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Are there plants that repel mosquitoes? Maybe. Here's what to know

Charles Reynolds

Ledger correspondent

A broad-spectrum, pest-repelling plant gardeners have sworn by for generations is marigold in its many varieties.

It’s often recommended that gardeners – especially elderly individuals – pursue their hobby early in the morning and evening to avoid the extreme heat of the day.

Ironically, this is when mosquitoes tend to be active. So it’s not unusual to see plant lovers doing chores wearing long pants, long-sleeved shirts and thick socks despite the season.

Of course mosquitoes are more than a nuisance. They carry and transmit several diseases, including West Nile virus, which is why so many folks smell like bug spray during the summer.

Mint is considered a mosquito repellant. But fair warning: It spreads vigorously in moist sites and could cause problems in the landscape.

But what about plants that naturally repel skeeters? Can a well-planned garden thwart the blood suckers?

Maybe – but keep the sprays and thick socks handy.

Almost all of the plants touted for their repellent properties are herbaceous (non-woody), and many are members of the mint family. They include peppermint, lemon balm and catnip. A word about catnip: Its aroma sends some cats into ecstasy, causing them to repeatedly roll over a plant and destroy it. And regarding peppermint, it unfortunately tends to spread vigorously across moist sites, which may cause problems in the landscape.

The African blue basil plant is one of the many examples of plants that are commonly thought to repeal mosquitoes.

A broad-spectrum, pest-repelling plant gardeners have sworn by for generations is marigold in its many varieties. This annual species has the advantage of thriving when mosquitoes are at their worst. But – like other annuals – it requires more maintenance to perform well.

If you’re impressed by cleverly named plants, the mosquito plant (aka citronella geranium) may intrigue you. This shrubby, fast-growing geranium reaches two feet in full or part-day sun. And it’s attractive enough to grow as an ornamental. But it seemingly does not scream "No Trespassing!" to pests. I’ve seen photos of the plants dotted with contented mosquitoes.

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This species of geranium contains citronella, an essential oil found in numerous plants that’s widely used in sprays and candles to deflect insects. In the landscape, however, leaves must be crushed or bruised to release the oil locked in the plant’s foliage, so many folks break off leaves and rub them on exposed skin. People with sensitive skin should be cautious.

A word of caution about lemon grass. The variety that's commonly thought to repel mosquitoes is not suitable for cooking and is invasive.

Interestingly, quite a few plants considered pest repellents may already reside in your garden. Both basil and sage, for example, are rich in chemicals that may drive away flying pests. Among common attractively flowered plants that can help fight off mosquitoes are groundcover species such as society garlic and trailing lantana. Lemon grass – at least the species that repels pests – isn’t suitable for cooking and is invasive.

Plant to ponder: Haworthiopsis coarctata

Haworthiopsis coarctata is a South African clumper that grows up to six inches tall in sun or bright indirect light.

This succulent houseplant is a South African clumper that grows up to six inches tall in sun or bright indirect light. Use soil formulated for cactus and allow it to dry between irrigations. Propagate with stem and leaf cuttings. Available online.