Mosquitoes ruin backyard evenings fast, but there’s a natural fix for that problem.
Many common plants contain oils that mosquitoes avoid, and we rounded up 20 of the best ones. From classic citronella to fragrant lavender, each option below works well in a patio, garden bed, or porch pot for a bug-free summer.
Citronella Grass Basics
Gardeners have relied on citronella grass for generations as a go-to natural mosquito deterrent.
The grass releases a sharp, citrus-like aroma that throws off a mosquito’s ability to track people nearby. That makes it a smart choice near patios, decks, or seating areas.
Citronella Grass is also low-maintenance, requiring minimal care and watering.
Set it in full sun and let it do its work; you’ll notice fewer mosquitoes buzzing around your outdoor space.
Lavender for Mosquito Control
Gardeners have relied on lavender for hundreds of years to push mosquitoes away. Its soothing fragrance appeals to people while doing the opposite for biting insects.
The secret lies in natural compounds within lavender oil that mosquitoes find unbearable.
Add lavender to a garden bed or keep a potted version near a doorway to cut down on mosquito activity indoors and out.
Basil for Repelling Mosquitoes
Basil earns its keep in the kitchen, and it pulls double duty by discouraging mosquitoes from sticking around.
Its bold aroma overwhelms a mosquito’s sense of smell, which makes locating a target much harder for them.
Grow basil in a backyard bed or keep a container on a windowsill, and you’ll get a natural barrier against mosquitoes plus fresh leaves for cooking.
Rosemary as a Repellent
Rosemary earns a spot in most herb gardens for its flavor, but its compounds also push mosquitoes away naturally.
Grow it in garden soil or keep it potted on a porch to gain a mosquito deterrent right outside your door.
Some people rub rosemary essential oil directly on skin or clothing for an added layer of protection – a trick worth trying before an evening outdoors.
Geranium Plants Explained
Geranium plants offer another solid option for gardeners looking to cut down on mosquito activity around the yard.
Their blooms carry a floral scent that people enjoy but mosquitoes tend to avoid, so a few pots near a patio can make outdoor sitting more pleasant.
Beyond pest control, geraniums bring color and texture to a garden bed, window box, or entryway planter.
Catnip and Mosquito Prevention
Most people know catnip for driving cats wild, but this herb also holds real value as a mosquito deterrent.
A compound called nepetalactone gives catnip its repelling power against mosquitoes.
Add a catnip plant to a garden row or keep one potted near a doorway for a low-effort way to cut mosquito numbers.
As a bonus, any cats in the house will likely enjoy the plant just as much as you enjoy fewer bug bites.
Pennyroyal for Mosquitoes
Pennyroyal, part of the mint family, ranks among the more effective natural options for keeping mosquitoes away.
This herb does more than repel bugs – it also lends a crisp, refreshing note to teas and mixed drinks.
Its sharp scent reportedly outperforms citronella at keeping mosquitoes off, which makes it worth including at any outdoor gathering.
Lemon Balm for Repelling Bugs
Lemon balm doubles as a mosquito deterrent and a fresh-smelling addition to any patio or garden corner.
Part of the mint family, this herb gives off a light, citrus scent that mosquitoes tend to steer clear of.
Add it to a garden plot or grow a single pot on the patio to build a mosquito-resistant zone for backyard dinners or gatherings.
Garlic as a Natural Repellent
People have turned to garlic for centuries as a simple, effective way to keep mosquitoes at a distance.
Its compounds throw off a mosquito’s sense of smell, making it much harder for the insect to zero in on a person nearby.
Eating garlic or applying garlic oil to the skin can help repel mosquitoes.
Additionally, planting garlic in your yard or garden can also help keep mosquitoes away from your outdoor living spaces.
Tea Tree for Mosquito Defense
Tea Tree oil is a natural insect repellent that can help keep mosquitoes at bay.
So, basically, this oil comes from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia plant, which is originally from Australia.
With its potent antimicrobial and antifungal properties, Tea Tree oil not only repels mosquitoes but also soothes insect bites and itchiness.
If you want to keep mosquitoes away, mix a few drops of Tea Tree oil with water and spray it around the area. This should help you keep those pesky bugs at bay!
Neem Tree Benefits
The Neem Tree is a natural mosquito repellent that has been used for centuries in traditional Indian medicine.
Its leaves, seeds, and bark contain compounds that are toxic to mosquitoes, making it an effective natural way to keep them at bay.
In fact, Neem oil is often used in insect repellents and has been shown to repel mosquitoes for several hours.
Plus, the Neem Tree is easy to grow and maintain, making it a great addition to any outdoor space.
Marigold as a Repellent
Marigold repels mosquitoes with its strong, pungent scent that confuses and deters these pesky insects.
This bright and cheerful flower is easy to grow and maintain, making it a perfect addition to your backyard or patio.
With its vibrant orange and yellow hues, marigold also adds a pop of color to your outdoor space while keeping mosquitoes at bay.
In addition to smelling amazing, this plant also helps keep pesky pests like nematodes and whiteflies away. So not only does it add a lovely aroma to your garden, but it also acts as a natural pest repellent. It’s a win-win!
Cloves for Keeping Bugs Away
Cloves have natural oils that repel mosquitoes. These oils, specifically eugenol and beta-caryophyllene, are known to interfere with mosquitoes’ sensory organs, making it difficult for them to detect their targets.
Did you know that cloves are great for making natural mosquito repellent sprays and potions? You can simply apply them to your skin or clothing to keep those pesky bugs away. Pretty cool, right?
Additionally, cloves can be planted in gardens or indoor pots to create a mosquito-repelling atmosphere.
Scented Geranium Varieties
Scented geranium is a natural mosquito repellent that’s as lovely as it is effective.
Isn’t this flowering plant just amazing? It has the most stunning petals and gives off the loveliest floral fragrance that drives mosquitoes crazy!
Planting scented geranium around your outdoor living spaces or bringing potted plants indoors can help keep those pesky mosquitoes at bay.
Plus, its lovely aroma is a pleasant bonus for you and your guests!
Horsemint for Pest Control
Horsemint is a natural mosquito repellent that’s easy to grow and maintain. This perennial herb is a member of the mint family and is known for its strong, pungent scent that mosquitoes can’t stand.
Its leaves release a fragrant oil when touched, which helps to ward off mosquitoes.
Plus, horsemint is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of soil conditions, making it a great addition to any outdoor space.
Lemon Verbena Repellent Power
Have you heard of Lemon Verbena? It’s a sweet-smelling natural mosquito repellent that works like a charm!
Plus, it smells amazing with its citrusy scent. Have you ever tried it?
This fragrant herb is a natural oil that can be applied to the skin or clothing to keep mosquitoes at bay.
Its potent oils have been shown to reduce mosquito bites by up to 70% in some studies.
Plus, it’s a lovely addition to any garden, attracting beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.
Dragon Tree for Mosquitoes
The Dragon Tree is a natural mosquito repellent that has been used for centuries. Its unique properties make it a powerful deterrent for these pesky insects.
The Dragon Tree’s bark and leaves contain a compound called drimane, which has natural insecticidal properties that repel mosquitoes.
If you’re dealing with mosquitoes in your yard, try scattering some leaves or bark around to help keep them away. It’s a simple and natural way to prevent those pesky bugs from bothering you!
Feverfew as a Natural Defense
Feverfew, a member of the daisy family, has been used for centuries to repel mosquitoes and other insects.
Have you heard about this herb that has a really strong smell and bitter taste? It’s great because it’s so unappealing to those annoying mosquitoes.
The active compound parthenolide found in feverfew is responsible for its mosquito-repelling properties, making it a natural and effective way to keep those pesky insects at bay.
Bog Myrtle Repellent Qualities
Did you know that Bog Myrtle, also known as Sweet Gale, has been used as a natural mosquito repellent for ages? This little shrub is found in Europe and North America and has this powerful oil called bog myrtle oil that helps keep those pesky bugs away. Cool, right?
Did you know that Bog Myrtle is actually really good at keeping away those pesky Asian Tiger Mosquitos?
Those little buggers can carry some serious diseases like dengue fever and chikungunya, so it’s definitely worth having some Bog Myrtle around to help keep them at bay.
By planting Bog Myrtle in your garden or using its oil in candles or sprays, you can effectively keep mosquitoes at bay.
