Natural Mosquito Defense: Add These Plants to Your Shreveport Patio

It is safe to say that the Louisiana bird might as well be a mosquito, especially during the summer. Is there anything worse than trying to enjoy a beautiful Shreveport spring night on your patio, and instead, you're just feeling like a mosquito's perfect feast? Then there you are, itching and frustrated. Why do we have to smell like nasty mosquito repellent just to be able to enjoy the outdoors?

Did You Know That Certain Plants Deter Mosquitoes?

Before the beautiful invention of mosquito repellent, people would grow certain plants around their homes just to deter mosquitoes. Before you think that you're going to have to catch a flight and try and smuggle in magical plants, relax, we just have to make a quick trip to our favorite nursery. These plants don't just smell amazing, they deter those pesky mosquitoes.

One of the most popular natural mosquito repellents is Citronella Grass. I love the lemony scent, and that is what mosquitoes hate. Another lemony scent that the blood suckers hate is Lemon Balm. The only negative thing about Lemon Balm is that it spreads quickly, so you should grow Lemon Balm in a container. Peppermint is also a mosquito deterrent, and just like Lemon Balm, it spreads, so make sure it's also put in a container.

Basil isn't just for cooking anymore; you can keep basil handy for cooking. Lemon Basil works best for deterring mosquitoes. Rosemary is another herb you can keep around for cooking and to deter mosquitoes.

Lavender might be the crowd favorite plant for deterring many insects, including mosquitoes. What people love most about lavender is that it smells amazing, and it's a calming fragrance.

What plants need to be on your next shopping list?

• Citronella Grass
• Lemon Balm
• Peppermint
• Lemon Basil
• Rosemary
• Lavender

What plants do you plan to keep around to deter mosquitoes? Keep in mind, none of these plants will get rid of mosquitoes completely. Screens are important, and making sure that there is no standing water around your home is very important.