Growing These Plants Will
Mosquito-Proof
Your Outdoor Space
All of the many varieties of this warm-weather herb discourage mosquitoes from lingering, so choose your favorites and plant them in a sunny spot.
Citronella
You’re probably familiar with citronella candles but might not realize that their strong fragrance, which is very objectionable to mosquitoes, is extracted from the leaves of the citronella plant.
Like most members of the mint family, peppermint’s fragrance is a natural mosquito turnoff. It can also be invasive, so corral it in a container, set it in a partially shaded spot, and water regularly so soil won’t dry out.
There are many varieties of this annual, but lemon, lime, orange, and peppermint geraniums are some of the most effective flowers that repel mosquitoes.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus plants repel mosquitoes and can be a welcome, fragrant addition to your yard, deck, or patio. If you live in a climate with colder winters, bring it indoors when the temperatures drop.
Rosemary does it all: adds pretty purple flowers to your garden, is a versatile herb in the kitchen, and discourages mosquitoes with its potent fragrance.
Lantana Camara
These anti-mosquito plants are also very popular with pollinators, for the added benefit of attracting hummingbirds and butterflies to your garden space.
You’ll appreciate its flavor in the kitchen, but mosquitoes hate the citrus scent. Fertilize every few weeks with a fish emulsion or general fertilizer, and keep the soil moist.
Commonly called bee balm, Monarda is a beautiful flowering perennial that attracts desirable pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, but repels mosquitoes with its minty-herbal scent.
American Beautyberry
Not only will the American beautyberry shrub keep mosquitoes away, it will also add some visual appeal to your garden space and attract songbirds with its gorgeous purple berry clusters.