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What Are the Best Plants to Keep Mosquitoes Away?

One of the things mosquitoes use to locate victims to feed on is their sense of smell. Strong fragrances, then, can work to halt this ability. Certain plants and herbs, in particular, can help keep mosquitoes away, but only when the leaves or stems are crushed to reach the oils within.

Although some plants may work to repel mosquitoes, it’s important to never rely on plants for mosquito prevention in your Covington LA home. The best way to keep mosquitoes away is to work with your local mosquito control experts.

What are the best plants to keep mosquitoes away?

What Plants Repel Mosquitoes?

Some oils derived from the leaves of plants work as natural repellents against mosquitoes. For that reason, it’s smart to plant a garden with a number of varieties that can aid in creating mosquito repellents. Some plants that can possibly repel mosquitoes include:

  1. Lavender. As one of the most fragrant plants, lavender oil can help deter a mosquito by blocking its sense of smell.
  2. Marigolds. Both easy to grow and beautiful, marigolds emit a scent that also helps to deter mosquitoes. They also prevent aphids, whiteflies, and other garden pests.
  3. Rosemary, basil & thyme. These fragrant herbs are just that: fragrant! Similar to other plants, the scents of these keep pests and mosquitoes at bay.
  4. Citronella. Often marketed as “mosquito plants” in big-box stores, this leafy plant is simply a geranium variety. Citronella grass, on the other hand, is most useful for extracting citronella oil.

Do Mosquitoes Eat Plants?

Mosquitoes aren’t only blood-suckers. In fact, blood isn’t the main source of sustenance for these pests whatsoever—nectar is! Male mosquitoes in particular feed only on nectar, plantsap, and honeydew. Female mosquitoes only feed on blood in order to be able to reproduce. So, just like other insects in your garden, mosquitoes are mostly getting their nutrients from flowering plants around your yard.

Which Scents Repel Mosquitoes?

Female mosquitoes use their keen sense of smell to locate carbon dioxide, which is breathed out by people nearby. Therefore, certain scents and fragrances in any form can work to repel mosquitoes by disorienting them. Sprays, citronella candles, and other scents can help to keep mosquitoes away from your home or garden in Louisiana.

What Are The Best Plants to Keep Mosquitoes Away? in Southern Louisiana

Ja-Roy Pest Control Services is a local Pest Control and Extermination company helping homeowners and businesses with pest issues across Southern Louisiana.

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