If you’re like me, you love spending time outside during the summer—soaking up the sun, hosting barbecues, or just enjoying a quiet evening on the patio. But nothing ruins that peaceful vibe faster than mosquitoes buzzing in your ear or biting at your ankles. Over the years, I’ve found that adding a few key plants to my garden makes all the difference. Many of these are also integral parts of my companion planting and permaculture gardening strategies.
The right plants can be your best defense against mosquitoes. They contain natural oils and scents that mosquitoes can’t stand, making your outdoor areas much more enjoyable. Plus, they’re an eco-friendly alternative to chemical repellents. Let’s dive into some of my favorites that I’ve found to be especially effective.
Catnip
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) isn’t just a treat for your feline friends—it’s a fantastic mosquito repellent too. This tough, easy-to-grow plant thrives in sunny, well-drained areas, making it a great addition to your garden. I like planting catnip along borders and pathways to create a natural barrier against mosquitoes. Its strong scent is highly effective at confusing and deterring mosquitoes, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space without worry. Plus, catnip is low-maintenance and comes back year after year, continuing to provide protection.
Citronella
You’ve probably seen citronella candles and oils sold as mosquito repellents, but did you know the plant itself is even more effective? I like to plant Citronella Geraniums (Cymbopogon nardus) in containers around my patio. Their strong citrusy aroma sends mosquitoes packing, making it much easier to relax outside. To get the most out of citronella, place it where the breeze can carry its scent across your seating areas.
Rosemary
Rosemary is one of my favorite herbs to grow because it’s so versatile. Not only does it make grilled meats taste amazing, but its strong scent also keeps mosquitoes at bay. I like to keep a few rosemary plants in containers near the grill—perfect for a quick snip while cooking and for keeping mosquitoes away from the table. For an extra boost, toss a sprig on the grill to release even more mosquito-repelling aroma into the air.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a fragrant perennial with a fresh lemony scent that mosquitoes can’t stand. It’s one of my go-to plants for natural mosquito control, especially since it’s so easy to grow. I love using it in mixed containers with other herbs and flowers for a layered look that’s both beautiful and functional. Since it can be invasive, consider planting lemon balm in pots to keep it contained.
Peppermint
Peppermint is another great choice for keeping mosquitoes away, and it’s a plant I can’t live without. This vigorous grower is easy to maintain, and its strong scent does wonders for deterring mosquitoes. I like to plant it in containers, so it doesn’t take over the garden. Plus, you can crush the leaves and rub them on your skin for a quick and natural bug repellent when you’re in a pinch.
Lavender
Lavender is a powerhouse in the garden. Its lovely purple flowers attract all the right kinds of visitors—bees and butterflies—while keeping mosquitoes at bay. I always make sure to have a few lavender plants around because they’re incredibly low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, perfect for the busy gardener who still wants a mosquito-free yard. In addition to repelling mosquitoes, lavender’s calming scent can make your outdoor space even more relaxing.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is another favorite of mine, not just because of its clean, refreshing scent, but also because mosquitoes can’t stand it. Whether you place a few eucalyptus branches in a vase or plant a bush in the yard, you’ll notice a significant decrease in mosquitoes. If you’re growing eucalyptus, keep in mind that it prefers a sunny spot and well-drained soil to thrive.
Pennyroyal
Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) is a powerful mosquito repellent from the mint family. It’s particularly effective, but it requires careful handling because it can be toxic to pets and humans if ingested. I like to plant pennyroyal in pots or garden areas where it can be contained and away from high-traffic areas. Its strong scent makes it a natural mosquito deterrent, but use it cautiously and place it out of reach of curious pets.
Basil
Basil is a summer staple in my garden. Not only does it add amazing flavor to dishes, but it also keeps mosquitoes away. The strong aroma of basil, especially when the leaves are crushed, is something mosquitoes find repelling. To keep your basil productive and fragrant, trim it regularly to prevent it from flowering and ensure it stays bushy and healthy.
Lantana
Lantana is another colorful option for keeping mosquitoes away. Its vibrant flower clusters brighten up the garden while its leaves release aromatic compounds that mosquitoes avoid. I love how lantana attracts butterflies and hummingbirds, adding life to my garden while keeping the bugs out. It’s also incredibly drought-tolerant, so it thrives even in the hottest summers with minimal care.
Bee Balm
Bee Balm is a real showstopper in any garden. Its bold colors and strong scent not only add visual interest but also repel mosquitoes. I like to plant it in areas where I spend the most time outdoors so I can benefit from its natural mosquito-repelling properties. This plant is also a favorite of hummingbirds, which adds another layer of enjoyment to your garden space.
Marigold
Marigolds are a must-have in any garden, not just for their bright, cheerful blooms, but also for their ability to keep mosquitoes and other pests at bay. I love using them as border plants or in containers around the patio. Their scent may be a bit strong for some, but it’s definitely too much for mosquitoes. For continuous blooms and mosquito protection, make sure to deadhead spent flowers regularly.
Geraniums
Geraniums, particularly the citronella-scented varieties, are great for keeping mosquitoes at bay. Their vibrant flowers and pleasant aroma make them a lovely addition to any garden or patio. I like to plant geraniums in containers that can be moved around the yard as needed. Besides their beauty, the strong scent they release in the heat effectively deters mosquitoes, making your outdoor spaces more comfortable.
Mojito Mint
If you enjoy a good mojito, you’re going to love mojito mint. Not only does it bring that fresh, minty flavor to your drinks, but it also helps keep mosquitoes at bay. I often grab a few leaves for my evening cocktail, enjoying a mosquito-free evening on the patio. Since mint can spread aggressively, it’s best to grow it in containers to keep it from taking over your garden.
Parsley and Cilantro
Parsley and cilantro are two more herbs that do double duty in the garden. Parsley is great for repelling mosquitoes, especially when grown in clumps. Cilantro, while delicious, can be a bit more finicky since it bolts quickly in hot weather, but it still offers some mosquito-repelling benefits. If you find that cilantro doesn’t last long in the heat, try planting it in a cooler, shaded spot for better results.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass is another one of those dual-purpose plants that I love. It adds a tropical touch to the garden, and its strong citrus scent is a powerful mosquito deterrent. I’ve found it to be especially effective when planted in pots around the patio. Lemongrass also makes a great companion plant in herb gardens, helping to keep bugs away from more delicate plants.
Allium
Allium, including onions, garlic, and chives, is known for its strong, pungent smell that mosquitoes find unbearable. These hardy perennials are great for planting in the garden to create a natural mosquito barrier. I love how allium requires so little upkeep—just plant it, and it will return year after year, providing reliable mosquito control throughout the season.
