Strategically selecting plants that you place around your garden and home can help reduce the number of mosquitoes you deal with, especially when you use the plants in conjunction with other pest reducing measures.
1. **Lavender**: Lavender has a lovely scent that humans enjoy but mosquitoes detest. Plant it in your garden or keep it in pots near doorways and windows to keep mosquitoes away.
2. **Citronella**: Citronella is a well-known mosquito repellent. You can plant citronella grass in your yard or use citronella candles or essential oils to keep mosquitoes at bay.
3. **Marigolds**: Marigolds contain a natural compound called pyrethrum, which is commonly used in insect repellents. Planting marigolds around your outdoor living spaces can help repel mosquitoes.
4. **Basil**: Basil emits a scent that mosquitoes dislike. Planting basil in your garden or keeping pots of basil near doorways and windows can help deter mosquitoes.
5. **Lemon balm**: Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, releases a lemony scent that repels mosquitoes. Plant it in your garden or crush the leaves and rub them on your skin for added protection.
6. **Rosemary**: Rosemary is another herb with a strong scent that mosquitoes dislike. Plant it in your garden or use rosemary essential oil to repel mosquitoes.
7. **Peppermint**: Peppermint contains compounds that mosquitoes find unpleasant. Planting peppermint in your garden or using peppermint essential oil can help keep mosquitoes away.
8. **Catnip**: Catnip contains a compound called nepetalactone, which is a natural mosquito repellent. Planting catnip in your garden or rubbing the leaves on your skin can help repel mosquitoes.
These plants can be effective when used in combination with other mosquito control methods, such as removing standing water and using screens on windows and doors.