Looking for a natural way to repel pests during the warmer seasons? Here are seven plants you can grow that will help. Bonus: They’re also edible.
Reviewed by Dietitian Elizabeth Ward, M.S., RDN
Key Points
- In addition to topical mosquito repellents, some plants may help repel bugs and mosquitos.
- Herbs like rosemary, basil and mint repel pests.
- Nasturtiums attract pests away from other plants, great for your garden.
Spending more time outside is one of the best parts of warmer weather. Being able to enjoy fresh air without bundling up? A dream. That said, one not-so-lovable part of warmer temps is the return of bugs, particularly mosquitos. Most people, myself included, will go to great lengths to fend them off to enjoy the sunshine in peace.
There are several topical mosquito repellents as well as natural sprays and oils to keep them at bay. For an extra level of protection, surround yourself and your yard with these plants that may help repel bugs and mosquitoes.
1. Citronella
This may not be a surprise, considering citronella is a popular ingredient for natural mosquito repellents, patio candles and more. But you might not know that citronella is a grass that you can plant in your yard. Most citronella products are made with the fragrant oil the plant expels.
Research suggests that topical citronella products only last for about one to three hours since the oils evaporate quickly, so having plants around is a little extra insurance against biting pests. Keep in mind that citronella grass can grow up to 6 feet tall and 6 feet wide, so be sure to space them accordingly. The grass also prefers filtered sunlight (think: in the sun but with a tree overhead) and frequent watering.
2. Lavender
Not only is the aroma of lavender a nice addition to your outdoor space, but it helps deter mosquitos, too. In fact, research suggests that lavender essential oil works well as an environmentally friendly insect repellent.
If you grow the fragrant plant on the grounds around your house, it can also attract helpful pollinators to create a profusion of purple flowers. Keep in mind that lavender should be planted about 18-24 inches apart to allow them space to grow, and they thrive in direct sunlight. Water the plants once or twice per week, depending on the dryness of the soil and maturity of the plant.
3. Marigolds
While they might not be the first thing you think of when it comes to mosquito repellent, marigolds have several insecticidal components, making them beloved by gardeners and landscapers. Similar to other insect-repelling plants, the scent from the marigold flowers can help keep bugs at bay. Plus, this plant doesn’t take up much space, is relatively low-maintenance and produces beautiful, colorful flowers all summer long.
4. Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are vining edible flowers with attractive circular leaves and colorful petals. Unlike other plants that repel pests, nasturtiums attract them to draw them away from your other plants—or from you. If you have a garden, nasturtiums are helpful for protecting cucumbers, tomatoes, squash and more from common pests like aphids, beetles and flies. This relationship is called companion planting, and while research is inconclusive about its effectiveness, there is mounting evidence that suggests this strategy helps to keep plants protected from harmful pests.
Nasturtiums can trail throughout open space in the garden, so be sure to plant them at least 10 to 12 inches apart. They thrive in areas with six to eight hours of direct sunlight. Plus, their gorgeous flowers are totally edible and can give your salad an aesthetic upgrade.
5. Rosemary
Along with being a delectable and versatile herb, rosemary leaf contains oils that have been shown to be an effective mosquito repellent. Rosemary is easy to grow and is popular with home growers. It can thrive in a garden, a window box or even as part of your landscape. Plus, having a rosemary plant around makes it easy and convenient to include fresh herbs in your recipes.
6. Basil
Beyond its aroma, research suggests that basil leaves contain compounds that can act as mosquito repellents, which might help reduce the number of mosquitoes in your yard. Basil plants can also help attract pollinators to help your yard and garden thrive—and their leaves make a delicious pesto. Basil is one of the easiest herbs to grow and is a staple of summertime, so save a spot for it in your yard.
7. Mint
Mint is yet another fragrant herb that has pest-fighting properties. In fact, menthol, the active insect-fighting ingredient in mint and peppermint oil, has biocidal properties that help repel and control mites, mosquitoes and various other pests. It grows like a weed and is a perfect plant for beginners. If you don’t want it to spread all over your garden, make sure to grow it in its own pot. Once it’s thriving, you can use mint leaves for a variety of dishes. We love to use it to make citrusy spa water.
Our Expert Take
Don’t let mosquitoes and other bugs ruin your time outdoors. If you’re trying to avoid chemical-laden bug sprays, there are plenty of natural options you can try. These plants have been shown to help—but if you find they don’t work at the level you’d like them to, at least you have delicious, fresh herbs and flowers you can add to your meals.
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