5 Plants and Flowers that Naturally Repel Mosquitoes

How to repel mosquitoes naturally has become a popular Google search, especially for homeowners living on the Grand Strand, where humidity and water seem everywhere.

As our society becomes more concerned with avoiding toxins and looks to make healthy choices for our bodies, homes, and environments, the days of using chemical sprays to repel mosquitoes are slowly disappearing.

Citronella candles, sprays, bracelets, bug zappers, and chemical repellents can repel pesky mosquitoes, but there’s a natural alternative.

Plants! Nature’s remedy for repelling mosquitoes. Plants are not only natural and effective, but they simultaneously add beauty to your landscape.

You should plant mosquito-repelling varieties in patio containers, garden beds, and other outdoor areas where you spend time.

Here are our top picks to keep pesky mosquitoes away so you can enjoy your Myrtle Beach outdoor living area.

1. Citronella

You may be acquainted with citronella candles, but you may not be aware that their potent fragrance, which mosquitoes find very unpleasant, is derived from the leaves of the citronella plant, also known as the mosquito plant. This plant is known for its mosquito-repellent properties. It is also a very attractive-looking plant for any planter or garden with its grassy appearance.

2. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a leafy herb from the mint family. The herb is known for its lemon scent and calming properties. Here are some ways lemon balm can be used to deter mosquitos:

• Planting lemon balm: Growing lemon balm around your patio or porch can help keep mosquitos at bay
• Rubbing leaves on your skin: While not as effective as commercially available repellents, crushing lemon balm leaves and rubbing them on your skin can provide some short-term protection
• Making a lemon balm spray: You can create a mosquito repellent spray using lemon balm essential oil and water

3. Marigolds

The different types of marigolds, cheerful yellow, gold, white, or orange summer blooms, are excellent at repelling mosquitoes. Marigolds are easy to grow and thrive in containers. While marigolds emit a scent that deters mosquitoes, research suggests it’s not incredibly strong.

The best thing to do is add another mosquito-repelling plant next to them or keep them close by where you will spend most of your time.

TIP: Planting them in pots before your doors will help keep them from trying to fly into your home as you come and go!

4. Basil

Who doesn’t love the smell of fresh basil? The pungent aroma of basil leaves comes from essential oils that mosquitos find unpleasant. However, you can also use these fresh herbs to cook in your outdoor kitchen. Double bang for your buck!

All basil varieties seem to have some mosquito-repellent properties, but lemon basil, cinnamon basil, and Peruvian basil are known for being particularly effective due to their stronger scents.

5. Lantanas

Lantana is known for its vibrant flowers in various colors, including yellow, orange, red, pink, purple, and white. The flowers are arranged in clusters and bloom throughout the summer and fall. The plants are also relatively easy to care for, making them popular for home gardeners.

Lantana plants repel mosquitoes in a two-pronged attack with their scent and effect on mosquito lifespan and reproduction.

• Discourages landing: The strong scent repels mosquitoes, making them less likely to land on the plant or linger nearby.
• Hinders development: If a mosquito does feed, the lantana flower’s properties may shorten its lifespan and reduce its ability to reproduce.

Conclusion:

Elite Coastal Landscaping, in North Myrtle Beach, can help design your landscape by planting the correct type of flowers, plants, and palm trees to keep your backyard oasis free of bugs this summer and all year round.

You can mix and match with each one or create oils, sprays, and tinctures to apply to the skin or spray on your patio furniture for more control. Check out this homemade basil-repellent recipe. You can even add a few drops to your in-ground pool to keep those mosquitos at bay and add health benefits to your swim time.

Wherever you spend most of your time, you will want abundant natural goodies!

If you live in the Grand Strand area, call us at 843-712-1814 or elitecoastallandscaping@gmail.com. You can also fill out the form below for more information.