Do you hate mosquitoes? If you are like most people, the answer is probably an easy yes! They are pesky insects that can ruin a good time outdoors. Not to mention, they can carry some nasty diseases like malaria and the Zika virus. Luckily, there are plants that act as natural mosquito repellants! From the well-known citronella plant to the lesser-known eucalyptus tree, this article will introduce you to six plants that can help keep mosquitoes away.
Citronella
The citronella plant is a species of mosquito-repelling plant in the genus Cymbopogon. The plant grows to a height of 2-3 meters and has long slender leaves. The name “citronella” comes from the lemon-like scent of the leaves, which you can use to repel mosquitoes. The plant is native to tropical Asia, but you can also find it in North America, Africa, and Australia. Citronella oil is extracted from the plant leaves and used in mosquito repellents. In addition, you can find the oil in various candles, soaps, and lotions.
To grow this plant, start by planting the seeds in well-drained soil. Citronella plants need full sun and plenty of water. Once the plant reaches a height of about 30 cm, you can begin to harvest the leaves. To make citronella oil, place the leaves in a carrier oil like jojoba oil or sweet almond oil and let it infuse for six weeks.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a perennial herb in the mint family. It’s native to Europe and Asia, but it now grows all over the world. The plant has light green leaves with a lemon-like fragrance. People have used lemon balm for centuries as a medicinal herb. Today, people still use it to treat anxiety, insomnia, and indigestion.
Lemon balm also has natural mosquito-repellent properties. A 2017 study found that lemon balm essential oil can effectively repel mosquitoes for up to 2 hours. The study also found that the oil repelled more than 80% of mosquito species tested, including Aedes aegypti (the species that spreads the Zika virus).
To grow lemon balm, start by planting the seeds in rich, well-drained soil. The plants need full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Once the plants have time to establish, water them regularly and fertilize them once a month. You can begin to harvest the leaves after about four weeks.
Lavender
The lavender plant is a popular choice for many gardens because of its beautiful purple flowers and because it can help naturally repel mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are attracted to the scent of human skin, but the strong fragrance of lavender repels them.
In addition, the oil from lavender plants can be used to create an effective mosquito repellent. To use lavender oil as a repellent, simply add a few drops to your skin or clothing. The strong scent of lavender will help to keep mosquitoes at bay, making it a natural and effective way to enjoy your time outdoors without fear of being bitten.
If you would like to grow lavender in your garden, choosing a location that receives full sun and has well-drained soil is essential. In addition, lavender plants can be quite drought tolerant, so they are a good choice for gardens in dry climates.