Tired of mosquitoes ruining your backyard family time? As a mom, I hated watching my kids run inside covered in bites.
Instead of reaching for chemical sprays, I discovered these amazing plants that naturally keep those pesky bugs away!
Top Mosquito-Repelling Plants
1. Lavender
Those gorgeous purple spikes in my garden aren’t just pretty – they’re my first line of defense against mosquitoes!
The secret lies in lavender’s powerful essential oils, which naturally repel both insects and rabbits.
I’ve found it incredibly easy to maintain since it’s drought-resistant and only needs full sun and good drainage.
Living in zone 6, I’m thrilled that this perennial beauty thrives in USDA zones 5-11, treating us to beautiful blooms from summer through fall.
2. Marigolds
I’ll never forget the day I discovered these bright little warriors could fight off more than just mosquitoes.
These cheerful annual flowers have become my go-to for both border gardens and container plantings near our patio seating area.
According to the New York Botanical Garden, marigolds are multitasking champions – they repel mosquitoes, aphids, thrips, whiteflies, and even those pesky tomato hornworms that used to destroy my vegetable garden.
They bloom reliably from late spring until frost, making them the perfect season-long pest control solution.
3. Catmint (Catnip)
When I learned that catmint is actually 10 times more effective than DEET (according to Iowa State University), I immediately added it to my garden.
This easy-care perennial thrives in USDA zones 3-8 and provides continuous blooms from early summer through fall.
Just be warned – it spreads enthusiastically! I learned this lesson the hard way and now keep it contained in designated areas.
4. Rosemary
This Mediterranean herb has become my secret weapon for pest control near our outdoor dining area.
Not only does it keep mosquitoes, cabbage moths, and carrot flies at bay, but I can snip fresh sprigs while cooking dinner!
As a perennial in zones 7-10, I grow mine in containers so I can bring it indoors during our harsh winters.
5. Basil
Would you believe my pasta sauce’s favorite herb is also a mosquito’s worst nightmare?
This annual herb requires some attention – keeping the soil damp but well-drained, and providing plenty of sunlight.
I’ve found all varieties work equally well for pest control, so I grow several types near our patio for both cooking and mosquito protection.
6. Bee Balm
This native beauty serves double duty in my garden – attracting beneficial pollinators while repelling unwanted pests.
I love crushing the leaves to release their natural oils when we’re entertaining outdoors.
The stunning blooms come in red, pink, lavender, white, and purple, making it a gorgeous addition to any perennial border in zones 4-8.
7. Floss Flower (Ageratum)
These charming blue blooms contain coumarin, a natural mosquito deterrent.
I keep them in elevated containers since they’re toxic if ingested – better safe than sorry with little ones around!
They provide continuous color until frost in zones 9-10, making them perfect for seasonal containers.
8. Sage
This hardy herb has become my favorite fire pit companion.
I throw a few sprigs on the flames during evening gatherings, and the aromatic smoke helps keep mosquitoes away from our s’more-making sessions.
As a perennial in zones 5-8, it’s become a reliable staple in both my kitchen and mosquito-fighting arsenal.
9. Mint
After learning about mint’s pest-repelling properties, I started growing it in containers on our deck.
The strong scent repels mosquitoes, flies, and ants – plus it makes amazing mojitos for our adult garden parties!
I always keep it in pots since it spreads aggressively, but it’s worth the extra effort for its multiple benefits.
10. Allium
These whimsical globe-shaped flowers are conversation starters and mosquito-repellers all in one!
Being in the same family as garlic and onions, their natural fragrance keeps bugs at bay while adding architectural interest to the garden.
They’re perfect for zones 3-8 and provide reliable blooms until frost, making them a beautiful addition to any mosquito-repelling garden plan.