As the weather warms, the Triad sees the outdoors come to life. But in addition to the great elements of spring and summer, there are also some not-so-great elements — like mosquitoes. If you have a good mosquito-fighting plan, though, you can enjoy the outdoors unbothered. One tool many do not consider in this plan is having the right plants around the property. 

In terms of mosquito-fighting plants, there are two broad categories to consider. One of them fights mosquitoes with strong scents that drive the blood-sucking pests away. The other fights mosquitoes by eliminating the wet areas where they can breed and thrive. 

Strong-smelling plants that mosquitoes hate

1. Basil: This common herb has a distinct smell that is not offensive to people, but it is to mosquitoes. Plant this and watch them fly away. 
2. Citronella: There are two plants called citronella, and while they aren’t related, they are two of the best for keeping mosquitoes away. Citronella grass, also called lemon grass, is what they make citronella candles out of, so you know it smells good. Citronella plant has a similar lemony smell and is maybe the most popular plant for mosquito control. 
3. Garlic: If you don’t mind the smell of garlic and use it a lot in recipes, it’s a great one for keeping mosquitoes away. Maybe that’s why legends say it keeps away those larger blood suckers, too, vampires. 
4. Mint: Everybody loves the smell of mint. It’s the most common flavor of breath mints and gums for a reason — minty breath is the least offensive to people. But mosquitoes don’t seem to like it as much, so it’s a win-win. You get mint for drinks and other recipes, and the mosquitoes disappear. 

Water-absorbing plants

1. Carolina Jessamine: This yellow-flowering plant is perfect for soaking up water. It’s native to the region too, so it fits in perfectly in Triad yards.
2. Cattails: These definitely give more of a swamp look, but if you have a serious bog where water run-off is constantly ending up, they are great at soaking up a lot of that water. 
3. Ferns: A fern is a common house plant, but it is also a thirsty outdoor plant. Ferns will prevent standing water from gathering and giving mosquitoes a place to lay their eggs. 
4. Lilies: These are popular because of their attractive flowers, but they also are good at soaking up water in boggy areas. Day lilies and lilies of the valley are two varieties that are especially popular for this task. 

Still have mosquito problems? Call Critter Control of the Triad at 336-370-0445 today. We’ll create a plan, so you can enjoy the outdoors on your property again.