In the midst of the spread of COVID-19 in Singapore, experts have suggested that in order to lessen the chances of catching the virus, we should turn off our ACs and open our windows to make our homes less conducive for the virus to thrive. While we do so, however, another concern comes up: mosquitoes. These dengue-carrying creatures float in unannounced while we’re trying to aerate our rooms. So to combat these bloodsuckers, we’ve compiled a list of indoor plants that repel mosquitoes, allow you to leave your windows open and worry-less about mosquitos.
11 indoor plants that repel mosquitoes
1. Lemongrass
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As well as being a staple South East Asian ingredient used in many dishes, lemongrass is one of several indoor plants that repel mosquitoes. Citronella oil found in this plant act as a natural repellant by blocking scents of carbon dioxide and lactic acid, which mosquitoes are attracted to.
2. Lavender
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Yes, this purple pleasant-smelling plant is also a great mosquito repellent!
According to Country Living, lavender contains camphor. The smell drives away the mosquitoes. The sleep-inducing plant is one of the indoor plants that repel mosquitoes we can add to our tables or areas of leisure!
3. Basil
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Great for making pesto, basil is also one of the indoor plants that repel mosquitoes. The plant gives off a natural aroma that is toxic to the larvae of mosquitoes. Putting it near water discourages them from laying eggs so you don’t have to worry about more growth in your house!
4. Marigolds
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Beautiful and great at repelling mosquitoes. Full of pyrethrum, it is a safe organic repellent to keep your home dengue-free.
5. Lemon balm
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This stress-reducing plant might look like mint. While it does have a natural remedial effect for certain ailments, it is useful for fighting off mosquitoes. You can crush the leaves and rub them on your skin as a wearable repellent. Just be aware that they are an invasive species so plant it in a pot rather than a garden.
6. Catnip
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Your cats will love you even more if you have this around. And you’ll benefit from one of the strongest insect repellents! Thanks to the nepetalactone found in the plant, it keeps dengue-carrying mosquitoes at bay.
7. Garlic
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Just like the myth of vampires, the smell of garlic also drives away mosquitoes! You can crush and squeeze the garlic juice onto your skin! Just be aware it might be a people repellent!
8. Rosemary
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Naturally aromatic, rosemary is great as a seasoning for meat. And it’s a great insect repellent. Throwing it in a fire can fill the house with the plant’s smell. And having a pot of it means you’ll have seasoning ready any time of year!
9. Citronella
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The low-maintenance plant is a key ingredient found in chemical mosquito repellents and fragrant candles. You can crush the leaves and rub on your skin if you’re planning to be out of the house.
10. Geranium
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Geraniums are lemon-scented and are the second-best mosquito repellent after citronella. They come in all sorts of colours as well, so they make for beautiful decor!
11. Floss flower
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Floss flowers have the chemical coumarin. The scent repels mosquitoes and can be coupled with other flowers in a bouquet to make a super dengue-repelling floral arrangement!
Stay dengue-free while adding that extra bit of colour in your home.