Are Mosquitoes Bad For Plants?
WouterUsing plants as mosquito repellents has been a common practice since ancient times. They were used in crude fumigants, and later in oil formulations applied to skin. Today, some of these plants are better than others at repelling mosquitoes.
Basil is one of the most effective plants to use for mosquito repellent. Its leaves are a strong source of oil that is toxic to mosquito larvae. It should be planted in a sunny area where the soil is moist, but not saturated. It also needs to be watered regularly.
Peppermint is another great plant that deters mosquitoes. The peppermint plant contains Mentha piperita oil that has anti-larvicidal properties. The oil has a strong fragrance that repels mosquitoes.
Rosemary is a beautiful, fragrant plant that discourages mosquitoes. It is a good addition to the garden. It can be grown in a container or inside. The plant grows best in sandy or moist soil, but it is also adaptable to dry soil. It is a perennial plant.
Neem is a tree that is rich in insecticidal compounds. Its leaves contain nepetalactone, which is highly effective against mosquitoes. Its flowers have a chemical called coumarin, which is a component of many repellents. It also inhibits the reproduction of mosquitoes.
Geraniums are another great plant to use for mosquito repellent. They are available in a variety of colors and grow well in a sunny location. They also do not require fertilizer. They are valued for the pleasant fragrance of their leaves.
