10 Plants That Keep Mosquitoes and Pests Away Naturally • Schisandra & Bergamot

Mosquitoes and garden pests can quickly ruin your time outdoors—but chemical sprays aren’t your only option. Nature has its own defense system built right into certain plants.

These 10 pest-repelling plants help keep bugs at bay naturally, so you can enjoy a more peaceful and pleasant backyard.

Citronella Grass (Cymbopogon nardus)

Close-up view of green, narrow leaves of a lemongrass plant growing densely outdoors in sunlight. — Photo Credit: warat42/Deposit Photos

Famous for its role in mosquito-repelling candles, citronella is a clumping grass with a strong lemony scent that bugs dislike. Plant it in containers near patios or walkways.

Lavender

Not only does lavender smell amazing, but it also repels moths, flies, fleas, and mosquitoes. Its calming aroma and purple blooms make it a garden favorite.

Marigolds

Bright yellow marigold flowers in bloom, surrounded by green leaves, with a blurred background. — Photo Credit: Peggychoucair/Pixabay

These bright, sunny flowers deter aphids, mosquitoes, and even nematodes in the soil. Their strong scent acts as a natural insect repellent and they're great in veggie gardens.

Basil

Basil’s pungent aroma keeps flies and mosquitoes away—and you get a delicious culinary herb out of the deal. Plant it near doorways or outdoor seating areas.

Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Close-up of green leaves with serrated edges covered in water droplets. — Photo Credit: rebeck96/Pixabay

Catnip contains nepetalactone, a compound even more effective than DEET in repelling mosquitoes. It’s a low-maintenance herb, but be ready for feline visitors!

Rosemary

This hardy herb repels mosquitoes and other bugs while thriving in hot, dry conditions. Add sprigs to your firepit for a natural pest-deterring scent.

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)

A large clump of tall, green grass with long, thin blades grows in a garden setting under a clear sky. — Photo Credit: sarangib/Pixabay

Closely related to citronella, lemongrass has a citrus scent that wards off mosquitoes. It's also edible and grows well in large containers.

Mint

Mint’s potent scent deters ants, mosquitoes, and spiders. Grow it in pots to keep it from taking over, and enjoy its refreshing flavor in drinks and dishes.

Chrysanthemums

A single yellow gerbera daisy in full bloom with green leaves in the background. — Photo Credit: trungkhang/Pixabay

These blooms contain pyrethrum, a natural insecticide used in many commercial sprays. They’re effective against ticks, roaches, and mosquitoes alike.

Alliums

A close-up of a spherical purple allium flower in bloom, set against a blurred green background. — Photo Credit: jhenning/Pixabay

From ornamental globe alliums to garlic and chives, these plants naturally repel aphids, slugs, and even mosquitoes. They add architectural interest to garden beds too.

With the right plants, you can create a beautiful garden that does double duty—looking good and keeping bugs away. These natural pest repellents are easy to grow and chemical-free. Let your garden work for you by planting smarter—and swatting less.