Plants That Repel Mosquitoes.
There’s something very magical about summer evenings in the garden—until the mosquitoes show up. Luckily, nature provides elegant, fragrant solutions that keep our outdoor spaces enjoyable without resorting to chemicals.
1. Aromatic Herbs: Basil & Lemongrass.
Aromatic herbs are a gardener’s best friend when it comes to natural pest control. Basil (Ocimum basilicum) and Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) both contain natural oils that mosquitoes find intolerable. Their fresh, uplifting scents create an invisible shield around patios and garden edges. Keep them near seating areas, entryways, or garden paths for maximum effect.
2. Tangy Wildflowers: Beebalm & Mountain Mints.
Native wildflowers like Beebalm (Monarda spp.) and Mountain Mints (Pycnanthemum spp.) are powerful mosquito deterrents that double as pollinator magnets. Their sharp, citrusy aroma repels mosquitoes while attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Pycnanthemum muticum (Clustered Mountain Mint) is especially effective—and beautiful when in full bloom.
3. Keep the Water Flowing.
Mosquitoes breed in still water, so the best prevention is movement. If your garden includes a birdbath, pond, or container water feature, make sure it circulates. A small fountain pump or waterfall keeps the water oxygenated, mosquito-free, and visually soothing. Flow that water—no stagnation allowed.
4. Welcome the Hummingbirds.
By incorporating plants that repel mosquitoes with your organic garden design, hummingbirds will soon visit you. This is an altogether good thing! After all, hummingbirds eat half their weight in insects every single day. If they frequent and patrol your garden space, then you will have less mosquitoes overall.
By combining scent, motion, and smart planting design, you can basically cultivate a low volume mosquito garden that buzzes only with pollinators.
How to hire Jessecology to build you a low mosquito density garden system in NYS:
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