We’re in the midst of mosquito season – summer’s most unwanted pest – which tends to accompany outdoor dinner parties and afternoons in the garden.
And while knowing how to get rid of mosquitoes is important to prevent annoying (or sometimes worse) itching, the process rarely feels like a joy. Some of the most effective prevention methods include boring regulatory measures and pesticide sprays Among the less fun aspects of summer. However, not all mosquito prevention methods have to feel like a chore.
Instead, experts suggest investing in flowers and essential oils that repel pests from your home and garden while filling your space with sweet scents (in some cases) with vibrant colors. These are the five mosquito repellent plants, oils, and foods that make mosquito repellent the most enjoyable.
5 scents that repel mosquitoes – for an aromatic, therapeutic summer
You may know what colors attract or repel mosquitoes, but what about the effect of smell?
Mosquitoes do not like certain scents, such as lavender, citronella, or eucalyptus. Melanie Rose, a pest specialist with Nationwide Pest Control, says these scents deter mosquitoes because they produce chemicals that mosquitoes don’t like — specifically linalool and geraniol. This is why you often find these scents in soaps and candles that are used to keep insects out of your home.
Here are the best perfumes to invest in this summer.
1. Grapefruit
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Grapefruit is a refreshing summer treat rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. But when it comes to repelling mosquitoes, a compound called nootkatone is a champion, explains Scott Hodges, vice president of professional development for Arrow Exterminators. (Opens in a new tab).
You can use nootkatone in grapefruit to deter false quotes from your home or garden, but it’s more than just a pest deterrent. “Not only can you snack on grapefruit, but you can also use grapefruit oil on your skin,” Scott adds.
2. Lemongrass
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Lemongrass contains citronella oil – perhaps the most famous of all mosquito repellents. But how do you get this plant into your scheme? You can start by learning how to grow lemongrass in your garden, or you can bring in the kitchen for a tasty fix.
Scott suggests: “Replace your summer cup of lemonade with a chilled cup of lemongrass tea, or carefully apply lemongrass oil to your skin for a quick mosquito repellent.”
3. lavender
(Image credit: Lee Clapp)
Lavender is one of the most popular mosquito repellents, but its appeal is easy to see. Melanie explains that although the pest doesn’t like its distinct scent, the same scent has a calming effect on humans—which is why it’s often used as an essential oil for aromatherapy and meditation.
Knowing how to grow lavender in your garden or arrange it in a vase is one way to keep mosquitoes away. Or you can choose one of the best candles on the market, many of which are infused with this strong scent.
4- Pine oil
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With its pleasant woody scent, it can be hard not to enjoy pine oil. However, while this scent will always have a place among the best selling essential oils, it should have an equal place among summer décor ideas as well.
Zackary DeAngelis from Pest Pointers LLC (Opens in a new tab) He explains that the scent of pine oil will “overpower and confuse mosquitoes’ senses, limit their ability to detect you” and keep you safe from bites.
“To use pine oil as a mosquito repellent, one great way is to put pine oil rags outside windows, porch, or doors,” the expert suggests. “You’ll have to update the rags every few days, but you can also use this method specifically on days when mosquitoes are likely to be present for ease of use.”
5. Chili
(Photo credit: Future/Camilla Reynolds)
If you can tolerate a healthy amount of spice, it may be beneficial to incorporate cayenne pepper into your diet, especially during the summer when mosquito activity is high. “This pepper is known to repel mosquitoes thanks to capsaicin, which is a heat-producing compound that the fly doesn’t like,” says Scott.
So while this kitchen idea isn’t for every plate, it’s worth considering adding a kick to your dishes to keep pests away.
What smells do mosquitoes hate?
Mosquitoes hate the smell of lavender, citronella, cloves, mint, basil, cedarwood, eucalyptus, mint, lemon, and rosemary.
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