Plants for Repelling Mosquitoes, Flies, and Other Pests

The Best Plants for Repelling Mosquitoes, Flies, and Other Pests

Pesky insects like mosquitoes, flies, and gnats can quickly ruin outdoor activities and gardening enjoyment. Instead of relying on chemical repellents, you can grow plants that naturally deter these unwanted pests. Many plants release essential oils and fragrances that insects find unpleasant, helping to keep your garden bug-free. In this guide, we’ll explore the best plants for repelling mosquitoes, flies, and other common pests while enhancing your garden’s beauty and functionality.

Why Use Plants to Repel Insects?

• Chemical-Free Pest Control: Reduces the need for synthetic sprays and insecticides.

• Dual Purpose: Many pest-repelling plants also offer culinary, medicinal, or aromatic benefits.

• Attracts Beneficial Insects: Helps pollinators like bees and butterflies while deterring harmful bugs.

• Enhances Garden Aesthetics: Many of these plants produce beautiful flowers and lush foliage.

Best Plants for Repelling Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide and body heat, but certain plant scents can disrupt their ability to locate humans.

1. Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus)

• How it works: The strong citrus aroma masks scents that attract mosquitoes.

• How to use: Crush leaves to release oils or plant around patios and doorways.

• Bonus: Can be used in homemade mosquito-repelling candles or sprays.

2. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

• How it works: Contains compounds like linalool, which repels mosquitoes.

• How to use: Grow near seating areas or rub leaves directly on skin.

• Bonus: Drought-tolerant and attracts pollinators.

3. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

• How it works: Basil’s strong scent repels mosquitoes and flies.

• How to use: Grow in pots near outdoor seating or in the kitchen garden.

• Bonus: Provides fresh leaves for cooking and natural medicine.

4. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)

• How it works: Emits pyrethrum, a natural insect repellent found in commercial bug sprays.

• How to use: Plant in garden beds or containers near entrances.

• Bonus: Deters nematodes and aphids, protecting vegetable crops.

5. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)

• How it works: Contains citronella oil, a well-known mosquito repellent.

• How to use: Grow in pots near patios or extract oil for DIY sprays.

• Bonus: Can be used in teas and soups for a fresh citrusy flavor.

Best Plants for Repelling Flies

Flies are attracted to decaying matter and sugary scents, but certain plants can keep them away.

6. Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)

• How it works: The strong woody scent repels flies and mosquitoes.

• How to use: Grow in pots near windows, doorways, and outdoor dining areas.

• Bonus: Great for culinary use and improves memory and concentration.

7. Mint (Mentha spp.)

• How it works: The strong menthol aroma is disliked by flies and mosquitoes.

• How to use: Grow in pots (to prevent spreading) and place near doors and patios.

• Bonus: Can be used for teas, cocktails, and soothing herbal remedies.

8. Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis)

• How it works: Natural oils deter flies and cockroaches.

• How to use: Hang dried bay leaves in the kitchen or add fresh leaves to garden beds.

• Bonus: Enhances soups and stews with its aromatic leaves.

Best Plants for Repelling Other Pests

Some plants target specific pests like ants, aphids, and gnats.

9. Chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium)

• Repels: Ants, roaches, ticks, fleas, and bedbugs.

• How it works: Produces pyrethrin, a natural insecticide.

• How to use: Plant in flower beds or near doors and windows.

• Bonus: Beautiful, colorful flowers add charm to any garden.

10. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

• Repels: Mosquitoes, cockroaches, and termites.

• How it works: Contains nepetalactone, more effective than DEET in repelling mosquitoes.

• How to use: Crush leaves to release oils or grow in containers.

• Bonus: A favorite treat for cats and can be used in herbal teas.

11. Garlic (Allium sativum)

• Repels: Aphids, mosquitoes, and Japanese beetles.

• How it works: Sulfur compounds in garlic deter many pests.

• How to use: Plant around vegetable gardens or mix crushed garlic with water to create a natural spray.

• Bonus: Essential in cooking and supports heart health.

12. Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus)

• Repels: Aphids, whiteflies, and squash bugs.

• How it works: Acts as a natural trap crop, luring pests away from vegetables.

• How to use: Plant near tomatoes, cucumbers, and beans.

• Bonus: Edible flowers add a spicy flavor to salads and dishes.

How to Use Pest-Repelling Plants Effectively

• Plant near outdoor seating areas to create a natural bug barrier.

• Use container gardens to move plants where they are needed most.

• Crush leaves to release essential oils and enhance their effectiveness.

• Dry leaves and flowers to make sachets or homemade pest-repelling sprays.

• Combine multiple plants to maximize protection against different pests.

Final Thoughts

By strategically planting mosquito- and pest-repelling plants in your garden, you can enjoy a more comfortable and eco-friendly outdoor space. Many of these plants serve multiple functions—deterring pests while adding beauty, fragrance, and culinary benefits. Whether you grow lavender for its soothing scent or basil for cooking, these plants offer a natural and effective way to keep bugs at bay.

What plants do you use to repel insects? Share your favorites in the comments below!