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Mosquito Repellent Plants Safe for Dogs

Discover the perfect mosquito repellent plants safe for dogs. Whether your garden basks in full sun or enjoys the cool shade, we’ve covered you with a range of dog-safe plants that fend off those pesky mosquitoes. From sun-soaked favorites with average water needs to shade-loving varieties that thrive on consistent moisture, find your perfect match and bid farewell to those unwelcome insect intruders!

Dog Safe Plants That Repel Mosquitoes

dog safe plants that repel mosquitoes

In selecting plants to repel mosquitoes while ensuring safety for our canine companions, we’ve curated a selection that serves our pest control needs and considers the well-being of our furry friends. These plants are grouped based on their effectiveness in repelling mosquitoes, safety for dogs, and suitability for container gardening.

Mosquitoes are not only a nuisance but can also transmit diseases to both humans and pets. By strategically planting mosquito-repelling plants, we can create a more enjoyable outdoor environment while minimizing the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses. However, it’s essential to consider the safety of our pets, as some plants can be toxic to dogs if ingested.

Our selection includes plants known for their ability to repel mosquitoes naturally, such as lemon balm, and lemon thyme. These plants emit scents that mosquitoes find unpleasant, effectively deterring them from our outdoor spaces. Additionally, they are safe for dogs when grown and maintained properly.

We’ve also included other pet-safe options like marigolds, lavender, and petunias, which not only add beauty to our gardens but also help keep mosquitoes at bay. These plants have been chosen for their non-toxic properties to ensure the safety of our canine companions.

Moreover, these plants are ideal for use in pots, making them versatile choices for gardens, patios, balconies, and other outdoor areas. Growing them in containers allows for easy placement and mobility, enabling us to create mosquito-free zones wherever needed while keeping our dogs safe and happy.

How to Arrange Plants That Repel Mosquitoes

Strategically arranging mosquito repellent plants safe for dogs can create a comfortable, bite-free outdoor space for you and your dog. We’ve categorized these dog-safe plants based on sun exposure and watering needs, making them perfect for containers. Whether you have a sunny or shaded area, follow our guide to arrange these portable mosquito deterrents effectively, ensuring a beautiful, pest-free oasis you can both enjoy.

Full Sun Potted Plants That Repel Mosquitoes Safe for Dogs (Average Water Needs)

full sun mosquito repelling plants dog safe average water needs
Lavender, Marigolds, Nasturtiums, and Rosemary in a terracotta pot.

I’ve carefully chosen Lavender, Marigolds, Nasturtiums, and Rosemary for placement in a terracotta pot. These plants not only flourish under full sunlight and require average watering but are also dog-friendly and excel at repelling mosquitoes.

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Lavender

Lavender is a fragrant herb prized for its beautiful purple flowers and mosquito-repelling properties. It’s also used in aromatherapy and culinary dishes.

  • Plant Type: Perennial
  • Size: 12-36 inches tall (30-90 cm) and 18-24 inches wide (45-60 cm)
  • Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained slightly alkaline soil. Requires moderate watering and good air circulation.

Recommended reading: 3-Season Perennial Garden Plans for Full-Sun and Shade

Marigolds

Marigolds are bright, hardy flowers that repel mosquitoes and other pests. They are easy to grow and add vibrant color to gardens.

  • Plant Type: Annual
  • Size: 6-36 inches tall (15-90 cm) and 6-24 inches wide (15-60 cm)
  • Care requirements: Thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Requires regular watering but can tolerate dry conditions.

Recommended reading: How to Grow Marigolds

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are fast-growing annuals known for their edible flowers and leaves, which have a peppery taste. They also help repel pests, making them one of the mosquito repellent plants safe for dogs.

  • Plant Type: Annual
  • Size: 12-18 inches tall (30-45 cm) and 12-18 inches wide (30-45 cm)
  • Care requirements: Prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Requires regular watering but can tolerate poor soil conditions.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a fragrant herb used in cooking and for its pest-repellent properties. It produces small blue flowers and has needle-like leaves.

  • Plant Type: Perennial
  • Size: 24-48 inches tall (60-120 cm) and 24-48 inches wide (60-120 cm)
  • Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained, sandy soil. Requires moderate watering and can tolerate drought conditions.

Recommended reading: How to Plant Rosemary

full sun potted plants that repel mosquitoes safe for dogs average water needs

Full Sun Potted Plants That Repel Mosquitoes Safe for Dogs (Consistent Moisture)

full sun mosquito repelling plants dog safe consistent moisture
Basil and Petunias in a terracotta pot.

I’ve opted for Basil and Petunias to nestle into a charming pot. Adapting perfectly to sunny conditions, these plants demand regular watering to ensure robust growth. Moreover, they are both dog-friendly and serve as natural mosquito repellents.

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Basil

Basil is a popular herb known for its aromatic leaves used in cooking. It also has insect-repelling properties, making it a great addition to gardens.

  • Plant Type: Annual
  • Size: 12-24 inches tall (30-60 cm) and 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
  • Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Requires regular watering and benefits from occasional feeding.

Recommended reading: How to Plant Basil in Pot

Petunias

Petunias are vibrant flowering plants that come in a variety of colors. They are easy to grow and add long-lasting color to gardens and containers. Additionally, petunias are mosquito repellent plants safe for dogs.

  • Plant Type: Annual
  • Size: 6-18 inches tall (15-45 cm) and 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
  • Care requirements: Thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Require regular watering and benefit from deadheading to encourage more blooms.
full sun potted plants that repel mosquitoes safe for dogs consistent moisture

Shade Plants That Repel Mosquitoes Safe for Dogs (Average Water Needs)

shade mosquito repelling plants dog safe average water needs
Catnip, Lemon Thyme, Mosquito Plant, and Viola in a container.

I’ve meticulously chosen Catnip, Lemon Thyme, Mosquito Plant, and Viola for a delightful potting experience. These plants are perfectly suited for the cooler, shady spots and flourish with just the right amount of watering. Not only are they completely safe for your canine companions, but they also serve as a natural deterrent against mosquitoes, making them an ideal choice for any garden.

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Catnip

Catnip is an herb well-known for its effect on cats, but it also repels mosquitoes and other insects. It produces small, lavender flowers.

  • Plant Type: Perennial
  • Size: 12-36 inches tall (30-90 cm) and 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
  • Care requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Requires regular watering but can tolerate drought once established.

Lemon Thyme

Lemon Thyme is a fragrant herb with a lemony scent that repels mosquitoes. It’s also used in cooking and adds a fresh flavor to dishes.

  • Plant Type: Perennial
  • Size: 6-12 inches tall (15-30 cm) and 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
  • Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained, sandy soil. Requires minimal watering and can tolerate dry conditions.

Mosquito Plant/Pelargonium

Mosquito Plant, or Pelargonium, is a geranium variety with a citronella scent that repels mosquitoes. It has attractive foliage and pinkish-purple flowers.

  • Plant Type: Tender Perennial (often grown as an annual in cooler climates)
  • Size: 12-24 inches tall (30-60 cm) and 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
  • Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Requires regular watering but can tolerate some drought.

Viola

Viola, also known as pansies or violets, are colorful flowering plants that add charm to any garden. They are known for their bright, cheerful blooms.

  • Plant Type: Annual or Perennial (depending on species and climate)
  • Size: 4-12 inches tall (10-30 cm) and 6-12 inches wide (15-30 cm)
  • Care requirements: Thrive in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Require regular watering and benefit from cool temperatures.

Recommended reading: Thriller, Filler, and Spiller Plants: Ideas and Diagrams for Stunning Containers

shade plants that repel mosquitoes safe for dogs average water needs

Shade Plants That Repel Mosquitoes Safe for Dogs (Consistent Moisture)

shade mosquito repelling plants dog safe consistent moisture
Impatiens and Lemon Balm in a container.

I’ve carefully chosen Impatiens and Lemon Balm for a vibrant potting venture. These plants thrive in the soothing shade and crave a steady supply of water to flourish. Not only are they completely dog-friendly, but they also act as a natural shield against mosquitoes, making them an exemplary addition to any green space.

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Impatiens

Impatiens are popular shade-loving annuals known for their vibrant, colorful blooms that brighten up shady areas in gardens and containers.

  • Plant Type: Annual
  • Size: 6-24 inches tall (15-60 cm) and 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
  • Care requirements: Thrive in partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil. Require regular watering and benefit from consistent moisture.

Recommended reading: 20 Beautiful Flowers Perfect for Your Balcony Garden

Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm is a fragrant herb with a lemony scent that repels mosquitoes. It is also used in teas and culinary dishes for its fresh flavor.

  • Plant Type: Perennial
  • Size: 12-24 inches tall (30-60 cm) and 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
  • Care requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Requires regular watering and can tolerate some drought once established.
shade plants that repel mosquitoes safe for dogs consistent moisture

About Henry Morgan

Henry Morgan is an agronomist horticulture founder of The Garden Style Company and The Garden Style Website. He previously worked for Mondelēz International as an Agronomist Engineer specializing in agricultural products management in highly populated areas. In 2000, Henry started working with farmer-producers in agricultural businesses selling wholesale fresh produce and retail plants in Van Buren, Arkansas. Nowadays, Henry lives in California, where he offers expert consulting services for organic vegetable gardening. As a science writer working with his wife, Julia, Henry shares his passion for gardening and farming, trying to reach and teach as many folks as possible.

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