5 Plants in Your Garden to Deter Mosquitos

5 Plants to Have in Your Garden to Deter Mosquitoes

Recently there has been discussion and concern as West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis have been reported across the world. This is due to the heat and prevalence of mosquito-borne diseases. It may damper your plans outdoors when the mosquitoes arrive. While there are many chemical repellents available, you might prefer a more natural approach to keep mosquitoes down. There are certain plants that have mosquito-repelling properties, making them a perfect addition to your garden. It is never too late to plan next year’s garden so you can better enjoy your time outside without the pesky bugs biting you. Dr. Aaron Workman, a member of one of the highest rated car accident medical care programs in Kentucky, discusses five plants that can help you enjoy your outdoor space without the buzz.

1. Citronella Grass
   When people think of natural mosquito repellents, citronella is often the first thing that comes to mind. Citronella grass is the source of the citronella oil commonly found in candles and sprays. It is a tall, lemon-scented grass that gives off a strong odor that covers the smells that mosquitoes are attracted to. It is best grown in big pots or as part of a border in your garden. If you have water attractions, as I do in my backyard, it is great to have citronella grass around those borders.

   2. Lavender
   Lavender is known for its fragrant scent, but it also has mosquito-repelling properties. The strong smell of lavender is due to the high concentration of essential oils in its leaves and flowers, which mosquitoes find is just too much. Plant lavender in sunny spots with well-drained soil and enjoy its benefits and functionality. This plant is great outdoors, and when you have an abundance, you can cut and add to your indoor environment.

   3. Marigolds
   One of my favorites are the marigolds; they are colorful and a great bug repellent. These hardy annuals contain pyrethrum, a compound used in many insect repellents. The scent of marigolds is effective at deterring mosquitoes, as well as other garden bugs like aphids and whiteflies. Plant marigolds in pots or borders around your deck or any areas where you spend a lot of time outdoors. They are easy to grow and once you get an abundance, you can harvest 1000s of seeds to use the following year.

   4. Basil
   This popular cooking herb also doubles as an insect repellent. The strong smell of basil leaves is unpleasant to mosquitoes, making it another functional plant to have near outdoor seating areas. Basil is easy to grow in pots or directly in the ground if it gets plenty of sunlight and regular watering. As a bonus, you can harvest the leaves for cooking uses.

   5. Peppermint
   Peppermint is a plant that will take over your garden so watch where you plant it. The strong scent of peppermint oil is known to keep mosquitoes away, and the menthol in peppermint leaves has a cooling effect that can soothe itchy bites. Place these containers around your outdoor spaces along with some of these other plants. When you go outside, run your hands through the plants and rub on your exposed areas for extra protection.

   Incorporating these five plants into your garden can help create a natural barrier against mosquitoes and you will be able to better enjoy your outdoor space. These plants are easy to grow in both containers and in the ground. Start collecting your seeds early and you can create a garden full of mosquito deterrent plants to decrease your likelihood of today’s, and future mosquito-borne diseases.

— This article is written by Aaron Workman, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Kentucky.

• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Tampa
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Plant City
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Brandon
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Lakeland
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Sarasota
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Louisville
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Lexington
• Car Accident Medical Clinic in Florence