7 Natural Mosquito Repellent Plants 

Mosquito repellents are a must, especially in the summer when we want to spend as much time as we can outdoors. Here are some delightful flowers and herbs to plant in the yard that will work as a natural mosquito repellent. Each of these all-natural plants will also work effectively as an essential oil, diluted into a spray, rubbed onto the skin, used as an incense, or placed throughout a garden as dry leaves or living plants. Head on over to your local nursery or grocery store and be sure to pick up one or more of these wonderful natural mosquito repellent plants!

Another benefit of using natural plants is that you don’t have to use harsh chemicals such as DEET to protect your skin. Some of these natural ingredients even work BETTER than DEET. Steer clear of chemicals, and go all-natural with these home remedies that work great for skin, for your yard, for your pets, and for the kids!

The natural mosquito repellent that is environmentally friendly, cheap, and easy to find!

1. Basil is a natural mosquito repellent

Basil is used as a common ingredient and only makes sense that one of its many uses is also to ward off mosquitos and to cure many ailments. The mosquitos avoid the scent, so rub on some fresh leaves, or use basil oil. Keep it nearby if you’re entertaining outdoors.

2. Peppermint is a natural mosquito repellent

Peppermint is a favorite among homemade remedies and cures. Use the leaves or the oil as leaves for a natural mosquito repellent or for very relaxing aromatherapy. Use in moderation, and dilute the oil as not to irritate the skin. You can find out more here.

3. Rosemary is a natural mosquito repellent

Rosemary leaves and oil are another wonderful herb that will repel mosquitos. Plant a small rosemary bush in a small pot indoors, and enjoy all the benefits: a flower, a herb, an indoor plant, but most of all – an all-natural mosquito repellent!

4. Catnip is a natural mosquito repellent

Catnip has been recognized as the strongest natural insect repellent. In fact, catnip is 10 times stronger than DEET (the commonly used ingredient in insect repellent) according to this source. You can plant it in your yard to ward off pests or sprinkle an essential oil and use the aroma to repel mosquitoes.

 5. Lavender is a natural mosquito repellent

Lavender is another herb used for repelling mosquitoes. This one’s agreeable aroma is wonderful for humans, but not so nice to mosquitoes. Use of the lavender candles or just burning lavender incense will help to drive away mosquitoes and enjoy the relaxing scent, bug-free. Planting lavender around your home or yard, or using essential oils will work too.

6. Marigold is a natural mosquito repellent

If you are having some major mosquito issues in your house, have you considered planting some marigolds in your garden? Marigold is a natural mosquito repellent. You do not have to use oils or creams to rub on your skin with this plant, just plant it and let it grow in your garden and let the marigolds do the work.

7. Garlic is a natural mosquito repellent

Oh garlic, sweet garlic… Renowned to heal or prevent diseases, the kitchen loves it and the chef loves it more. However, mosquito hates it!  Garlic is a very cheap but very effective natural mosquito repellent that you can easily find everywhere! You can create a homemade garlic spray to repel mosquitoes in a large area (perfect for outdoor) and some garlic gel or your homemade garlic paste that you can apply to your skin (in moderation). Garlic, unlike many of the other options, has a very strong, and not so sweet, odor. If you don’t mind the scent lingering, then this option will work great. Click here to learn more about garlic benefits.