No one wants to share their patio with mosquitoes. Luckily, nature has a built-in solution: bug-repellent plants! These fragrant herbs and annuals don’t just look good—they help keep the pests away, too.
Whether you’re lounging on the deck, gathered around a fire, or dining al fresco, here are some of the best mosquito-repellent plants to grow in your garden or containers.
Top Bug-Repellent Plants to Grow This Summer
1. Citronella Geranium
A summer classic for a reason. Also known as mosquito plant geraniums, these have a strong citrusy scent that masks the smells mosquitoes are attracted to.
- Best in pots near patios or walkways.
2. Catmint (Nepeta)
Pretty and practical. Catmint is not only drought-tolerant and easy to grow, but studies show its essential oil is up to 10x more effective than DEET!
- Crush a few leaves and rub on your skin for natural protection.
3. Lemon Balm (Horsemint)
Lemon balm is loved by pollinators—and disliked by mosquitoes. It grows quickly, so it’s best to keep it in a container to prevent spreading.
- Great for sunny patios and pollinator gardens.
4. Peppermint
Mint plants are great multi-taskers. Peppermint repels adult insects and can even kill larvae and eggs of some mosquito species.
- Use the leaves fresh or make a DIY bug spray with peppermint oil.
5. Lavender
Smells amazing to us—terrible to bugs. Lavender is a powerful repellent and can interfere with mosquitoes’ ability to smell.
- Bonus: Dried lavender also keeps moths out of closets.
6. Lemongrass
A tropical-looking grass that contains natural citronella oil. It doubles as a culinary herb and bug-repeller.
- Perfect for planting near outdoor kitchens and fire pits.
7. Sage
Sage really shines around the fire. Toss a few sprigs into the flames—the smoke releases an earthy aroma that mosquitoes hate.
- Great for evening gatherings by the fire.
8. Rosemary
This hardy herb does it all—adds flavor to your food and keeps pests at bay. Burn rosemary like sage to create a mosquito-repelling smoke.
- Also repels cabbage moths and carrot flies in the garden.
9. Basil
One of the few herbs that repels mosquitoes without needing to crush the leaves. The strong, clean scent also helps keep flies away.
- Keep pots of basil on your picnic table or grill station.
How to Use Bug-Repellent Plants Effectively
- Container garden: Place pots of these plants around patios, decks, and seating areas for a natural barrier.
- Crushed leaves: Gently crush leaves and rub them on your skin or place them nearby.
- Burning herbs: Add sage or rosemary to your fire pit or grill for an extra line of defense.
Keep Summer Simple
With these bug-repellent plants, your garden will smell amazing and keep the mosquitoes at bay. Plus, many of them double as culinary herbs or pollinator favorites—so you get even more out of your planting.
Want help building the ultimate outdoor living space? Visit us in-store for plant recommendations, potting services, and patio inspiration.
