What to Plant in Your Michigan Yard to Repel Mosquitoes

Before we know it, spring and summer will be here in Michigan. And when that happens, Michiganders will be overrun by the world's deadliest creature; the mosquito.

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I don't know about you, but when I venture outside in the warmer months, I'm basically a mosquito buffet and I try to do everything I can to lessen getting bitten.

Read Related: The World's Deadliest Creature is Returning to Michigan Soon

I apply all manner of bug spray and even in the heat, try to cover up. However, wearing long sleeves or pants in the summer is not always doable. So if I'm trying to enjoy my backyard, what can I do to repel mosquitoes?

There are a number of plants that can be put into your yard that mosquitoes hate.

Read Related: 15 Reasons Why Spring Is Genuinely Michigan's Worst Season

Even though we're still a ways off from summer, there's no better time to start thinking about what to plant this spring.

What to Plant to Keep Mosquitoes Away

If you want to help ensure your yard is mosquito-free this season, take a look at what you can plant to keep the annoying bugs at bay.

Citronella

There's a reason why citronella is in every mosquito-repelling candle on the store shelf.

Basil

Great for cooking and equally good at repelling mosquitoes.

Peppermint

Another great herb for your kitchen and repelling mosquitoes. Another added bonus is that mice don't like it either.

Lavender

Planting lavender will yield a bunch of benefits. First and foremost, repelling mosquitoes. Additionally, it smells great, and helps relax, you can use it in food and drink, and butterflies and bees use it to pollinate.

Lemon Grass

So many of these helpful plants are pulling double-duty, and that includes meon grass. Lemon grass contains a high amount of citral, which is an oil used in mosquito repellent. Plus, you can use it in soup and other food.

Garlic

Another pungent plant and food item that will keep the bloodsuckers away.

Catnip

Cats love it, mosquitoes hate it.

Rosemary

Rosemary proves effective against both mosquitoes and flies, which is super helpful in the summer.

Marigold

Mosquitoes hate the smell of marigolds. Plant some of these low-maintenance flowers around the yard, and they'll help a lot.