Natural Ways To Keep Mosquitos Away

The Prairie Nurse

1. Eliminate Standing Water

Mosquitoes lay eggs in even tiny amounts of water.

Check weekly:

• Birdbaths
• Buckets
• Plant saucers
• Old tires
• Gutters
• Tarps and wheelbarrows

This is often the most effective mosquito-control method.

2. Grow Mosquito-Repelling Plants

Many gardeners use:

• Basil
• Mint
• Lemongrass
• Lavender
• Rosemary
• Catnip

While they won’t create a mosquito-free yard by themselves, they can be useful around patios and garden seating areas.

3. Use Fans Outdoors

Mosquitoes are weak flyers. A simple box fan on a porch or patio can dramatically reduce mosquito activity around where people are sitting.

4. Make a Simple Herbal Spray

A common homemade recipe:

• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon witch hazel
• A few drops of lemon eucalyptus, lavender, or peppermint essential oil

Test on a small patch of skin first and avoid using essential oils on young children without checking safety guidelines.

5. Encourage Natural Predators

Mosquitoes are food for:

• Dragonfly
• Purple Martin
• Bat
• Frogs and some fish species

A healthy ecosystem can help keep populations lower.

6. Burn Dried Herbs

Many homesteaders burn bundles of:

• Rosemary
• Sage
• Lavender

The smoke can help discourage mosquitoes during outdoor gatherings.

7. Wear the Right Clothing

• Long sleeves
• Long pants
• Light-colored fabrics
• Loose-fitting clothing

Mosquitoes can bite through tight clothing!