12 Plants That Repel Mosquitoes and Flies Naturally

12 Plants That Repel Mosquitoes and Flies Naturally

Did you know that mosquito-borne diseases affect more than 700 million people annually, while the common housefly can transmit over 65 diseases to humans? These statistics highlight the significant health risks associated with these persistent pests that plague our outdoor spaces.

Tired of buzzing mosquitoes and pesky flies ruining your outdoor enjoyment? Discover the power of natural pest control with these plants that repel both mosquitoes and flies!

Using plants as natural repellents offers numerous advantages over chemical alternatives. They're safe for children and pets, environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and add beauty to your landscape. Plus, many repellent plants are multipurpose—serving as attractive garden features, culinary herbs, and natural pest deterrents simultaneously.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore 12 powerful plants that effectively repel both mosquitoes and flies through their natural compounds and essential oils. You'll learn how each plant works against these specific pests, proper growing techniques, and innovative ways to maximize their repellent properties.

1. The Definitive Plant List: Dual-Action Mosquito and Fly Repellents

1.1. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Description: Lavender is a perennial evergreen shrub with silvery-gray foliage and distinctive purple flower spikes. Growing 2-3 feet tall, this aromatic herb creates a stunning visual impact while working hard to keep pests away.

Mosquito-Repelling Properties: Lavender contains linalool and camphor, compounds that interfere with mosquitoes' ability to detect carbon dioxide and lactic acid—the primary attractants that draw them to humans. Research published in the Journal of Vector Ecology confirms that lavender oil repels several mosquito species, including those that transmit malaria and dengue fever.

Fly-Repelling Properties: The same terpenes that repel mosquitoes also deter flies, whose sensitive olfactory receptors are overwhelmed by lavender's potent aroma. Studies from the University of Florida demonstrate that lavender extracts reduced fly presence by up to 75% in controlled environments.

How to Use: Plant lavender in areas receiving 6-8 hours of full sun with well-draining soil. For maximum effectiveness against both mosquitoes and flies:

Plant along walkways, entryways, and around outdoor seating areas
Grow in containers near windows and doors to prevent insect entry
Harvest stems and create dried bundles to hang indoors
Create a dual-action repellent spray by steeping lavender in water overnight

Care Tips: Water sparingly once established, trim after flowering to maintain shape, and divide plants every 3-4 years. Hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

1.2. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)

Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)

Description: These bright annual flowers feature vibrant orange, yellow, or red blooms and distinctive ferny foliage. Their height ranges from 6 inches to 3 feet, depending on the variety.

Mosquito-Repelling Properties: Marigolds contain pyrethrum, a compound used commercially in many insect repellents. This natural insecticide interferes with mosquitoes' nervous systems, making the area around marigolds inhospitable to them.

Fly-Repelling Properties: The strong sulfur compounds in marigold foliage emit an odor that repels flies effectively. House flies, fruit flies, and stable flies all demonstrate aversion to these compounds. Research from Pennsylvania State University confirms that marigolds can reduce fly populations by up to 60% in garden settings.

How to Use: Plant marigolds in full sun areas with moderate watering:

Create protective borders around vegetable gardens and patios
Place potted marigolds on window sills and near doorways
Companion plant with vegetables to deter both flying and soil pests
Crush leaves and rub on clothing for temporary personal protection

Care Tips: Deadhead regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Marigolds grow in all USDA zones as annuals but may self-seed in zones 9-11.

1.3. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Description: This popular culinary herb features bright green, aromatic leaves on stems growing 1-2 feet tall. Various cultivars offer different leaf sizes, colors, and flavor profiles.

Mosquito-Repelling Properties: Basil contains four potent compounds—eugenol, citronellol, limonene, and thymol—that create a chemical defense system against mosquitoes. Research from Purdue University found that basil oil provided up to 100% protection against certain mosquito species for several hours.

Fly-Repelling Properties: The essential oils in basil disrupt flies' sensory perception. House flies and fruit flies particularly avoid the eugenol compound, which interferes with their ability to locate food sources. Studies show that basil extract reduced fly landing rates by up to 85%.

How to Use: Grow basil in rich, moist soil with good drainage and at least 6 hours of sun:

Place potted basil on outdoor dining tables and kitchen windowsills
Plant near entry points to your home to create a natural barrier
Crush leaves and place in shallow dishes around outdoor gathering areas
Create a dual pest spray by steeping leaves in witch hazel overnight

Care Tips: Water regularly but avoid wetting leaves. Pinch off flower buds to extend leaf production. Grows as an annual in most regions but may be perennial in zones 10-11.

1.4. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Peppermint plant

Description: This vigorous perennial herb features square stems, bright green toothed leaves, and small purple flower spikes. Growing 12-36 inches tall, it spreads rapidly through underground runners.

Mosquito-Repelling Properties: Peppermint contains menthol and pulegone, compounds that mask the carbon dioxide and lactic acid that attract mosquitoes to humans. The Journal of Medical Entomology reports that mint oils create a protective barrier that mosquitoes actively avoid.

Fly-Repelling Properties: Flies have a particularly strong aversion to menthol, which disrupts their sensory receptors. Cornell University research demonstrated that areas treated with peppermint oil showed up to 90% reduction in fly activity. Both house flies and fruit flies are effectively repelled by this powerful herb.

How to Use: Plant in partial shade with consistently moist soil:

Place containers of mint strategically around patios and porches
Crush leaves and scatter near doorways and windows
Create mint sachets to hang in problem areas
Plant as a border around outdoor living spaces (use containers to control spread)

Care Tips: Plant in containers to control its aggressive spreading habit. Trim regularly to encourage bushy growth. Hardy in USDA zones 3-9.

1.5. Lemongrass/Citronella Grass (Cymbopogon citratus)

Citronella Grass (Cymbopogon citratus)

Description: This tropical grass grows in clumps up to 4 feet tall with arching blue-green leaves and a distinctive citrus aroma when crushed.

Mosquito-Repelling Properties: Lemongrass contains citronellal, geraniol, and citral—compounds that mask human scent and confuse mosquitoes' sensory receptors. The National Institute of Health confirms that citronella oil (derived from lemongrass) can provide up to 2 hours of mosquito protection.

Fly-Repelling Properties: The same compounds that repel mosquitoes create an environment that flies avoid. Studies by the USDA Agricultural Research Service found that lemongrass oil disrupts flies' ability to locate food sources, reducing their presence by up to 80% in treated areas.

How to Use: Plant in full sun with well-draining soil:

Create a perimeter of lemongrass plants around outdoor gathering areas
Grow in large containers on decks and patios
Crush leaves and rub on skin for temporary personal protection
Steep leaves to create a dual-action insect repellent spray

Care Tips: Water deeply but infrequently once established. Divide clumps every 2-3 years. Hardy in USDA zones 9-10, but can be grown as an annual or container plant in colder regions.

1.6. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Description: This evergreen shrub features needle-like leaves with a strong pine-like fragrance and blue flowers. It can grow up to 4-6 feet tall in optimal conditions.

Mosquito-Repelling Properties: Rosemary contains camphor and cineole, which mask the lactic acid that attracts mosquitoes. Research from the Journal of Vector Ecology found that rosemary oil provided up to 97% protection against certain mosquito species.

Fly-Repelling Properties: The same volatile oils that repel mosquitoes create an environment that flies find intolerable. House flies, fruit flies, and stable flies all demonstrate strong aversion to rosemary's powerful aroma. Studies show rosemary reducing fly activity by approximately 65% in controlled settings.

How to Use: Plant in full sun with excellent drainage:

Create rosemary hedges around patios and outdoor kitchens
Throw sprigs on the grill while cooking to drive away insects
Make rosemary bundles to hang near doorways and windows
Create a natural spray by steeping leaves in apple cider vinegar

Care Tips: Allow soil to dry between waterings. Trim after flowering to maintain shape. Hardy in USDA zones 7-10.

1.7. Scented Geraniums (Pelargonium spp.)

Scented Geraniums (Pelargonium spp.)

Description: These perennial shrubs feature deeply lobed, fuzzy leaves and small five-petaled flowers. Growing 1-3 feet tall, their foliage releases distinctive fragrances (citrus, rose, mint, etc.) when brushed or crushed.

Mosquito-Repelling Properties: Citronella-scented geraniums contain geraniol and citronellol, which effectively mask the human scents that attract mosquitoes. These compounds are so effective that they're used commercially in many natural repellent products.

Fly-Repelling Properties: The strong aromatic oils in scented geraniums overwhelm flies' sensory receptors. Studies from Michigan State University demonstrate that citronella geranium reduced fly presence by up to 70% compared to control areas. Both house flies and fruit flies show strong aversion to these plants.

How to Use: Plant in full to partial sun with well-draining soil:

Place potted plants near seating areas and entryways
Crush leaves and rub on skin or clothing for temporary protection
Place cut stems in vases around outdoor dining areas
Create potpourri bags to hang near windows and doors

Care Tips: Allow soil to dry between waterings. Pinch back regularly to encourage bushiness. Generally grown as annuals or houseplants in most regions, but perennial in USDA zones 9-10.

1.8. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Description: This perennial herb features gray-green, heart-shaped leaves and white to lavender flower spikes. It grows 2-3 feet tall with a spreading habit.

Mosquito-Repelling Properties: Catnip contains nepetalactone, which research from Iowa State University found to be 10 times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET. This powerful compound disrupts mosquitoes' ability to locate human hosts.

Fly-Repelling Properties: The same nepetalactone compound creates a strong aversion response in flies. Scientific studies have demonstrated that catnip oil reduced fly presence by up to 80% in treated areas, with effectiveness against both house flies and stable flies.

How to Use: Plant in full sun to partial shade:

Create borders around outdoor living areas
Grow in containers near doors and windows
Dry leaves and crush for sachets to place in problem areas
Steep leaves to create a powerful dual-action insect spray

Care Tips: Trim back after flowering to prevent self-seeding. Grows best in USDA zones 3-9. Note: Cat owners should be aware this plant will attract felines.

1.9. Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)

Wormwood plant

Description: This perennial features silver-gray, ferny foliage with a distinctive bitter aroma. It grows in an upright form reaching 2-4 feet tall.

Mosquito-Repelling Properties: Wormwood contains thujone and other terpenes that create a powerful barrier against mosquitoes. Research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry confirmed that wormwood extract repelled multiple mosquito species with high efficacy.

Fly-Repelling Properties: The intense bitter compounds in wormwood are particularly effective against flies. Studies show that house flies, stable flies, and fruit flies actively avoid areas where wormwood is present, with repellency rates of approximately 75%.

How to Use: Plant in full sun with well-draining soil:

Create strategic plantings around outdoor living areas
Hang dried bundles near entryways
Create a border around vegetable gardens to deter multiple pests
Make a strong tea to spray in areas with persistent insect problems

Care Tips: Requires minimal watering once established. Cut back in late winter to maintain shape. Hardy in USDA zones 4-9. Note: The plant contains thujone, which is toxic if ingested in large quantities.

1.10. Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)

Tansy Plant

Description: This robust perennial features fern-like leaves and button-shaped yellow flowers. It grows 2-5 feet tall with an upright habit.

Mosquito-Repelling Properties: Tansy contains thujone, camphor, and umbellulone—compounds that effectively interfere with mosquitoes' host-seeking behavior. Studies show that tansy oil can reduce mosquito landings by up to 85%.

Fly-Repelling Properties: The same compounds that repel mosquitoes create a strong aversion response in flies. Research from the University of California demonstrated that tansy reduced fly presence by approximately 70% in controlled environments. House flies are particularly sensitive to tansy's potent aroma.

How to Use: Plant in full sun with average soil:

Create strategic plantings near entry points to buildings
Hang dried bundles in barns and outbuildings
Place fresh cuttings in vases around outdoor dining areas
Crush leaves and scatter near doorways and windows

Care Tips: Divide every 2-3 years to maintain vigor. Cut back after flowering to prevent self-seeding. Hardy in USDA zones 3-9. Note: Tansy is considered invasive in some regions; check local regulations before planting.

1.11. Sweet Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Fennel Plant

Description: This tall perennial herb features feathery, anise-scented foliage and yellow umbrella-shaped flower clusters. It grows 4-6 feet tall with an upright habit.

Mosquito-Repelling Properties: Fennel contains anethole and fenchone, compounds that mask human scent and interfere with mosquitoes' ability to locate hosts. Research from Rutgers University found that fennel extract provided up to 80% protection against certain mosquito species.

Fly-Repelling Properties: The strong anise-like compounds in fennel create an environment that flies actively avoid. Studies demonstrate that both house flies and fruit flies show aversion to fennel oil, with repellency rates of approximately 65%.

How to Use: Plant in full sun with well-draining soil:

Create a tall background barrier for gardens and outdoor spaces
Grow in containers near doorways and windows
Crush seeds and leaves to release oils in problem areas
Steep leaves to create a dual-action insect spray

Care Tips: Water moderately and divide every 2-3 years. Self-seeds readily, so remove flower heads if spreading is a concern. Hardy in USDA zones 4-9.

1.12. Rue (Ruta graveolens)

Rue Plant

Description: This woody perennial features blue-green, fernlike foliage with a strong, distinctive aroma. It grows in a compact form 2-3 feet tall.

Mosquito-Repelling Properties: Rue contains rutin and other flavonoids that effectively repel mosquitoes. Studies published in the Journal of Medical Entomology found that rue extract reduced mosquito landings by up to 90% in treated areas.

Fly-Repelling Properties: The intense bitter compounds in rue create a strong aversion response in flies. Research confirms that house flies, stable flies, and fruit flies actively avoid areas where rue is present, with repellency rates of approximately 75-80%.

How to Use: Plant in full sun with excellent drainage:

Create borders around outdoor living spaces
Place potted plants near entryways and windows
Hang dried bundles in problem areas
Steep leaves to create a powerful natural spray (external use only)

Care Tips: Water sparingly once established. Trim back after flowering to maintain shape. Hardy in USDA zones 4-9. Note: Contact with the plant can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals; wear gloves when handling.

2. Beyond the List: Maximizing Your Natural Pest Control

2.1. DIY Dual-Action Repellent Recipes

Powerful All-Purpose Spray

Ingredients	Amount
Water	2 cups
Apple cider vinegar	1 cup
Fresh lemongrass, lavender, and mint	½ cup each
Witch hazel	2 tablespoons

Instructions: Boil water and pour over herbs. Cover and steep overnight. Strain, add vinegar and witch hazel, and transfer to spray bottles. Apply to skin, clothing, or outdoor surfaces. Particularly effective against both mosquitoes and flies.

Mosquito and Fly Repellent Lotion

Ingredients	Amount
Unscented lotion	1 cup
Lavender essential oil	10 drops
Citronella essential oil	10 drops
Peppermint essential oil	5 drops

Instructions: Mix all ingredients thoroughly. Apply to exposed skin for up to 3 hours of protection against both pests. Note: Test on a small skin area first.

Outdoor Space Protector

Ingredients	Amount
Water	4 cups
White vinegar	2 cups
Fresh rosemary and lavender	1 cup each
Lemon juice	¼ cup

Instructions: Boil ingredients for 20 minutes. Strain and transfer to large spray bottles. Spray around outdoor seating areas, doorways, and windows. Reapply after rain or every 3-4 days. Highly effective against both mosquitoes and flies.

2.2. Designing a Dual-Purpose Pest-Repelling Garden

Creating a garden that naturally deters both mosquitoes and flies requires strategic planning:

Layer your defenses: Combine tall plants (lemongrass, sweet fennel) with mid-height plants (lavender, rosemary) and ground covers (mint, thyme) to create a comprehensive barrier.
Target high-traffic areas: Concentrate repellent plants around patios, entryways, outdoor dining areas, and gathering spaces.
Create protective containers: For spaces like balconies or small yards, arrange potted repellent plants in groups, placing stronger-scented varieties (like lemongrass and lavender) at the perimeter.
Consider bloom times: Select plants with staggered flowering periods to maintain repellent properties throughout the growing season.
Plan for amplification: Place repellent plants where natural air movement will disperse their scents. Near fans or in breezy corridors maximizes their effectiveness against both flies and mosquitoes.

2.3. Beyond Plants: Integrated Pest Management for Mosquitoes and Flies

While repellent plants provide excellent defense, combining them with these practices creates a comprehensive pest management system:

Eliminate standing water: Remove or regularly empty any containers that collect rainwater to prevent mosquito breeding.
Practice proper sanitation: Maintain clean outdoor dining areas and promptly remove food waste to reduce fly attraction.
Install physical barriers: Use fine mesh screens on windows and doors to block entry of both pests.
Attract beneficial predators: Plant flowers that attract dragonflies, bats, and birds—natural predators of both mosquitoes and flies.
Use mosquito dunks: Place these biological controls containing Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (BTI) in water features to kill mosquito larvae while remaining safe for other wildlife.

12 Plants KEEP Mosquitoes away

3. Frequently Asked Questions

Do these plants really work against both mosquitoes and flies?

Yes, the plants listed in this guide contain compounds scientifically proven to repel both mosquitoes and flies. However, effectiveness varies based on species, concentration of active compounds, and environmental conditions. For maximum protection, combine multiple plant types and use their extracted oils when possible.

How many plants do I need for adequate protection?

For an average patio (10'x10'), aim for at least 3-5 large potted plants or a border planting approximately 15-20 square feet. Larger areas require proportionally more plants. The density and variety of plants directly correlate with effectiveness against both mosquitoes and flies.

Are these plants safe for pets and children?

Most mosquito and fly repellent plants are safe in garden settings, but some (like rue, wormwood, and tansy) can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. Keep these plants away from areas where pets and children play unsupervised. Always research specific toxicity concerns for your household situation.

Where can I buy these plants?

Most repellent plants are available at local garden centers, nurseries, farmers' markets, and online specialty retailers. For best results, purchase plants during their appropriate growing season, and select healthy specimens with strong aroma—indicating higher levels of repellent compounds.

How long do these plants last?

Annual repellent plants (like basil and some marigolds) complete their lifecycle in one season. Perennial varieties (like lavender, mint, and rosemary) can last for years with proper care. Most herbs reach peak repellent effectiveness during warm weather and active growth periods.

What are the most effective dual-action plants?

Based on scientific research, the strongest natural repellents against both mosquitoes and flies are:

Catnip (up to 10x more effective than DEET against mosquitoes)
Lavender (effective against multiple species of both pests)
Peppermint (particularly potent against flies)
Lemongrass/Citronella (sustained effectiveness against both pests)

How do I maximize the effectiveness of these plants?

To amplify repellent properties:

Brush or lightly crush leaves periodically to release oils
Plant in groups rather than as isolated specimens
Harvest and dry leaves for indoor use during peak oil production
Place in areas with gentle air movement to disperse scents
Use both living plants and extracted oils for comprehensive protection

How do I distinguish between fly bites and mosquito bites?

Mosquito bites typically appear as raised, red, itchy welts with a puncture point at the center. They often occur at night and in exposed skin areas.

Fly bites (particularly from horse flies and stable flies) tend to be painful rather than itchy, often larger, and may bleed. They typically occur during daylight hours and can penetrate through thin clothing.

4. Conclusion

Incorporating plants that repel mosquitoes and flies naturally into your landscape provides an effective, environmentally friendly solution to these persistent pests. By strategically selecting and positioning the dual-action plants detailed in this guide, you can create outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and significantly more comfortable.

These natural repellents offer numerous advantages over chemical alternatives: they're safer for children, pets, and beneficial insects; they enhance your landscape with color, texture, and fragrance; and many provide additional benefits through culinary and medicinal applications.

We encourage you to experiment with various combinations of these powerful plants to discover which work best in your specific environment. Start with a few potted specimens near high-traffic areas, then expand your natural pest control system as you observe results.

Have you tried any of these natural mosquito and fly repellent plants? Share your experiences in the comments below—we'd love to hear which combinations have been most effective in your garden!

12 Plants That Repel Mosquitoes and Flies Naturally