Jen
Mosquitoes can quickly ruin a peaceful evening outdoors, and I used to rely on chemical sprays to keep them away. But after learning that certain plants naturally repel mosquitoes, I started growing them in my garden, on my patio, and even indoors near windows. Not only have they helped reduce mosquitoes, but they also add beauty, fragrance, and in some cases, even culinary benefits to my home.
If you’re looking for a natural way to keep mosquitoes at bay, here are 15 easy-to-grow plants that can help create a mosquito-free outdoor space.
1. Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus & Cymbopogon winterianus)
Citronella is one of the most well-known natural mosquito repellents. It’s a type of grass with a fresh, lemony scent that mosquitoes can’t stand. While citronella oil is often used in candles and sprays, I’ve found that growing the actual plant is just as effective.
How I Grow It:
I plant citronella in large pots since it can grow up to 6 feet tall. It loves warm, humid weather, full sun, and well-drained soil. During colder months, I bring it indoors to keep it thriving.
2. Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
Lavender’s calming fragrance may be relaxing for us, but mosquitoes hate it. The plant’s natural oils act as an effective deterrent, and I love brushing my hands over the leaves to release the scent.
How I Grow It:
Lavender thrives in full sun and dry, well-drained soil. I plant it in pots near my windows and patio to keep mosquitoes away. It also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it a great addition to any garden.
3. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Basil is more than just a delicious kitchen herb—it also helps keep mosquitoes away. The strong aroma, particularly from varieties like lemon basil and cinnamon basil, acts as a natural repellent.
How I Grow It:
Basil grows well in pots and garden beds. It needs full sun, moist soil, and regular trimming to keep it from flowering too soon. I keep a few pots near my outdoor dining area, so I can grab fresh leaves for cooking while keeping bugs at bay.
4. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)
Marigolds contain pyrethrum, a natural insecticide that repels mosquitoes and other pests. Their bright orange and yellow flowers also add a beautiful pop of color to my garden.
How I Grow It:
Marigolds are low-maintenance and thrive in full sun. I plant them in pots and place them near doorways and patios for maximum mosquito protection.
5. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
Lemon balm has a citrusy scent that mosquitoes dislike, making it a great natural repellent. It also has soothing properties and can be used for herbal teas.
How I Grow It:
Lemon balm spreads aggressively, so I keep it in pots to prevent it from taking over my garden. It grows well in both full sun and partial shade and requires regular pruning.
6. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Rosemary’s woody, aromatic scent repels mosquitoes while attracting beneficial pollinators. I also love using it in cooking, making it a multi-purpose plant in my garden.
How I Grow It:
Rosemary prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It thrives in pots and can be easily pruned to maintain its shape. I keep a few pots near my outdoor seating area.
7. Mint (Mentha spp.)
Mint’s strong fragrance makes it an excellent mosquito repellent. Plus, I use it in drinks, desserts, and even homemade mosquito sprays.
How I Grow It:
Mint spreads quickly, so I always grow it in pots. It thrives in partial sun and moist soil, making it one of the easiest plants to care for.
8. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
Catnip contains nepetalactone, a compound that is more effective at repelling mosquitoes than some commercial insect sprays.
How I Grow It:
Catnip grows easily in full sun and well-drained soil. I plant it in pots to control its spreading and keep it away from areas where I don’t want my cat rolling around in it!
9. Bee Balm (Monarda spp.)
Bee balm has a beautiful, vibrant bloom that attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds while keeping mosquitoes away.
How I Grow It:
I plant bee balm in my garden and also keep a few pots near my patio. It needs full sun and moist, well-drained soil to thrive.
10. Garlic (Allium sativum)
Garlic’s strong scent repels mosquitoes and many other garden pests. Plus, it’s great for cooking!
How I Grow It:
Garlic is easy to grow in pots or directly in the ground. I plant it in the fall for a summer harvest and enjoy its pest-repelling benefits in the meantime.
11. Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)
Pennyroyal is a lesser-known mint variety that has a strong mosquito-repelling scent.
How I Grow It:
Since it spreads aggressively, I keep it in pots. It does well in partial to full sun and needs regular watering.
12. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
Lemongrass contains citronella, making it an effective mosquito deterrent. It’s also great for cooking and herbal teas.
How I Grow It:
Lemongrass needs warm weather, full sun, and well-draining soil. I grow it in large pots and bring it indoors during the winter.
13. Allium (Allium giganteum)
Ornamental alliums not only have striking globe-like flowers, but they also help keep mosquitoes away.
How I Grow It:
I plant alliums in my garden beds, and they thrive in full sun with well-drained soil.
14. Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.)
Eucalyptus releases a menthol-like scent that naturally repels mosquitoes.
How I Grow It:
I grow a small eucalyptus tree in a pot on my patio. It needs full sun and dry, well-drained soil.
15. Chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum spp.)
Chrysanthemums contain pyrethrins, which are used in many insect repellents.
How I Grow It:
I plant them in flower beds and containers near my outdoor seating area. They love full sun and well-drained soil.
Final Thoughts
Since adding these mosquito-repelling plants to my garden, I’ve noticed a significant reduction in mosquitoes. I no longer have to rely on harsh chemicals, and my outdoor space looks and smells incredible. If you’re tired of dealing with mosquitoes, try growing a few of these plants—your garden and skin will thank you!
Do you grow any mosquito-repelling plants? Let me know which ones work best for you in the comments! Happy gardening!
