the skin. A plant that combines beauty with pest control—what more could you ask for?
15. Fennel
If you thought fennel is just for the kitchen, you thought wrong as it keeps mosquitoes at bay too. I discovered its repelling qualities after planting it amongst my flowers.
The mosquitoes seemed to vanish overnight! Fennel’s aromatic oils deter these pests while adding height and texture to the garden.
Beyond its natural defense, fennel is a culinary star, enhancing dishes with its unique flavor. A versatile addition to any garden, it offers both beauty and protection.
16. Petunia
Petunias are a gardener’s delight, offering beauty and mosquito deterrence. I used to have them in my window boxes, and they transformed my home into a mosquito-free zone.
Their vibrant blooms are a visual treat, and their slightly sticky leaves trap insects, including mosquitoes. The natural bug-busting properties of petunias make them a must-have for any garden.
Enjoy a splash of color while keeping those pesky insects away—nature’s beautiful solution!
17. Allium
Being a member of the onion family they have a secret: they’re mosquito repellents. Just plant them along your garden path, and mosquitoes will seem to disappear.
Their unique spherical flowers are a visual delight, and their strong scent is a mosquito’s nightmare. Not only do they add height and beauty to your garden, but they also keep unwanted pests at bay.
Alliums effortlessly combine aesthetics with functionality, offering both charm and protection.
18. Bee Balm
With its spicy fragrance, is not a mosquito’s friend. I planted it near my patio, and it’s been a game-changer.
The mosquitoes simply vanished, leaving behind an enchanting array of colorful blooms that attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Bee balm is easy to grow and adds a whimsical touch to any garden. It’s a plant that offers beauty, pollinator attraction, and mosquito repulsion. A delightful triple threat for your outdoor space!
19. Clove
These plants have an unmistakable aroma that mosquitoes can’t stand. If you place cloves around your patio table, it will drive the mosquitoes away.
The rich scent of clove creates a natural barrier, protecting your outdoor spaces. Clove oil can also be used as a topical mosquito repellent.
This tropical plant not only adds an exotic touch to your garden but also provides an effective defense against unwanted pests. An aromatic alliance against mosquitoes!
20. Verbena
With its sweet fragrance, is a mosquito’s nemesis. Planting it along your garden edge, you create a fragrant shield. The mosquitoes seemed to vanish!
Verbena’s vibrant flowers attract pollinators while deterring unwelcome guests. Besides its pest-repelling properties, verbena is a visual delight, adding a splash of color to your garden.
This plant is a multi-tasker, offering both beauty and an effective mosquito deterrent. Nature’s fragrant defense against those annoying intruders!