Plants must be bruised in order to activate the odors in the leaves. It is important to note that the mosquitoes seek out humans, so unless you are rubbing yourself with the particular scented plants all day, it won’t help repel the insects from humans, just from the plant. Just standing near living plants that repel mosquitoes is not an effective deterrent.

The following plants are said to repel mosquito pests:

lavender (Lavandula spp.)

lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)

holy basil (Ocimum sanctum)

citronella scented geranium (Pelargonium 'Citrosa', Pelargonium graveolens)

Mexican marigold (Tagetes minuta)

neem - Azadirachta Indica (syn. Melia azadirachta)

For more information about non-plant-related insect control, see this EPA publication: Mosquito Control.

For tips on a variety of gardening topics, see our Plant Information Guides.
- Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service