Living in Upstate South Carolina means beautiful spring, summer and fall nights in the backyard, but with the beauty comes pesky mosquitoes. Instead of relying solely on chemical-laden insect repellents, why not incorporate some natural mosquito-repelling plants into your landscaping? Not only will these plants help keep those annoying insects at bay, but they will also add beauty and fragrance to your outdoor space. In this blog post, we will explore six of the best plants to repel mosquitoes in Upstate South Carolina.
1. Citronella
Citronella is perhaps one of the most well-known plants for repelling mosquitoes. This fragrant plant emits a strong scent that masks other attractants to mosquitoes, making it an effective deterrent. Plant citronella in pots around your patio or outdoor seating area for maximum protection.
2. Lavender
Lavender not only adds a pop of color and a lovely scent to your garden, but it also repels mosquitoes. The sweet aroma of lavender is delightful to humans but intolerable to mosquitoes, making it an excellent plant for keeping them at bay. Consider planting lavender near windows and doorways to help prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
3. Marigolds
Marigolds are not only beautiful flowers that come in a variety of vibrant colors, but they also contain pyrethrum, a natural insect repellent. Planting marigolds around your garden or patio can help deter mosquitoes as well as other pests like aphids and whiteflies.
4. Rosemary
Rosemary is a versatile herb that is commonly used in cooking, but it also has mosquito-repelling properties. The strong scent of rosemary can mask the odors that attract mosquitoes, making it an effective natural deterrent. Plant rosemary near outdoor seating areas or incorporate it into container gardens for added protection.
5. Basil
Basil is not only a popular culinary herb, but it also acts as a natural mosquito repellent. The strong scent of basil can interfere with the sensory receptors of mosquitoes, helping to keep them away from your garden. Additionally, its lush green leaves and delicate flowers make it an attractive addition to any outdoor space. Consider planting basil in pots or alongside other herbs in your garden, and enjoy its aromatic benefits while cooking as well!
6. Peppermint
Peppermint is a refreshing herb known for its invigorating scent and culinary uses, but it also serves as a powerful mosquito repellent. The strong aroma of peppermint can effectively keep mosquitoes at bay by overwhelming their sensory receptors. This hardy plant is easy to grow and can thrive in various conditions, making it a great addition to any garden. Consider planting peppermint in containers or borders around your outdoor space, and enjoy its delightful fragrance while deterring those pesky insects.
Create a Landscape That Naturally Repels Mosquitoes
Whether you wish to renovate your existing backyard into a charming outdoor space, or are starting fresh with a newly-built home and want to beat mosquitoes to the punch, contact the team at CollinsBrooke Landscape Construction today to schedule a design consultation.