Michigan summers are perfect for backyard barbecues and time outside—but pesky mosquitoes can ruin the fun fast, whether you’re in Grand Rapids, Detroit, or anywhere in between. If you’re tired of swatting at them every time you step into your outdoor space, you’re not alone.
Planting mosquito-repelling plants is an easy way to keep them away without relying on sprays or zappers. These plants give off strong scents mosquitoes hate and look great in flower beds, herb gardens, and around patios.
Here are five mosquito-repelling plants that thrive in Michigan and can help you enjoy a mosquito-free yard.
Key Takeaways
- Some plants can help keep mosquitoes away and are easy to grow in Michigan yards during summer.
- Citronella grass, marigolds, lemongrass, catnip, and chrysanthemums all have strong scents that mosquitoes hate.
- These plants work better when you also remove standing water and use things like citronella candles outside.
- A pest control company can help if mosquitoes are still a problem after using plants and other natural repellents.
1. Citronella Grass
Citronella grass is the real deal—not to be confused with citronella-scented geraniums or citronella plants sold at garden centers. This grass gives off a lemony, strong scent that confuses mosquitoes and makes it harder for them to find you.
Crushing the leaves helps release more of this natural mosquito repellent.
Citronella oil, which comes from this grass, works well. One study shows it can protect against mosquito bites for up to 11.5 hours, especially from Anopheles mosquitoes.
Since it can’t survive Michigan winters in the ground, grow it in containers and bring it inside before the first frost.
2. Marigolds
Bright, hardy, and easy to grow, marigolds do more than add color to your yard—they also help repel mosquitoes, aphids, and fleas. Their strong scent and natural repelling properties make them popular mosquito plants.
Research shows they have essential oils that work against several types of mosquitoes.
Marigolds thrive in full sun, which makes them great for Michigan summers. They’re also low-maintenance and don’t need much fertilization.
As a companion plant, they help protect vegetables from pests and add color to your vegetable garden or flower beds.
For best results, plant them near patios, walkways, or outdoor seating areas.
3. Lemongrass
Lemongrass has a strong, lemony smell that mosquitoes hate. It’s packed with citronella oil and is closely related to citronella grass. Many sprays and mosquito-repelling products use citronella oil for this reason.
Studies show that its essential oils work well against many mosquito species.
Since it doesn’t like cold, it’s best to grow it in pots and bring it indoors before frost. Place it near porches, doors, or patios. Crush a few leaves now and then to release more scent and keep mosquitoes away.
4. Catnip
Most people know catnip as a treat for cats, but it’s also a powerful mosquito repellent. Some studies say catnip oil can be about 10 times more effective than DEET. It also helps keep cockroaches, ants, and other pests away.
Catnip grows well in Michigan. It’s cold-hardy, low-maintenance, and comes back every year. Plant it near garden beds, walkways, or places you like to sit outside.
Heads up—if you have cats, they might spend a lot of time where you plant it!
5. Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums, also called mums, are known for their bright fall flowers. They also help repel mosquitoes, fleas, aphids, and more. These flowers make pyrethrins, a natural compound used in many pest control products.
Mosquitoes can detect pyrethrum, an extract from chrysanthemums, and will often avoid it. Plant mums near patios or seating areas to enjoy both pretty flowers and natural mosquito control.
How to Get the Most Out of Mosquito-Repelling Plants
These mosquito-repelling plants help, but they work best when combined with other simple habits. Here’s how to make your yard truly mosquito-free:
- Get rid of standing water in bird baths, gutters, and any containers.
- Light citronella candles or use peppermint oil around patios or porches.
- Use EPA-approved insect repellent when outside, especially in the evening.
If mosquitoes are still a problem, call a pest control pro for long-term mosquito control.
Get Professional Mosquito Control in Michigan
Tired of mosquitoes crashing your time outside?
At Pest Pros of Michigan, we can help you take back your yard with mosquito control that works. Whether you want natural repellents or need a stronger plan in Grand Rapids or a smaller town, we’ve got you covered.
Give us a call today to set up your consultation—and start enjoying your outdoor space again, without the bites.
