Louisiana summers bring sweltering heat, high humidity, and persistent pests like mosquitoes and flies. Selecting the right plants can transform your outdoor space into a lush, pest-fighting sanctuary. This guide focuses on plants that thrive in the heat, improve your outdoor living, and help keep bugs at bay.
Lavender
Lavender is a fragrant beauty that loves full sun and heat, making it an ideal summer plant. Its essential oils naturally repel mosquitoes, flies, and moths. Place pots near seating areas or entryways for both beauty and a subtle bug barrier.
Note: Lavender is toxic to pets, so be cautious if you have animals that like to chew on plants.
Marigolds
Marigolds are heat and drought resistant, adding bright pops of orange and yellow while releasing a scent mosquitoes dislike. They’re low maintenance, thrive in containers, and contain pyrethrum, a natural insect repellent.
Citronella & Lemongrass
Often referred to as “mosquito plants,” citronella geraniums and lemongrass emit a citrusy aroma familiar from bug-repelling candles and sprays. These plants perform well in full sun or partial shade and add lush greenery to your porch décor.
Note: Citronella geraniums may be toxic to pets.
Mint, Basil & Rosemary
These versatile herbs are both culinary staples and insect deterrents.
Mint thrives in containers and repels mosquitoes, flies, and ants.
Basil is aromatic and helps ward off mosquitoes, flies, and moths.
Rosemary withstands intense heat and, when its leaves are crushed or burned, releases oils that repel pests.
Catmint / Catnip
Containing the compound nepetalactone, catmint and catnip are highly effective mosquito deterrents. They thrive in full sun to partial shade and require little maintenance once established.
Floss Flower (Ageratum)
These fluffy, colorful blooms contain coumarin, an ingredient in some mosquito repellents. They add softness and beauty while serving a practical purpose.
Also, to keep your patio colorful all summer long, consider butterfly weed, coral fountains, agastache (hummingbird mint), purple coneflower, tickseed, and crossandra. These plants tolerate Louisiana’s intense summer heat and attract pollinators.
Tips for Success with your Summer Planting
Container Planting: Controls plant growth and allows you to move them for optimal sun exposure.
Maximize Fragrance: Crush leaves of basil, mint, or rosemary to release more oils when outdoors.
Strategic Placement: Group repellent plants near doorways, windows, and seating areas.
Encourage Natural Predators: Add pollinator-friendly plants to attract dragonflies and frogs, which help control mosquitoes.
Eliminate Standing Water: Reduce breeding areas for mosquitoes by keeping outdoor areas dry and clean.
Here are some wonderful resources & references!
https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/flowers-and-plants/ten-plants-mosquitoes-dont-like-pictures
https://www.thesun.co.uk/fabulous/27827663/repel-mosquitos-garden-lavender-pest-control
https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/mosquito-repellent.html
https://www.bhg.com/gardening/vegetable/herbs/citronella-plant-care
https://www.lajaunies.com/blog/plants-that-help-repel-mosquitoes-in-louisiana
https://www.southernliving.com/plants-that-keep-flies-away-11746681
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_pest-repelling_plants
https://www.proflowers.com/blog/plants-that-repel-mosquitoes
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/heat-loving-flowers-that-bloom-all-summer
https://www.homesandgardens.com/gardens/scents-that-deter-mosquitoes