Plants That Repel Mosquitoes: What Works and What Is a Myth

In summer everyone wants to sit on a balcony or patio without buzzing in their ears, and the internet is full of lists of “mosquito-repelling plants”. The truth is that some plants do contain compounds mosquitoes dislike, but a pot of lavender on the table gives almost no protection. Here is what works, what is mostly myth and how to make good use of aromatic plants.

Fragrant plants for home and balcony: potted plants.

View full-size photo

Why plants might repel mosquitoes

Many aromatic plants release essential oils whose scent makes it harder for mosquitoes to find people. But a living plant releases only tiny amounts of these compounds, usually not enough to protect even a small area. Crushed leaves and extracted oils work better, but only for a short time.

The plants most often mentioned

• Citronella grass is the source of citronella oil, used in some repellents and candles. The potted plant itself has little effect.
• Catnip: in laboratory studies its compound nepetalactone repelled insects; in practice it is a pleasant aromatic garden plant.
• Lavender, mint, lemon balm, basil smell lovely and grow well in containers; crushed leaves give a short-lived effect.
• Marigolds are often planted against garden pests; against mosquitoes their effect is limited.
• “Citrosa” pelargonium is sold as a mosquito plant, but studies have not shown a noticeable effect.

View full-size photo

How to use them well

• Place pots of mint, lemon balm, basil and lavender around seating areas: they decorate the patio and smell wonderful.
• Before sitting out you can crush a few leaves and rub them on exposed skin, if you are not allergic; the effect is brief.
• Plant catnip and lavender near a garden seat: they attract pollinators and cope well with drought.
• Do not rely on plants alone where there are many mosquitoes or a risk of mosquito-borne infections.

View full-size photo

What really protects you

• Insect screens on windows and doors.
• A fan on the patio: mosquitoes struggle to fly against moving air.
• Tip out standing water in buckets, saucers and barrels, where larvae develop.
• Registered skin repellents used as directed; for children and pregnant women choose products approved for them and ask a doctor if unsure.

Aromatic herbs are useful in the kitchen too: see “Herb garden in pots”. For balcony and loggia planting ideas, read “Loggia garden ideas”.

View full-size photo

FAQ

Does potted lavender keep mosquitoes away?

Only slightly. It smells lovely, but for reliable protection you need screens or repellents.

Are essential oils safe?

They can cause irritation and allergies, and some are dangerous for children and pets. Use them carefully and as directed.

View full-size photo

Author: Maria Svitlovir

Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.