Enjoying your backyard space in the summer is a key priority for most homeowners. Unfortunately, pesky mosquitoes often enjoy your backyard as much as you do. If you’re hoping to make the most out of those relaxing summer evenings, but don’t want the risk of excessive bug bites, there may be some simple, non-toxic ideas to help. Consider growing all or some of these plants to help deter mosquitoes from your yard.
Lavender
A beautiful and fragrant plant, lavender is a great option to have in your backyard. This purple and fragrant flower may inhibit the mosquito’s sense of smell. While lavender oil may be most effective, planting the bush in your backyard space can add a pop of color, attract pollinators and slightly deter mosquitoes, which are all wins for your backyard oasis. The only caveat? Lavender is toxic to dogs and cats, so consider that before planting, if you have pets.
Marigold
Marigolds are an easy-to-grow annual flower that not only deters mosquitoes but can also serve to deter many pests from your vegetable garden. Marigolds are an excellent addition if you want to grow a few choice veggies in your backyard space. They can deter aphids and other bugs, and have even been known to deter deer. Marigolds naturally produce pyrethrin, an ingredient in many organic insecticides. This means that these bright summary flowers are the perfect option to surround the edges of your garden.
Citronella (Lemon Grass)
You may have used citronella-scented items to mitigate Mosquitoes in your backyard for quite some time. Generally, most homeowners use citronella candles or burning torches to deter mosquitoes. At times, you may find citronella spray or even bracelets to be effective. However, you could skip the middleman and grow the citronella plant in your backyard for a natural pest-fighting solution. This lush grass can add texture and interest to your garden blooms, and its fronds can be cut or coarsely chopped and scattered when you’re hosting an outdoor event. This will result in a pleasant and mosquito-repelling smell. Keep in mind, this plant can also be toxic to your furry friends, so use caution if you have pets.
Rosemary
Rosemary bushes are an extremely versatile addition to your backyard space. They are lush bushes with beautiful purple flowers, which add texture and vibrancy while in bloom. In the summer seasons, their herby woodsy scent keeps mosquitoes at bay. Rosemary alone may not be effective at mitigating mosquitoes in its natural state, but you can take a few sprigs and place them on your grill or in your fire pits to create a smoky scent that will send mosquitoes away. Rosemary is also an excellent herb to add to your marinades and recipes, which makes a rosemary bush the perfect grilling companion for summer barbecues.
