| Dealing with Mosquitoes in Wetland-Adjacent Gardens Since moving to Sandwich, I’ve found mosquitoes unusually persistent. My immune response to bites has changed over time, and I noticed I was bitten less often when I smoked—perhaps due to the scent or chemicals that deter midges, gnats, and mosquitoes. Several of my clients live near the River Stour, the Delf stream, or the Guestling areas, surrounded by wetlands and natural watercourses. These beautiful environments are rich in wildlife, but they also provide ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. When I’ve needed to work in or around these waterways, I’ve learned to wear full protective gear or rely on high-quality insect repellent to avoid becoming a meal. If your garden is located close to a stream, river, or marshy area, it’s worth considering natural mosquito deterrents. Many plants, herbs, and flowers have insect-repelling properties. Not only can they make your outdoor spaces more pleasant and fragrant, but they may also help reduce the number of winged pests seeking out exposed skin. Before we dive into specific plant recommendations, it’s helpful to know how some thoughtful planting can support your efforts. Whether you’re gardening, dining al fresco, or relaxing with friends in the evenings, selecting the right mosquito-repelling plants can make a big difference, especially for homes near the water. |
| A Practical Guide to Natural Protection and Fragrant Beauty Mosquitoes can disrupt summer evenings, but there are solutions. While sprays and candles provide temporary relief, choosing the right herbs, flowers, and shrubs offers a reliable, natural barrier. This guide highlights plants that repel mosquitoes and flourish in UK gardens, especially in the South East. |
| How Plants Repel Mosquitoes Many plants release aromatic oils that deter mosquitoes while adding pleasing scents and visual interest to your garden. |
| With this foundation, let’s explore standout herbs and flowers that both repel mosquitoes and are well-suited to UK gardens. |
| Marigolds (Tagetes): Pyrethrum-rich scent works as a natural mosquito repellent and deters grubs and nematodes. Effective in beds, containers, or as companion plants. Basil (especially lemon basil): Mosquitoes dislike its aromatic oils. Keep near doors and windows; regular harvesting boosts scent and growth. Peppermint & Spearmint (Mentha spp.) Peppermint & Spearmint (Mentha spp.): Contain menthol and limonene. Best grown in pots, as they spread rapidly. Crushed leaves can be rubbed on the skin. Catmint (Nepeta cataria) Catmint (Nepeta): Contains nepetalactone, a strong mosquito repellent. Good for beds, borders, or cottage gardens. Attracts cats. Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus): Woody aroma masks attractants. Thrives in raised beds, pots, or herb gardens. Can be burned for added effect. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis): High in citronellal; effective repellent, but can be invasive. Grow in containers or managed beds. |
| Shrubs and Structural Plants Eucalyptus (especially lemon eucalyptus): Contains PMD. Suited to large pots or sheltered spots; protect in winter. Can be pruned for shape. Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) • Leaves and berries repel mosquitoes when crushed. • Attractive for borders or as specimen plants. Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium): Bitter scent deters many insects. Prefers dry, sunny borders with good drainage. Silvery foliage adds contrast. Santolina (Cotton Lavender) • Hardy evergreen; aromatic oils naturally repel mosquitoes and ticks. • Good for Mediterranean-style borders or path edging. |
| Practical Gardening Tips Crush and Release: These plants work best when their leaves are brushed or crushed to release their oils. Avoid Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in still water—regularly empty saucers, clean birdbaths, and cover water features. Wildlife-safe “mosquito dunks” containing Bti are effective. Companion Planting: Group repellent herbs with plants that attract pollinators. Marigolds, mint, and lavender pair well with vegetables and flowers. Weather Awareness: Some plants (e.g., lemongrass, eucalyptus) aren’t frost-hardy. Grow these in containers and bring indoors during cold months. |
| Garden Design Suggestions • Patios & Seating: Pots of basil, mint, rosemary, and lavender around tables. • Doorways & Windows: Marigolds or lavender in window boxes deter entry. • Borders & Walkways: Edge paths with catmint, santolina, or wormwood. • Raised Herb Beds: Combine basil, lemon balm, and mint in contained beds for easy access and control. |
| Summary: Top Mosquito-Repelling Plants for UK Gardens Lavender: Perennial flower; high repellent strength; hardy and drought-tolerant. Marigolds: Annual flower; medium-high; excellent companion plant. Lemon Basil: Herb; high; pot-grown, aromatic. Peppermint/Spearmint: Herb; high vigor; best suited for containers due to its vigorous nature. Catmint (Nepeta): Perennial herb; very high; can spread—cut back after flowering. Rosemary: Evergreen shrub; medium; useful in cooking. Eucalyptus: Tree/shrub; very high (PMD); needs winter protection. Wormwood: Perennial shrub; high; requires sun and drainage. Santolina: Shrub; medium; evergreen, scented, ideal for borders. |
| Final Thoughts A well-planted garden helps discourage mosquitoes while providing colour, fragrance, and culinary uses. While no plant will eliminate all pests, using a thoughtful mix and maintaining good garden hygiene will make your outdoor space far less attractive to mosquitoes. |
Earthly Comforts 
I have planted basil and mint in my tiny garden. I hope it helps.
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Hey Sadje, well they are also great for the kitchen 🙂
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Yes they are, though my salad leaves didn’t survive but the basil and mint are doing well.
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Yes sadly salad leaves are not as hardy as some herbs.
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Yup, all eaten by worms. 🐛
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😦
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😞
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Thank you for sharing this helpful tips, Rory!
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Pleasure 🙂
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😊
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