Hero Image

How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes and Plants That Help Repel Them Naturally

Few things ruin an outdoor evening faster than a swarm of hungry mosquitoes. These tiny pests aren’t just annoying — they can also carry diseases like West Nile virus, Zika, and dengue fever.

While there’s no way to completely eliminate mosquitoes, there are smart strategies and natural solutions you can use to reduce their numbers and protect yourself.

This guide explains effective ways to get rid of mosquitoes around your home and introduces plants that naturally repel mosquitoes, so you can enjoy your yard or garden more comfortably.

Step 1: Remove Mosquito Breeding Grounds

Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water, so the first and most important step is to eliminate places where they can breed.

Check your yard for:

  • Buckets, plant saucers, and flower pots that collect rainwater
  • Birdbaths or pet water bowls (empty and refill regularly)
  • Clogged gutters or drains
  • Old tires, tarps, or unused containers
  • Low spots in the yard that stay wet after rain

By clearing standing water, you drastically reduce the number of new mosquitoes hatching near your home.

Step 2: Use Effective Mosquito Control Methods

In addition to removing breeding grounds, you can actively reduce adult mosquitoes using these strategies:

  • Install screens on windows and doors to keep them out of your home.
  • Use outdoor fans — mosquitoes are weak flyers, and even a light breeze can keep them away from patios or decks.
  • Apply insect repellents on skin and clothing, especially products containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
  • Set up mosquito traps or bug zappers to catch adult mosquitoes.
  • Consider larvicides (like mosquito dunks) in water features or ponds where you can’t remove standing water.

Step 3: Plant Mosquito-Repelling Plants

While plants alone won’t eliminate mosquitoes, many release natural oils or scents that help repel mosquitoes and reduce their activity around your outdoor spaces. Here are some of the best mosquito-repelling plants to consider:

  • Citronella
  • One of the most famous mosquito-repelling plants, citronella grass emits a strong lemony scent that masks other attractants.
  • Lavender
  • Not only does lavender smell wonderful, but its essential oils are known to repel mosquitoes and other insects.
  • Marigolds
  • These bright flowers contain pyrethrum, a natural insecticide that deters mosquitoes.
  • Basil
  • This tasty herb doubles as a mosquito repellent, especially when its leaves are crushed or brushed against.
  • Lemongrass
  • Closely related to citronella, lemongrass contains similar oils that keep mosquitoes away.
  • Mint
  • Peppermint and spearmint plants release a strong scent that helps repel mosquitoes (and you can use the leaves in drinks, too).
  • Catnip
  • Studies have shown that catnip is even more effective than DEET at repelling mosquitoes — plus, your cats will love it.

Tips for Using Plants Effectively

  • Place potted mosquito-repelling plants near outdoor seating areas, doorways, and windows.
  • Crush or rub the leaves occasionally to release more of their oils.
  • Combine plants with other mosquito control methods for the best results.

Final Thoughts

Mosquito control takes a combination of approaches — from eliminating standing water and using repellents to incorporating mosquito-repelling plants into your garden. While no single method works perfectly on its own, using multiple strategies can help create a much more enjoyable, bite-free environment.