It’s happened to me countless times: I invite some friends over, we’re sitting on the patio, and the mosquitoes are just swarming! Some might suggest that I pick up some bug spray, but did you know that bug spray has some potentially harmful chemicals in them? They’re especially bad for kids. I’ve taken a more natural approach to repelling those pesky ‘skeeters, and one part of that is planting mosquito-repelling plants.
1. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Image credit: Amanda Slater, Flickr
For me, summer isn’t complete without a few big, beautiful basil bushes producing beautiful flowers the bees love as well as the perfect herb for a variety of dishes. It’s not just good in the kitchen though. When placed near doors, this aromatic herb deters both mosquitoes and flies.
2. Lemon thyme (Thymus X citriodorus)
Image credit: John Vonderlin, Flickr
This is another summertime favorite of mine. This aromatic herb loves dry, sunny conditions and fits well as a ground cover along walkways. As you walk among it, you bruise the leaves causing it to release an aroma that mosquitoes just hate!
