We all love the summertime, but unfortunately, bugs do, too. If you're someone who gets swarmed by mosquitoes whenever you walk out the door, and have tried everything — citronella candles, bug spray, mosquito swatters, and my personal favourite, insect zappers — then you certainly know that these buzzing nighthawks are no small task to handle. However, if you're itching to enjoy a good BBQ [1] without being bit by a million little critters, then we have a solution: plants. Yes, it's true. On top of plants' amazing air-purifying properties and ability to look absolutely stylish [2] both inside and outdoors, they too can help fight off those relentless mosquitoes. So, if you're ready to entertain without swatting for your life, here are 13 mosquito-repelling plants you'll want to get your hands on.
Basil
Basil is so effective at repelling mosquitoes (and adding a delicious flavour to Italian fare!) that you'll want to grow it all around your house. Windowsills, porches, the garden — the possibilities are endless! Throw it in a cute pot next to your kitchen sink or on your porch and watch the magic happen.
Basil Plant
Basil Plant [4] ($25)
Basil Plant
Basil Plant [5] ($5, originally $12)
Catnip
Some studies report that catnip is 10 times more repellent to mosquitoes than sprays, so this plant is a big win for gardeners. Bonus: if you've got a cat, they'll get plenty of entertainment from any catnip you plant!
Catnip Plant
Catnip Plant [6] ($6)
Catnip Plants
Catnip Plants [7] ($25)
Citronella
After crushing blades of citronella, you can either combine it with other repellent blooms to make a salve or simply apply it to your skin for instant relief. For convenience, place citronella in a pot on your patio and use it to repel mosquitoes when needed.
Citronella Plant
Citronella Plant [8] ($18)
Citronella Plant
Citronella Plant [9] ($11)
Eucalyptus
The power of eucalyptus is endless, from helping with coughs and colds to relieving joint pain — and even fending off those relentless mosquitoes! These trees can get as tall as 60 feet, so you can use it repel mosquitoes for years to come.
Eucalyptus Plant
Eucalyptus Plant [10] ($20)
Eucalyptus Plant
Eucalyptus Plant [11] ($25)
Garlic
We already know garlic is pungent, so it's no wonder that its sharp scent repels mosquitoes. If you have a garlic plant around, mosquitoes will smell the garlic instead of you . . . but then again, so will everyone else, so be mindful when you have company!
Garlic Plant
Garlic Plant [12] ($20)
Garlic Plant
Garlic Plant [13] ($13)
Geranium
Easy to care for, gorgeous, and able to get rid of annoying mosquitos — is there any reason not to own geraniums? Let them flower on your deck all summer long and then bring them inside for a pop of colour in the winter!
White Geranium Plant
White Geranium Plant [14] ($15)
Geranium Plant
Geranium Plant [15] ($8)
Lavender
Lavender oil repels mosquitoes and makes a great perfume; plus, your garden will never smell better than when lavender is in bloom!
Lavender Plant
Lavender Plant [16] ($40)
Lavender Plant
Lavender Plant [17] ($30)
Lemon Balm
To utilise lemon balm's repellent properties, simply pick some of the fresh leaves, crush them between your palms, and then rub on your exposed skin. These plants are extremely hardy, and can be kept outdoors or indoors, so you can have them all year!
Lemon Balm Plant
Lemon Balm Plant [18] ($20)
Lemon Balm Plants
Lemon Balm Plants [19] ($25)
Lemongrass
Believe it or not, the oil found in lemongrass called citral is used in many bug repellents for its mosquito-fighting properties! Lemongrass also helps to fight off flies, making it a great plant for both indoor and outdoor use. Pot your hard-to-kill lemongrass indoors for the winter and garnish your foods with it!
Lemongrass Plant
Lemongrass Plant [20] ($8)
Lemongrass Plants
Lemongrass Plants [21] ($30)
Mint
Not only is mint great to garnish your drinks, but it's also a phenomenal mosquito repellent. Move your mint plant back and fourth from your deck to your kitchen, and most importantly, keep it around for a refreshing minty beverage to enjoy outside . . . without mosquitoes. Your guests will enjoy your mint plant as much as you do!
Mint Plant
Mint Plant [22] ($20)
Mint Plant
Mint Plant [23] ($20)
Peppermint
The oil from peppermint plants works wonders at repelling mosquitoes, as well as stopping the itching associated with a bad bite. Not to mention, peppermint goes great in hot chocolate and other foods, so make sure to bring it inside for the winter!
Peppermint Plant
Peppermint Plant [24] ($24)
Peppermint Plant
Peppermint Plant [25] ($25)
Rosemary
Rosemary naturally repels mosquitoes from your garden or home, and can also be combined with other herbs to create a repellent salve [26] for your skin. Pot this plant in your kitchen, keep it on your porch, or watch it grow in your garden — the possibilities are endless!
Rosemary Plant
Rosemary Plant [27] ($6)
Rosemary Plant
Rosemary Plant [28] ($6)
Sage
Sage is commonly used for spiritual cleansing, and it also helps to keep mosquitoes (and ticks) from getting too close for comfort. The smell of sage is what repels the bugs, but hummingbirds love it! Plant sage in your garden or keep it in your home for cleansing purposes.
Sage Plant
Sage Plant [29] ($12)
Sage Plant
Sage Plant [30] ($10)