As the days get warmer here in Central Virginia, fireflies come out to play, and mosquitoes come out to feast. While you can’t entirely eliminate these pesky critters, there are some great natural ways to keep them at bay, starting with plants that can help repel them or disguise your scent. And the best part? Many of these plants also support local pollinators and enhance the beauty of your garden.
Mosquito-Repelling Plants You Need to Know About
Lemon Grass
Lemon Grass, with its vibrant lemon-lime foliage, contains citronella oil—something mosquitoes just can’t stand. When purchasing it, look for varieties labeled Cybopogon or Citronella winterianus, as these are the ones that pack the most mosquito-repelling power. Just be cautious—while the scent is great, it’s best not to rub the plant directly on your skin, as some may find it irritating.
Lemon Balm
A fast-growing, drought-tolerant, and perennial herb, Lemon Balm is a fantastic addition to any garden. Like Lemon Grass, it contains citronella oil. It’s a great option if you live in zones where Lemon Grass isn’t winter-hardy, like Zone 7. Plus, you can make a soothing tea by steeping a few sprigs in boiling water.
Lemon Thyme
This herb does double duty—it not only repels mosquitoes, but it also makes an attractive ground cover for sunny, low-traffic areas. The tiny flowers are also a favorite of pollinators, so you’ll help out the local bee population while keeping the mosquitoes at bay.
Catnip
Yes, your cats will love it, but mosquitoes won’t! A 2010 study from Iowa State University found that catnip oil is even more effective than DEET at repelling mosquitoes. Plus, it’s a perennial that thrives in most gardens, and its flowers attract pollinators.
Basil
Basil isn’t just for cooking—its strong scent also repels mosquitoes. You can even make a homemade insect repellent by boiling basil leaves, steeping them for a few hours, and then mixing with vodka in a spray bottle. Keep this handy for those times when you’re out in the garden!
Marigolds
Marigolds are a garden favorite for many reasons: their vibrant flowers, ability to repel aphids, and even their mosquito-repelling properties. The flowers’ spicy fragrance is what keeps mosquitoes away, so plant them in pots around your deck or garden to enjoy their beauty while keeping pests at bay.
Other Strong-Smelling Herbs
Herbs like Rosemary, Lavender, Oregano, Sage, Mint, and regular Thyme are all great at camouflaging your scent, making it harder for mosquitoes to find you. So go ahead, plant them around your outdoor spaces and enjoy their pleasant fragrance while keeping mosquitoes at a distance.
How to Make the Most of Mosquito-Repellent Plants
While planting these mosquito-repelling plants is a great start, you can maximize their effectiveness by bruising or crushing their leaves to release the essential oils. A quick rub of basil, lemon balm, or catnip leaves with your hands will do the trick. You can even crush a few sprigs and leave them in bowls around your outdoor areas. Just be sure to check for any skin reactions before applying directly to your skin.
Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Grounds
It’s not all about the plants—controlling mosquitoes also requires eliminating their breeding grounds. Mosquitoes only need a small amount of standing water to lay their eggs, so it’s crucial to keep your yard free of stagnant water. Be sure to:
- Empty birdbaths at least every two days.
- Check under decks or patios for water trapped in saucers or containers.
- Drain any standing water in gutters or splash guards under downspouts.
- Use mosquito “dunks” in any larger bodies of standing water to kill larvae without harming fish.
Encourage Wildlife to Help
Birds and bats are natural mosquito control agents. Encourage them to visit your yard by planting bird-friendly shrubs and flowers, setting up bird feeders and houses, and maintaining fresh water in birdbaths. A single bat can eat thousands of mosquitoes in a single evening, so consider adding a bat house to your yard as well!
Shop Mosquito-Repelling Plants at The Great Big Greenhouse
Want to give your yard a natural mosquito shield? Stop by The Great Big Greenhouse in Richmond to find many of these plants. Our team is always happy to help you pick the perfect plant for your space.