What Plants Keep Mosquitoes Away?

Introduction

Mosquitoes are some of the most annoying insects. They can ruin an outdoor picnic or camping trip in no time. Unfortunately, some people are more prone to mosquito bites than others. Use of mosquito repellents with chemicals can be harmful, especially for children. So, what plant repels mosquitoes?

Plants that Repel Mosquitoes

Lucky for us, nature has an abundance of mosquito-repelling plants. Here are some of the best plants to keep mosquitoes away:

Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family. The leaves of the plant, when crushed, release a strong citronella-like scent that repels mosquitoes effectively. Lemon balm is easy to grow and can be planted in pots or in the ground.

Citronella Grass

Citronella Grass is probably the one plant that most people are familiar with. It is commonly used in candles and sprays that are advertised to keep mosquitoes away. Citronella grass contains citronella oil, which is the active ingredient that repels mosquitoes.

Lavender

Lavender is another herb that mosquitoes don鈥檛 like. The plant is easy to grow and gives off a strong scent that mosquitoes can鈥檛 stand. It also has other benefits, such as its calming effect and its ability to promote sleep.

How to Use These Plants

To use these plants to repel mosquitoes, one of the most effective ways is to crush the leaves and apply them directly on the skin. This can be done by rubbing the leaves on the exposed body parts or tying a bunch of leaves to the area where you are sitting or sleeping.

Another way to use these plants is to make a spray. The process involves boiling the leaves in water and straining the mixture. The concoction can be mixed with a few essential oils like eucalyptus or tea tree oil to increase its effectiveness. The spray can then be stored in a spray bottle and used like any other mosquito repellent.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these plants not only will make your outdoor experience pleasant and mosquito-free, but are also safe and chemical-free. Planting these herbs in your garden or keeping them on the balcony or windowsills can be a great way to keep mosquitoes away. So, next time you plan an outdoor event, remember that there are natural ways to repel mosquitoes with these plants without harming the environment or your health.