Herbs that Deter Mosquitoes from Your Garden

Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide, which humans exhale, along with body odors and sweat. Strong-smelling herbs interfere with mosquitoes’ ability to locate their prey, making these plants natural deterrents. Some herbs even have compounds toxic to mosquito larvae or those that prevent female mosquitoes from laying eggs nearby.

Using mosquito-repellent plants is a non-toxic, eco-friendly strategy to reduce mosquito activity, complementing other preventive measures like limiting standing water near your yard.

Why Mosquitoes Hate These Herbs

Mosquitoes are highly sensitive to certain essential oils found in herbs, such as:

• Citronellal in citronella
• Linalool in lavender
• Eugenol in basil
• Menthol in mint
• Cineole in rosemary

These compounds interfere with mosquitoes’ sense of smell, making it harder for them to detect humans. Studies have shown that planting mosquito-repelling herbs around patios and seating areas can reduce mosquito activity within a 3-5 foot radius. 

Looking for simple, garden-friendly ways to reduce mosquito activity in your yard? These herbs offer natural protection and are easy to grow in beds, borders or containers.

1. Citronella: The Classic Mosquito-Repelling Herb

Why it works: Citronella emits a strong scent that masks human presence from mosquitoes. It’s hardy, low-maintenance and thrives in garden beds, containers or patios.

Actionable tips:

• Plant citronella near outdoor seating or high-traffic areas.
• Gently crush the leaves to release more fragrance.
• Combine with basil or lavender for layered mosquito protection.

DIY/Home hacks: Boil citronella leaves in water and use the cooled liquid as a natural spray around patios or doorways.

2. Basil: A Garden Essential that Keeps Mosquitoes Away

Why it works: Basil’s aroma repels mosquitoes and flies, and its leaves can be toxic to mosquito larvae. Placing basil near standing water may deter female mosquitoes from laying eggs.

Actionable tips:

• Grow basil in containers around patios or windows.
• Regularly harvest leaves to maintain a strong aroma.
• Pair basil with rosemary or mint to boost protection.

DIY/Home hacks: Blend crushed basil leaves with water to make a natural spray for outdoor furniture or garden corners.

3. Lavender: Fragrant and Functional

Why it works: Lavender repels mosquitoes, moths, fleas, flies and even spiders, while attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Actionable tips:

• Place lavender along garden borders or near seating areas.
• Dry lavender for sachets or DIY decorations indoors and outdoors.
• Combine with other mosquito-repelling herbs for maximum coverage.

DIY/Home hacks: Infuse lavender in water or oil for a natural mosquito spray, or create lavender sachets to hang near doors or windows for indoor protection.

4. Mint: The Easy-Growing Mosquito Deterrent

Why it works: Mosquitoes dislike mint’s strong, menthol-rich scent, making it an excellent companion herb.

Actionable tips:

• Grow mint in containers to prevent it from overtaking garden beds.
• Crush leaves before outdoor gatherings to release a stronger aroma.

DIY/Home hacks: Make a mint spray for patios, decks or furniture to help repel mosquitoes naturally.

5. Rosemary: A Woody Aroma that Keeps Mosquitoes Away

Why it works: Rosemary’s woody, aromatic scent repels mosquitoes while adding flavor to cooking or outdoor fires.

Actionable tips:

• Plant near seating areas or entrances.
• Use pruned branches in outdoor fires or tiki torches to enhance mosquito protection.

DIY/Home hacks: Create a rosemary-infused spray for decks, patios or outdoor furniture. 

Even with a garden full of herbs that deter mosquitoes, some yards naturally deal with more mosquito activity than others. When that happens, bringing in a professional can make a noticeable difference. TruGreen TruDefenseSM Mosquito Control targets mosquitoes where they live and helps reduce activity throughout your outdoor space.

Combining natural solutions with expert care is a simple way to keep your yard more enjoyable all season long. TruGreen specialists know what to look for, from breeding zones to shaded hiding spots, and use targeted treatments to help create a more comfortable outdoor environment.

Reclaim your backyard comfort today with expert mosquito control from TruGreen.