What are the best plants to keep mosquitoes away?

Certain strong-smelling plants can serve as effective and natural deterrents against these pests, such as citronella, marigold, and basil. Their effectiveness is enhanced when the leaves or stems are actively crushed, thus releasing essential oils that repel mosquitoes. 

Introducing plants around your home can effectively disrupt mosquito sensory perception. However, it’s prudent to use these plants as a supplementary measure rather than a standalone solution and to seek the assistance of professional mosquito exterminators for comprehensive control.

Plants That Naturally Repel Mosquitoes

Certain plants and plant-based oils have inherent properties that repel mosquitoes, making them a wise choice for inclusion in your garden strategy. Planting a diverse array of these can create a more holistic repellent effect:

  1. Citronella: Often marketed in retail outlets as “mosquito plants,” these are typically varieties of geranium. However, citronella grass is especially valuable for its oil, which is widely used in mosquito repellents.
  2. Lavender: Renowned for its robust fragrance, lavender effectively blocks other enticing smells from reaching mosquitoes, thereby disrupting their olfactory guidance system.
  3. Marigold: These flowers are not only aesthetically pleasing and easy to cultivate but they also emit a fragrance that is unappealing to mosquitoes. Additionally, marigolds help ward off other garden pests such as aphids and whiteflies, making them beneficial for overall garden health.
  4. Rosemary, Basil, & Thyme: These herbs are celebrated for their culinary uses and for their strong scents, which are effective in repelling mosquitoes and other undesirable insects.

Do Mosquitoes Feed on Plants?

No. Contrary to the widespread belief that mosquitoes feed exclusively on blood, their diet is primarily composed of nectar. Male mosquitoes solely consume nectar, plant sap, and honeydew, while female mosquitoes require blood only for reproductive purposes.

The Best Mosquito Repellent? Professional Mosquito Control

While integrating mosquito-repelling plants into your garden can significantly reduce the presence of these pests, it is not a foolproof solution. For comprehensive mosquito control that ensures safety and comfort in your outdoor spaces, you can combine these natural strategies with Inman-Murphy, Inc.’s services. We utilize advanced methods and treatments that are effective and tailored to your specific mosquito challenges.

Don’t let mosquitoes take over your outdoor enjoyment — act now to safeguard your home and garden. Contact us today for a free quote!

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