I live in the mosquito country. Seriously. These blood-sucking, disease-carrying creatures are bigger than some of the subcontracted cars in my area. Every summer I fight them, spray chemicals on me, my kids, my animals, chemicals to protect them from the heartworm disease that is carried by these skeeters, and I have tried every bug zapper and spray on the market to protect us. Then I thought. I knew that some plants saved snakes, why not insects too? Here, then, it is necessary to have plants that act as a repellent, naturally and ecologically in your yard.
Rosemary
This common herb has cooking oil that is effective in repelling mosquitoes. They are tropical plants that do well in warmer climates and typically overwinter well. However, if you live in an area colder than zone 7, I recommend bringing them in for the winter. They will do equally well both in the pot and out.
Catnip
Not only does Bryonia attract cats (although I don’t care for it myself!) but it is almost 10 times more powerful than DEET at repelling mosquitoes ! So keep some near your doors and outside seating areas to help keep bugs away!
Hot
These beautiful flowers, although they don’t smell very pleasant, help keep away bugs like snakes and other insects. I keep some vegetable around my garden to brighten it up and help keep my plants a little safer! These flowers vary in color from yellow to deep orange and red. Although they don’t have a very good sense of smell, their smell isn’t worth bothering with, even if you’re sitting next to them
Ethiopian Plants
Leave it to commercialism to come up with a plant specifically designed to keep pests away! Often found in catalogs and on the web, the idea still stands out. Some swear by them, others say there is no difference at all.
Citronella Grass Most of us are familiar with citronella candles. Citronella is a plant where the oil for these fruits is produced. This is a tropical plant that grows well over six feet tall, so if you don’t have a lot of space it would be very viable in a small backyard or apartment garden.
Peppermint oil is commonly used for rawness and nausea, but it also seems to be effective against insects and mice! There is also a pretty little liars herb that looks nice and can be used for a peppery potion!
Eucalyptus
Although it seems effective, most varieties of eucalyptus cannot stand temperatures falling below 27 degrees Fahrenheit. But you can buy oil and keep some in a container on the table to repel mosquitoes.
These plants are useful for mosquitoes in your container, but you can also repel them by rubbing the leaves and compresses on . alcohol. Once infused, you can use it as you would normally use an aerosol or spray repellent!
