Top Patio Plants That Repel Mosquitos

You have the perfect shade structure on your patio, a comfy couch and really neat solar-powered lighting. But there’s one giant problem- MOSQUITOS! It seems like mosquito bites are an inevitable trade-off for warm weather, and both adults and children get their fair share of itching, stinging bites every spring and summer. Unfortunately, mosquito bites are more than an unwanted penalty for going outdoors when the weather is nice — mosquitoes carry dangerous and even deadly diseases like the West Nile Virus and it’s important to avoid their bites when you can. If you want an extra layer of anti-mosquito protection around your home beyond bug spray, these easy to grow plants act as a natural mosquito repellant and keep mosquitoes at bay. Read on to see the top patio plants that repel mosquitos. 

 

Lemon Balm

Besides being one of the most popular essential oils to use, lemon balm is very effective at mosquito control. Lemon balm is a member of the mint family and is fast growing, so if you’re not careful about where you plant it, it could crowd out other plants. It has a distinct lemon scent and can be planted in a garden bed with plenty of space or a pot on its own. Not only will it repel mosquitoes around the area its planted, you can crush several leaves and rub them on your skin for a quick and easy insect repellant.

 

Citronella Grass

The citronella plant is where many insect repellent products get their anti-mosquito properties. Citronella grass deters mosquitoes because while citronella oil is very fragrant and pleasing to humans, mosquitoes do not like the scent. The citronella plant is naturally drought resistant, making it an excellent plant for areas where there’s not much precipitation — or, for families who aren’t able to water often.

 

Basil

Basil is both a delicious culinary herb and an effective mosquito repellent plant. Like lemon balm (which can also be used in food), it can be crushed and rubbed on the skin for protection against mosquito bites. Basil is easy to grow, especially in a pot on the patio, and needs full sun to thrive. Basil has a pungent scent like many of the other plants on this list, so mosquitoes tend to shy away from it and inhabit other areas.

 

Marigolds

Need a little color on your patio? These orange and yellow flowers are particularly effective at warding away mosquitoes in the area. They need full sun and plenty of water but grow quite easily and with enough space, they can grow to be quite tall — sometimes up to two feet. While marigolds don’t produce a heavy scent like basil, lemon balm, or citronella grass, they do have their own unique smell that may be responsible for keeping mosquitoes at bay. To protect entrances to your home, place pots of marigolds by your doors.

 

Rosemary

Rosemary is another culinary delight that when fresh can be extremely pungent. It has a strong pine-like smell, similar to a Christmas tree, and can be used in many different ways to keep mosquitoes away. Mosquitoes won’t inhabit the area where rosemary grows, and you can also use the herb as an incense when cooking outdoors or gathering around a fire. Simply gather a bundle of dried rosemary and throw it on the fire, and the scented smoke will keep mosquitoes from biting you while you enjoy time with friends and family outdoors.  

 

 

While patio plants that repel mosquitoes are unlikely to be as effective as insect repellent sprays against mosquito bites, they are an excellent part of a multi-layered home defense system when placed strategically on your patio and around your house. Protecting your home, your family, and your pets from these tiny but dangerous invaders is key to having a happy and healthy spring and summer. Want to protect your family from more than just bugs? Build a pergola above your patio. Contact Mesa Awning today for a complimentary estimate.