Using plants to keep mosquitoes away is a natural and completely safe alternative to chemicals on the market. There are tons of plants to add to your garden that can act as a natural repellent for mosquitoes and, in some cases, can even be rubbed into the skin for a prolonged effect. Among the best known, we find lemongrass, calendula, catnip, longifolia mint and ageratum. Read on to learn more!
Steps
Step 1. Grow lemongrass in the garden or yard
With its scent, it manages to hide the smells coming from the garden and from your home which, generally, attract mosquitoes. That way, these insects won't get too close.
- If you live in a temperate, frost-free area, plant lemongrass in the open ground behind other plants. It can grow up to 1.52 - 1.82m, forming large grassy bushes.
- If you live in a cold climate, plant lemongrass in large planters so you can move them indoors during colder seasons.
- Be careful: you need to use plants of the genus Cymbopogon; avoid anything that should "smell of lemongrass" because it is not real lemongrass.
Step 2. Plant the marigold along the edge of the lawn or garden
The smell of this plant prevents mosquitoes from approaching a specific area, creating a real barrier.
Marigold needs well-fertilized soil that is exposed to full light throughout the day
Step 3. Grow catnip in your yard if you don't have cats
You can plant it next to plants that generally attract mosquitoes, as it will act as a deterrent. In any case, the cats living in the neighborhood could eat it all, ruining the anti-mosquito effect.
Plant catnip behind or next to plants that generally attract mosquitoes, as it tends to spread like a weed
Step 4. Plant mint longifolia in your garden if you live in a dry climate area or near the coast
Mint longifolia has similar characteristics to lemongrass, but can withstand dry weather, brackish air, and grows well even in sandy soil.
Mint longifolia should be planted in an area with partial shade or even in full sun, but it must have enough space to grow in width and height (around 60 - 90 cm)
Step 5. The ageratum survives in any type of climate
It emits a smell that mosquitoes detest, but only develops up to half a meter in height.
Plant ageratum in any type of soil, in partial shade or in full sun
Step 6. Grow herbs that keep mosquitoes away
This way, you can also use them in the kitchen. Choose from rosemary, basil, lemongrass and garlic.
Step 7. You can crush some plants and rub them on your skin to keep mosquitoes away from your person
In this way, they will not get close to the garden, nor to your home, nor to your skin.
