With mosquito season quickly approaching due to high levels of moisture and warmth after a month of no sunshine, you might want to take cover and hide all summer long. But don’t let the threat of mosquitoes deter you from relaxing and sipping that refreshing iced lemonade on your front porch. Instead, let Mother Nature protect you the natural way by incorporating mosquito-repelling plants into your daily life. Their aromatic compounds create a sweet smell while simultaneously keeping those nasty bloodsuckers at bay. And because these plants are common garnishes for any garden, they are available for less than $10 at your local nursery, according to Burke Nursery and Garden Center manager Becky Hughes. However, there is no scientific evidence yet to prove the effectiveness of these plants against mosquitoes—only anecdotal—but, like Merrifield plant specialist David Yost says, “The stronger the smell, the better they can deter insects.”
Citronella:
A leafy triple threat, the citronella plant evokes a scent that repels mosquitoes and lice and contains anti-fungal properties that can calm a barking dog and, when sprayed on household objects, prevent Sparky from tearing up his fifth pillow of the month. As the most common form of mosquito repellent, this plant’s nontoxic oils are used as one of the main ingredients in insect spray, earning it the affectionate name “The Mosquito Plant.” For the best results, plant citronella during the spring about 18 to 24 inches apart in fertile soil that doesn’t receive much afternoon shade.
Garlic:
Due to its unusually large amount of sulfur compounds, garlic’s sharp taste and eye-watering scent are actually the result of its evolved defense mechanism against birds, insects and worms. As a result, this “stinking rose” has been used as a natural insect repellent for hundreds of years. It can be grown in mild climates year-round, so plant garlic in a patio pot or surround your garden bench with a shocking green touch. During fall, garlic needs to be planted 6 to 8 inches apart and 4 inches deep in a 12-inch hole of well-drained soil.
Lemon Balm:
Really any plant that is lemon-scented will keep the mosquitoes at bay this summer, but stock up on lemon balm for an extra punch of fragrance that leaves pesky mosquitoes wondering what hit them. Lemon balm has a high count of antioxidants, making it a great plant to incorporate into your diet while at the same time calming your senses. Because it’s drought-resistant and can easily reseed itself, it’s very invasive, so make sure to keep a close eye on it.Plant it 20 to 24 inches apart in a semi-shady location with rich soil. Trim it every so often and you will have a lush cluster.
Lavender:
Add a splash of purple to any outdoor setting with the fragrant lavender plant—it will leave you feeling refreshed and the mosquitoes feeling absolutely miserable. When grounded, it can also produce an extremely effective yet nontoxic mosquito repellent for you and the kids. This violet herb is not only useful in creating Pinterest-inspired candles, but it also clears any area of mosquitoes wherever it’s planted. Place each plant 12 to 18 inches apart in an open area with plenty of sunlight and air circulation. Then spread mulch or pebbles around each of them to initiate faster evaporation and prevent fungus.
Marigold:
The marigold’s scent is so strong that it will deter any bug from occupying your flower garden or front porch this summer. Pot it or plant it and create a mosquito-free zone in just minutes. Marigolds need a lot of sunshine, well-drained soil and watering at the base of the plant. If you choose to plant marigold seeds, wait until the seedlings are 2 inches tall before your separate them. Tall marigolds need to be 2 to 3 feet apart while smaller ones need 1 foot between. For the best blooms, plant your marigolds in poor soil so they aren’t overshadowed by weeds that thrive in fertilized soil.
Catnip:
A beautiful plant with a deadly secret, catnip has the ability to make cats purr and butterflies take a break from flight, but it also contains 10 times the mosquito-repelling power than DEET does. This only occurs when the catnip’s oils are extracted from the plant. However, its smell alone, when placed in your garden or a flower pot on an outdoor table, will be enough to create an invisible barrier between you and the mosquitoes. Catnip is best planted during the springtime about 18 to 24 inches apart. And if you have cats, you will want to put chicken wire over it.
So break out that porch furniture you’ve been storing in your garage then sit back, relax and let the sweet smells of your mosquito-repelling plants protect you, your family and your friends from bloodthirsty mosquitoes this summer.