Keep bugs away with these 9 mosquito-repellent plants

Summer is all about sizzling barbecues, happy hour drinks on the patio, and cozy nights around the fire. But unfortunately, it also comes with annoying little bugs . . . mosquitoes! Even though there are plenty of ways to dodge their itchy bites and enjoy summertime, we can all agree that nothing beats a natural approach.

In this article, we’ve rounded up the 9 best mosquito-repellent plants, so you can make the most of your outdoor space. Plus, you’ll learn about their other amazing benefits, ranging from therapeutic properties to culinary uses.

Why use plants to keep mosquitoes away?

Mosquito-repellent plants are an eco-friendly alternative to store-bought, chemical bug sprays and insecticides. Their effectiveness comes from the essential oils they contain and the natural aromas they release, which disrupt mosquitoes’ sense of smell and prevent them from invading your outdoor space.

That’s not all! These plants are also aesthetic, decorative, easy to care for, and full of benefits.

They can be used in cooking (e.g., basil, rosemary, lemon thyme).
They have therapeutic properties (e.g., lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint).
They attract pollinators (e.g., marigold, lavender).

What are the best mosquito-repellent plants?

There is no miracle plant that completely keeps mosquitoes away, just like there is no 100% effective bug spray. However, some plants have highly effective repellent properties. Here’s a selection of the 9 best plants to grow at home for a (nearly) bite-free summer.

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon nardus)

The essential oil produced by lemongrass is one of the most well-known natural mosquito repellents. Because it doesn’t tolerate Canadian winters, it’s best to grow it in pots. It thrives in planters on the balcony, alongside plants with similar needs, such as lavender, oregano, savory, or rosemary. When placed in a pot near the garden, lemongrass also helps keep leaf miners (insect larvae similar to caterpillars) away from your vegetables.

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavender is a hardy perennial plant that naturally repels mosquitoes and wasps with its herbaceous floral scent. It thrives in both pots and flower beds and requires hardly any watering except during heatwaves, it attracts lovely pollinators, such as bees and butterflies; offers soothing properties; and adds beauty to any space.

Pelargonium citronella (Pelargonium citrosum)

This geranium variety is known for its lemon-scented foliage, which keeps mosquitoes away, and its small, colourful flowers. It thrives in planters on balconies and patios. To enhance the pelargonium mosquito-repellent effect, place it in a high-traffic area—its leaves release more of their lemony fragrance when they move. To encourage continuous blooming, regularly remove faded flowers. Even though it behaves like an annual in our northern climate, you can bring it indoors for the winter or propagate cuttings to enjoy it year after year as explained in this article: Can geraniums survive from one year to the next? Yes, it is possible!

Lemon eucalyptus (Corymbia citriodora)

The foliage of this eucalyptus variety releases a strong lemony scent, much like lemongrass, making it a powerful natural mosquito repellent. It grows quickly but is best kept in a pot, so it can be brought indoors for the winter. Its invigorating fragrance isn’t just pleasant—it also offers anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties. For tips on how to care for it year-round, check out our article Growing eucalyptus plants indoors and outdoors.

Lemon basil (Ocimum basilicum var. Citriodorum)

With its bright citrusy scent, lemon basil is the most effective basil variety for repelling mosquitoes. Highly versatile in the kitchen, this basil’s fresh leaves enhance the flavour of dishes and make an elegant garnish. Easy to grow in pots, it thrives in warm weather but is highly sensitive to cold—so watch out for frost!

Marigold (Calendula officinalis)

With its bright, cheerful blooms, marigold naturally repels mosquitoes and other unwanted bugs. This easy-to-grow annual thrives in both pots and flower beds and attracts a variety of pollinators. Its edible petals add a lovely decorative touch to salads and desserts, and when brewed as tea, marigold offers soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Peppermint (Mentha × piperita)

Peppermint’s strong, refreshing scent effectively keeps mosquitoes away, while its flowers attract pollinators. This edible herb is a kitchen favourite, adding a burst of freshness to salads, desserts, and cocktails. As an herbal tea, it soothes, relieves stress, and eases headaches. One thing to watch out for—it grows like crazy! To keep it from taking over your garden, it’s best to plant it in a pot.

Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)

Rosemary is a natural mosquito repellent that works even better when you brush against its branches, releasing its woody, resinous, and invigorating scent. In the kitchen, it adds rich flavour to grilled meats, stews, sauces, and roasted vegetables. It thrives in both pots and gardens, but if you want to keep it year after year, be sure to bring it indoors for the winter.

Lemon thyme (Thymus citriodorus)

Lemon thyme’s citrusy scent makes it a great natural mosquito repellent. It’s easy to grow, hardy enough to withstand our northern climate, and pairs perfectly with summer barbecues.

How to use these 9 plants to effectively keep mosquitoes away

Potted mosquito-repellent plants on a balcony

To get the most out of these 9 mosquito-repellent plants, follow these practical tips:

Place the plants strategically: Position your plants near doors, windows, patios, and seating areas to create a natural barrier.
Make DIY mosquito sprays: Infuse lavender flowers, lemongrass leaves, eucalyptus leaves, or other mosquito-repellent plants in water, then spray the solution on the skin or fabrics.
Combine multiple plants: Mix different plants that have complementary scents for a stronger mosquito-repellent effect.

Pro tip: To maximize the mosquito-repelling power of your flowering plants and herbs, they need to be healthy and thriving—and that starts with quality, nutrient-rich soil. For potted pelargoniums and marigolds, a light, water-retaining soil such as the VERANDA Container Mix, paired with the FLOWER MAX Fertilizer during the growing season, is ideal. For potted herbs, you can’t go wrong with the URBAN GARDEN Container Mix and the Natural Fertilizer for URBAN GARDENS. If you’re choosing to grow your mosquito-repellent plants, such as lavender, in flower beds, the FLOWER+TREE+SHRUB 3/1 Planting Mix and FLOWERS, TREES & SHRUBS Hen manure based Plant Food will be your best allies.

If you want to enjoy summer without the annoying buzzing and biting of mosquitoes, add a few of these repellent plants to your garden, flower beds, balcony, or patio. They’re a natural, eco-friendly solution that will enhance your outdoor space—and some can even elevate your cooking. It’s worth a try, don’t you think?

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