The 8 Best Outdoor Plant to Repel Mosquitoes of 2026

The Citronella Plant from Tropical Plants of Florida, also known as the Mosquito Plant (Pelargonium Citrosum), is a live outdoor plant that promises to bring both beauty and function to your garden. This 1-gallon plant arrives at a manageable height of 12 to 16 inches, including its pot, making it an instant addition to patios, borders, or containers. It's designed for gardeners in USDA zones 9 through 11 who want a low-maintenance plant that naturally repels mosquitoes with its lemony scent.

Standout features include its impressive drought and heat tolerance. Once the plant is established in the ground, it can survive on rainfall alone in humid climates, and it laughs off full sun as long as you provide some afternoon shade if you're in a scorching zone. The lacy, textured leaves are not only attractive but also release a fragrance when brushed, which is said to deter mosquitoes. While scientific proof is limited, many users swear by it. The plant is also deer resistant, which is a plus for rural gardens.

Design and build quality are good for a live plant. Tropical Plants of Florida ships directly from their farm, so you get a fresh, field-picked specimen. However, the plant may need a bit of TLC during transit, and it's recommended to select a heat pack if nighttime temps dip below 38°F. Once it arrives, you'll want to give it a thorough watering and place it in a sunny spot. The plant is easy to care for, but it does require attention to temperature: bring it indoors when it gets cold, as it won't survive frost.

One honest drawback is that the mosquito repellent effect is not guaranteed to work for everyone. Also, at 12-16 inches tall, it's not a giant specimen, so you'll need patience for it to reach its full potential. The price point of around $28 is reasonable for a live plant from a specialist grower, but you might find larger or cheaper options at local nurseries. Additionally, the plant needs at least 6 hours of sun daily, so it's not ideal for shady yards.

Overall, the Citronella Plant is a solid choice for anyone in warm climates who wants an attractive, easy-care plant with a bonus bug-fighting reputation. It's not a miracle worker, but its beauty, fragrance, and resilience make it a worthwhile addition to your garden. If you're looking for a tropical accent that pulls double duty, this plant delivers.

Clovers Garden Citronella Plants are a practical and attractive choice for anyone looking to add natural mosquito repellent to their garden or patio. These are live citronella geraniums (also called Citrosa geraniums) that come as two young plants in 4-inch pots, each 4 to 8 inches tall. They are non-GMO and ready to grow into large, bushy shrubs that can reach up to 4 feet high and wide.

The standout quality of these plants is their natural lemony scent. When you brush against the leaves or cut a stem, they release a pleasant citronella aroma that many people find effective at keeping mosquitoes and other insects at bay. This makes them ideal for planting near high-traffic outdoor areas like patios, decks, play areas, or garden borders. They also produce a few small pink-purple flowers during the season, adding a touch of color to your landscape.

In terms of care, these plants are fairly low-maintenance. They prefer full sun to partial shade and moderate watering, and they grow well in sandy soil. They can handle a range of conditions, from dry spells to humid weather, as long as they get enough light. Many reviewers noted that the plants arrived well-packaged and in good condition, though a few mentioned that some leaves were yellow or damaged from shipping. The included quick-start guide helps with acclimating them to their new home.

One honest drawback is that not every plant may survive the journey. A few reviewers reported that one of the two plants did not make it, especially if the box was delayed or crushed. The company does offer a satisfaction guarantee, so it is worth reaching out if you have issues. Also, the scent is most noticeable when the leaves are disturbed, so it works best in breezy areas or when you brush against them while walking by.

Overall, these citronella plants are a solid choice for gardeners who want a natural, chemical-free way to help repel mosquitoes while adding beauty to their yard. They are easy to grow, look great, and offer a pleasant scent that you and your guests will enjoy. Just be prepared to give them a little TLC after shipping and plant them in a sunny spot for the best results.

SoilSunrise's Live Citronella Geranium Plants, sold in a 2-pack, are pelargoniums known for their citrus-scented leaves and natural mosquito-repelling properties. These plants are a great fit for anyone who wants to add a fragrant, functional touch to their patio, garden border, or container setup. Each plant arrives in nursery soil, ready to be transplanted into a larger pot or garden bed.

The standout quality here is the scent: when you brush the leaves, they release a fresh, citrusy aroma that helps deter mosquitoes and other insects. Customers report seeing fewer flies and critters around the plants, making them a practical alternative to chemical repellents. The plants grow in a bushy shape, reaching about 24 inches tall and 12 to 18 inches wide, which makes them ideal for layering in flower beds or filling out a pot on a sunny deck. They thrive in full sun with moderate watering, and they're hardy enough to survive some neglect, as one reviewer noted after a freeze in Texas.

Design and build quality are solid: the plants come with a care guide and are packed in nursery pots. Some customers, however, have reported issues with packaging, noting that plants arrived squished or wilted. A few reviews mentioned that out of a pack of six, only one survived, or that plants were nearly dead on arrival. This seems to be a risk with shipping, but the seller does offer a replacement if you contact them promptly, so it's worth keeping an eye on your mailbox temperature.

On the plus side, many buyers found the plants to be resilient and easy to propagate. One reviewer shared a tip about bending stems and re-rooting them in soil to create a whole new batch of plants. The plants also do well in full sun and can be overwintered indoors in colder zones, extending their life. The main drawback is the survival rate: if you're unlucky with the shipment, you might lose a few, but the replacement policy helps offset that risk.

Overall, these citronella geraniums are a good value for the price, especially if you're looking for a natural way to keep mosquitoes at bay while enjoying a pleasant scent. They're best for gardeners who can provide full sun and moderate care, and who are willing to deal with the occasional shipping hiccup. With a solid 3.8 out of 5 stars from over 800 reviews, they're a reliable choice for most outdoor spaces.

If you are looking to add a touch of Provencal charm to your garden, the Findlavender L+ French Provence Lavender 4-Pack is an excellent choice. This set includes four healthy, established Grosso lavender plants, each in a 4-inch pot, ready to transplant into your outdoor space. Grosso lavender is prized for its intense fragrance and long, deep violet flower spikes that can reach up to six inches. It is a versatile herb that works beautifully for dried arrangements, sachets, culinary uses, or simply as a stunning border plant.

One of the standout features of these plants is their low-maintenance nature. Once established, they are drought tolerant and require minimal watering, making them perfect for both beginner and experienced gardeners. The strong scent naturally repels deer and rabbits, while attracting bees and butterflies, a win-win for your pollinator garden. They thrive in full sun and well-drained sandy soil, and are hardy in USDA zones 5 through 10, so they will come back year after year in most climates.

In terms of build quality, these plants come from Findlavender, a Washington-based grower located in the ideal lavender climate of Sequim. The company expertise shows in the careful packaging and healthy root systems. However, since there are no customer reviews yet, it is difficult to gauge long-term consistency. One potential drawback is that lavender requires excellent drainage; if your soil is heavy clay, you will need to amend it or use raised beds. Also, the plants need full sun, at least six hours daily, so they are not suited for shaded spots.

Considering the price point for four plants, this pack offers good value for the quality and variety. It is an easy way to start a lavender patch without waiting for seeds. For anyone wanting a reliable, fragrant perennial that supports local wildlife and invites a sense of calm into the garden, this set is a solid investment.

Key Specifications:

• Brand: Findlavender
• Variety: Lavandula x intermedia 'Grosso' (French Provence Lavender)
• Number of plants: 4
• Pot size: 4 inches
• Expected height: Up to 32 inches
• Blooming period: Spring to summer
• Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours daily)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or slightly alkaline
• USDA Hardiness: Zones 5-10
• Water needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established
• Uses: Culinary, crafts, aromatherapy, dried flowers, pollinator garden
• Features: GMO free, deer resistant, rabbit resistant

The THAIPHOON JIRA 5 Lemongrass Plants offer a convenient solution for gardeners seeking a natural mosquito repellent and a versatile herb. These hydroponically grown stalks come rooted and measure around 12 inches, ready to plant right out of the box. Whether you are a novice or an experienced gardener, these plants fit well in both indoor pots and outdoor beds.

What sets these plants apart is their hydroponic cultivation, which yields clean, vigorous stalks free from soil pests. They double as a natural repellent for mosquitoes, making them ideal near seating areas. Additionally, you can harvest the leaves and stalks for a refreshing tea or to add citrus notes to dishes. For DIY enthusiasts, the stalks can be used for essential oil extraction, adding aromatherapeutic value.

Each stalk is carefully packaged to protect the roots during transit. If some roots detach, the instructions suggest placing the stalks in room-temperature water for about five days to rejuvenate them. The plants prefer partial sun and peat soil, and they require minimal maintenance once established. The organic material feature ensures they are grown without synthetic chemicals.

A potential drawback is the need for root recovery after shipping, which adds a step for the buyer. Also, there are no existing customer reviews to reference, so first-time buyers rely on the product description. The plants preference for partial sun means they may not flourish in deep shade. However, these are minor considerations for the benefits offered.

Overall, the THAIPHOON JIRA 5 Lemongrass Plants are a solid choice for anyone looking to add a useful, low-maintenance herb to their garden while naturally repelling insects. The hydroponic growing method gives them a healthy start, and their versatility in the kitchen and for essential oils adds extra value. If you are prepared to handle potential root recovery, these stalks offer a great way to enjoy fresh lemongrass year-round.

The Pest Defense 6 Pack from SurvivalGardenSeeds is a thoughtfully curated set of heirloom seeds designed to help you manage garden pests naturally. It includes catnip, marigold, hyssop, basil, lavender, and petunia - six plants known for their pest-repelling and pollinator-attracting properties. This pack is perfect for organic gardeners, beginners, or anyone looking to reduce chemical use in their outdoor or indoor spaces.

What sets this collection apart is the careful selection of varieties that work together. Catnip repels mosquitoes and aphids, marigold deters cabbage moths and hornworms, and lavender keeps flies and ticks at bay. Meanwhile, basil and petunia add beauty and fragrance while supporting bees and butterflies. The seeds are heirloom, non-GMO, and open-pollinated, which means you can save seeds from your harvest for future planting - a big plus for sustainability-minded growers.

In terms of quality, SurvivalGardenSeeds is a family-owned US business that tests each batch for germination. The seed packets come with clear instructions, making it easy to start indoors or direct sow. The expected bloom period runs from spring to fall, giving you months of pest protection and visual appeal. The plants are low maintenance and thrive in full sun with moderate watering, suitable for USDA zones 4-9.

One honest drawback is that not every seed type germinates at the same speed. Lavender, for instance, can be slow and may need cold stratification for best results. Also, while these plants help deter pests, they are not a silver bullet - severe infestations may still require additional measures. But for most home gardens, this mix provides a solid, chemical-free foundation.

Overall, the Pest Defense 6 Pack is a smart investment for anyone wanting to grow a more resilient garden. It combines practicality with beauty, and the heirloom quality adds long-term value. If you're looking for an easy, natural way to protect your plants while supporting pollinators, this seed collection is an excellent choice.

Indoor/Outdoor Usage: Indoor, Outdoor

Brand: SURVIVAL GARDEN SEEDS

Material Feature: GMO Free, Heirloom

Color: Multicolor

Special Feature: Attracts Pollinators, Fragrant, High Germination Rate, Low Maintenance, Pest Resistant

Expected Blooming Period: Spring to Fall

Sunlight Exposure: Full Sun

Unit Count: 6.0 Count

Expected Planting Period: Spring to Summer

USDA Hardiness Zone: 4-9

Expected Plant Height: 18 Inches

Soil Type: Loam Soil

Moisture Needs: Moderate Watering

Number of Pieces: 6

Seed Treatment Method: Untreated

Product Dimensions: 8 x 6 x 0.24 inches

Item Weight: 0.704 ounces

Manufacturer: JD Hardware LLC

ASIN: B0F3P619T2

If you're looking for a natural way to keep mosquitoes away while adding a fresh citrus flavor to your cooking, the Clovers Garden 2 Large Lemongrass Plants set is worth considering. This pack includes two healthy, live lemongrass plants (Cymbopogon citratus) that are ready to grow in your garden or patio containers. They're ideal for home cooks who love Asian cuisine, gardeners seeking low-maintenance ornamentals, and anyone who wants a chemical-free insect repellent for outdoor spaces.

These plants truly shine in their dual purpose. When brushed or bruised, the leaves release a strong lemony scent that deters mosquitoes and other pests. Plant them near seating areas or along walkways to create a natural barrier. At the same time, the thick bulbous base is a staple in Thai and Vietnamese dishes, adding a bright, zesty note to soups, curries, and teas. The plants grow quickly, reaching up to four feet tall in a single season, and they require little more than full sun and regular watering.

The packaging is a standout feature. Clovers Garden sends these plants in eco-friendly, 100% recyclable boxes, and they include a Quick Start Planting Guide. The plants themselves are grown in the Midwest without GMOs or neonicotinoids, and the root system is developed for strong growth. Each plant arrives in a 4-inch pot, typically 4 to 8 inches tall, so they are large enough to transplant immediately.

One potential drawback is the lack of customer reviews, so you're relying on the product description alone. Also, these lemongrass plants are not frost-tolerant. In USDA zones 9 and colder, you'll need to treat them as annuals or overwinter them indoors. They also demand consistent moisture and full sun to reach their full potential.

Overall, the Clovers Garden lemongrass plants offer excellent value for the price. They combine ornamental beauty, pest control, and culinary use in one easy-to-grow package. If you have a sunny spot and want a versatile herb that pulls double duty, this is a solid choice.

This pack of five live lemongrass plants is a smart buy for anyone who wants a functional, fragrant, and easy-to-grow herb. The stalks come with intact roots and stand 6 to 8 inches tall, giving you a head start over seeds. They're ready to go into a pot, garden bed, or directly in the ground. This plant is ideal for home cooks who enjoy Asian cuisine, tea lovers, and anyone looking to naturally discourage mosquitoes from patios or entryways.

The standout feature is its versatility. The lemongrass releases a strong citrus scent when brushed against, which helps repel mosquitoes without harsh chemicals. The stalks are edible and can be chopped for curries, soups, and teas. The plants themselves grow quickly, forming lush clumps of arching green blades. In containers they stay compact, but in the ground they can reach 3 to 5 feet tall, adding a tropical look to your landscape.

Design and build quality are solid for a live plant product. The bare-root packaging keeps the plants hydrated during shipping, and the roots look healthy. You get five separate plants, which is good for filling space or experimenting with different locations. The plants are low maintenance once established, tolerating some drought and recovering well from trimming. They also resist pests naturally.

However, there are a few honest drawbacks. The plants are small when they arrive, so don't expect instant height. They need full sun and regular watering until they settle in. If you live in a zone colder than 8, you'll need to bring them indoors before frost. Also, with only three reviews so far, the sample size for feedback is small.

Overall, this lemongrass 5-pack offers excellent value for the price. It's a beginner-friendly, multipurpose plant that delivers on fragrance, flavor, and function. If you want a low-effort herb that pulls its weight, this is a great choice.