The bugs may be dormant for another couple of months, but they will soon return to activity in your yards and gardens. Now is the time to plan for a summer garden you can enjoy spending time in. Don’t let your beautiful green spaces go to waste. You deserve to enjoy the natural benefits of spending time in nature, especially when you work hard to maintain a growing space. Some people rely on pest prevention measures such as chemicals, traps, candles, essential oils, and soaps to enjoy their outdoor spaces. But did you know there are some natural methods too? Some plants have the ability to repel mosquitos based on their scent or fluid contents. Try adding some of these plants throughout your gardens and outdoor living spaces this year. Create mass plantings for impressive color, or line them as border plantings around gathering areas, under windows, or along pathways.

Mosquito Repelling Plants

• Basil
• Bee balm
• Catmint
• Citronella Geranium
• Eucalyptus
• Lantana
• Lavender
• Lemon Thyme

• Lemongrass
• Marigolds
• Mint
• Nasturtiums
• Pennyroyal
• Rosemary
• Sage
• Thyme

Like animals use colors and patterns to alert each other of potential dangers, plants can also signal potential toxicity to pests. Usually, plants will do this by emitting a scent or containing toxic fluids. You can benefit from both traits by crushing, cutting, or burning plant materials where you plan to spend time outdoors. For example, you can enjoy a pleasant fire pit with friends by adding some sage to the flames. The smoke will help mobilize the deterring properties of the sage oils to allow for an enjoyable evening without constantly swiping away mosquitoes. Or, if you are working in the garden for a couple of hours, crush a handful of plant material and rub it against your skin. Be aware of any irritating responses.

In addition to using mosquito repelling plants, regularly clean out water reservoirs. Mosquitoes are attracted to areas with a water source. This can include high water points in the landscape, bird bathes, ponds, lakes, and water fountains. While you can't do much about natural water sources, you can keep decorative water sources such as bird bathes clean. Regularly exchange the water and scrub your structure to prevent infestations.