Citronella Companion Plants: The Natural Way to Repel Mosquitoes

Oleh Anonymous November 13, 2021 Post a Comment

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Mosquitoes are a common nuisance in many parts of the world. These pesky insects not only cause itchy bites but also transmit diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and Zika virus. While there are many mosquito repellents available in the market, some people prefer natural alternatives. One such solution is citronella companion plants.

What are Citronella Companion Plants?

Citronella is a natural mosquito repellent that is derived from certain species of grasses. However, growing citronella alone may not be enough to repel mosquitoes effectively. This is where citronella companion plants come in. These are plants that have a strong scent that acts as a natural mosquito repellent. When grown alongside citronella, these plants create a potent combination that can keep mosquitoes away.

15 Citronella Companion Plants and How They Work

1. Lavender

Lavender is a beautiful plant with a sweet fragrance that is loved by humans but hated by mosquitoes. It contains compounds such as linalool and camphor that repel mosquitoes. Lavender is easy to grow and thrives in well-drained soil and full sunlight.

2. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is another plant that repels mosquitoes naturally. It has a citrusy scent that mosquitoes find unpleasant. Lemon balm is easy to grow and can be planted in pots or in the ground. It prefers partial shade and moist soil.

3. Catnip

Catnip is a member of the mint family, and it contains nepetalactone, a compound that repels mosquitoes. It is easy to grow and can be planted in pots or in the ground. Catnip prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

4. Marigold

Marigolds are beautiful flowers that come in a variety of colors. They contain pyrethrum, a natural insecticide that repels mosquitoes. Marigolds are easy to grow and prefer full sun and well-drained soil.

5. Citronella Geranium

Citronella geraniums are a type of geranium that has a strong citrusy scent similar to citronella grass. They contain citronellal, a compound that repels mosquitoes. Citronella geraniums are easy to grow and prefer full sun and well-drained soil.

6. Basil

Basil is a herb that is commonly used in cooking. It contains eugenol, a compound that repels mosquitoes. Basil is easy to grow and prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

7. Rosemary

Rosemary is another herb that is commonly used in cooking. It contains camphor, a compound that repels mosquitoes. Rosemary is easy to grow and prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

8. Peppermint

Peppermint is a member of the mint family, and it contains menthol, a compound that repels mosquitoes. Peppermint is easy to grow and prefers partial shade and moist soil.

9. Lemon Grass

Lemon grass is a tropical plant that is commonly used in Asian cuisine. It contains citronellal, a compound that repels mosquitoes. Lemon grass is easy to grow and prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

10. Sage

Sage is a herb that is commonly used in cooking. It contains camphor, a compound that repels mosquitoes. Sage is easy to grow and prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

11. Floss Flower

Floss flower is a beautiful plant with blue or purple flowers. It contains coumarin, a compound that repels mosquitoes. Floss flower is easy to grow and prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

12. Garlic

Garlic is a common kitchen ingredient that can also repel mosquitoes. It contains allicin, a compound that repels mosquitoes. Garlic is easy to grow and prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

13. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is a tree that is native to Australia. It contains eucalyptol, a compound that repels mosquitoes. Eucalyptus is easy to grow and prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

14. Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemums are beautiful flowers that come in a variety of colors. They contain pyrethrum, a natural insecticide that repels mosquitoes. Chrysanthemums are easy to grow and prefer full sun and well-drained soil.

15. Pennyroyal

Pennyroyal is a member of the mint family, and it contains pulegone, a compound that repels mosquitoes. Pennyroyal is easy to grow and prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

How to Use Citronella Companion Plants

To use citronella companion plants, you can either plant them around your home or place them in pots on your patio or balcony. You can also crush the leaves of these plants and rub them on your skin to repel mosquitoes.

Planting Tips

When planting citronella companion plants, it is important to consider the following tips:

Choose plants that are native to your area for best results.
Plant in well-drained soil and water regularly.
Space plants at least 12 inches apart for proper growth.
Place plants in areas that receive full sunlight for optimal growth.

FAQs About Citronella Companion Plants

1. Can I grow citronella companion plants indoors?

Yes, many citronella companion plants can be grown indoors as long as they receive enough sunlight and moisture.

2. Do citronella companion plants really work?

Yes, citronella companion plants have been shown to effectively repel mosquitoes.

3. Can I plant citronella companion plants around my entire property?

Yes, you can plant citronella companion plants around the perimeter of your property to create a barrier against mosquitoes.

4. Are citronella companion plants safe for pets?

Most citronella companion plants are safe for pets, but some can be toxic if ingested. Be sure to research each plant before planting it around your pets.

5. Can I use citronella companion plants instead of mosquito repellent spray?

While citronella companion plants can help repel mosquitoes, they may not be as effective as mosquito repellent spray. It is best to use a combination of both for maximum protection.

Citronella companion plants are a natural and effective way to repel mosquitoes. By planting these plants around your home or patio, you can enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about pesky mosquito bites. With so many different citronella companion plants to choose from, it's easy to find one that fits your taste and style.