Keep Mosquitoes Away by Planting Certain Plants in Your Garden

Mosquito bites are not only annoying, but they also present a significant health risk. Mosquitoes are considered to be the deadliest animal family in the world and transmit extremely harmful diseases like malaria, yellow fever, Chikungunya, West Nile virus, dengue fever, filariasis, and Zika virus. Mosquitoes are attracted to humans and other animals by the scent of carbon dioxide and other tempting fragrances we emit. Luckily, there are aromas that can be used to keep mosquitoes away without the use of chemicals.

Bright Side is excited to share 7 common gardening plants with you that can serve as a deterrent to pesky mosquitoes.

Lavender

The pleasant fragrance of lavender is perceived as offensive by mosquitoes. As an added bonus, lavender also has anti-fungal and antiseptic properties. You can plant it in your garden or in pots situated near your doors and windows. For even better protection, rub the flowers onto your skin to release its oils.

Marigolds

Marigolds are an easy-to-grow flower that contains thiophenes, a compound with insect repellent properties. They are effective in deterring mosquitoes, aphids, thrips, whiteflies, Mexican bean beetles, squash bugs, and tomato hornworms.

Geraniums

Geraniums are an incredibly attractive decorative plant that can also deter mosquitoes and several types of pests. While these fast-growing plants like warm, sunny, dry climates, they can also be grown in colder places in planters and should be pruned frequently.

Rosemary

This plant is commonly used to flavor dishes, but its woody aroma is also effective in keeping mosquitoes, cabbage moths, and carrot flies at bay. Rosemary is also great when you want to enjoy some time around a bonfire without battling mosquitoes. Just put some rosemary leaves in the fire and the scent it produces will keep the annoying mosquitoes away.

Peppermint

Here’s another herb that serves more purpose than just culinary use. Studies have found that peppermint oil can repel malaria, filarial and yellow fever vectors for a period of 60-180 mins.

Basil

Basil isn’t just a tasty herb that you can use to season your favorite Italian food, but it’s also a handy natural mosquito repellent. Due to the pungent smell emanating from its leaves, mosquitoes prefer not to come close to it. In fact, there was a study that showed it was potentially toxic to mosquitoes.

Catnip

Not only will your pet cat thank you for having catnip plants in your garden, but you’ll also be able to enjoy walking in your garden without getting pesky mosquito bites. Studies have shown that catnip is about 10 times more effective than DEET at repelling mosquitoes.

Have you tried any of these natural mosquito repellents? Or maybe you know other plants that should be added to the list? Let us know in the comments below.