If you live in Louisiana like I do, you know that when Spring hits and the flowers start blooming, so does the infestation of the mosquitoes. In fact, I always joke that mosquitoes are our actual state bird, and they can make spending time outdoors a nuisance. That’s why I decided to put together a list of plants that are a natural mosquito repellent. You don’t have to cover yourself in chemicals to keep them away, let mother nature help you out naturally.
Plants that are a Natural Mosquito Repellent
Lavender – (Lavandula) The leaves and the flowers of the Lavender plant contain strong essential oils that neither mosquitoes or foraging deer like to be around. It’s also a beautiful plant that can grow well with other perennials.
Peppermint – the strong scent of a peppermint plant will keep all of the nasty little bugs away. It’s fairly easy to grow, and can also be used for other things such as aiding in digestion and opening up your head due to congestion from the flu or a cold.
Basil – A plant that thrives in the heat of the Summer (when mosquitoes are worst!). It’s not only an easy mosquito repellent, but it’s also a great fresh herb to use when cooking.
Marigolds – They come in a variety of colors, and the strong pungent smell of these flowers keep the mosquitoes far, far away. Fun fact: You can crush the petals of marigolds and make a paste, place on your fingernails, and cover with a bandaid or cloth for an hour. Remove, and you will have naturally color dyed finger nails that will last.
Citronella – Probably the most common of all of the mosquito repellents, this citrusy smelling plant will indeed keep the little bugs away. It also grows between 2 and 4 feet, so make sure you give it lots of space.
Lemon Grass – Lemon grass isn’t just used for flavoring your chicken. This plant also contains citronella, which is a natural mosquito deterrent.
Catnip – Probably one of the strongest natural mosquito repellents available. It keep the kittens happy, and the little bugs far away!
Natural Mosquito Repellent
There are a few more plants that can keep mosquitoes away, but if you don’t have a green thumb (or the room for all of these mosquito repelling plants), then consider making your own mosquito spray by using the essential oils in these plants. I made my own personal bug b gone for my family with some of these essential oils found in the plants described above. I love how well it works, and how good it smells.
Make sure to keep all of the mosquitoes at bay this Spring and Summer by introducing your back yard to plants that are a natural mosquito repellent. You family (and your pets!) will thank you for it.
Leslie says
April 6, 2015 at 09:35I love the smell of lavender. I had no idea it keep the skeeto’s away. These little pests are bad around the summer here too! Thanks for sharing.
Seana+Turner says
April 7, 2015 at 06:50You struggle with mosquitos and we struggle with deer, and the ticks that ride on them! I love lavender – it just smells like heaven:) I actually never thought about growing lemongrass or catnip… do the deer eat them?