Plants that repel mosquitoes

Introduction

Mosquitoes are annoying insects that feed on human blood and leave bites in the form of red, itchy bumps. A mosquito bite is itchy because the insect, once it pierces the skin in order to feed, injects a substance that prevents coagulation at the site, the body reacts to the substance and it causes itching.

Mosquitoes are not only annoying, they can also be dangerous in certain places where they transmit serious diseases, such as malaria.

There are many products on the market today that are designed to repel mosquitoes. There are sprays, zappers, lotions, sticks and similar, but the problem with those products is that they are chemical-based and many people do not want to use chemicals in large amounts, especially if there is a baby or a child in the house. Fortunately, there are other, more natural ways to repel mosquitoes. Certain plants have the ability to keep these insects away and planting them around the house, even on the windowsill, is a good way to create a natural, safe mosquito-free zone.

Mosquito repellent plants

Marigolds are everyone’s favorite annual plant that makes for great bedding and looks very nice in hanging baskets. They bloom in various colors, although they are usually red, yellow or bright orange. They should be planted in beds, pots and baskets around the house and on window sills, in order to prevent mosquitoes from entering the house.

Another great plant for repelling mosquitoes is catnip. This plant is related to mint and it is generally used in stuffed toys. Catnip got its name because cats have the habit of eating it. Actually, the same scent that attracts the cats is the same one that repels mosquitoes.

Lavender is a wonderful aromatic plant that has many uses, especially for decoration and for scenting rooms. Many people use dry lavender in their linen closets. Lavender is a repellent not only for mosquitoes but also for, ticks, moths and other unwanted insects.

Rosemary is another aromatic plant good for repelling various insects and it is widely used in the kitchen. The problem with rosemary is that it does not stand cold well and it should be kept indoors during winter days.

Other mosquito-repelling herbs and plants that can be combined with one another in the garden and in the beds and pots include garlic, vanilla leaf, lemon balm, ageratum, citronella grass, sagebrush, peppermint, eucalyptus, snowbrush, wild bergamot, tea tree, nodding onion, cedars and many more.