What plants repel mosquitoes?
As warmer weather approaches, so do bugs that can be quite a nuisance, especially mosquitoes. Dealing with these insects can make spending time outdoors very unpleasant. This is unfortunate because many people want to be outside when warmer weather hits.
Several methods are used to prevent these bothersome bugs from invading your space. These methods may include topical sprays, bug zappers, candles, and chemical sprays on your lawn. It’s also important to rid your yard of standing water, as this is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
In addition to using repellent and removing stagnant water, certain plants and herbs can help ward off those pesky mosquitoes.
What attracts mosquitoes to humans?
Mosquitoes use their sense of smell to find their next host to feed upon. For example, female mosquitoes are on the hunt for blood and seek it out by picking up on the carbon dioxide that mammals exhale. In contrast, males feed on certain plants and flowers.
Strong fragrances can confuse the mosquito’s sense of smell and be a natural deterrent. Certain plants and herbs have oils that can be extracted to help keep mosquitoes away from the area—and from biting you. Planting a garden that contains some of the plants listed below can be beneficial in aiding the fight against mosquitoes.
Which plants repel mosquitoes?
Lavender—The lavender plant produces an oil, which can be found on its leaves, that obstructs a mosquito’s ability to smell and pinpoint its next host. This plant can survive in many climates but loves the warmer weather—perfect for the summertime when mosquitoes are running rampant. Most garden invaders will avoid munching on this plant because of its lovely fragrance. You can also use essential oils containing lavender for their repelling properties.
Citronella Grass—Also known as lemongrass or “mosquito plants,” this plant has a very distinct smell that mosquitoes hate. Therefore, citronella oil is the key ingredient in most insect repellants, from bug sprays to candles.
Marigolds—This easy-to-grow flower releases a pungent scent that repels mosquitoes and rids your space of other pests. The substance that makes marigolds effective, pyrethrum, is used in many natural insecticides. This flower will add color to your garden while inviting beneficial members from the insect family, such as butterflies and bees.
Rosemary—This herb is a jack of all trades. It has a woody scent that insects, particularly mosquitoes, do not like. When you smoke rosemary on the grill, its aroma will ward off mosquitoes. It also produces beautiful purple flowers and aids as a versatile herb in the kitchen.
Catnip—Catnip leaves contain the chemical, nepetalactone, which attracts felines but repulses mosquitoes. This plant has been proven to be 10x more effective than DEET, an ingredient used in most mosquito repellants. This is another easy-to-grow plant that will flourish in almost any climate but can take over your garden if you do not maintain it.
Monarda—Commonly referred to as “bee balm,” this flower will attract beneficial pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. In addition, its minty scent will fend off mosquitoes, as mosquitoes detest anything with the scent of mint. So other plants and herbs related to the mint family will help deter mosquitoes.
Basil—This herb has a powerful aroma that can help keep mosquitoes at bay. All types of basil work to keep bugs away. However, the extra-spicy Thai basil seems to have the most pungent smell. The basil plant has compounds that kill mosquito larvae before they can hatch. That can play a huge part in keeping your mosquito count down. Basil plants also provide another bonus of attracting pollinators to your garden. This fast-growing plant makes a great addition to your garden to provide bug resistance and can help spruce up your meals.
Scented Geraniums—These fast-growing flowers tend to be popular mosquito repellers. This plant’s lemon scent would remind you of the citronella grass. The geranium flower comes in several varieties, but the lemon, lime, orange, and peppermint geraniums tend to be the best scents to ward off mosquitoes.
Are mosquitoes dangerous in Texas?
Mosquito prevention is vital throughout the summer season. Mosquitoes are certainly one of the most annoying bugs, but they also carry so many diseases that you can contract through a bite. Zika virus, West Nile Virus, Dengue Fever, and Chikungunya Virus have all been transmitted to humans in Central Texas.
People want to be outside to enjoy the warm weather, but a mosquito infestation can be a damper to those plans. Many people just give up the joy of being outside to avoid being attacked by these pests. While mosquito-repelling plants can help keep some bites at bay, if you are experiencing a mosquito problem, we can help you develop a game plan to remove these pests from your area effectively.
Protect yourself and your loved ones from mosquitoes. Schedule a free inspection with 855Bugs today!
