There are over 175 known mosquito species in the United States. These shrewd summertime pests seem to have a voracious appetite; some even carry harmful diseases. Don’t lock yourself inside to avoid these pesky pests and become a prisoner in your home. Instead, look through this list of mosquito repellent plants and see how you can incorporate their benefits around your Fort Lauderdale home.
Mosquito Repellent Plants
1. Lavender
This purple people pleaser belongs to the mint family and is one of the few plants that repels mosquitoes just by growing. The oils secreted by lavender plants work as a powerful deterrent to the blood-hungry insects. While the fragrant herb is native to the Mediterranean region, it grows quite well in South Florida.
2. Peppermint
The peppermint plant does far more than add a fresh flavor to recipes and teas, it’s also an effective bug deterrent. Simply growing this plant in strategic areas around your yard can help keep mosquitoes away. To increase the mosquito repelling effectiveness of this herb, cut up a few leaves and sprinkle them around areas where you or guests will be. In the event that you get bitten by a mosquito, rubbing a leaf on the bite will provide itch relief.
3. Feverfew
This flowering plant works well at repelling mosquitoes and similar biting insects. Plant feverfew near areas in your yard where people congregate, close to windows and around pathways. This is a hardy plant that thrives in a variety of soil and light conditions.
4. Citronella
This member of the geranium family produces one of the most effective natural fragrances for warding off mosquitoes. To maximize the mosquito repelling properties of citronella, you have to do a little extra work. Once the plant has matured, rubbing several leaves together in your hands to crush them will release its essential oils. Rubbing these oils over your clothing and exposed skin will help keep mosquitoes away. You can also crush leaves and sprinkle them around seating areas for added protection.
5. Pennyroyal
Not only do mosquitoes dislike this plant, so do gnats, fleas and ticks. Like citronella, you must release this plant’s essential oils in order to achieve the maximum results. If you have pets, don’t be surprised to find them rubbing their fur on this plant to take advantage of its benefits! Pennyroyals tend to do best when potted. Keep an eye out for common fungal diseases, which can be troublesome for this plant.
6. Marigolds
While commonly used as a “companion plant” to help protect other plants from pesky bugs, marigolds are an effective mosquito repellent plant as well. The brightly colored, aromatic flowers tend to last a long time, which make them a favorite among gardeners. Once planted, marigolds require little upkeep and do well in poor soil. Since marigolds can mildew quickly, plant them in sunny areas. Also, never water the plants from above. Instead, water the base of the plants.
7. Herbs
There are quite a few herbs that work effectively as mosquito repellent plants. In order for herbs to be effective, however, you must release their essential oils. This can be done by rubbing a few leaves together, then applying the oils to your exposed skin. The most effective herbs for keeping mosquitoes away are: rosemary, lemon balm, catnip, lemon basil and thyme. Of course, you can also use the herbs in recipes!
By using these mosquito repellent plants strategically, you should be able to enjoy the outdoors more. Be sure to check out our article on Tips To Avoid Mosquito Bites for more ways that you can avoid the pesky pests. After all, you should be able to enjoy all aspects of your Fort Lauderdale luxury home — inside AND out.
