People are on the hunt for natural repellants, to deter pests from devouring their gardens as well as themselves. Mosquitos are prevalent during the muggy, humid summer days and are attracted to damp conditions. Due to the frequent watering during planting season, the garden is a good place for pests to hang out.  While there are no foolproof solutions to keep mosquitos away, preventative measures include not leaving standing water in containers such as watering cans, which become breeding grounds for mosquitos, and utilizing repellant plants. 

Citronella and Lemongrass

Citronella grass and lemongrass are the most well-known and widely used mosquito deterrents available. Most people are probably familiar with citronella oil used in torches, and candles to keep mosquitos at bay. The grass is the source and has the same properties as the oils and candles. Keep your citronella grass in a pot for portability.  When used in gardens, citronella grass helps control mosquitos and allows you to tend your garden without being bitten. Squish a few leaves of the plant to get the oils activated for the best results.

Basil

Basil not only repels mosquitos and flies, it is also harvestable, and preservable for use in recipes. It thrives in pots, or directly in the ground. Put potted basil by doors in your residence, and you will notice fewer flies entering. Basil also improves the flavor of other plants such as tomatoes, peppers, and asparagus.

Lavender

Lavender repels moths, fleas, flies, and mosquitos. Dry this herb, and hang dried bouquets around the home to deter flies who may consider entering an open door. Lavender oil also works as a mosquito repellent for the skin.

Rosemary

This herb repels mosquitos and is a deterrent for pests that harm vegetable plants. This trait makes rosemary a perfect companion piece in vegetable gardens. Boil the leaves, steep them into rosemary tea, and bottle the brew for use as an insect repellent. The liquid can be stored in the refrigerator until it loses its scent potency.

Dill

Aside from making great pickles, dill is also a wonderful pest repellent because it deters a myriad of pests including:

• aphids
• squash bugs
• spider mites
• cabbage loopers
• tomato hornworms

Oregano

Oregano not only gives life to many dishes we prepare, this herb also repels pests such as mosquitos, whiteflies, and fleas. When planted in the garden, it also provides some ground cover that may deter weeds and provides humidity for peppers when planted nearby.