What Are the Best Plants to Keep Mosquitoes Away?
Mosquitoes find hosts to feed on by tracing their scent. This is why strong fragrances can work as a natural mosquito deterrent. Some kinds of plants and herbs can help keep mosquitoes away, but only when the leaves or stems are crushed to extract the oils inside.
For optimal results, it’s best not to rely on plants alone to repel mosquitoes. Instead, reach out to a local mosquito exterminator.
Plants That Repel Mosquitoes
Some plants contain oils that work as natural repellents against mosquitoes. Planting a garden with a variety of this plants can be an effective natural aid to repelling mosquitoes. These plants include:
- Citronella. Often labeled as “mosquito plants” in big-box stores, these plants are actually a kind of geranium. Citronella grass is the best option for creating a natural repellent with citronella oil.
- Lavender. Lavender is a very fragrant plant that can help deter a mosquito by stifling its sense of smell.
- Marigolds. Marigolds emit a scent that distracts mosquitoes. They also prevent aphids, whiteflies, and other garden pests, and are a beautiful addition to any garden.
- Rosemary, basil & thyme. These herbs all work the same way, by releasing a strong scent to ward mosquitoes off. Similar to other plants, the scents of these keep pests and mosquitoes at bay.
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Do Mosquitoes Eat Plants?
Mosquitoes don’t only feed on blood. In fact, the mosquito diet is based mostly on nectar. Male mosquitoes don’t draw blood at all, feeding only on nectar, plant sap, and honeydew. Female mosquitoes only feed on blood in order to prepare their bodies for reproduction. Like the majority of other insects in your garden, mosquitoes are getting most of their nutrients from flowering plants.
What Smells Keep Mosquitoes Away?
Scent is an important factor in attracting mosquitoes. Female mosquitoes use their sharp sense of smell to detect carbon dioxide in the air, which is produced when people exhale. This means that scents and fragrances in any form can confuse mosquitoes and keep them away. Perfumes, citronella candles, and other scents can contribute to ridding your yard of mosquitoes in Wisconsin.
What Are The Best Plants to Keep Mosquitoes Away in Wisconsin?
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