12 Plants: Attract Pollinators and Repel Mosquitoes

Creating a garden that both attracts pollinators and keeps mosquitoes away can improve your outdoor space in many ways. It’s possible to choose plants that do double duty—bringing in helpful insects like bees and butterflies while discouraging unwanted pests.

You can select specific plants that naturally attract pollinators and repel mosquitoes, making your garden more enjoyable and balanced. This approach supports the environment around you and reduces the need for chemical repellents.

Lemon Balm – repels mosquitoes and attracts bees

You can grow lemon balm to help keep mosquitoes away. Its strong citrus scent comes from citronellal, a compound mosquitoes dislike.

At the same time, lemon balm attracts bees and other pollinators. This makes it a great choice if you want to support your garden’s ecosystem while reducing bugs around you.

Bee Balm (Monarda) – draws pollinators and keeps mosquitoes away

You’ll find bee balm is a bright, fast-growing plant that brings colorful blooms to your garden. It attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, helping your plants thrive.

At the same time, bee balm contains natural oils that can help repel mosquitoes. Planting it near your outdoor space may offer some relief from these pests while supporting beneficial insects.

Lavender – fragrant and effective mosquito repellent

You can plant lavender in your garden to add a lovely scent while helping keep mosquitoes away. The fragrance of lavender is pleasant to you but tends to repel mosquitoes.

Using dried lavender indoors also helps reduce bugs in your living space. While it won’t eliminate all mosquitoes, lavender adds a natural, gentle layer of protection.

Basil – deters mosquitoes and attracts pollinating insects

You can plant basil to help keep mosquitoes away thanks to its strong scent. This odor naturally discourages these pests from hanging around your garden or patio.

At the same time, basil flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. They visit your plants, helping your garden thrive with better pollination.

Adding basil is a simple way to support beneficial insects while reducing mosquitoes near you.

Catnip – a powerful natural mosquito repellent

You might be surprised to learn catnip is a strong mosquito repellent. Its essential oil contains nepetalactone, which can be more effective than some synthetic options.

Having catnip in your garden not only helps keep mosquitoes away but can also attract pollinators like butterflies. Keep in mind, results can vary based on plant size and conditions.

Citronella Grass – classic mosquito deterrent plant

If you want to keep mosquitoes away, citronella grass is a dependable choice. You can grow it in pots near doorways or corners to create a natural barrier.

Its strong scent masks other attractants for mosquitoes, making your outdoor space more comfortable. Plus, it adds a touch of greenery and texture to your garden.

Marigolds – repel mosquitoes with vibrant blooms

You can use marigolds to help keep mosquitoes away naturally. Their scent is unpleasant to these pests, making your garden or patio more comfortable.

Marigolds also bring bright, cheerful colors to your space. They are easy to grow in pots or garden beds, so adding them is simple and rewarding.

Rosemary – aromatic herb that keeps bugs at bay

You can grow rosemary easily in your garden or in pots. Its strong, woody scent helps keep mosquitoes and other bugs away.

Besides being a natural insect repellent, rosemary adds a lovely aroma to your outdoor space. You can also use its fresh leaves to flavor your meals.

Try placing rosemary near seating areas to enjoy both its fragrance and bug-repelling benefits. It’s a simple way to make your outdoor time more comfortable.

Scented Geraniums – both attractive and insect-repelling

You’ll find scented geraniums charming and useful. Their lemony aroma naturally repels mosquitoes, making your outdoor space more comfortable.

These plants also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Growing them is a simple way to enjoy both beauty and insect control in your garden.

Beauty Berry – native plant that repels mosquitoes

You can plant beautyberry to help keep mosquitoes away. Its leaves contain natural compounds that repel biting insects when crushed and applied to your skin.

Besides deterring pests, beautyberry attracts pollinators like butterflies and bees. It’s a great addition to your garden if you want to support wildlife while reducing mosquitoes.

Sweet Fern – natural mosquito repellent and pollinator-friendly

You can add sweet fern to your garden to help keep mosquitoes at bay. Its leaves release a pleasant, natural scent that mosquitoes tend to avoid.

At the same time, sweet fern flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. This makes it a great dual-purpose plant for your outdoor space.

It’s also low-maintenance and can thrive in various conditions. Adding sweet fern benefits both your comfort and your garden’s health.

Mountain Mint – attracts beneficial pollinators and mosquitoes shy away

You’ll find mountain mint is a great choice for your garden if you want to invite pollinators like bees and butterflies. It blooms for a long time and is easy to grow.

At the same time, mountain mint’s scent tends to repel mosquitoes, helping keep your outdoor space more comfortable. It’s a simple way to support helpful insects while discouraging pests.