30 Plants that naturally repel mosquitoes from any yard

A faint buzzing by your ear usually means a mosquito is close by. These bothersome insects flourish in warm climates and are always ready to bite.

Fortunately, some plants serve as natural deterrents and can help minimize the chances of mosquitoes transmitting viruses to people and pets.

Allium Is Related To Onions

Allium flowers, close relatives of onions, are praised for their mosquito-repelling properties—just like their onion counterparts.

They feature tall, thin stems topped with round, pom-pom-like blossoms and come in an array of colors, from blue and purple to red, pink, white, and yellow.

Citronella Is Often Used In Candles

Citronella is a popular choice for mosquito-repelling candles and belongs to the geranium family, making it ideal for warmer regions.

This plant grows best in full to partial sunlight, though it benefits from some shelter during the intense midday sun.

Wormwood Has A Sharp Smell

Wormwood is commonly used in essential oils and as a bitter flavoring in certain beverages. Its strong, pungent scent makes it effective at deterring mosquitoes.

Also known as absinthe or mugwort, this plant can reach up to three feet in height and usually blooms with yellow flowers during the summer.

Sage Is Very Versatile

Sage is one of the most effective plants for keeping mosquitoes at bay. With its soft silvery-green leaves, it’s also a staple in many Mediterranean recipes.

It’s a highly adaptable herb, thriving best in full sunlight and well-drained soil, but it also grows nicely in containers, making it a great option for patios and balconies.

Oregano Isn’t Just For An Herb Garden

Planting oregano comes with plenty of perks. It’s not only a flavorful addition to countless recipes, but it also helps repel mosquitoes naturally.

This versatile herb works well as ground cover or edging and can easily be grown in pots, window boxes, or other containers, making it perfect for gardens of all sizes.

Lemongrass Grows Best In This Climate

For those in warmer climates, planting lemongrass can be an effective way to keep mosquitoes at bay. In addition to repelling bugs, it’s also a flavorful addition to many dishes.

Lemongrass typically grows in dense clusters and is best planted directly in the ground, though it can begin in a pot.

The Benefits Of Fennel

Fennel, a bulbous vegetable often used in Italian cooking, is related to the carrot, though it’s not a root vegetable.

In addition to its culinary uses, fennel helps protect against mosquitoes. When cooked, it adds a mild licorice flavor that complements various dishes.

Garlic Works Wonders For Repelling Mosquitoes

Garlic, a member of the allium family, is highly effective at repelling mosquitoes. While it’s a popular ingredient in cooking, it can be toxic to animals.

If you have pets, it’s best to avoid growing garlic. Consumption of garlic by animals can cause organ damage.

Pitcher Plants Are Carnivores

Unlike most plants that simply repel mosquitoes, pitcher plants take a more dramatic approach. As carnivores, they can trap and consume mosquitoes.

These unique plants are commonly found in the southern United States, particularly in states like Louisiana and Mississippi.

American Beautyberries Can Grow Very Tall

If you’re looking for tall plants that also help ward off mosquitoes, American beautyberries are a great option.

These plants can grow up to six feet tall and wide, with purple berries lining the stalks rather than the tips. The berries typically emerge during the fall and winter months.

Lavender Drives Mosquitoes Away

Lavender is known for its calming fragrance and is commonly found in essential oils. Dried lavender can also be incorporated into homemade beauty treatments.

This hardy plant thrives in full sunlight, requires excellent drainage, and is drought-tolerant. Additionally, it’s an effective natural mosquito repellent.

Consider Planting Some Eucalyptus

Since eucalyptus has a strong fragrance, it repels mosquitoes almost immediately. Eucalyptus is part of the myrtle family, which means it’s a fast-growing plant.

Those who choose to grow it should know that the trees require full sun and the soil needs to be well-drained. Outdoor eucalyptus doesn’t typically need fertilizer.

Catnip Can Save You From Mosquito Bites

Catnip, along with other plants in the catmint family, is highly effective at keeping mosquitoes at bay.

The nepetalactone in its leaves is believed to be at least 10 times more potent than many commercial mosquito repellents. However, it’s worth noting that catnip can quickly take over flowerbeds, so careful planting is advised.

Monarda Will Attract These Animals

Monarda, commonly known as bee balm, horsemint, or wild bergamot, is an excellent plant for repelling mosquitoes. However, it also attracts beneficial wildlife, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

This vibrant plant typically flowers in shades of red, purple, pink, or white and can reach a height of two to four feet.

Why Lantana Camaras Are So Unique

One of the most viable mosquito-repellent plants is the Lantana Camara. This plant has woody stalks with flowers that have two colors in the same bundle.

Mosquitoes dislike Lantana Camaras because of their distinct, citrusy scent. These plants need to grow in full sun and the soil needs to be well-drained.

The Special Chemical Inside Ageratums

Ageratum, also known as floss flowers, are one of the most effective plants for repelling mosquitoes. This is due to the chemical inside the flower called coumarin.

Ageratums are typically purple or pink and will bloom in spring, summer, or fall. This plant should be grown in partial sun in a warmer climate.

Why Lemon Geraniums Are The Best

One of the best types of plants to use when trying to repel mosquitoes is the lemon geranium. The strong lemony scent is great for getting them out of the area.

Typically, lemon geraniums are a light purple and pink flower with a pistil that splits. These need to grow in full to partial sun.

Lemon Balm Can Be Used In The Kitchen

Since lemon balm has a citrus scent, mosquitoes are instantly repelled to it. This plant has many uses, such as being an ingredient in food dishes or an essential oil.

This herb is a member of the mint family and can do well being planted indoors. Lemon balm needs at least five to six hours of light per day.

Peppermint Provides A Nice Flavor

Those who want to get rid of mosquitoes should consider planting some peppermint. Mosquitoes are repelled by the overpowering minty aroma.

However, having peppermint nearby can be great for adding some flavor to your dishes and drinks. Peppermint does best when it’s grown in a container with partial shade and moist soil conditions.

Why You Should Grow Lemon Thyme

Mosquitoes really don’t like lemon, so growing lemon thyme should get rid of them in an instant.

It typically grows between six to 12 inches high and between 12 and 18 inches wide. Lemon thyme has small bright green leaves with tiny light purple flowers when it’s in full bloom.

Why Rosemary Repels Mosquitoes

One of the reasons why rosemary does well when it repels mosquitoes is because of its woody fragrance. It also looks nice in the garden with lavender-colored flowers.

Growing rosemary can be tricky because it thrives in hot, dry conditions and will be fine when grown in a container. Rosemary needs full sun and well-drained soil.

Get The Basil Ready

Not only is basil a popular cooking ingredient, but it also does wonders with shooing away mosquitoes.

Basil will start growing flowers when it stops producing new leaves. In order to prevent this from happening, make sure to remove the buds when they pop up. Basil prefers lots of sun, moist soil, and good drainage.

Pennyroyals Are Toxic

While pennyroyal plants do a terrific job of repelling against mosquitoes, it’s crucial to know that they are toxic.

If pennyroyals are ingested, they can cause organ failure, so never plant them if there are children or pets around the home. This plant grows in full to partial sun and loves moist soil.

Mosquitoes Shy Away From Feverfews

Feverfews are yellow and white flowers that have a similar look to a daisy. These plants have the power to get rid of migraines, but also repel mosquitoes.

Feverfews are part of the chrysanthemum family and have a lemon scent that mosquitoes hate. People should know that they can take over a garden if not properly grown.

Chrysanthemums Will Come In Handy

Chrysanthemums, also known as mums, come in a wide array of colors and are typically in full bloom during the fall.

Planting these flowers in your garden will come in handy because they will protect you against mosquitoes. They are overly fragrant with a slight sweetness that keep mosquitoes at bay.

Tansy Flowers Are More Than Cute

Tansy flowers have fern-shaped leaves with petals in the shape of a button. While these tend to grow in clumps, they actually aren’t wildflowers.

They need to be properly cared for because they can spread incredibly fast. Tansy flowers do repel mosquitoes, but the plant can be evasive, so inexperienced gardeners should avoid them.

Grow Lemon Verbenas During This Time Of Year

Mosquitoes can’t stand citrus fragrances, so the lemon verbena plant is one of its worst enemies. This lemon scented plant is adorned with tiny purple and white flowers and starts blooming in late spring.

If you want to know if they are being trimmed correctly, make sure that they take on a bushy look. This allows it to replenish itself during the growing season.

Take A Gander At Calendulas

Calendula flowers are part of the daisy family. They can also be described as pot marigold, which shouldn’t be confused with the common marigolds.

Calendulas come in many different colors and work wonders with getting rid of mosquitoes. This flower is native to southwestern Asia, western Europe, Macaronesia, and the Mediterranean.

Grow Some Vibrant Marigold

While marigold doesn’t have the best scent, it is effective in getting rid of mosquitoes and other pesky bugs.

Marigolds are relatively easy to grow and can make a beautiful addition to a garden with their vibrant colors. This plant usually blooms from summer to the first frost of the year.

Cedar Trees Prevent Mosquitoes From Taking Over

There are certain trees that have the potential to prevent mosquitoes from taking over. Cedar trees are some of the biggest of all time and they can repel mosquitoes and other bugs.

Since they have longevity, cedars have become one of the longest-lasting pest controls for people to use. Consider planting this kind of tree in your backyard.