Ward them off naturally.
Key Takeaways
Every year, the rainy season ushers in springtime, which is a welcome arrival.
Rather less unwelcome is what springand then, eventually, the heat of summerinevitably brings.
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Mosquitos buzz in, emerging from eggs laid in stagnant water across the region.
It’s no wonder we’re constantly researching natural ways torepel mosquitoesin the garden.
Or, throw a few sprigs on the grill to emit a fragrant smoke that chases mosquitoes away.
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Some are herbs with multiple uses, making them do-it-all plantings in the garden and the kitchen, too.
Its green leaves are a popular addition to kitchens across the globe.
Once planted, basil requires full sun and regular watering.
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Keep pruning the leaves for your cooking and basil will last until the first frost.
The minty leaves of this winter-hardy plant can be used as a culinary herb.
Though it’s closely related to lemongrass, citronella grass is not palatable for using in cooking.
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Plant it in well-draining soil in full sun and water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry.
Garlic
Whether chopping, cooking, or eating, the scent of garlic is a notorious lingerer.
This classic Mediterranean herb is prized for its downy leaves, purple blooms, and strong, heady fragrance.
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you might check the growth of this member of the mint family by planting it in a pot.
Lemongrass
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Lemongrass is a tender perennialthat thrives in full sun with regular water.
The growing requirements are the same as for citronella grass.
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(Even some people find it repellent.)
Pennyroyal
Pennyroyal is a member of the mint genus and gives off a pungent mint fragrance.
It also possesses a powerful flavor and has a history of use in folk medicine.
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(It can grow to 3 feet tall.)
Peppermint has also been known to repel mosquitos.
Keep its growth contained by planting it in a pot.
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It’s also known for its mosquito-repelling potential.
‘Benenden Blue’ smells strongly of pine, and its foliage has a bitter taste.
citrosumis often sold as “citronella plant.”
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The leaves may not be edible, but they smell delicious when you brush past.
Fennel can adapt to almost any soil as long as it is well-draining.
The ferny foliage comes in bright greens and bronze-purples.
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Eucalyptus
The strong medicinal scent of eucalyptus oil is another effective mosquito repellant.
Eucalyptus can be maintained as a shrub or tree and survive for centuries in a mild climate.
Mekonnen S.Pennyroyal Oil: A Potentially Toxic Folk Remedy.
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National Capital Poison Center.
PetMD.Pennyroyal Oil Poisoning in Cats.
2015;2015:361021. doi: 10.1155/2015/361021.
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Epub 2015 Oct 7.
North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox.
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