Avoid harsh chemicals by learning how nature repels mosquitos
Unless you are a bird or a bat, mosquitoes have no redeeming qualities. And getting rid of them is usually on the top of everyone’s list when it comes to enjoying outdoor fun, especially in your own backyard. But most people aren’t keen on spraying harsh chemicals or slathering them all over their skin. While there’s no telling how effective gardening can actually be in repelling mosquitos, the following plants are said to have mosquito-repelling properties.
Citronella
Most folks have heard of citronella and many have purchased candles, torches and other citronella products to help get rid of mosquitoes. But what many people don’t know is that citronella is actually a plant. A member of the geranium family, the citronella plant, which is like grass, can be effective at getting rid of mosquitoes because the aroma is even stronger when it comes from the living plant. Gardening centers usually carry citronella plants that you can either keep in pots around the yard or plant in a raised garden bed. Either way, you’ll find this is a great, natural solution to keeping the pests away.
Lemon balm
Lemon balm, much like citronella, has characteristics that mosquitoes just don’t like. Part of the mint family, the lemon balm plant is sometimes called horsemint and is easy to plant. It is known to grow very well in the shade and doesn’t need a lot of water. Those who have an affinity for gardening suggest keeping this plant in pots in strategic locations in the yard and on the patio, rather than ground planting since they can grow rapidly and take over your yard.
Catnip
Despite popular belief, catnip is not just for our feline friends. Research shows that catnip is 10 times more effective than DEET, the ingredient in most bug repellents. And it’s a perennial herb that’s easy to grow, so feel free to plant it all around your yard. Of course, if you do have cats, you may want to choose a different plant since it will affect their behavior if they get close to it.
Marigolds
These brightly colored flowers are much more than a pretty face. They contain the ingredient Pyrethrum, which emits an aroma that mosquitos just can’t stand. Plant them around the border of your house and throughout your garden to create a barrier that will keep mosquitoes away.
Lavender
As humans, we appreciate the beauty and calming scent of lavender, but mosquitoes and other insects don’t like it at all. Plant some of these pretty purple flowers around your backyard and you’ll not only be making it more aesthetically pleasing, but it will also help keep these pests away.
Basil
An herb that has more purpose than enhancing the flavor of your cooking, basil is another plant that can repel mosquitoes. For best results, experts recommend planting lemon basil and cinnamon basil as they’re known to have the strongest repelling powers.
Having backyard fun should not be inhibited by pesky mosquitoes. And using harsh chemicals and sprays is not the best choice for most folks. But for those who don’t have the time or patience for gardening—or who simply don’t want a solution that might work—there’s another option.
Platinum Mosquito Protection specializes in automatic misting systems that repel mosquitos and other annoying insects. Our repellent is actually derived from the pyrethrum produced by chrysanthemums. Contact us today to learn more about our surefire way to banish mosquitos from your backyard!