katherinecroftonAs the weather warms up, mosquitoes tend to come out in swarms. They fly into your home, invade your eating areas, and are quite annoying. Mosquitoes also carry serious diseases like malaria, Dengue fever, West Nile virus, and Zika.
There are multiple mosquito repellents and killers on the market, but many of them are filled with harmful chemicals that are not good for your body or the environment. However, there are many plants that can naturally repel mosquitos and keep them away from you and your home.
Here are 4 plants that will keep mosquitoes away!
Citronella Grass
Citronella in grass form is perfect for repelling mosquitoes. This plant is easy to grow and can reach heights of 5 to 6 feet (but it cannot survive a frost). It is perfect for growing around a porch. When purchasing a citronella plant for mosquito control, you must buy Cybopogon nardus or Citronella winterianus. These true varieties will keep mosquitoes away.
Catnip or Catmint
That’s right! Your cat’s favorite herb is also perfect for keeping mosquitoes away. It is found almost everywhere and is very easy to grow. However, it can become invasive, so it is important to keep it under control.
In addition, catmint (which is not the same as catnip) been shown to be 10 times more effective than DEET in keeping mosquitoes away!
Lavender
Lavender is a full of powerful essential oils that give it its wonderful aroma and its ability to keep pests away. It will even discourage rice and rabbits. This makes it great for planting around your home or garden. It is drought resistant and only needs good drainage! Lavender may also be able to hinder the mosquitos’ ability to smell and find you!
Scented Geraniums
Scented geraniums are also highly recommended for keeping mosquitoes away. (This is especially true of their flowers that give off a lemon-like scent.) Geraniums like warm, dry climates, but can grow in cooler climates as well if planted in planters and provided with constant pruning.