Mosquitoes can quickly turn a relaxing evening on your back porch into a scratch-fest. Luckily, nature offers some beautiful and fragrant solutions in the form of mosquito-repelling plants. These natural pest deterrents not only help keep mosquitoes at bay but also add beauty and charm to your outdoor living spaces. Whether you’re designing a cozy corner with modern patio furniture or decorating your back porch with rustic elegance, incorporating these plants can enhance your decor while serving a practical purpose.
In this guide, we’ll explore more than 19 stunning and functional plants that repel mosquitoes, perfect for modern back porch ideas, container gardens, or lush backyard layouts.
Let’s dig into the first set of these natural mosquito repellents you’ll want in your outdoor oasis!
1. Lavender
Lavender is more than just a pretty face in the garden — it’s a powerhouse when it comes to repelling mosquitoes.
Thanks to its sweet yet pungent scent, lavender confuses and deters mosquitoes by masking the smell of their targets (you!). Its essential oils are widely used in natural bug repellents, and simply brushing against the plant can release its fragrant compounds into the air. The best part? It adds a gorgeous pop of purple to your garden, borders, or even planters on your back porch.
Lavender thrives in full sunlight and well-drained soil, making it ideal for sunny patios and decks. It pairs beautifully with modern patio furniture and can add a touch of farmhouse charm to your back porch decor.
Whether planted directly in the garden or kept in decorative pots near seating areas, lavender brings both function and fragrance to your outdoor living space — all while keeping those pesky mosquitoes away.
2. Citronella (Lemongrass)
You’ve likely seen citronella candles on patios, but the real plant behind the scent is even more effective — and way more beautiful.
Citronella, often mistaken for a geranium, is actually a tall grass that emits a strong citrusy fragrance mosquitoes hate. It grows well in containers, which makes it easy to move around as needed — perfect for flexible modern back porch layouts or multi-use patios.
This plant thrives in full sun and warm climates, so place it in a bright corner of your deck or use it as a border in your garden design. Its elegant, arching green blades can complement contemporary outdoor aesthetics while providing practical benefits.
For a cohesive look, pair citronella with other mosquito-repelling herbs in matching ceramic pots to line your porch railings or garden steps. You’ll not only elevate your outdoor decor but also naturally protect your space.
3. Marigolds
Marigolds are the sunny warriors of the mosquito-repelling world.
These cheerful blooms contain pyrethrum — a compound often used in natural insect repellents — which makes them excellent for keeping mosquitoes (and even aphids) away from your garden. Their bold orange and yellow hues make them ideal for adding vibrant pops of color to any outdoor living area.
Plant marigolds in borders around your patio or in pots near seating areas. They’re incredibly easy to care for and bloom throughout the summer, making them a favorite in both classic and modern back porch decor. These annuals love sunlight and work well alongside patio furniture arrangements, where their scent can offer a protective shield against insects.
Whether you’re decorating a boho-style balcony or a sleek backyard lounge, marigolds bring both charm and functionality to the space.
4. Basil
Basil isn’t just for pesto — it’s also a natural mosquito repellent.
The herb emits a strong scent that mosquitoes dislike, and unlike many other plants, it doesn’t need to be crushed or disturbed to release its aroma. This makes basil an ideal choice for pots near outdoor dining areas where mosquitoes are drawn to food and guests.
Basil thrives in sunny spots with rich, moist soil. You can grow it in window boxes, hanging baskets, or alongside other herbs like rosemary and thyme on your back porch. Its vibrant green leaves also add lush texture to your patio’s plant palette.
For those who love combining practicality with outdoor aesthetics, basil is a top-tier choice. It adds visual appeal, repels bugs, and provides fresh clippings for your summer recipes — the ultimate triple threat for your patio setup.
5. Rosemary
Rosemary’s needle-like leaves release a woody, evergreen scent that mosquitoes can’t stand.
This hardy herb grows well in containers and raised garden beds, making it an ideal fit for any outdoor living setup — from rustic farmhouse porches to minimalist urban patios. Its upright growth and structured look also make it perfect for adding height and definition to your decor layout.
You can even dry rosemary sprigs and burn them like incense on your patio table to help ward off mosquitoes during evening gatherings. If you’re hosting guests on your modern back porch with ambient lighting and cozy seating, rosemary will do double duty as both decor and defense.
Whether you want it for grilling, gardening, or guarding against insects, rosemary is a multi-use plant with major backyard appeal.
6. Peppermint
Minty fresh and fiercely effective, peppermint is a plant mosquitoes would rather avoid.
This herb contains high levels of menthol, which irritates the sensory receptors of mosquitoes. Not only does it repel them, but its essential oils can also kill mosquito larvae in standing water. If you’re dealing with water features or shady spots on your back porch, peppermint could be a powerful ally.
Peppermint thrives in containers — in fact, it’s recommended to grow it in pots since it spreads aggressively. Its bright green leaves add a refreshing look to your patio’s plant setup and work beautifully in decorative clay or metal planters.
For modern patio furniture setups, consider creating a mint-themed herb garden near your seating area for both a visual refresh and pest control. Bonus: You’ll always have fresh mint on hand for cocktails and teas.
7. Catnip
Believe it or not, catnip is more than just a feline favorite — it’s also a potent mosquito deterrent.
Catnip contains nepetalactone, a compound proven to be more effective than DEET in some studies. When planted around your patio or seating area, it creates an aromatic barrier that mosquitoes will avoid at all costs. It’s an especially great addition if you love the cottagecore or forestcore aesthetic in your backyard design.
Catnip grows best in full sun and well-drained soil, and it’s fairly low-maintenance. Its soft, gray-green leaves and small purple flowers bring a gentle wildness to any garden bed or back porch container.
While your cat might be thrilled about the new addition, you’ll be even more excited once you notice fewer mosquitoes crashing your outdoor evening hangs.
8. Lemongrass
Closely related to citronella, lemongrass is another tropical beauty that keeps mosquitoes at bay with its powerful citrus scent.
This ornamental grass has a tall, fountain-like shape and grows well in containers, which is perfect for framing entryways or creating a green wall effect near your patio seating. Lemongrass prefers lots of sunlight and warmth, making it ideal for Southern gardens or sunny modern porches.
You can use lemongrass in your cooking too, especially in Asian-inspired dishes. So not only is it functional and beautiful, but it’s also edible — a total win for outdoor entertaining spaces.
If you’re embracing outdoor living with statement pots, hanging chairs, or stylish pergolas, lemongrass is an eye-catching and effective choice to add to your patio plant collection.
9. Sage
Sage has a strong, earthy fragrance that naturally repels mosquitoes and other pests like ticks and flies.
This perennial herb grows well in full sun and dry, well-drained soil, making it a good fit for hot, sunny patios. Its silvery green leaves and subtle purple blooms can add softness and variety to your plant palette, complementing both rustic and modern patio furniture setups.
Burning a few dried sage leaves in a fire pit or tabletop burner can help release its scent and keep mosquitoes away during evening gatherings. It’s a go-to for anyone who loves low-maintenance plants that pack a practical punch.
Sage also plays well with other herbs in mixed planters or raised garden beds. Whether you’re into sleek lines or whimsical back porch decor, sage brings versatility and mosquito-fighting power to your outdoor setup.
10. Bee Balm
Also known as Monarda or wild bergamot, bee balm attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies — but it does the opposite for mosquitoes.
Its aromatic oils help deter mosquitoes, especially when the leaves are crushed. Plus, its vibrant red, pink, or purple flowers add a burst of color that’s perfect for modern garden beds or back porch borders. Bee balm grows well in sunny spots and moist, well-drained soil, making it a good match for most garden environments.
This plant adds a whimsical, almost firework-like visual to your space, which makes it ideal for creative garden themes and eclectic outdoor living decor. You can grow bee balm in large containers or in mixed flower beds with other mosquito-repelling plants for maximum visual and practical effect.
It’s one of those plants that doesn’t just keep bugs away — it elevates your entire outdoor experience.
11. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a citrus-scented herb in the mint family that mosquitoes absolutely can’t stand.
The plant contains high levels of citronellal, the same compound found in citronella, which gives off a sharp lemony aroma that helps mask the human scents mosquitoes are drawn to. It’s an ideal plant for placing near entryways, patios, or seating areas where people tend to gather.
Lemon balm thrives in both full sun and partial shade and does well in containers, making it perfect for small back porch ideas or urban outdoor living spaces. Because it’s fast-growing and slightly invasive, keeping it in pots also helps prevent it from taking over garden beds.
Beyond its bug-repelling benefits, lemon balm is also used for teas and natural remedies, making it a delightful dual-purpose plant. It pairs well with other herbs in a decorative herb garden on your porch, and its soft, heart-shaped leaves add a lush texture to any container arrangement.
Add it to your outdoor setup near modern patio furniture for both its beauty and its effectiveness — mosquitoes won’t know what hit them.
12. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is a striking and aromatic plant that packs a serious mosquito-repelling punch.
Its distinct menthol and camphor aroma, which comes from its essential oils, is both refreshing to humans and repulsive to mosquitoes. It’s often used in commercial repellents and sprays, but growing the real thing offers continuous benefits right from your back porch.
Smaller varieties like Eucalyptus gunnii are perfect for large pots and can add height and architectural interest to your patio design. Their silvery-blue leaves bring a modern, chic vibe that pairs well with minimalist outdoor furniture and trendy back porch decor.
Eucalyptus thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. In cooler climates, it’s best kept in containers so it can be brought indoors during winter. Whether you’re curating a Mediterranean-style patio or aiming for clean-lined outdoor living, eucalyptus is a stylish, functional choice.
13. Garlic
Garlic may not be the first plant that comes to mind for back porch landscaping, but it’s surprisingly effective against mosquitoes.
When planted around the perimeter of your patio or garden, garlic emits a sulfur compound that mosquitoes strongly dislike. And if you crush a clove and rub it on your skin (in a pinch), it acts as a natural repellent — though the scent might repel more than just bugs!
Garlic grows best in full sun and well-drained soil, and it’s relatively low-maintenance. It can be tucked into garden beds, raised planters, or grown in decorative pots for a quirky addition to your outdoor living decor.
Besides its mosquito-fighting powers, garlic is a culinary staple, making it a practical and flavorful choice for the backyard gardener. Use it as an unexpected accent in herb gardens near your patio kitchen or grill station — it brings personality and protection to the party.
14. Allium
Cousin to garlic and onions, allium is another mosquito-repelling marvel worth planting.
Alliums give off a smell similar to their edible relatives, which mosquitoes find overwhelming. Plus, their whimsical, globe-like flowers add stunning vertical interest and texture to your garden design — making them ideal for modern back porch ideas or artistic landscaping.
These perennials bloom in shades of purple, blue, white, and pink, and they grow best in full sun with well-drained soil. They pair beautifully with ornamental grasses and look particularly striking in clusters around patios or along walkways.
Not only do they deter mosquitoes, but alliums also discourage aphids, deer, and other common garden pests, making them a win-win for outdoor living areas that double as garden sanctuaries.
15. Bay Laurel
Bay laurel, the plant behind those aromatic bay leaves in your kitchen, is also a natural mosquito repellent.
Its leathery, deep-green leaves contain essential oils that ward off mosquitoes and other flying insects. Bay laurel grows well in containers, which makes it a versatile addition to your porch or patio — especially if you enjoy using fresh herbs in cooking and cocktails.
This Mediterranean native thrives in full sun and needs regular watering during dry spells. When grown in decorative terracotta or ceramic pots, bay laurel adds a sophisticated touch to outdoor living areas while protecting your space from bugs.
Snip a few leaves for soup or stew and enjoy the double benefits of beauty and function in your backyard layout. It’s an elegant way to blend natural pest control with back porch decor.
16. Pennyroyal
Pennyroyal is a powerful mosquito repellent plant that comes with a bold scent and a bit of a reputation.
A member of the mint family, pennyroyal contains pulegone — a compound known to repel mosquitoes effectively. It’s especially potent when the leaves are crushed or brushed. While it’s not recommended for internal use (it can be toxic when ingested), pennyroyal is perfectly safe to use as a companion plant in your garden or porch.
It does best in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Pennyroyal is a great ground cover and works well in hanging baskets, decorative planters, or around the base of taller container plants.
Use it as a natural underlayer to your patio plant design. Just be sure to keep it out of reach of pets and children, and you’ll have a strong, natural deterrent against unwanted bugs.
17. Floss Flower (Ageratum)
Floss flower, also known as ageratum, may look sweet with its fluffy purple blossoms — but mosquitoes aren’t fooled.
This annual plant emits coumarin, a chemical compound used in many commercial mosquito repellents. When grown in containers or borders near your outdoor seating area, it can help create a fragrant forcefield that mosquitoes won’t want to cross.
Floss flower prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. It’s compact and low-growing, making it a great filler plant for pots, raised beds, or porch rail planters. The soft, feathery flowers bring a dreamy, romantic vibe to your space, especially when paired with modern or vintage-inspired patio furniture.
Beyond its insect-repelling properties, floss flower also attracts butterflies, making it a delightful addition to your garden’s ecosystem.
18. Tansy
Tansy is a bold and bright herbaceous perennial with a long history as a natural insect repellent.
Its fern-like foliage and button-like yellow flowers contain camphor and other compounds that repel mosquitoes, ants, and even flies. Though it’s considered somewhat aggressive in the garden, tansy works beautifully in containers or as part of a managed border planting.
This plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil and brings an old-fashioned cottage garden feel to your outdoor decor. Use it in vintage planters, rustic boxes, or behind seating areas as a decorative — and defensive — wall of green and gold.
A word of caution: tansy can be toxic if ingested, so it’s best to keep it away from curious pets and little ones. But when handled correctly, it’s a powerful addition to any backyard mosquito-fighting strategy.
19. Wormwood (Artemisia)
Wormwood, or Artemisia absinthium, is a striking silvery-green plant with a strong scent that repels mosquitoes and other pests.
Its aromatic oils are effective at deterring bugs, and its foliage offers an eye-catching contrast to green-leafed plants. Wormwood thrives in dry, well-drained soil and full sun, making it perfect for drought-tolerant gardens or xeriscaping-style patios.
Use wormwood to create sculptural interest in your outdoor living space. Its feathery, almost frosty appearance adds texture to garden borders or container combinations. It pairs especially well with stone features and modern patio furniture, offering a sophisticated flair alongside practical pest control.
Keep in mind, wormwood is not edible and can be toxic in large quantities, so it’s best used as an ornamental plant. When handled with care, it becomes a beautiful and functional way to keep your back porch mosquito-free.
20. Geranium (Scented Varieties)
Not just a classic container plant, scented geraniums are prized for their mosquito-repelling properties — especially the varieties with lemon or rose scents.
These plants contain citronellal and other compounds that mosquitoes dislike, and their lush leaves release fragrance when touched. They’re ideal for decorating steps, tabletops, and porch railings in pots or hanging baskets.
Scented geraniums thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. With their ruffled leaves and clusters of bright flowers, they blend seamlessly into any back porch decor, from cozy cottage style to clean, modern back porch ideas.
Add them to your container garden for a burst of color, aroma, and protection. They’re a gorgeous final touch that helps round out your mosquito-repelling plant collection.
Conclusion: Designing a Mosquito-Free Outdoor Haven
Bringing together plants that repel mosquitoes isn’t just a smart gardening strategy — it’s a chance to elevate your outdoor decor while creating a more enjoyable space for friends and family. From bold blooms like marigolds to herbal favorites like rosemary and basil, every plant on this list plays a dual role in beautifying your backyard and helping you enjoy peaceful, bite-free evenings.
Mix and match these plants based on your climate, light conditions, and design preferences. Use decorative containers, raised beds, and hanging baskets to arrange them near seating areas, pathways, and entry points. Not only will they enhance your modern patio furniture and back porch decor, but they’ll also form a natural barrier between you and those annoying mosquitoes.
Whether you’re into rustic charm, minimal elegance, or lush outdoor living, there’s a mosquito-repelling plant (or five!) that’s just right for your style.
So get planting — and take back your porch from the pests, one beautiful bloom at a time.
