Plants That Repel Mosquitoes

1. Introduction

Mosquitoes are one of the most common pests that affect people globally, especially during warmer months. These tiny insects not only cause annoying bites, but they are also responsible for spreading serious diseases such as malaria, dengue, Zika virus, and West Nile virus. The impact of mosquitoes on human health is significant, and controlling their population is a priority for many homeowners and gardeners.

While chemical-based repellents and pesticides can help reduce mosquito populations, many people are turning to more natural, environmentally friendly solutions. Natural mosquito control methods are often safer for humans, pets, and the surrounding ecosystem. Among the most effective natural repellents are plants that have been shown to deter mosquitoes through their scents or essential oils.

Many plants have the ability to repel mosquitoes, making them an excellent choice for homeowners looking to create a mosquito-free environment in their yards or outdoor spaces. By strategically placing these plants around your garden, patio, or balcony, you can naturally ward off mosquitoes without the need for harsh chemicals. Let’s explore why these plants are so effective and which ones you should consider for your own mosquito control strategy.

Key Benefits of Using Mosquito-Repellent Plants

• Natural, chemical-free solution to mosquito control.
• Safe for pets, children, and the environment.
• Adds beauty and fragrance to outdoor spaces.
• Easy to grow and maintain in most climates.

How Plants Can Help Create a Mosquito-Free Outdoor Environment

1. Repelling Mosquitoes: Many plants emit strong aromas that mosquitoes find unpleasant, such as citronella, lavender, and eucalyptus.
2. Natural Barrier: When planted around the perimeter of your garden, these plants can act as a natural barrier against mosquitoes.
3. Attracting Beneficial Insects: Some mosquito-repellent plants also attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden.
4. Long-Term Benefits: Once planted, these plants require minimal maintenance and provide year-round mosquito-repelling effects, especially during peak mosquito seasons.

 

 

2. How Do Mosquito Repellent Plants Work?

Mosquito-repellent plants are effective due to the presence of specific compounds in their essential oils, which create natural deterrents for mosquitoes. These compounds often have strong smells that are unpleasant to mosquitoes, disrupting their ability to detect humans and other animals as potential hosts. Let's explore the active compounds found in some of the most popular mosquito-repelling plants:

• Citronella: Found in plants like citronella grass, this compound is one of the most well-known mosquito repellents. It has a strong citrus scent that mosquitoes find overwhelming, making it difficult for them to locate a host.
• Geraniol: Found in geraniums, lemon grass, and other plants, geraniol is a natural compound that mosquitoes find particularly repelling. It interferes with their ability to sense chemical signals emitted by potential hosts.
• Eucalyptol: Present in eucalyptus plants, this compound has both insect-repelling and medicinal properties. Its sharp, minty aroma is unappealing to mosquitoes and other pests.

The essential oils from these plants are the primary reason they act as mosquito deterrents. When mosquitoes come into contact with or inhale the aroma from these plants, they become confused and disoriented, making it difficult for them to locate food sources or breeding grounds.

Natural Plant-Based Solutions vs. Chemical Repellents

While chemical repellents, such as DEET and permethrin, are widely used for mosquito control, natural plant-based solutions offer a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative. Here’s how the two compare:

Aspect	Chemical Repellents	Natural Plant-Based Solutions
Effectiveness	Very effective, but may need frequent reapplication.	Moderately effective, depending on plant and conditions.
Safety	Can be toxic to pets, children, and the environment.	Generally safe for pets, children, and the environment.
Duration	Can last for hours, but needs reapplication.	Lasts longer in areas with consistent plant growth.
Application	Sprays or lotions need to be applied to skin or clothing.	Planting in the garden or around outdoor areas.

Natural plant-based solutions may not be as potent as chemical repellents, but they provide a long-lasting, eco-friendly alternative to traditional methods. Their gentle, non-toxic nature makes them ideal for those who wish to reduce their exposure to chemicals while still protecting themselves from mosquito bites.

3. Top Plants That Repel Mosquitoes

When it comes to repelling mosquitoes naturally, several plants stand out for their ability to ward off these pesky insects. Whether you are looking for a fragrant garden addition or an effective pest control solution, these plants can help create a mosquito-free outdoor space. Here’s a look at some of the top plants that repel mosquitoes:

3.1 Citronella

Citronella is perhaps the most well-known plant for repelling mosquitoes, thanks to its strong, distinctive citrus scent. Often found in many mosquito-repellent candles and sprays, citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus) contains essential oils that mosquitoes find overwhelming. Its smell masks the human scents that attract mosquitoes, making it an excellent natural deterrent.

While citronella is commonly used in mosquito-repellent products, growing citronella grass in your garden or around patios is an even more effective way to keep mosquitoes at bay. The plant thrives in warm climates and can be grown in containers or directly in the ground.

Growing Tips and Care Instructions

• Citronella requires full sunlight and well-draining soil.
• Water regularly but ensure the soil is not soggy.
• Citronella grass can be propagated from cuttings or by dividing established plants.
• Consider planting in pots for easy mobility and placement.

3.2 Lavender

Lavender (Lavandula spp.) is not only known for its calming properties but also for its ability to repel mosquitoes with its strong, floral scent. Mosquitoes are highly sensitive to lavender’s aroma, making it a natural deterrent. The soothing fragrance of lavender has the added benefit of reducing stress and anxiety, making it an excellent choice for creating a peaceful garden atmosphere.

In addition to repelling mosquitoes, lavender’s attractive flowers and ability to attract pollinators like bees make it a valuable plant for any garden.

Growing Tips and Care Instructions

• Lavender thrives in full sunlight and well-drained soil with low moisture.
• It is best to prune lavender regularly to keep it bushy and encourage new growth.
• Water sparingly as lavender is drought-tolerant once established.
• Best suited for regions with mild winters, but can be grown in containers in colder climates.

3.3 Lemon Balm

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a member of the mint family and is known for its lemony fragrance. The scent of lemon balm is highly effective in repelling mosquitoes, making it an easy-to-grow and fragrant addition to your garden. In addition to mosquitoes, lemon balm is known to repel a variety of other pests, including flies and ants.

Not only is lemon balm effective as a mosquito repellent, but it can also be used in teas, salads, and as a garnish, offering both practical and aromatic benefits.

Growing Tips and Care Instructions

• Lemon balm prefers partial to full sunlight and moist, well-drained soil.
• It can grow vigorously, so it’s best to plant it in containers to prevent it from spreading uncontrollably.
• Harvest leaves regularly to promote new growth.
• It grows well in both garden beds and containers and is easy to propagate from cuttings.

3.4 Marigolds

Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) are not only a vibrant and colorful addition to any garden, but they also contain pyrethrum, a natural compound known to repel mosquitoes. Pyrethrum is widely used in insect repellents due to its ability to disrupt the nervous system of insects. Marigolds' distinct odor, combined with their pyrethrum content, makes them an excellent choice for natural pest control.

These flowers are versatile in the garden, as they can be planted alongside vegetables, herbs, or flowers to act as a natural mosquito deterrent while adding visual appeal to your outdoor space.

Growing Tips and Care Instructions

• Marigolds thrive in full sunlight and can tolerate a variety of soil types, as long as it is well-drained.
• They need regular watering but can tolerate periods of drought.
• Deadheading spent flowers encourages more blooms and keeps the plant looking tidy.
• They are easy to grow from seeds and can be planted directly in the garden or in containers.

3.5 Basil

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is another aromatic herb that mosquitoes dislike. The strong scent of basil acts as a natural repellent, especially against the Asian tiger mosquito. While basil is primarily known for its culinary uses, it can also serve as a natural mosquito deterrent when planted in your garden or placed in pots around your patio.

In addition to its mosquito-repelling properties, basil is a popular herb in cooking, adding flavor to a variety of dishes like pasta, salads, and pesto. Different basil varieties, such as Thai basil and lemon basil, may have slightly different mosquito-repelling effectiveness, but all basil varieties offer some level of protection.

Growing Tips and Care Instructions

• Basil requires full sunlight and well-drained soil with regular watering.
• It grows best in warm temperatures, so plant after the danger of frost has passed.
• Prune regularly to prevent the plant from flowering and to encourage more leaves.
• Basil can be grown in containers for easy mobility and placed near entryways to maximize mosquito repellent effects.

 

 

4. Planting and Caring for Mosquito-Repellent Plants

To maximize the effectiveness of mosquito-repellent plants, proper planting and care are essential. These plants not only need the right environment to thrive, but they also require regular maintenance to ensure they continue to keep mosquitoes at bay. In this section, we’ll cover the general guidelines for planting and caring for mosquito-repellent plants, and how you can enhance their effectiveness through companion planting.

General Planting Advice for Mosquito-Repellent Plants

• Choose the right location: Most mosquito-repellent plants, like citronella, lavender, and basil, thrive in sunny areas. Ensure the location receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Soil requirements: Well-draining soil is crucial for most of these plants. Heavy, clayey soils that retain too much moisture may lead to root rot, so mix in compost or organic matter to improve drainage where needed.
• Plant spacing: While many mosquito-repellent plants like basil, marigolds, and lavender can be planted together, be sure to provide enough space for air circulation. Overcrowding can lead to fungal diseases and decreased plant health.

Ideal Environments for Growing Mosquito-Repellent Plants

• Sunlight: As mentioned, these plants typically require full sunlight to grow well. If growing in containers, place the pots in a location with ample sunlight.
• Soil type: Choose well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Adding organic matter can help boost soil fertility and ensure good drainage.
• Temperature and humidity: These plants typically prefer warm temperatures and moderate humidity levels. However, extreme humidity may encourage pests and diseases, so adequate airflow is important.

Proper Watering, Pruning, and Harvesting

• Watering: Most mosquito-repellent plants need regular watering, but they don’t like to be waterlogged. Make sure the soil dries out slightly between waterings. Watering in the morning is ideal to prevent diseases caused by excessive moisture overnight.
• Pruning: Regular pruning encourages healthy growth and ensures the plant remains bushy, increasing its ability to produce more aromatic oils that repel mosquitoes. Remove dead or yellowing leaves to maintain plant health.
• Harvesting: For herbs like basil and lemon balm, harvest leaves frequently to prevent flowering, which can reduce their mosquito-repelling effectiveness. Regular harvesting also encourages new growth.

Companion Planting to Enhance Mosquito-Repelling Effects

Companion planting is an excellent way to maximize the effectiveness of mosquito-repellent plants. By grouping certain plants together, you can enhance their natural pest-repellent properties and create a more effective barrier against mosquitoes. Here are some tips on companion planting:

• Combine aromatic plants: Pair plants like citronella, basil, and lavender with other aromatic herbs, such as rosemary and thyme, which can help mask the scent of humans and further deter mosquitoes.
• Use flowers: Marigolds and geraniums can be planted alongside other mosquito-repellent herbs to create an attractive and effective pest-repelling garden.
• Strategic placement: Planting mosquito-repellent plants near outdoor seating areas, doorways, and windows can help reduce mosquito exposure and create a pleasant, pest-free environment.

5. Other Effective Plants for Repelling Mosquitoes

In addition to the well-known mosquito-repellent plants like citronella and lavender, there are several other effective plants that can help you keep mosquitoes at bay. These plants contain natural compounds that mosquitoes find repulsive, and with the right care, they can be a valuable addition to your garden. Below are some of the best options for repelling mosquitoes, each with its own unique properties and growing needs.

5.1 Catnip

Catnip, known for its irresistible attraction to cats, is also a powerful mosquito repellent. It contains a compound called nepetalactone, which has been shown to repel mosquitoes more effectively than DEET, the active ingredient in many commercial repellents.

• Care and planting instructions: Catnip is easy to grow in full sun with well-drained soil. It can be planted in both gardens and containers. Water regularly but avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot.

5.2 Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus oil is widely recognized as an effective mosquito repellent. The oil’s strong, minty aroma keeps mosquitoes and other insects away. Many varieties of eucalyptus plants, including the eucalyptus citriodora (Lemon Eucalyptus), contain high levels of citronellal, which is highly effective against mosquitoes.

• Different varieties: Lemon Eucalyptus, Eucalyptus globulus, and Eucalyptus polybractea are some of the most effective varieties for repelling mosquitoes.
• Growing instructions: Eucalyptus trees prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They thrive in warm climates, and in colder regions, they can be grown in containers to bring indoors during the winter months.

5.3 Citronella Geranium

Citronella geranium, also known as the "mosquito plant," emits a citronella-like fragrance that naturally repels mosquitoes. While its effectiveness is not as strong as pure citronella grass, it can still help reduce mosquito presence in your garden.

• Growing and care instructions: This plant thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soil. It does best in moderate temperatures and should be watered regularly without being overwatered.

5.4 Rosemary

Rosemary has a strong, fragrant scent that mosquitoes dislike. The plant contains essential oils that are effective in repelling mosquitoes, especially when the leaves are crushed or burned.

• Growing tips: Rosemary is a hardy herb that grows well in sunny locations with well-drained, slightly acidic soil. It is drought-tolerant, but regular watering helps promote healthy growth.

5.5 Pennyroyal

Pennyroyal is a fragrant herb that belongs to the mint family and contains pulegone, a compound known to repel mosquitoes. Although highly effective, pennyroyal should be used with caution as it can be toxic to pets and humans if consumed in large quantities.

• Safe usage tips: To safely use pennyroyal, avoid direct contact with skin and ensure it is planted in a location out of reach of children and pets.
• Growing recommendations: Pennyroyal thrives in moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. It is a fast-growing plant that spreads quickly, so regular pruning is necessary to control its growth.

 

 

6. The Pros and Cons of Using Mosquito-Repellent Plants

While mosquito-repellent plants offer a natural alternative to chemical-based solutions, they come with both advantages and drawbacks. Understanding these can help you determine if they are the right option for your garden or outdoor space.

Pros

• Natural solution without chemicals: Mosquito-repellent plants provide an eco-friendly and chemical-free way to deter mosquitoes, making them safe for families, pets, and the environment.
• Low maintenance and easy to grow: Many of these plants are easy to grow, requiring minimal care once established. They often thrive in garden beds, containers, or as ground cover.
• Adds beauty and fragrance to the garden: These plants not only help with mosquito control but also enhance the visual appeal of your garden. They produce beautiful flowers and pleasant fragrances that can make your outdoor space more enjoyable.

Cons

• Limited mosquito-repellent power: While these plants do have repellent qualities, their effectiveness is not always strong enough to completely eliminate mosquitoes. They may need to be paired with other methods, such as citronella candles or repellents, for optimal results.
• Some plants may need specific growing conditions: Certain mosquito-repellent plants, like eucalyptus and citronella grass, may require specific climates, soil types, or sunlight conditions to thrive, which can make them harder to grow in some areas.
• Not all varieties are equally effective: Some varieties of mosquito-repellent plants may not have the same potency as others. For instance, while citronella is very effective, citronella geranium may not provide the same level of protection.

7. Using Mosquito-Repellent Plants in Your Garden Design

Incorporating mosquito-repellent plants into your garden design can be an effective way to protect yourself from mosquitoes while enhancing the beauty and fragrance of your outdoor space. Strategic placement and thoughtful selection of plants can create a natural barrier against mosquitoes, making your garden more enjoyable and safe. Here are some tips for using these plants effectively in your garden and outdoor living areas.

How to Strategically Place These Plants to Maximize Mosquito Protection

• Position plants near entry points: Place mosquito-repellent plants around doors, windows, and outdoor seating areas to form a natural barrier against mosquitoes. Citronella, lavender, and basil work well in these spots.
• Group plants together: Cluster mosquito-repellent plants in areas with high mosquito activity. The combination of strong scents from plants like rosemary, lavender, and eucalyptus will create a more effective deterrent.
• Use plant borders: Create borders around your garden or patio using mosquito-repellent plants. This can act as a perimeter defense against mosquitoes entering the area.

Suggestions for Companion Plants and Creating a Mosquito-Repellent Zone

• Companion plants: Pair mosquito-repellent plants with flowers or herbs that attract pollinators, like marigolds and zinnias. This will add color to your garden while maintaining mosquito protection.
• Herb garden zones: Dedicate a section of your garden to growing mosquito-repellent herbs like basil, catnip, and rosemary. These plants can be placed together to create a fragrant and effective mosquito-repellent zone.
• Water features: If you have a water feature in your garden, position mosquito-repellent plants around it to counteract the attraction of mosquitoes to stagnant water. Plants like citronella and lemon balm can help deter mosquitoes from breeding in such areas.

Ways to Incorporate These Plants into Patios, Balconies, and Outdoor Living Spaces

• Containers and pots: For small spaces like balconies or patios, use pots and containers to grow mosquito-repellent plants. Citronella, lavender, and basil thrive in pots, and they can be easily moved around for optimal protection.
• Hanging baskets: Hanging baskets are a great option for placing plants like geraniums and petunias, which also act as mosquito repellents. These can be hung near seating areas for added protection.
• Garden beds: In larger outdoor spaces, incorporate mosquito-repellent plants into garden beds, especially near seating areas and walkways. Use a mix of plants to create both a mosquito-repelling zone and a visually pleasing landscape.

Designing a Fragrant Garden That Also Serves as a Mosquito Barrier

Designing a fragrant garden not only provides a beautiful sensory experience but also serves as an effective mosquito barrier. Here’s how you can achieve this:

• Choose aromatic plants: Select plants like lavender, rosemary, and mint for their strong scents that repel mosquitoes. These will enhance the garden’s aroma and help create a mosquito-free environment.
• Layer scents: Combine plants with different scents at varying heights in your garden. For example, tall citronella grass can be placed in the background, with low-growing basil and marigolds in the foreground.
• Strategic placement for scent distribution: To ensure the fragrance is spread throughout your space, position plants around the perimeter and in high-traffic areas. This will create an immersive experience while keeping mosquitoes away.

 

 

8. Homemade Mosquito-Repellent Recipes Using Plants

Creating your own mosquito-repellent solutions using plants is an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to protect your home and garden. These simple homemade recipes harness the natural powers of plant oils and scents to keep mosquitoes at bay. Below are some easy-to-follow recipes using common mosquito-repellent plants.

8.1 Citronella Oil Spray

Citronella is well-known for its mosquito-repelling properties. Here's how to create a simple citronella oil spray for your garden:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup of water
  • 10-15 drops of citronella essential oil
  • 1 tablespoon of witch hazel or rubbing alcohol
• Instructions:
  • In a small spray bottle, combine the water, citronella oil, and witch hazel or alcohol.
  • Shake well to mix.
  • Spray the solution around your garden, especially near seating areas and entry points.

8.2 Lavender Sachets

Lavender not only repels mosquitoes but also adds a calming fragrance to your home. Make lavender sachets to place in drawers, closets, or near windows to deter mosquitoes indoors:

• Ingredients:
  • Dried lavender flowers
  • Small fabric pouches or sachets
• Instructions:
  • Fill the sachets with dried lavender flowers.
  • Tie the sachets closed and place them around your home, near windows or doors where mosquitoes may enter.

8.3 Lemon Balm Oil

Lemon balm has a citrusy scent that mosquitoes dislike. Create your own mosquito-repelling oil by infusing lemon balm:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup of fresh lemon balm leaves
  • 1 cup of olive oil or coconut oil
  • A small glass jar or bottle
• Instructions:
  • Place fresh lemon balm leaves in a glass jar and cover them with olive or coconut oil.
  • Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 1-2 weeks. Shake the jar daily to mix.
  • After two weeks, strain the oil and transfer it to a small bottle for use.
  • Apply the oil to exposed skin or use it around your garden for natural mosquito protection.

8.4 Rosemary & Eucalyptus Combos

Rosemary and eucalyptus are both powerful mosquito repellents. Combine their oils to create a natural spray or diffuser blend:

• Ingredients:
  • 10 drops of rosemary essential oil
  • 10 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
  • 1 tablespoon of witch hazel or rubbing alcohol
  • 1 cup of water
• Instructions:
  • In a spray bottle, combine the rosemary oil, eucalyptus oil, witch hazel, and water.
  • Shake well before using and spray it around your garden or on your skin for natural mosquito protection.

9. The Benefits of Growing Mosquito-Repellent Plants

Beyond their ability to keep mosquitoes at bay, mosquito-repellent plants offer a variety of benefits for your garden and the surrounding environment. By integrating these plants into your landscape, you can contribute positively to both the aesthetic and ecological health of your outdoor space.

• Attracting Pollinators: Many mosquito-repellent plants, such as lavender and basil, also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. This helps to promote a healthy ecosystem by supporting the growth of other plants and contributing to the overall biodiversity of your garden.
• Environmental Benefits: Growing plants that naturally repel mosquitoes reduces the need for harmful chemical pesticides, which can pollute soil and water. These plants help create a safer, more sustainable environment for both humans and wildlife.
• Aesthetic Advantages: Mosquito-repellent plants often have beautiful flowers or fragrant foliage that can enhance the visual appeal of your garden. These plants can be strategically placed to create fragrant borders or attract wildlife while serving as a natural pest deterrent.
• Positive Ecosystem Impact: By choosing to grow mosquito-repellent plants, you contribute to a balanced ecosystem. These plants offer shelter and food sources for beneficial insects and birds, which play essential roles in maintaining the health of the local environment.

 

10. Conclusion

Using plants to repel mosquitoes offers a natural, eco-friendly solution to keeping these pests at bay. By incorporating mosquito-repellent plants such as citronella, lavender, and basil into your garden, you can create a more enjoyable outdoor environment. Not only will these plants help protect you from mosquitoes, but they also add beauty, fragrance, and attract beneficial pollinators. Start planting these natural repellents today to enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of your garden while promoting a healthier, pest-free outdoor space.

11. FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about using mosquito-repellent plants in your garden and home.

11.1 Can I use mosquito-repellent plants indoors?

Yes, many mosquito-repellent plants can be grown indoors. Citronella, lavender, basil, and lemon balm are popular choices that thrive in indoor environments. For best results, place these plants near windows or areas with plenty of sunlight. Be sure to use pots with good drainage and keep the soil evenly moist. Indoor air circulation is also important to help disperse the plant's natural mosquito-repelling scent.

11.2 Do I need to crush or rub the leaves of mosquito-repellent plants for them to work?

Crushing or rubbing the leaves of certain mosquito-repellent plants can release their essential oils, which enhances their effectiveness. For example, rubbing basil or lavender leaves can release the oils that have a stronger mosquito-repelling scent. However, simply having the plants in your garden or home can still offer some protection. Crushing the leaves is optional but may improve the repellency for short periods.

11.3 Are mosquito-repellent plants safe for pets?

While most mosquito-repellent plants are safe for pets, some varieties, such as pennyroyal, can be toxic if ingested by animals. Always research the specific plant species you're using, especially if you have pets that tend to chew on plants. Generally, plants like lavender, basil, and rosemary are pet-friendly. However, it's important to keep plants out of reach of pets to prevent any accidental consumption.

11.4 Can these plants completely eliminate mosquitoes in my yard?

While mosquito-repellent plants are effective in reducing mosquito populations, they cannot completely eliminate them. These plants work best as a deterrent rather than a total eradicator. To maximize their effectiveness, it’s advisable to combine them with other mosquito control measures, such as eliminating standing water, using mosquito nets, or applying natural repellents. Mosquito-repellent plants can help create a less hospitable environment but may not provide 100% protection on their own.

11.5 How long do the mosquito-repellent effects last?

The effectiveness of mosquito-repellent plants depends on the plant species and environmental conditions. Generally, the effects last for a few hours to a day when the plants are crushed or rubbed. However, if the plants are left undisturbed, their scent can linger for days. Regular pruning and harvesting can help maintain the plants' effectiveness. If you’re using the plants outdoors, make sure to replace them as needed to keep their repellency at its best.

11.6 Are there any plants that attract mosquitoes?

Yes, there are plants that attract mosquitoes, and it’s important to avoid them if you’re trying to repel mosquitoes. Some plants that attract mosquitoes include:

• Water lilies - These plants thrive in still water, which mosquitoes use as breeding grounds.
• Marigolds (certain varieties) - While many marigolds are known for repelling pests, some species attract mosquitoes due to their strong scent.
• Flowers with strong, sweet fragrances - Certain flowers, like jasmine and honeysuckle, can attract mosquitoes because of their sweet aroma.

To reduce mosquito attraction, avoid planting these species near your mosquito-repellent plants and keep water features like birdbaths or ponds clean and free from stagnant water.

 

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