Mosquitos are more than just a nuisance; they can also be dangerous, carrying diseases like Zika virus, West Nile virus, and malaria. In some parts of the world, these diseases are endemic, which means that people have to take extra precautions to avoid being bitten by a mosquito. One of the best ways to protect yourself from mosquitos is to surround yourself with plants that repel them. Here are 7 plants to keep the mosquitoes away.
1. Catnip
Catnip is a plant in the mint family that is beloved by cats but detested by mosquitoes. In fact, catnip is 10 times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET, the active ingredient in most insect repellents. Catnip can be grown as a stand-alone plant or used as a ground cover.
2. Basil
Basil is not only a delicious herb that can be used in cooking; it’s also an effective mosquito repellent. Basil contains a compound called linalool, which has mosquito-repellent properties. basil can be grown in pots or in the ground, making it a versatile addition to any garden.
3. Rosemary
Rosemary is another herb that can be used for both cooking and mosquito control. Like basil, rosemary contains linalool, which makes it an effective mosquito repellent. Rosemary can also be used as a decoration, adding a beautiful and fragrant touch to any room.
4. Lavender
Lavender is well-known for its relaxing properties, but did you know that it’s also great for keeping mosquitoes away? The combination of its pleasant smell and mosquito-repelling properties make lavender an ideal plant for any home or garden.
5. Garlic
Garlic is best known as a culinary ingredient, but it also has mosquito-repelling properties. When used as an insecticide, garlic is just as effective as DEET at repelling mosquitoes. Garlic can be planted in the ground or in pots, and it’s easy to find at any grocery store.
6. Marigolds
Marigolds are beautiful flowers that are commonly used in gardens and landscaping. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, marigolds are also effective at repelling mosquitoes. The flowers produce pyrethrum, which is a compound that is often used in insecticides and mosquito repellents.
7. Citronella grass
Citronella grass is perhaps best known for its use in citronella candles, which are often used to repel mosquitoes outdoors. Citronella candles are made from the oil of citronella grass, which contains compounds that repel mosquitoes effectively. Citronella grass can be planted in the ground or in pots and will begin producing oil after about 6 months .
These 7 plants are all great options for keeping mosquitoes away from your home or office. Catnip, basil, rosemary, lavender, garlic, marigolds, and citronella grass are all effective at repelling these pesky insects. So if you’re looking for a natural way to keep mosquitoes away, consider planting some (or all) of these plants !
How Plants Keep Mosquitoes Away?
Plants produce a variety of compounds that are known to have mosquito-repellent properties. Some of these compounds include citronella, eucalyptus, geraniol, lemongrass, and mint. When these compounds are released into the air, they can help keep mosquitoes at bay.
There are two ways to use plants to keep mosquitoes away. The first is to plant them in your yard or garden as a natural repellent. The second is to make a mosquito repellent spray with essential oils from these plants. Both options can be effective, but it is important to note that you will need to reapply mosquito repellent sprays more frequently than if you were using a store-bought option.
If you are looking for a natural way to keep mosquitoes away this summer, consider planting some of the following mosquito-repelling plants in your yard: citronella grass, catnip, lemon balm, lavender, marigolds, basil, and garlic. You can also make your own mosquito repellent spray by combining essential oils from these plants with water in a spray bottle. However you choose to use them, these plants can help give you some relief from mosquitoes this season!
