Mosquito-Repelling Plants: The Most Effective

Before spending (and wasting) money on sometimes toxic mosquito sprays and products, try using certain plants, which are highly effective and have no side effects. From citronella to basil, from rosemary to geranium: what are very pleasant smells to us become repellant to mosquitoes, thus keeping them away.

Lemongrass and Monarda

These are the two most effective plants for preventing buzzing and stings. Both produce a strong, distinctive odor, and it's no coincidence that commercially available sprays and candles are made with citronella or monarda. The latter has a scent very similar to incense, capable of confusing insect receptors (it repels mosquitoes as well as midges and flies) thanks to the high concentration of substances contained in the plant's leaves.

Cultivation of the citronella It requires plenty of sunlight and regular watering. Unlike other aromatic plants, Monarda dislikes sun and drought, preferring cooler climates and cannot be grown in dry soil.

Lavender

A very fragrant and ornamental plant, which attracts bees and butterflies, but is not appreciated by mosquitoes who detest its scent. lavender essence It's easy to grow, even in a pot, and the important thing is that it gets good sun exposure. But why do mosquitoes stay away from this plant? Simply because of three substances it contains: linalool, which has mosquito repellent properties; linalyl acetate, responsible for the typical lavender scent; camphor, another ingredient that contributes to the repellent effect.

Scented geranium

So effective that it is called "the mosquito-repellent geranium". Its leaves release essential oils with a strong scent, which can be unpleasant to mosquitoes and interfere with their ability to locate a person.

The main compounds responsible are the citronellol, with a repellent action also known because it is used in some mosquito repellent products; geraniol, an aromatic alcohol present in several essential oils with repellent properties; linalool, which contributes to the scent and may have a deterrent effect on some insects.

The geranium grows better in full sun, where he can receive at least 6 hours of direct light per dayIt also tolerates partial shade, but produces fewer flowers. It prefers moist soil. light, fertile and well-drained.

Basil, sage and rosemary

These are three aromatic plants best suited for mosquito repellent purposes, and when grown in pots, they can last a long time. They're also suitable for placing in small pots in the center of the table in summer, specifically to repel mosquitoes.

The plants we have presented to you are between natural remedies more effective against mosquitoes, and also have the advantage of being scented and ornamental.

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• Natural remedies for mosquito bites
• Who and what attracts mosquitoes the most?