Introduction

Water plants, such as lilies and lotuses, are a beautiful addition to a garden or water feature, but they can also attract mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are not only a nuisance, but they can also carry diseases like dengue fever and the Zika virus. Keeping mosquitoes away from your water plants is important for both your enjoyment and your health.

Choose the Right Plant Varieties

One easy way to avoid attracting mosquitoes to your water plants is to choose varieties that mosquitoes don't like. Some plants, like the water hyacinth and water lettuce, have leaves that sit on the water's surface and provide shade, which mosquitoes prefer. Instead, opt for plants like the water lily or lotus, which have leaves that sit above the water and don't provide as much shade.

Keep the Water Moving

Mosquitoes lay their eggs in still water, so if you keep the water in your garden feature moving, you may be able to discourage them from hanging around. Adding a small fountain or waterfall to your water feature can help keep the water moving and make it less attractive to mosquitoes. If you don't want to add a pump to your water feature, stir the surface of the water with a stick or other tool every few days to create some movement.

Use Mosquito Dunks

Mosquito dunks are a type of bacteria that are toxic to mosquito larvae but harmless to other plants and animals. You can add mosquito dunks to your water plants and other standing water around your garden. They will dissolve over time and create a protective barrier that can help prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs.

Clean Your Water Feature Regularly

Mosquitoes like dirty, stagnant water, so keeping your water feature clean and well-maintained can help keep them away. Skim any debris off the surface regularly and clean out any filter systems you have installed. If you have a pond, consider adding fish to eat any mosquito larvae that do hatch.

Use Natural Repellents

There are also several natural repellents that you can use to keep mosquitoes away from your water plants. Citronella, lavender, and peppermint are all scents that mosquitoes don't like. You can plant these herbs around your garden or add essential oils to your water feature. Garlic and basil are also natural mosquito repellents, so planting them near your water plants can help keep pests away.

Conclusion

Mosquitoes can quickly take the enjoyment out of having water plants in your garden or water feature. By following these tips, you can help keep mosquitoes away and ensure that you can enjoy the beauty of your water plants without being swarmed by pests. With a little effort and care, your water feature can be a peaceful escape once again.