Humans have a lot of different aromas that attract mosquitoes. These bugs like the smell of the carbon dioxide emitted from our breath and the compounds emitted in our sweat. mosquitoes are also attracted to warm bodies, making us humans their prime target. So how do we keep them away?
Forget about using bug repellents and pest control sprays because they can be harmful to you and your family. Not to mention, they are also harmful to the environment because they come in single-use plastic packaging. DEET for example, one of the most well-known components of bug spray, is very efficient in repelling mosquitoes or any other bugs that bite. But many people have complained that DEET irritates their skin or the smell ignites allergies. This makes sense because research has revealed that DEET interferes with the activity of enzymes vital for the nervous system to function properly.
With that said, for a more natural zero-waste alternative, you can add some plants that repel mosquitoes in and around your house. These plants will work best if you place them in the areas where you want to deter mosquitoes. Areas to keep in mind include windows, doors, walkways, seating areas, and dining areas.
Plants That Repel Mosquitoes
Basil
Basil leaves contain an oil called estragole that’s toxic to mosquito larvae. So the best place to plant basil is near a water source. It will control the mosquito population in the area and prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs. Since basil naturally emits a strong aroma, the mosquitoes should be sure to smell it from a good distance and stay away.
Bee Balm
Bee balm is a beautiful flowering plant that will bring many pollinators to your garden like bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies. The scent from the plant acts as a barrier to repel mosquitoes. This plant can also be used in jellies, tea, and as a garnish for salads and other dishes.
Catnip
Catnip contains the chemical nepetalactone, which attracts cats but repels mosquitoes. Research found that Nepetalactone repels mosquitoes 10 times more efficiently than DEET because it takes one-tenth as much to have the same result. Catnip is easy to care for, but invasive if planted in a garden bed.
Citronella
Citronella is one of the most common components found in mosquito repellents and candles. The strong aroma from this plant masks the smell of other attractants such as carbon dioxide. Citronella is a low-maintenance plant, which is always a good thing because it means you will have less work to do.
Floss Flower
Floss flowers contain a chemical called coumarin that is used in many mosquito repellents. These fuzzy flowers are a beautiful visual addition to your garden because they come in an array of colors including blue, pink, white, and purple.
Lavender
Not only does lavender ease your mind but it will calm your nerves too because mosquitoes won’t be biting you. You can also apply lavender essential oils to your skin as an immediate mosquito repellent. Not to mention, lavender is a very delicious ingredient in tea as well.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm attracts bugs such as bees and butterflies while repelling others such as mosquitoes. It is the smell of lemon that keeps them away. It’s good to remember not to plant it around your entrance or walkways since it attracts bees. Lemon balm can also be used to help reduce stress and relieve stomach pain.
Marigold
Marigolds contain pyrethrum, a compound used in many repellents and sometimes referred to as nature’s insecticide. These strong fragrant flowers are popular edging plants for vegetable gardens. Marigolds are also very delicious in salads, soups, or herb butter due to their light and citrusy flavor.
Peppermint
Peppermint plants contain an oil called Mentha piperita, and like the oil in basil, it has anti-larvicidal properties. One study in which mosquito larvae were exposed to the oil resulted in a 100% mortality rate for the larvae. Peppermint oil is not only good for repelling mosquitoes but also can be used as a relieving discomfort from itchy mosquito bites.
Rosemary
Like most of the plants on this list, the essential oil of rosemary has a scent that keeps mosquitoes away. Once you have planted the rosemary and it’s fully grown, you can boil a cup of leaves with a quart of water for 20 to 30 minutes. Strain the water into a container, then pour it into individual glass spray bottles and store it in the fridge. You can then apply it directly to your skin to use as an immediate mosquito repellent.
Scented Geranium
Geraniums are slightly lemon-scented with a small portion of citronella oil that contributes to their mosquito-repelling capacity. These flowers have beautiful blooms and come in vibrant colors!
Plants That Attract Mosquitos
Now that you know what plants successfully repel mosquitoes, it’s important that you know which attracts them too. The plants which attract mosquitoes are mainly those which contain nectar and honeydew, as both male and female mosquitoes feed on them. Most plants with flowers contain nectar, therefore, if you are a flower lover and have your backyard filled with them, you may want to place some lavender, marigold, bee balm, geraniums, or flower floss near them.
Nectar in plants and flowers is not the only thing that attracts mosquitoes. Without water, mosquitoes cannot breed and create offspring, therefore, it’s important that you do not leave any standing water anywhere around your house. Some plants that attract mosquitoes include bamboo, taro, papyrus, water lilies, water hyacinths, and water lettuce.
