Mosquito plants

One of the reasons many of us dread warmer weather is the return of those pesky mosquitoes which allows the enjoyment of beautiful weather without the fear of being eaten alive. Well, thanks to research and cultivars we can add something that is both beautiful and purposeful to our gardens to help remedy this problem! There are several plants that will keep these pests at bay so you can enjoy the outdoors during the warmer months of the year.

Marigolds are a perfect example. Not only are this one of the most popular annuals that gardeners plant in their gardens and their unique smell tends to repel mosquitoes as well as other insects. So plant these in your vegetable gardens as well! Lemon Balm is another favorite and is also known as horsemint. It smells much like incense and will deter mosquitoes and other insects but will not deter the butterflies or bees from visiting your garden. So this one is a great choice all around! If you have a herb garden, add some basil to help repel mosquitoes and you can even place this in planters along your patio to create a barrier around your walkways as well as give you something to add to your dinners! If you want some color, try lavender. Mosquitoes, as well as lots of other insects, simply despise the smell of lavender, although it is enjoyable for us.

When this plant is blooming, it is simply beautiful so not only will it give you color and beauty but it will also keep those pests from interrupting your summer fun. Many gardeners know about the uses of citronella grass. Many repellents that are manufactured and sold at stores contain citronella such as candles and bug sprays. It is a perennial, which is good news for any gardener! It is a great ornamental plant and will keep mosquitoes and other insects away. Try planting this around your patio for a nice fragrance and protection from the pesky biters. Utilizing mother nature to help improve the beauty of one's yard and protects you from the insects that are present is simply genius!