Talking about Texas, then talking about its humidity and weather as well. The temperature and humidity in Texas let the mosquito breed and live happily. There are many areas in Texas that the mosquito can come and visit all year. Moreover, there are 80 kinds of mosquitoes in Texas. Hence, to repel the mosquitoes, there are some ways to do it by yourself. For instance, planting the plants that repel mosquitoes in Texas, your home sweet home.
The natural mosquito repellents are not only useful to get rid of the mosquito, but also beautify your outdoor living areas. Don’t miss out on the useful plants below!
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How Effective are These Mosquito-repelling Plants in Texas?
Certainly! The effectiveness of mosquito-repelling plants in Texas can be like summoning a delightful garden ally against those pesky insects. Picture your garden as a dynamic ecosystem where these plants play their part in reducing mosquito activity. While they won’t create an impenetrable force field, they can significantly deter mosquitoes from lounging around.
Just like a well-choreographed dance, planting a variety of these plants strategically throughout your outdoor haven can amplify their impact and make your space less inviting to those unwanted guests.
BEST Texas Plants That Repel Mosquitoes
Are pesky mosquitoes turning your outdoor relaxation into a constant battle? Fear not, fellow Texans, for there’s a natural solution right at your fingertips! Imagine enjoying your backyard without the nuisance of these buzzing invaders. In the warm embrace of a Texan summer, the quest for mosquito-free evenings becomes a mission of both comfort and tranquility. But worry not, as we unveil a secret arsenal of plants that not only adorn your landscape but also send mosquitoes packing.
Let’s delve into the world of nature’s defenders against these tiny terrors, transforming your outdoor haven into an oasis of serenity.
1. Citronella
This perennial grass can be used for mosquito repellent by using its oil. Guess it is the most common ingredient that is contained in lotion or cream to get rid of the mosquito or any insects. You can distinguish the difference between citronella grass and lemon grass by seeing its physical appearance and the fragrance.
Citronella grass has a strong fragrance and red color on the bottom of citronella and becomes the reason it is one of the plants that repel mosquitoes in Texas. The foliage of citronella grass is wider than the lemon grass as well. So that, you can see the difference between them easily.
If you want to plant this mosquito repellent plant, you have to prepare a very spacious garden since this variety can grow up to 5-6 feet, and its width can reach 3-4 feet. The essential oils of Citronella can be used after extracting the leaves to repel the mosquito. Hence, the process is quite long.
2. Sage
This herb plant can be used in many ways. You can use it as plants that repel mosquitoes in Texas or for cooking your favorite meals. Also, this plant loves warm and full sun, hence it is suitable to plant in Texas. The gray green foliage is very attractive as the houseplant inside the pots or beds.
Although the fragrance is not too strong, this plant is still effective to get rid of the mosquito. Furthermore, Sage can thrive in all seasons. So that you have no worries about this plant when the winter comes.
3. Rosemary
Although Rosemary likes to live in cold areas, this plant can thrive in dry and heat conditions, such as in Texas. This plant is a perennial herb that its fragrance can make the mosquito stay away.
You can plant Rosemary indoor or outdoor, depending on the area you have. Besides using as natural ways to mosquito control, this plant is useful and becomes a favorite for cooking! The oil can be used as the essential oils as well.
4. Lemon Basil
Other plants to repel mosquitoes in Texas are various, but this one is usually what you need for cooking too! Yes, you can plant lemon basil for mosquito control and cooking pizza! Although not all people know that basil is good to keep mosquitoes away, the research found out that the lemon basil is pretty toxic for the mosquito larvae.
Hence, it is the best time to grow basil in your home. Because you will not miss Basil out for your meals and the mosquito doesn’t have any brave to visit your room anymore.
5. Catnip
When the cat loves this plant very much, the mosquito hates it. The catnip, based on the research, is pretty effective as the natural way to get rid of the mosquitoes.
Although the researcher still has unclear reasons about the reason why insects hate the catnip very much, this plant has a distinct smell, particularly if catnip is already extracted as essential oils. That’s why having this mosquito repellent plant can be useful for you. Furthermore, growing this one is pretty easy since the type of this perennial is easy and fast growing as well.
But, you should consider that planting that repel should be under the sun shade, avoid the full sun area in Texas, because it cannot tolerate the full heat. So, seating areas will be best for placing the catnip.
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6. Lavender
When you like to use lavender oil as the fragrant oils in your room to help you feel more relaxing and reduce anxiety, then you can use lavender oil as bug sprays as well. Lavender deters mosquitoes by its strong scent. Also, it has an anti-inflammatory, so you can rub the lavender essential oils for the redness of mosquito bites!
Growing lavender in Texas will not be that difficult because it loves full sun and well-drained soil. But, you should pay attention to the drainage, since good drainage is the key to succeed in growing lavender.
Therefore, you should take more effort when the winter comes because usually the humidity is high for that season. So, where do you want to place Lavender in your garden?
7. Lemongrass
People mostly don’t realize how to distinguish lemongrass and citronella grass, but as we mentioned before, the physical appearance is pretty different from one another. Lemongrass, which is often used for cooking, especially in Asia, is effective to deter mosquitoes.
According to the study, the oil from lemongrass can kill the mosquitoes from specific ranges around 95%. The scent from the oil can repels mosquitoes and it is better by combining it with citronella oil.
Therefore, growing herb gardens which contain lemongrass like this is very important for repelling mosquitoes as well. In Texas, you can grow lemongrass easily. Just prepare for a partial shade light area to grow this one. These fragrant leaves grow as perennials, so that you can use it once they grow perfectly.
8. Lantana
These vibrant and pretty flowers are not only colorful and spoiled your view, but also useful to protect your skin from mosquitoes. The extract Lantana oil has been tested as mosquito repellent and able to protect more than 50% against the possible bites of Aedes albopictus and Ae. aegypti. Although the deeper and further research is still conducting and learning, it proves that this Texas plant is effective as mosquito repellent.
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9. Thyme
Just like other common ingredients for mosquito repellent, Thyme is included in one of natural ways to deter mosquitoes. The thyme has a significant scent that is citrus smell-like. Hence, the mosquito hates this one as well.
The thyme can thrive in full sun, but move it to the area where there is partial sun shade as well. This is a low growing perennial grass. Also, keep the soil moist but don’t over watering it.
10. Marigolds
Marigolds work as mosquito repellent since its pyrethrum can protect your skin from mosquito bites. But, you should consider that this flower attracts bees too. These beautiful Marigolds can be planted indoors before you move them outdoors. Also, you have to pay attention to the water needs of this one.
Final Thought
Embrace the beauty of your Texas garden while bidding those pesky mosquitoes farewell. With these natural mosquito-repelling plants, you can enjoy outdoor spaces without the constant buzzing and itching. From the zesty aroma of citronella to the vibrant allure of marigolds, these plants not only enhance your landscape but also create a soothing haven free from those unwelcome pests.
By incorporating these plants, you’re not just creating a charming garden, but also a functional and inviting outdoor sanctuary that lets you enjoy the warm Texas evenings to the fullest.
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FAQ (Frequently Asked Question)
What is the best plant to keep mosquitoes away?
Citronella and lavender are a good combination to keep mosquitoes away. The scents of those two plants are pretty strong to shoo away the mosquitoes. Hence, many brands use citronella and lavender extract as the main ingredients of their products.
Do lavender plants really repel mosquitoes?
Yes, mosquitoes hate the fragrance that appears from lavender. Moreover, lavender has a strong scent that is not only useful to deter the mosquito, but also the essential oil from lavender can be used for anti-inflammatory. You can use the lavender oil to help soothe your mood at night.
How do you keep mosquitoes away in Texas?
By starting to have the plants that repel mosquitoes in Texas. You can choose the one that suits you the most. All of them prove to be effective mosquito repellents. So, it is time to protect you and your family’s skins by having them in your house. They are not only pretty, but also easy enough to take care of.
Can these plants also be used for landscaping purposes?
Absolutely! Many mosquito-repelling plants are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. For instance, citronella, marigolds, and lavender can add vibrant colors and charming scents to your landscape. By strategically placing these plants around seating areas, entry points, and outdoor spaces, you can create a visually appealing and mosquito-free environment.
