As we prepare for a potentially challenging mosquito season in Minnesota following a mild winter, it’s time to arm ourselves with natural defenses against these pesky insects. The warmer weather and stagnant water left by the mild winter and wet spring could contribute to increased mosquito activity. Fortunately, at Applewood Nursery & Landscape Supply, we have a lineup of products and also plants that not only repel mosquitoes but also enhance the beauty and tranquility of your outdoor space.
Why Mosquitoes Will Be Extra Bad This Year
The mild winter in Minnesota means that more mosquitoes are likely to survive and thrive. With fewer freezing temperatures to kill off larvae, we anticipate a more significant mosquito population this season. Additionally, warmer temperatures can accelerate the breeding cycle of mosquitoes, leading to more generations throughout the summer.
Plants That Naturally Repel Mosquitoes
Lavender
Care Tips: Lavender is an herb that does best in well-drained soil and full sun. Prune after flowering to promote a bushier plant.
Reasons People Love It: Besides its mosquito-repelling properties, lavender is prized for its fragrant blooms and use in aromatherapy.
How to Plant: Space plants 12-18 inches apart in a sunny location. Water regularly until established.
Citronella Grass
Care Tips: Plant in large containers or in the ground in a sunny area with well-drained soil.
Reasons People Love It: Citronella is a well-known natural mosquito repellent with a lemony fragrance.
How to Plant: Space plants 18-24 inches apart. Water deeply and regularly during dry spells.
Marigolds
Care Tips: Plant in well-drained soil and full sun. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering. You can also keep the dried blooms for seeds to replant.
Reasons People Love Them: Marigolds not only repel mosquitoes but also add vibrant color to the garden. The most common colors includeyellow, orange, and red, which have been popular for many years.
How to Plant: Space plants 8-12 inches apart. Water regularly but avoid overwatering.
Basil
Care Tips: Plant in rich, well-drained soil and full sun. Pinch off flowers to encourage better leaf growth. When you harvest basil, you use the leaves.
Reasons People Love It: Besides being a culinary herb, basil emits a scent that mosquitoes dislike.
How to Plant: Space plants 12-18 inches apart. Keep the soil consistently moist.
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Rosemary
Care Tips: Rosemary is an herb that needs to be planted in well-drained soil and placed in full sun. Prune regularly to maintain shape and promote bushiness.
Reasons People Love It: Rosemary’s aromatic foliage not only repels mosquitoes but also adds flavor to culinary dishes.
How to Plant: Space plants 18-24 inches apart. Water deeply but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Catnip
Care Tips: Plant in fertile, well-drained soil and partial shade. Catnip can spread rapidly, so consider containing it in a pot.
Reasons People Love It: Catnip contains nepetalactone, a compound that repels mosquitoes while attracting cats, hence the name.
How to Plant: Space plants 12-18 inches apart. Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist.
Geraniums
Care Tips: Plant in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering all season.
Reasons People Love Them: Geraniums produce vibrant blooms and emit a scent that naturally repels mosquitoes.
How to Plant: Space plants 12-18 inches apart. Water regularly but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
How These Plants Help
Mosquito-repellent plants work by releasing natural compounds and fragrances that mosquitoes find unpleasant, effectively deterring them from your outdoor space. Incorporating these plants into your garden not only enhances your landscape but also provides a chemical-free way to reduce mosquito presence.
Visit Applewood Nursery today to explore our selection of mosquito-repellent plants and start creating a more pleasant outdoor environment. Our gardening experts are here to assist you in selecting the right plants for your garden and providing tips on care and maintenance.
Explore Applewood Nursery & Landscape Supply to learn more about natural mosquito repellents and other gardening solutions tailored to Minnesota’s climate. Let’s make this mosquito season more enjoyable with beautiful and functional plants!