A natural way to repel mosquitoes is to grow herbs in the areas you wish to protect. You can also make your own mosquito repellents using these herbs and few household ingredients.
Oregano
Oregano makes a great insect repellent, especially for mosquitoes. This herb can reach one to two feet tall. It grows quickly and can be aggressive, so be sure you plant it in areas you want covered.
Water Requirements
Oregano is known as one of the Mediterranean herbs. This region is known for herbs that are drought resistant. That means you don't want to over water this plant. Water only when the soil becomes dry.
Where to Plant
You can plant oregano in containers and set this around outside areas, such as patios and decks. Place a couple of plants inside your home where they receive direct sunlight. This will take care of any mosquitos that venture inside.
Make Spray Repellent
According to Hunker, you can make a spray insect repellent using two or three drops of oil of oregano, an essential oil, diluted in eight ounces of water. You can spray the mixture directly onto your skin and clothes but must reapply every 30 minutes. Oil carriers, such as olive oil or coconut oil, can be substituted for water. This type of repellent can be applied directly to your skin. You can even use a higher concentration of oil of oregano with water suitable to spray on your clothes for added protection.
Basil
There are many basil varieties, such as lemon basil and cinnamon basil. Plant several for a truly aromatic experience for outside dining or for simply enjoying a summer day.
Watering Requirements
Consistent watering is required for basil to thrive. Check the soil at the top of a container. The soil should be dry when you stick your finger in it. Don't over water. In-ground plants should be deep watered once a week.
Avoid Blooming
When basil blooms, it stops producing leaves. You want the foliage to be bountiful. When the plants first sprout and gain the second set of leaves, wait for the next set and then pinch back the center of the stem. Removing these tiny center leaves will force the plant to branch out. The more you do this, the bushier the basil plant will become. Some basil plants can grow three feet tall.
Where to Plant
Basil loves full sun, so plant where it will get plenty of sunshine. You can plant it around a deck or patio. Sow a few seeds or transplant seedlings near exterior doors to repel mosquitos that might otherwise fly into your house.
Basil Mosquito Repellent
You can make a mosquito repellent using basil and water with a drop or two of essential oil to increase its potency. Heather at mommypotamus shares her recipe for a basil mosquito spray. The surprising ingredient is vodka used with water as a dispersant.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is part of the mint family and is easy to grow. The leaves have a distinct and pleasant lemon smell, especially when bruised. This herb can be aggressive, so you may want to plant it in a raised bed or flower pot.
Watering and Care
Lemon balm is drought resistant and can thrive even when neglected. This herb is versatile and can grow in full sun or shade. This makes it a valuable tool in fighting mosquitoes. According to Mother Earth News, lemon balm Northern European varieties contain high levels of a citronellal, a compound also found in citronella.
Where to Plant
Take advantage of the sweet lemony aroma by planting near any outdoor area used for relaxing, dining, or gathering. Build a bed around a pool area to ward off mosquitoes or set a potted plant or two near the grill. You can place lemon balm in a large planter with other mosquito repelling herbs and plants near entrance doors.
Lemon Balm Mosquito Repellent
The Nerdy Farm Wife gives her recipe for lemon balm repellent using witch hazel and allowing the mixture to set for a week before using. According to her instructions, you can always boost this repellent's potency by adding a drop or two of essential oil.
Mosquito Free Zones
Enjoy being outside without the intrusion of mosquitoes. You can use mosquito repelling herbs in your landscaping to create mosquito free zones.
