Does the buzz of mosquitoes ruin your perfect summer evening? You try to relax outside, but those tiny vampires keep biting! Many people want to keep mosquitoes away without using harsh chemicals. Natural solutions, especially plants, seem like a great answer. However, stepping into the world of plant-based repellents brings its own confusion. Which plants actually work? How do you use them correctly? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by conflicting advice online.
This guide cuts through the noise. We will explore the most effective, research-backed plants that naturally send mosquitoes packing. You will learn simple, practical ways to integrate these green guardians into your home and garden. Stop scratching and start enjoying the outdoors again!
Top Plants Mosquito Repellent Recommendations
- Contains 1000 colorful pyrethrum seeds with multi-color blooms, combining ornamental and practical values;
- Significant natural insect repellent effect, repelling mosquitoes and protecting gardening ecological environment;
- Strong cold hardiness and easy to manage, wide growth adaptability, growing normally without special care;
- Suitable for garden and balcony potted planting, dense and full after forming with good coverage;
- High germination rate and fast growth, long flowering period and frequent blooming, a preferred practical ornamental flower.
- PEST-FREE SOLUTION: As carriers of harmful bacteria, mosquitoes have been posing a potential threat to our daily health. BugBai mosquito repellent incense sticks can release a fresh herbal smell that disrupts the sensory system of mosquitoes and makes them feel offensive. Thus making it possible to enjoy your sleepy night and outdoor activities freely without any disturbance of those annoying mosquitoes.
- NATURAL INCENSE STICKS: The main active ingredients of our natural mosquito repellent incense is plant-based essential oils like Rosemary, Lemongrass and Citronella. This DEET-free citronella incense stick without chemicals is non-toxic and friendly to pets, human and plants when used as directed. These bug repellent outdoor will build up a mosquito barrier so as to protect you and your family from mosquito bites.
- HOW TO USE: Every Box contains 120 pieces of mosquito incense sticks. Take one out and ignite the tip of the mosquito incense stick until it flames. Let it burn for 10-20 sec and extinguish the flame away. Then place it in the holder or in a pot filled with sand or dirt. Try to keep the mosquito repellent as close to the floor as possible. For optimal mosquito protection results, place 4-5 pieces of incense sticks to create a perimeter around your patio or any other outdoor areas.
- LASTING & EFFECTIVE: As mosquitoes are extremely sensitive to smells, this mosquito repellent outdoor patio can deliver a strong smell, which is fresh to people but highly irritating to mosquitoes. The natural ingredients will be activated and volatilized into the air to create a mosquito-free environment after the mosquito incense is ignited. Each mosquito incense sticks can burn for 60 min approximately (wind speed and humidity may impact the burning time)
- WIDE APPLICATION RANGE: Despite of giving your indoor area a full range of protection such as kitchen, bedroom, living room, dining room, basement and so on. BugBai insect repellent is also ideal for outdoor insect control such as garden, yard, patio, deck, corridor, swimming pool, porch and so on. It will be useful for picnic, BBQ, camping or fishing outside. It also has a certain repellent effect on other flying and biting insects such as ticks, flies, and gnats.
- Citronella grows beautifully in pots, making it a wonderful plant for decks and patios
- Features strongly lemon-scented leaves
- Grows in part shade
- A vigorous grower and drought tolerant
- Plant 18 to 24 inches apart
- MADE WITH OIL OF LEMON EUCALYPTUS: This DEET-free insect repellent provides you with protection during adventures in the backyard and on the go.
- REPELS MOSQUITOES FOR UP TO 6 HOURS: This repellent keeps you and your family protected for hours, so the fun doesn't have to end.
- REFRESHING SCENT: This DEET-free personal repellent leaves you with a cool, refreshing scent so you don't have to put up with the usual bug spray smell.
- REPELS: Create a barrier against mosquitoes, including those that may transmit the Zika, West Nile, Dengue and Chikungunya viruses.
- NOT GREASY OR STICKY: Formulated with oil of lemon eucalyptus to provide protection without leaving your skin feeling sticky or greasy.
- PET-FRIENDLY & FAMILY-SAFE FORMULA – Mighty Mint is a top pick for pet parents looking for a natural pest control solution. Safe to use around dogs, cats, and kids when applied as directed—no harsh fumes or dangerous chemicals, just powerful peppermint protection you can trust.
- POWERFUL PLANT-BASED PEST CONTROL – Formulated with extra-concentrated peppermint oil, this natural spray is a proven deterrent for spiders, ants, roaches, and more.
- EFFECTIVE INDOOR & OUTDOOR USE – Designed for versatile application on baseboards, entryways, patios, and other areas. Helps repel insects from kitchens, bathrooms, living spaces, and more—without staining surfaces.
- FRESH MINTY SCENT WITH LONG-LASTING EFFECT – Infused with pure peppermint oil, this formula leaves a crisp, clean aroma that lingers without overwhelming. Free from synthetic fragrances and common allergens, making it a gentle option for scent-sensitive households.
- READY-TO-USE 16 OZ SPRAY FOR TARGETED APPLICATION – Perfect for quick treatments in high-traffic areas, this 16 oz bottle delivers fast, focused pest control against spiders, ants, and other common insects. Pre-mixed and easy to use—just spray and go for natural protection wherever it’s needed most.
- CULINARY AND ORNAMENTAL USE: Our lemongrass seeds grow into aromatic plants, perfect for enhancing soups, curries, and sauces with a distinct lemon flavor. Known as citronella grass, this versatile herb deters mosquitoes and doubles as an ornamental plant, adding beauty to gardens, patios, or containers with its lush blue-green foliage.
- IMPRESSIVE GROWTH AND ADAPTABILITY: Growing up to 36–60 inches tall and 24–36 inches wide, our lemon grass thrives in USDA Zones 8–10, making it suitable for warm climates. Its clumping growth habit and arching blue-green leaves provide visual interest, whether planted in gardens, borders, or as live outdoor plants in containers.
- EASY PLANTING AND CARE: Our heirloom seeds are simple to plant—sow 2–3 seeds per spot in well-drained soil, lightly cover with peat moss, and keep moist until germination occurs in 7–21 days. Space plants 36–48 inches apart for healthy growth and proper airflow. Perfect for gardeners of all skill levels, lemon grass offers low-maintenance care with rewarding results.
- MOSQUITO DETERRENT AND DEER PROOF: Our citronella plant seeds grow into strongly aromatic plants that effectively discourage mosquitoes, making them great for patios, outdoor seating areas, and gardens. Their distinct scent also keeps deer at bay, helping to protect your garden without the need for artificial solutions.
- MULTI-PURPOSE BENEFITS FOR EVERY GARDEN: Whether you’re planting lemongrass seeds for culinary use, mosquito control, or ornamental purposes, our seeds provide a practical and versatile solution. From enhancing meals with fresh herbs to keeping invasive insects away, lemon grass is a valuable addition to gardens, patios, or survival gardens, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
- KILLS FAST: Kills mosquitoes, listed ant types, fleas and other listed insects
- QUICKFLIP HOSE-END SPRAYER: Hose-end-sprayer activates spray at the flip of a switch – just grip, flip and go
- LASTS ALL SUMMER: Controls up to 12 weeks against house crickets, carpenter ants, harvester ants, lady beetles and earwigs
- COVERAGE: Treats up to 5,000 square feet of lawn
- NO MIXING REQUIRED: Attach the sprayer to a garden hose to treat your lawn, landscape and outdoor surfaces where insects hide
- What You Will Receive – Fresh, Fast-Growing Starter Plants Includes 5 live lemongrass plants, 6–8 inches tall, shipped bare root and ready to plant.
- Grow It Anywhere – Indoors, Outdoors, or in Pots Perfect for containers, kitchen herb gardens, patios, or raised beds. Lemongrass thrives both inside with strong light or outdoors in full sun—ideal for small spaces or sprawling yards.
- More Than Just a Pretty Plant – It Works for You Use stalks for cooking Thai dishes and herbal teas, or let it naturally deter mosquitoes on your porch. It’s beautiful, functional, and makes your space smell incredible.
- Vibrant Look, Citrus Aroma – A Plant That Stimulates the Senses Tall, arching blades of lush green foliage add a modern tropical flair to any garden. Crush the leaves to release a refreshing lemony fragrance.
- Low Maintenance, High Impact – Beginner-Friendly Herb Grows fast with minimal effort, resists pests, and bounces back after trimming. Tolerates drought once established and can be overwintered indoors in cooler zones.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Plants Mosquito Repellent
Mosquitoes can ruin any outdoor gathering. Many people look for natural ways to keep these pests away. Plants that naturally repel mosquitoes offer a green solution. This guide helps you select the best repellent plants for your space.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for mosquito-repelling plants, look for specific traits. These features ensure you get the most benefit from your purchase.
- Strong Scent: The best repellent plants release strong, noticeable odors. Mosquitoes dislike these smells. Check reviews to see if the scent is strong enough for your area.
- Ease of Care: Consider how much work the plant needs. Some plants require daily watering or specific sunlight. Choose plants that match your gardening skill level.
- Plant Size and Growth Rate: Think about where you will put the plant. A small balcony needs a compact plant. A large garden can handle something bigger. Fast-growing plants offer quicker results.
- Toxicity Concerns: If you have pets or small children, check if the plant is toxic if ingested. Safety is very important.
Important Materials and Plant Types
These plants contain natural oils that drive mosquitoes away. The oils are usually found in the leaves.
The most popular and effective repellent plants usually belong to a few key types:
- Citronella Grass: This is the most famous repellent plant. It gives off a strong, lemony smell.
- Lemon Balm: A member of the mint family, this plant spreads quickly. Crush the leaves to release the strongest scent.
- Basil and Mint Varieties: Many herbs, like peppermint and spearmint, work well. They are easy to grow in pots near seating areas.
- Marigolds: These colorful flowers contain Pyrethrum, an ingredient used in many commercial repellents.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Plant Quality
The quality of your repellent plant depends on how well it grows. A healthy plant produces more of the natural oils.
What Makes a Plant Better:
- Sunlight Exposure: Most repellent plants need at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. More sun equals stronger scent production.
- Proper Drainage: Roots sitting in soggy soil cause rot. Good drainage keeps the plant healthy and maximizes oil production.
- Regular Pruning/Crushing: To get the best protection, gently bruise or crush the leaves occasionally. This releases the repellent oils into the air.
What Lowers Quality:
- Pests and Disease: Aphids or fungal issues weaken the plant, reducing its natural defense oils.
- Poor Soil: If the soil lacks nutrients, the plant will look weak and smell less potent.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use these plants greatly affects your success against mosquitoes.
For Patios and Decks: Group several pots together near where you sit. Placing them close to doorways also helps block entry. Users often report fewer bites when plants are clustered together.
For Gardens and Borders: Plant rows of citronella or marigolds along the edges of your yard. This creates a natural barrier. Remember that the repellent effect is usually strongest right next to the plant.
Note on Effectiveness: These plants work best when used in large numbers or placed very close to people. They are a good addition to other methods, like fans or clothing choices. No single plant will clear an entire yard, but they definitely help reduce the local mosquito population.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Plants Mosquito Repellent
Q: How quickly do these plants start repelling mosquitoes?
A: The plants begin repelling pests as soon as they are healthy and actively growing. Crushing the leaves releases the smell instantly.
Q: Do all mosquito repellent plants smell like citronella?
A: No. While citronella is popular, plants like basil smell like herbs, and marigolds have a distinct, earthy scent. Each plant offers a different aroma.
Q: Can I just put these plants anywhere?
A: You should place them where you spend time, like near outdoor tables. They need adequate sunlight to work best, so avoid deep shade.
Q: Are these plants safe for my dog or cat?
A: Some plants, like Scented Geraniums, can cause mild stomach upset if eaten. Always check the specific toxicity of the plant you buy if you have curious pets.
Q: Will these plants stop mosquitoes completely?
A: They significantly reduce mosquitoes in the immediate area. They work best as a natural layer of defense, not a total solution for heavy infestations.
Q: How often should I water a Citronella plant?
A: Citronella prefers moist, but not soggy, soil. Check the soil daily; water deeply when the top inch feels dry.
Q: Is it better to buy seedlings or seeds?
A: Buying established seedlings gives you quicker results. Seeds take much longer to grow large enough to produce a strong repellent scent.
Q: Do the leaves need to be constantly crushed?
A: No. A good initial crushing releases a strong burst of scent. The plant continues to release oils naturally, but rubbing the leaves occasionally boosts the effect.
Q: What happens if I bring them indoors for the winter?
A: Many repellent plants (like basil and citronella) are tropical and need warmth. Bring them inside near a sunny window to keep them alive until spring.
Q: Are expensive plants better than cheap ones?
A: The price often reflects the size and health of the plant when you buy it. A large, healthy, inexpensive plant is better than a small, struggling expensive one.