The Buzz About Mosquito-Repellant Plants in Texas: What Works and What Doesn’t?

They buzz, bite, and they really know how to ruin a good time. Mosquitos are a common Texas pest that can really put a damper on your summer outdoor enjoyment. But more than being a mere nuisance, mosquitos in Texas can also carry deadly diseases. 

Many plants are touted as being “mosquito-repellant,” but do they really work? We’ll take a deeper look, and also give you some tips on how to plant and use them to keep those bugs at bay. Plus, we’ll also let you know when it’s time to turn to the professionals for mosquito control.

Understanding the Concept of Mosquito-Repelling Plants

Mosquitoes are attracted to many human scents, like the carbon dioxide we breathe out and the perspiration we sweat out. Bug spray can be an effective tool for individual use, but it doesn’t eliminate mosquitoes from an area, it contains a ton of chemicals you might not want to breathe in or have on your skin, and it doesn’t actually address the root cause.

Enter mosquito-repellant plants.

Do Mosquito-Repellant Plants Really Work?

The theory is that some plants with strong odors can drown out the scents (i.e. you) that mosquitoes are most drawn to. This offers an all-natural, environmentally friendly approach to mosquito control, but is it actually effective?

The answer is: it depends. Simply putting a pot of citronella on your patio isn’t going to do all that much, but if you understand how to use mosquito-repelling plants effectively, you may be able to get some relief.

The first thing to note is that the scent from the plants isn’t strong enough to keep mosquitos away just by swaying in the breeze. Most often, you would need to crush the leaves of the plant to release the essential oils — where the strongest scent is — and rub that onto your skin. A word of caution: some plant oils can cause skin irritation, so test on a small patch before rubbing it all over.

The other way some plants can keep mosquitos away is by soaking up excess water. Mosquitoes prefer to lay their eggs in standing water, so puddles, ponds, or any form of stagnant water is sure to attract them. If your yard retains water — say, after a big storm — it can be helpful to plant some thirsty plants nearby to soak up the excess.

While professional mosquito control is the best and most effective strategy, mosquito-repellant plants can help you in your battle against the bugs. But what plants should you choose?

The Best Natural Mosquito-Repellent Plants for Texas

You put a lot of effort into keeping your lawn looking great, but if you’re experiencing an onslaught of mosquitoes, it’s hard to enjoy it. Everything in your yard, including your trees and shrubs, can be hiding places for these biting pests, so there’s much more to do than simply adding a few plants. However, it doesn’t hurt. And these plants are attractive, nice-smelling, and can offer many other benefits. And if they also help mask your mosquito-attracting odor…why not? 

Citronella Grass

It’s important to note the distinction in the name. Some plants are commonly referred to as “citronella plants” or “mosquito plants,” but they aren’t actually citronella grass (scientific name C. nardus). Citronella grass is a tropical grass that is perennial in some parts of the Texas climate (zone 10-11), and in others, it can be planted as an annual or brought inside during cooler months. To effectively repel mosquitos with this plant, you would need to crush the leaves to release its oil, and then rub it on your skin.

Marigolds

If you’re a gardener, you probably already know that marigolds are some of the best flowering plants you can grow. Not only do they keep mosquitos away, they also deter other pests like hornworms and aphids. Marigolds can be planted in borders or all around vegetable gardens, but they also do well in pots, so you can move them where you need them.

Catnip

Catnip, also known as catmint, is an aromatic plant with attractive and long-lasting purple blooms. It’s incredibly easy to grow, and it contains nepetalactone, an insect-repelling compound. However, it’s important to note that, as a part of the mint family, catnip can get out of control quickly, and can take over flower beds. Pots or contained/raised beds are best for this plant.

Lavender

Humans often love the scent of lavender, which is why it’s a staple in perfumes, soaps, detergents, and much more. However, it can also work to mask your own odor, making you essentially invisible to mosquitos. To best use lavender, remove flowers and crush them, then mix with water or alcohol in a spray bottle. Spray on whenever you’re heading outside.

Basil

Home chefs will find this plant pulls double duty. Regular basil is a great cooking herb, but it’s also effective in keeping mosquitos away. Use basil in the same way you would lavender, or simply crush a few leaves, leaving them attached to the plant, so the odor can spread. 

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm, bee balm, and lemon thyme are all pleasant-smelling plants that are a big turnoff for mosquitos. You can burn a sprig of lemon thyme in a firepit or on a grill to release the scent. With lemon balm, crush the leaves like citronella grass and apply it to your skin. Be warned that lemon balm is also part of the mint family, so like catnip, it’s an aggressive grower. 

Additional Mosquito Control Strategies in Central Texas

The plants listed above are one line of defense against mosquitos, but there are other tactics you’ll want to employ, including:

Eliminating Standing Water

Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water, and even the smallest puddle can become a breeding ground for the pests. After the next rain, check your lawn for signs of standing water. Be sure to regularly empty and clean any receptacles that collect water, like birdbaths, trashcans, kiddie pools, or flower pots. You may also want to adjust your watering schedule to ensure you aren’t oversaturating your lawn. 

Using Mosquito Nets

Mosquito nets can be used to keep pests out of small areas like balconies, porches, or seating areas. Many are treated with an insecticide, which requires airing out before hanging and using. You can also use mosquito netting to cover bedroom, porch, or sunroom windows. Remember that the insecticide will wear off over time and after sun exposure, so they do need to be replaced.

Exploring Mosquito Repellants

There are many types of chemical or all-natural insect repellants you can try. Bug sprays are effective for individuals, but you find them to have an unpleasant odor or to feel greasy on your skin. Bug zappers, clip-on fans, and bug-repellent bracelets can all be used, but their efficacy will depend on how long you need protection, and for how large of a space. For a more comprehensive, longer-term solution, we recommend calling in the mosquito control professionals. 

How Aggieland Green Can Help

There’s no harm at all in planting mosquito-repellant plants and using any natural pest control methods, but for the most effective and long-lasting benefit, you can trust Aggieland Green for your mosquito control needs. We offer guaranteed protection for your whole family (furry family included) and at least 90% reduction in the mosquito population. Enjoy your yard again this summer without the bites and the buzzing. We also offer lawn care services, aeration, and fire ant control in Houston and College Station. Start your personalized quote today!