The anti-mosquito plant that will protect you this summer (and it’s not citronella)

When summer evenings arrive, so do the mosquitoes. Most people immediately think of citronella candles or sprays, but there’s another natural solution sitting quietly in the gardening aisle: the scented geranium, also known as pelargonium.

Which geranium keeps mosquitoes away?

The scented geranium produces a fragrance pleasant to humans but unbearable to mosquitoes. Depending on the variety, its leaves can give off notes of lemon, rose, or even mint. With its colourful foliage and strong aroma, this plant is more than decorative—it’s a natural shield. Placed on a balcony, terrace, or near a window, it helps create a mosquito-free zone so you can enjoy those long summer evenings without the buzzing and biting.

How to use geraniums as a repellent

To release its protective power, you simply need to crush the leaves lightly. Once the oils are released, they spread a scent mosquitoes can’t stand. You can set pots of geraniums near entry points to your home or, for extra protection, gently rub the leaves on your arms and legs as a natural repellent. It’s an old-fashioned trick, but one many gardeners swear by.

How to care for your anti-mosquito geranium

While tough in the summer months, geraniums are highly sensitive to frost. For that reason, it’s best to grow them in pots, so they can be moved indoors or into a greenhouse once the temperatures drop. They thrive in a rich, well-drained soil and prefer a sunny spot. In spring, give them a boost with some compost or fertilizer, keep the soil watered, and trim away any faded leaves to encourage fresh growth.

A beautiful and practical summer ally

What makes the scented geranium so appealing is its dual role. Not only does it help ward off mosquitoes, it also adds a splash of colour and a pleasant aroma to your outdoor space. Compared to chemical repellents, it’s an eco-friendly, low-maintenance, and cost-effective solution.

So this summer, instead of relying solely on citronella, consider adding a few pelargoniums to your garden or balcony. They’ll brighten your space, and more importantly, they’ll give you the peaceful, mosquito-free evenings you’ve been waiting for.