Beautiful plants that scare mosquitoes

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Summer is here, and so are the mosquitoes. We all know how dangerous these little insects can be. Apart from their itchy bites, they can also transmit many diseases, including Zika virus and malaria. So is there any way to keep mosquitoes away naturally without using chemical sprays? Of course.

Here is a list of beautiful mosquito-repelling plants for you to check out.

Marigold

Marigold /VCG Photo

Marigolds, which are usually orange and yellow, are easy-to-grow annual plants. The Portuguese first discovered the plant in Central America in the 16th century.

Marigold /VCG Photo

Most of the marigolds have a strong odor that repels mosquitoes and other bugs including whiteflies, aphids and squash bugs.

Marigold /VCG Photo

The plant is also used to treat skin inflammation and sunburn. Pigments in marigolds can be extracted for food coloring.

Rosemary

Rosemary /VCG Photo

If you are familiar with cooking, then this woody, perennial herb with fragrant leaves should not be strange to you. Rosemary, native to the Mediterranean region, is a member of the mint family.

The aromatic plant doesn't only taste good, but can also keep mosquitoes and cabbage moths away. The plant is drought-tolerant and pest-resistant, making it a favorite for gardeners.

Rosemary /VCG Photo

The flowers come in different colors including blue, purple, white and pink.

Lavender

Lavender /VCG Photo

The beautiful purple plant is cultivated worldwide for its ornamental and commercial value. It flourishes in well-drained soils with bright sunshine.

Lavender /VCG Photo

The essential oil of lavender is commonly used as a mosquito repellent. Dried lavender flowers can also be placed among clothes to deter moths.

But be careful, lavender may cause skin irritation. Also, don't use it if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Zonal Geranium

Zonal Geranium /VCG Photo

The plant, which has long-blooming flowers, is often placed in a pot on a windowsill or on the balcony. It usually has large balls of tight flowers that come in many colors, such as red, pink and white.

Zonal Geranium /VCG Photo

The scented plant can keep leafhoppers and mosquitoes away and they grow best in sunny climates.

Lantana

Lantana /VCG Photo

The plant is mostly recognized by its round clusters of small flowers that are usually a mix of red, orange, or yellow and white.

The drought-tolerant shrub can attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Plus, they repel mosquitoes!

Lantana /VCG Photo

They are often planted in hanging baskets to decorate porches and the like. In order for them to grow best, you need to put them in well-drained soil and let them be exposed to at least six hours of direct light every day.

But keep the plant away from children and pets. The leaves of the plant may cause a rash!

So instead of using chemical sprays, try the plants above to help keep mosquitoes away! More importantly, mosquitoes lay eggs in water, so don't leave water stagnant, and clean areas that collect water as soon as possible.

(Top image via VCG)

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