Enjoying the great outdoors during the warm months can be a struggle when mosquitoes are abundant. Instead of coating yourself in chemical repellents, consider planting plants that repel mosquitoes naturally. These fragrant, hardy plants not only beautify your garden but also create an invisible barrier that wards off these pesky insects. From herbs to flowering perennials, full sun and shade plants that repel mosquitoes offer an eco-friendly solution to minimize bites and enhance your outdoor living spaces. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best options to incorporate into your sunny and shady areas for a more pleasant, bug-free experience.
Table of Contents
Full Sun Plants That Repel Mosquitoes
For each container, use a well-draining potting mix made for outdoor containers. Group plants with similar sunlight, water, and nutrient requirements for best growth. Fertilize regularly and provide good air circulation.
For plants in the ground or garden beds, similarly group them with plants that share similar requirements, as outlined for each container idea. These plants are versatile and can also thrive when planted directly in the ground or garden beds.
Here are some mosquito-repelling plant and flower container ideas for a full-sun garden, with plants grouped together that have similar growing needs:
Full Sun Plants That Repel Mosquitoes Container Idea 1
- Catnip
- Lavender
- Marigolds
All thrive in full sun and have moderate water needs. Provide well-draining soil.
Catnip
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a perennial herb known for its intoxicating effect on cats. It produces small, fragrant white flowers and aromatic foliage.
- Plant type: Perennial
- Size: Typically grows 18-36 inches (45-90 cm) tall and wide.
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Lavender
Lavender (Lavandula spp.) is a fragrant herb with spikes of purple flowers. It’s prized for its soothing aroma and medicinal properties.
- Plant type: Perennial
- Size: Can vary by species but commonly grows 12-36 inches (30-90 cm) tall and wide.
- Care requirements: Thrives in full sun and well-drained, alkaline soil.
Recommended reading: How to Propagate Lavender
Marigolds
Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) are annual flowers known for their bright colors and ability to repel pests. They come in various sizes and bloom shapes.
- Plant type: Annual
- Size: Ranges from 6-36 inches (15-90 cm) tall and wide, depending on the variety.
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Tolerant of various soil types.
Recommended reading: How to Grow Marigolds
Full Sun Plants That Repel Mosquitoes Container Idea 2
- Citronella grass
- Horsemint
- Feverfew
All prefer full sun and do well with consistent moisture, but good drainage.
Citronella Grass
Citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus) is a perennial grass known for its strong lemon scent. It’s commonly used in candles and insect repellents. Here is where I recommend buying Citronella Grass.
- Plant type: Perennial
- Size: Typically grows 5-6 feet (150-180 cm) tall and spreads 3-5 feet (90-150 cm) wide.
- Care requirements: Requires full sun and well-drained soil.
Recommended reading: Types of Citronella Plants
Horsemint
Horsemint (Monarda punctata), also called Spotted Beebalm, is a perennial herb with aromatic leaves and whorls of pink or purple-spotted flowers. It’s drought-tolerant and attracts pollinators.
- Plant type: Perennial
- Size: Typically grows 18-36 inches (45-90 cm) tall and spreads 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) wide.
- Care requirements: Thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained, sandy soil.
Feverfew
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is a perennial herb with daisy-like flowers. It’s valued for its medicinal properties, including migraine relief.
- Plant type: Perennial
- Size: Typically grows 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) tall and wide.
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Full Sun Plants That Repel Mosquitoes Container Idea 3
- Basil
- Mint
- Rosemary
Good choices for a sunny herb container. Keep soil moist but well-draining.
Basil
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is an aromatic herb with green leaves and a sweet, slightly spicy flavor. It’s commonly used in cooking, particularly in Italian cuisine.
- Plant type: Annual
- Size: Typically grows 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) tall and 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) wide.
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Recommended reading: How to Plant Basil in Pot
Mint
Mint (Mentha spp.) is a fragrant herb with serrated leaves and a refreshing flavor. It’s used in culinary dishes, beverages, and aromatherapy.
- Plant type: Perennial
- Size: Can vary by species but commonly grows 12-36 inches (30-90 cm) tall and spreads vigorously.
- Care requirements: Prefers partial to full sun and moist, well-drained soil.
Rosemary
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is an evergreen herb with needle-like leaves and blue flowers. It has a strong, pine-like aroma and is used in cooking and herbal remedies. Here is where I recommend buying Rosemary.
- Plant type: Perennial
- Size: Typically grows 24-48 inches (60-120 cm) tall and 24-36 inches (60-90 cm) wide.
- Care requirements: Thrives in full sun and well-drained, sandy soil.
Recommended reading: Rosemary Propagation – Quick Guide
Full Sun Plants That Repel Mosquitoes Container Idea 4
- Lantana
- Marigolds
- Petunias
Flowering annuals and perennials that can tolerate drought once established. Use potting mix.
Lantana
Lantana (Lantana camara) is a colorful flowering shrub with clusters of small, vibrant flowers. It attracts butterflies and hummingbirds and is often used in landscapes and hanging baskets.
- Plant type: Perennial (may behave as annuals in colder climates)
- Size: Can vary, but commonly grows 12-36 inches (30-90 cm) tall and wide.
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Recommended reading: How to Propagate Lantana
Marigolds
Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) are annual flowers known for their bright colors and ability to repel pests. They come in various sizes and bloom shapes.
- Plant type: Annual
- Size: Ranges from 6-36 inches (15-90 cm) tall and wide, depending on the variety.
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Tolerant of various soil types.
Recommended reading: How to Grow Marigolds
Petunias
Petunias (Petunia spp.) are popular annual flowering plants known for their trumpet-shaped flowers and wide range of colors. They’re versatile and can be used in beds, borders, containers, and hanging baskets.
- Plant type: Annual
- Size: Can vary by variety, typically growing 6-18 inches (15-45 cm) tall and wide.
- Care requirements: Prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
Full Sun Plants That Repel Mosquitoes Container Idea 5
- Bee Balm
- Horsemint
- Lemon Balm
Flowering perennials preferring full sun and average water needs.
Bee Balm
Bee Balm (Monarda spp.), also known as Bergamot, is a perennial herbaceous plant with showy clusters of tubular flowers. It attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Here is where I recommend buying Bee Balm.
- Plant type: Perennial
- Size: Typically grows 24-36 inches (60-90 cm) tall and spreads 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) wide.
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Horsemint
Horsemint (Monarda punctata), also called Spotted Beebalm, is a perennial herb with aromatic leaves and whorls of pink or purple-spotted flowers. It’s drought-tolerant and attracts pollinators.
- Plant type: Perennial
- Size: Typically grows 18-36 inches (45-90 cm) tall and spreads 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) wide.
- Care requirements: Thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained, sandy soil.
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
Lemon Balm is a perennial herb with a lemon scent and small white flowers. It’s known for its calming properties and can repel mosquitoes to some extent.
- Plant type: Perennial
- Size: Typically grows 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) tall and spreads 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) wide.
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Shade Plants That Repel Mosquitoes
For shaded containers, use a well-draining potting mix made for shade areas. Group plants with similar light and moisture needs together. Protect from hot, direct afternoon sun. Fertilize regularly with a balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for blooming plants.
Here are some mosquito-repelling plant and flower container ideas for a shaded garden, with plants grouped together that have similar growing needs:
Shade Plants That Repel Mosquitoes Container Idea 1
- Catnip
- Lemon Thyme
- Pennyroyal
These herbs do well in dappled or partial shade and prefer well-draining soil with average moisture.
Catnip
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a perennial herb known for its aromatic foliage and small, fragrant white flowers. It’s famous for its intoxicating effect on cats and its ability to repel mosquitoes.
- Plant type: Perennial
- Size: Typically grows 18-36 inches (45-90 cm) tall and wide.
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Lemon Thyme
Lemon Thyme (Thymus citriodorus) is a perennial herb with a strong lemon scent and small, pink or purple flowers. It’s commonly used in cooking and as a mosquito repellent.
- Plant type: Perennial
- Size: Typically grows 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) tall and 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) wide.
- Care requirements: Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Tolerates drought conditions.
Pennyroyal
Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) is a perennial herb with small, lavender flowers and a strong, minty aroma. It’s known for its mosquito-repelling properties. Here is where I recommend buying Pennyroyal seeds.
- Plant type: Perennial
- Size: Typically grows 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) tall and spreads 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) wide.
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Shade Plants That Repel Mosquitoes Container Idea 2
- Basil
- Citronella Geranium
- Citrosa Geranium
Geranium varieties that can tolerate shade. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Basil
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a fragrant annual herb with green leaves and small white or purple flowers. It is widely used in cooking and known for its mosquito-repelling properties.
- Plant type: Annual
- Size: Typically grows 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) tall and wide.
- Care requirements: Prefers partial shade to full sun and well-drained soil. Water regularly to keep the soil moist.
Citronella Geranium
Citronella Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) is a perennial plant with deeply cut, aromatic leaves and pink flowers. Known for its lemon-scented foliage, it helps repel mosquitoes. Here is where I recommend buying Citronella Geranium.
- Plant type: Perennial
- Size: Typically grows 24-36 inches (60-90 cm) tall and 24-36 inches (60-90 cm) wide.
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Requires regular watering but not waterlogged conditions.
Citrosa Geranium
Citrosa Geranium (Pelargonium citrosum) is a perennial herb with a strong lemon scent and small, lavender-pink flowers. It’s marketed as a mosquito-repelling plant.
- Plant type: Perennial
- Size: Typically grows 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) tall and 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) wide.
- Care requirements: Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Water regularly but avoid overwatering.
Shade Plants That Repel Mosquitoes Container Idea 3
- Chamomile
- Feverfew
- Lemon Balm
Leafy herbs and flowers for part-shade areas. Provide consistent moisture but good drainage.
Chamomile
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is a fragrant annual herb known for its small, daisy-like white flowers and its use in soothing teas. It can also help repel mosquitoes.
- Plant type: Annual
- Size: Typically grows 6-24 inches (15-60 cm) tall and wide.
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Feverfew
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is a perennial herb with small, daisy-like flowers and aromatic, feathery foliage. It is known for its medicinal properties and mosquito-repelling ability. Here is where I recommend buying Feverfew seeds.
- Plant type: Perennial
- Size: Typically grows 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) tall and 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) wide.
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Tolerant of poor soil conditions.
Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial herb with a lemon scent and small white flowers. It’s known for its calming properties and can repel mosquitoes.
- Plant type: Perennial
- Size: Typically grows 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) tall and wide.
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Shade Plants That Repel Mosquitoes Container Idea 4
- Ageratum
- Lantana (varieties like Miss Huff)
- Marigolds
Flowering annuals with mosquito repelling properties that can handle some shade. Use well-draining potting mix.
Ageratum
Ageratum (Ageratum houstonianum) is an annual flower known for its fluffy, colorful clusters of blue, pink, or white blooms. It attracts butterflies and helps repel mosquitoes. Here is where I recommend buying Ageratum seeds.
- Plant type: Annual
- Size: Typically grows 6-24 inches (15-60 cm) tall and wide.
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Lantana (varieties like Miss Huff)
Lantana (Lantana camara) is a perennial shrub with clusters of brightly colored flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Varieties like ‘Miss Huff’ are known for their hardiness and mosquito-repelling properties.
- Plant type: Perennial
- Size: Typically grows 24-48 inches (60-120 cm) tall and wide.
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Tolerant of drought conditions once established.
Marigolds
Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) are annual flowers known for their vibrant colors and ability to repel pests, including mosquitoes. They are commonly used in gardens for their bright blooms and easy maintenance.
- Plant type: Annual
- Size: Ranges from 6-36 inches (15-90 cm) tall and wide, depending on the variety.
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Tolerant of various soil types.
Shade Plants That Repel Mosquitoes Container Idea 5
- Catnip
- Coleus
- Nicotiana
Provide bright, filtered shade. Keep soil consistently moist but not saturated.
Catnip
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a perennial herb known for its aromatic foliage and small, fragrant white flowers. It’s famous for its intoxicating effect on cats and its ability to repel mosquitoes.
- Plant type: Perennial
- Size: Typically grows 18-36 inches (45-90 cm) tall and wide.
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Coleus
Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides) is a vibrant annual known for its colorful foliage, ranging from greens to reds and purples. While not a traditional mosquito repellent, it adds beauty to any garden.
- Plant type: Annual
- Size: Typically grows 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) tall and wide.
- Care requirements: Prefers partial shade to full shade and well-drained soil. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Nicotiana
Nicotiana (Nicotiana alata) is an annual flowering plant with tubular, fragrant blooms that open in the evening. It helps repel mosquitoes and adds beauty to the garden with its white, pink, or red flowers.
- Plant type: Annual
- Size: Typically grows 12-36 inches (30-90 cm) tall and wide.
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Keep soil consistently moist.
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