Eating outdoors on a warm evening is a great way to spend time with friends and family, but it can be spoiled by this annoying little insect. Not only are the bites painful, but they can lead to various unpleasant diseases. While you can use sprays and creams to protect your skin there is an alternative way to deter these nuisances. Grow one or more of these ten plants and you will have a natural mosquito repellent as Kathy from the Garden Lovers Club website explains.
Mosquitoes are attracted to the smell of your body, but did you know that certain scents naturally repel them? In this guide, we are going to talk about 10 different plants that you can have around your home that produce a fragrance that repels mosquitoes. Some of them you may have known about, but others on this list may surprise you.
1. Citronella Grass
Citronella grass is actually the ingredient that gives citronella candles their distinct smell. If you like the results that the candles give you, then you will be happy to know that the plants are actually much stronger, meaning that they are much more effective at repelling mosquitoes.
This plant can grow to heights of five to size feet. It does not take a lot of effort to care for, but it must be grown in warm climates because frost will kill it.
2. Catnip
As you most likely know catnip attracts cats, but the same chemical in this mint plant that attracts cats also repels mosquitoes. If you decide to use catnip to lower the mosquito population around your home, make sure that the catnip is planted in a location where the other plants in your garden will not get damaged because a cat is trying to roll in the catnip. In addition, this plant is easy to grow, so you will not need to give it any special care.
3. Lavender
Lavender is a very durable plant that does not need a lot of love to thrive. In fact, it only needs full sun and well-drained soil to produce that amazing scent that we all love. Did you know that the relaxing scent that we love is the same scent that repels mosquitoes? In fact, the oils are even said to reduce the mosquito?s ability to smell, which will keep them off of your skin. In addition, if the plant?s aroma is sufficient, then rub the leaves on your skin.
I am a keen gardener and so created Garden Pics and Tips for people who love gardens and enjoy great pictures of plants and gardens. Also covered are practical tips on all aspects of gardening.
