Natural Defenders: Mosquito-Repelling Plants That Actually Work (And Why)
At GreenGuard USA, we believe in smart, sustainable mosquito control—and that includes tapping into nature’s own pest repellents. Some plants don’t just smell good or look pretty—they emit natural compounds that mosquitoes actively avoid.
Here’s a breakdown of mosquito-repelling plants backed by science, and why they should be part of your mosquito-fighting strategy.
1. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
Active compound: Citral and geraniol
Lemongrass contains high concentrations of citral, a compound with strong mosquito-repellent properties. It also shares many chemical components with citronella, which is widely used in mosquito candles and sprays. Studies show that oils extracted from lemongrass can reduce mosquito landings and bites significantly.
Study spotlight: A 2011 study published in the “Journal of Vector Ecology” found that lemongrass oil repelled Aedes aegypti mosquitoes (the species responsible for dengue and Zika) for up to 2.5 hours with just a 5% solution.
2. Citronella Grass (Cymbopogon nardus)
Active compound: Citronellal, citronellol, and geraniol
Citronella grass is perhaps the most well-known natural mosquito repellent. When the leaves are crushed or disturbed, they release citronellal and geraniol, which interfere with mosquito olfactory receptors, making it harder for them to find human hosts.
Fact: Mosquitoes locate humans using CO₂ and skin odors. Citronella masks these signals and creates confusion, driving mosquitoes away.
3. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Active compound: Linalool and lavandulol
Lavender isn’t just relaxing for humans—it’s highly unpleasant for mosquitoes. Linalool, the aromatic compound in lavender oil, disrupts mosquito nervous systems and acts as both a repellent and mild insecticide.
In one trial, applying lavender oil to exposed skin provided up to 8 hours of protection from adult mosquitoes in lab settings.
4. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
Active compound: Menthol and limonene
Mosquitoes dislike the intense scent of menthol, which overwhelms their senses. Peppermint oil also shows larvicidal properties, meaning it can kill mosquito larvae in water when concentrated.
Lab studies demonstrate peppermint oil reduces mosquito egg-laying and hatching rates, making it useful near water features when used in safe doses.
5. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)
Active compound: Pyrethrum and limonene
Marigolds are not only beautiful—they contain pyrethrum, the natural base for many synthetic insecticides. While the plant itself releases only small amounts, its scent can deter mosquitoes and other insects like aphids and whiteflies.
Use tip: Place marigolds in pots near entryways and patios for added passive repellent effect.
6. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Active compound: Estragole and eugenol
Basil gives off a pungent aroma that mosquitoes don’t like—particularly eugenol, which is also found in cloves. Some studies have shown that basil extract can kill mosquito larvae and deter adult mosquitoes for several hours.
Bonus benefit: It also repels houseflies and is great in summer salads!
7. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
Active compound: Nepetalactone
Catnip might make your cat go wild, but it sends mosquitoes packing. Nepetalactone is a potent mosquito repellent—studies show it’s up to 10x more effective than DEET in short bursts.
Iowa State University research found catnip essential oil provided nearly 100% repellency for up to 2 hours.
8. Bee Balm (Monarda spp.)
Active compound: Thymol and geraniol
Bee balm has a strong scent that deters mosquitoes and other biting insects, while attracting beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies. Its thymol content has antifungal and insecticidal qualities.
Eco tip: Pair bee balm with other pollinator-friendly plants to repel pests without hurting bees.
9. Rosemary & Sage
Active compound: Camphor and cineole
Both rosemary and sage contain aromatic compounds that drive mosquitoes away. Burning dried sage or rosemary leaves at dusk can create a mosquito-repelling smoke that’s safe and natural.
Pro tip: Toss a handful onto your grill or fire pit during summer evenings for backyard defense that smells great.
Final Thoughts from GreenGuard USA
While these plants won’t eliminate mosquitoes on their own, they’re powerful allies in a layered defense strategy. At GreenGuard USA, we combine natural repellents like these with CO₂-based traps, water-based larvicides, and homeowner education to create sustainable, pesticide-free mosquito control.
Want to go deeper into plant-based repellents? Ask us for a customized yard consultation where we’ll help you blend nature and technology for the ultimate defense.
Smart. Safe. Mosquito Control.
100% Bee-Friendly | Pesticide-Free Options | Local Expertise in Austin, TX