Keep Mosquitoes Away with these Gorgeous Plants

September may be the beginning of the fun feelings of fall and the soon-to-be end of summer, but that doesn't mean the mosquitoes got the message. In fact, we'll probably be seeing mosquitoes around for another month or more until a good cold front comes through. These pesky bugs swarm around just looking for the next victim to land on - leaving you with itchy bites. There are a few plants that can be planted around your landscape to help ward off these vampire bugs so you can still enjoy your perfect backyard paradise!

Basil

Basil is one of the few herbs that you don't have to crush in order to reap the mosquito fighting benefits! Just having it growing around your space can help ward the pesky bugs away, plus, you can use the leaves in some amazing culinary dishes! Lemon basil and cinnamon basil are the best varieties for warding off the bugs.

Catnip

While is may deter mosquitoes, it may also attract cats! You can grow this in close proximity to the areas you want to ward off mosquitoes, or you can even crush the leaves and apply them for even greater protection. Catnip is from the mint family.

Citronella

It may seem pretty obvious since this is an ingredient listed in many mosquito repellents. The reason it works so well is because it will mask the attractant in your skin. You can have this grown in a garden space, or you can have it planted in pots and it will achieve the same goal.

Lavender

Lavender not only smells wonderful and looks beautiful, it also helps keep mosquitoes and gnats away from your evening gathering! You can place pots of lavender around your patio, doors, and windows, and not only will it smell nice, but you won't notice as many pesky bugs. You can also keep the dried flowers in your closet to help warm off moths.

Lemon Balm

This plant is also known as horsemint, and the scent wards off mosquitoes while attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies to your landscape at the Lake of the Ozarks. Be aware, though, it’s fast growing, drought resistant and reseeds itself, so consider planting in a pot rather than in your yard to avoid a lemon balm takeover.

Marigolds

If you thought these bright little flowers were just for making your Lake of the Ozarks landscape look pretty - think again! Marigolds are a natural mosquito repellent because of their distinct smell. You can plant them around your home to help keep them at bay, and especially have them planted around your outdoor living spaces!

Creating a Custom Landscape at the Lake of the Ozarks

At Paradise Landscaping, we want to help create a landscape that is not only beautiful but is also practical as well. If you experience the onslaught of mosquitoes years after year, it may be time to plant some barrier plants to keep them away. Whether you need an entire makeover of your landscape or you just want to plant a few new varieties in your lawn, we want to help! Visit our website to see samples of our work, and give us a call for a free estimate!

Let us create the perfect PARADISE in your own backyard!


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