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Nothing ruins a nice day outside like a swarm of mosquitoes. These tiny pests aren’t just annoying — their bites itch like crazy and can even carry diseases. The good news? You don’t need to rely on harsh chemicals or expensive bug sprays to keep them away.
Nature has an answer. Some plants naturally repel mosquitoes with their strong scents and oils. These plants are easy to grow, look beautiful in your garden, and will help make your outdoor space way more enjoyable.
Here are 13 mosquito-repelling plants you should grow today to keep your home and garden as bug-free as possible.
1. Mint
Mint is another fast-growing herb that smells great to us but is very unpleasant to mosquitoes. It thrives in pots or garden beds and can handle a little neglect. Just be sure to contain it because mint can spread quickly if left unchecked. Keep it near outdoor seating areas so you can enjoy its fresh scent while keeping bugs away.
2. Lavender
Lavender is one of the best mosquito-repelling plants you can grow. Its lovely purple flowers and fresh floral scent may be relaxing to us, but mosquitoes hate it. Plant lavender near windows, patios, or seating areas where you like to relax. It loves full sun and well-drained soil, so give it a sunny spot in your yard or grow it in pots on your porch.
3. Citronella Grass
When people think of mosquito-repelling plants, citronella usually comes to mind first — and for good reason. This tall grass gives off a strong lemony scent that mosquitoes avoid. It grows well in large containers or garden beds and prefers a warm, sunny location.
Plus, brushing against the leaves will release even more of its scent.
4. Basil
Basil is more than just a tasty herb for your kitchen. Its natural oils can help keep mosquitoes from hanging around your garden. It’s easy to grow in pots or directly in the ground. Keep it near doorways, patios, or outdoor dining spaces so it can work double-duty — fresh flavor for your food and fewer mosquitoes at dinner.
Pro tip
I always plant basil in small pots right on my outdoor table. That way, when we’re eating outside, the smell helps keep mosquitoes away — plus I can snip some fresh leaves for dinner.
5. Marigolds
Marigolds are bright, cheerful flowers that also have a very distinct smell that mosquitoes don’t like. They’re perfect for planting along garden borders, near entrances, or around seating areas. Marigolds are easy to care for and bloom all season long, making them a great low-maintenance choice.
6. Lemon Balm
The lemon balm smells like fresh lemon with a hint of mint — but mosquitoes stay far away from it. This plant grows quickly and spreads fast, so it’s a good idea to plant it in a pot to keep it from taking over your garden. Place lemon balm near windows or outdoor spaces where mosquitoes tend to gather.
7. Rosemary
Rosemary isn’t just for cooking — it’s also a natural mosquito repellent. Its woody scent helps keep mosquitoes and other insects away. Rosemary grows well in hot, dry conditions, making it perfect for sunny spots in your garden.
You can also trim some sprigs and toss them into your firepit or grill — the scented smoke will help drive mosquitoes away during backyard gatherings.
8. Catnip
Catnip is well-known for driving cats wild, but it also drives mosquitoes away. Studies show that catnip is actually more effective than some chemical repellents. It grows easily and doesn’t need much care, but keep in mind it spreads fast. Plant it in containers if you don’t want it taking over your garden.
9. Lemongrass
Lemongrass has a fresh, citrus scent that mosquitoes can’t stand. It looks similar to citronella grass but is also used in cooking, especially in Asian dishes. It grows best in warm climates and sunny spots. Plant it in a pot or the ground near entrances and seating areas for extra protection.
10. Bee Balm
Bee balm (also called Monarda) is a colorful flowering plant that attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies — but not mosquitoes. Its fragrant leaves help keep bugs away, and it blooms in shades of red, pink, purple, and white. It grows best in sunny spots with well-drained soil.
Personal Opinion
One thing I’ve learned is that these mosquito-repelling plants work even better when you gently crush a few leaves. It releases more of its natural oils into the air, and you’ll notice fewer bugs around.
11. Sage
Sage is a great multi-purpose plant to have in your garden. It repels mosquitoes with its strong herbal scent, and you can also use it in cooking. Plant it in a sunny area or grow it in pots near your outdoor spaces. You can even throw some dried sage leaves onto a fire — the smoke will help keep mosquitoes away during outdoor hangouts.
12. Allium
Allium plants — which include garlic, onions, and chives — naturally repel mosquitoes and other garden pests. Their strong smell keeps bugs away, while their flowers add color and texture to your garden. Plant them in sunny spots around your garden borders for a natural bug barrier.
13. Floss Flower (Ageratum)
Floss flower is a pretty, low-maintenance plant with blue, purple, or white blooms. It contains a chemical called coumarin, which is used in many mosquito-repelling sprays. It’s perfect for garden borders, containers, or flower beds — adding beauty while helping to keep bugs away.
Final Tip
While these plants can help reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home, remember that they work best when planted close to where you hang out — like patios, windows, or garden seating areas.
Mix and match a few for the best results, and enjoy your outdoor space without the buzz and bites.
