What are mosquito repellent plants

Mosquitoes are annoying and potentially dangerous insects that can ruin your outdoor enjoyment. They are attracted by the carbon dioxide and sweat that humans and animals produce, and they can transmit diseases such as malaria, dengue, Zika, and West Nile virus. Fortunately, there are natural ways to repel mosquitoes without using harmful chemicals or pesticides. One of them is to grow plants that have mosquito-repelling properties in your garden, patio, or balcony.

What are mosquito repellent plants?

Mosquito repellent plants are plants that emit scents or oils that mosquitoes find unpleasant or confusing. These scents can mask the human odors that mosquitoes use to locate their targets, or they can interfere with their sense of smell. Some of these plants also have other benefits, such as being edible, medicinal, or ornamental.

Which plants repel mosquitoes?

There are many plants that can help to repel mosquitoes, but some of the most effective and popular ones are:

Citronella grass: This is the plant that is used to make citronella candles and oils, which are widely used to deter mosquitoes. Citronella grass has a lemony scent that mosquitoes hate. It is a tropical plant that needs a lot of sun and water, and it can grow up to 6 feet tall. You can plant it in large pots or containers, and rub the leaves on your skin to release the oil.

Catnip: This is the plant that cats love, but mosquitoes hate. Catnip contains a chemical called nepetalactone, which is more effective than DEET, a common ingredient in mosquito repellents. Catnip is a perennial herb that can grow up to 3 feet tall, and it has small white or purple flowers. You can plant it in sunny or partially shaded areas, and crush the leaves to apply the oil on your skin.

Lavender: This is a plant that has a soothing and calming scent for humans, but a repulsive one for mosquitoes. Lavender contains linalool, a compound that inhibits mosquitoes' sense of smell. Lavender is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 3 feet tall, and it has purple, pink, or white flowers. You can plant it in well-drained soil and full sun, and use the dried flowers to make sachets or potpourri.

Peppermint: This is a plant that has a minty and fresh scent that mosquitoes dislike. Peppermint also has menthol, a compound that can cause a cooling sensation on the skin, which can deter mosquitoes. Peppermint is a perennial herb that can grow up to 2 feet tall, and it has small purple flowers. You can plant it in moist soil and partial shade, and use the leaves to make tea or flavor dishes.

Rosemary: This is a plant that has a woody and aromatic scent that mosquitoes avoid. Rosemary also contains rosmarinic acid, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to soothe mosquito bites. Rosemary is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 6 feet tall, and it has blue, pink, or white flowers. You can plant it in well-drained soil and full sun, and use the leaves to season meats or make herbal remedies.

How to use mosquito repellent plants?

There are different ways to use mosquito repellent plants to keep mosquitoes away from your outdoor space. Some of them are:

- Plant them in pots or containers, and place them around your patio, balcony, or porch, where you spend most of your time outdoors. You can also hang them from baskets or window boxes, or arrange them in a border or a hedge.

- Cut or crush the leaves or flowers of the plants, and rub them on your skin or clothing, or make a spray by mixing them with water or alcohol. You can also burn them in a fire pit or a candle, or use a diffuser or a vaporizer to spread the scent in the air.

- Grow them in your vegetable or flower garden, where they can also attract beneficial insects such as bees, butterflies, and ladybugs, or repel other pests such as aphids, caterpillars, and snails.

Mosquito repellent plants are a natural and eco-friendly way to keep mosquitoes away from your outdoor space. They can also add beauty, fragrance, and flavor to your garden. By choosing the right plants for your climate and preferences, and using them in different ways, you can enjoy a mosquito-free summer without resorting to harmful chemicals or pesticides..