As the weather warms up, spending time outdoors becomes more appealing. However, with the pleasant sunshine comes the unwelcome presence of mosquitos. Luckily, there are natural ways to keep these pests at bay by incorporating mosquito-repelling plants into your garden. Here at Whispering Hills Garden Center, we have a variety of annuals, perennials, herbs, and flowers that not only enhance your garden’s beauty but also help keep those pesky mosquitos away. Here are some of our top picks and creative ways to use them.
1. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
Type: Perennial Herb
Description: Lemon Balm has a delightful lemon scent that mosquitos detest.
Creative Uses: Plant Lemon Balm in small containers or hanging baskets near seating areas. Its cascading growth habit makes it perfect for planters, and its leaves can be crushed and rubbed on the skin for extra protection.
2. Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus)
Type: Perennial Grass
Description: Citronella is well-known for its mosquito-repelling properties and is commonly used in natural insect repellent sprays.
Creative Uses: Grow Citronella in large pots around the patio or garden. Its tall, grassy appearance adds texture and height to container arrangements. It can also be planted in the ground along walkways or seating areas.
3. Lavender (Lavandula)
Type: Perennial Flower
Description: Lavender not only repels mosquitos but also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. Its pleasant fragrance is a bonus for any garden.
Creative Uses: Use Lavender in mixed planters with other mosquito-repellent plants. It works well in garden beds, borders, and as a hedge. Hanging baskets with Lavender can be placed around doorways and windows to keep mosquitos from entering the house.
4. Marigold (Tagetes)
Type: Annual Flower
Description: Marigolds contain pyrethrum, a compound used in many insect repellents. Their vibrant blooms also add a splash of color to any garden.
Creative Uses: Plant Marigolds in garden beds, borders, and vegetable gardens. They are excellent companion plants for tomatoes and other veggies. Use them in window boxes or hanging baskets to brighten up porches and patios while keeping mosquitos away.
5. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Type: Annual Herb
Description: Basil is a kitchen staple that also repels mosquitos. Its aromatic leaves can be used in cooking, making it a practical and decorative addition to your garden.
Creative Uses: Grow Basil in small pots or herb planters on kitchen windowsills, patios, and balconies. Mix Basil with other herbs like mint and rosemary in hanging baskets for a functional and fragrant display.
6. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
Type: Perennial Herb
Description: Catnip is more effective at repelling mosquitos than DEET, according to some studies. While it attracts cats, it sends mosquitos flying.
Creative Uses: Plant Catnip in garden beds or borders where you don’t mind cats visiting. It can also be grown in containers and placed strategically around outdoor living areas.
7. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Type: Perennial Herb
Description: Rosemary’s strong scent repels mosquitos and other insects. It’s also a flavorful herb for cooking.
Creative Uses: Use Rosemary in container gardens, hanging baskets, or as a low hedge. Its upright growth habit makes it a striking addition to mixed planters.
8. Mint (Mentha)
Type: Perennial Herb
Description: Mint’s strong aroma deters mosquitos, but it can be invasive if not contained.
Creative Uses: Plant Mint in pots or hanging baskets to control its spread. Use it in planters around seating areas and outdoor kitchens to take advantage of its mosquito-repelling properties and culinary uses.
9. Scented Geraniums (Pelargonium graveolens)
Type: Annual Flower
Description: Scented Geraniums, especially the varieties with a lemon or citronella scent, are effective mosquito repellents.
Creative Uses: Place Scented Geraniums in containers around seating areas and entrances. Their beautiful flowers and pleasant scent make them a great addition to patios and balconies.
10. Lantana (Lantana camara)
Type: Annual Flower
Description: Lantana’s strong fragrance repels mosquitos and other insects. Its vibrant, multi-colored flowers are a stunning addition to any garden.
Creative Uses: Plant Lantana in hanging baskets, window boxes, or large containers. It’s perfect for adding a pop of color to decks and patios while keeping mosquitos at bay.
11. Sage (Salvia officinalis)
Type: Perennial Herb
Description: Sage’s earthy aroma is disliked by mosquitos. It’s also a wonderful herb for cooking and has beautiful purple flowers.
Creative Uses: Use Sage in mixed herb planters or as an edging plant in garden beds. It also grows well in containers on patios and balconies.
Creating Mosquito-Repellent Planters
To create effective mosquito-repellent planters, combine a variety of these plants in containers. Here are some tips for arranging them:
- Choose Containers Wisely: Select containers that complement your outdoor décor and are large enough to accommodate the mature size of your plants.
- Mix Heights and Textures: Combine tall plants like Citronella and Lavender with trailing varieties like Lemon Balm and Mint. This not only enhances the planter’s appearance but also maximizes its mosquito-repelling properties.
- Include Flowers and Herbs: Mix flowering plants like Marigolds and Lantana with herbs like Basil and Rosemary for a balanced and functional display.
- Position Strategically: Place planters around the patio, near seating areas, and by doorways to create a mosquito-free zone.
By incorporating these plants into your garden, you can naturally reduce the mosquito population and enjoy your outdoor spaces more comfortably. Visit Whispering Hills Garden Center for all your mosquito-repelling plant needs and get expert advice on creating a pest-free paradise.
Happy gardening!
