When summer hits, we all want to spend every waking second outdoors. The only problem? We aren’t the only ones enjoying the warm air. Without walls to block them, mosquitoes love to crash the party, leaving us with those itchy, painful welts. But what if your favorite patio plants could do the heavy lifting for you? Let’s talk about whether the scent of geraniums can actually keep those pesky bugs at bay.
Scented Geraniums and Their Essential Oils
Every scented geranium—or *Pelargonium*, if we’re being botanically fancy—is a little essential oil factory. Depending on the variety you pick, they can smell like anything from roses and lemons to crisp apples, pine needles, or even woodruff. A common misconception is that the scent comes from the flowers, but it’s actually the leaves that hold those fragrant oils. This means your geraniums don’t even need to be in bloom to do their job! Of course, since we all love a splash of color, you’ll want to give them the right spot and proper care to ensure a long, beautiful blooming season.
Do Mosquitoes Really Hate the Smell?
It’s funny—the very scents that geraniums produce to ward off pests are scents that we humans find absolutely lovely. In fact, the leaves and flowers of many varieties are even edible and delicious in treats! Mosquitoes, however, definitely didn’t get the memo. Word on the street (and in the garden) is that these insects find the fragrance repulsive and will go out of their way to fly around it. Many gardeners have also noticed that bees, wasps, and moths tend to keep their distance, too.
How Effective Are They as a Natural Repellent?
Using scented geraniums as a mosquito shield sounds like a dream—you get gorgeous porch decor that doubles as a bodyguard. But how well do they actually work? The short answer: pretty well, but don’t expect a 100% “no-fly zone.” It’s not the plant’s fault; it’s just that some mosquitoes are more stubborn than others. You’ll likely still have a stray bug or two buzzing around, but having these plants nearby significantly reduces the “swarm factor,” making your evening much more enjoyable.
Pro Tip:
Don’t treat these beauties as annuals! If you overwinter your scented geraniums indoors, you’ll have a head start on your balcony decor and a ready-to-go insect repellent for next spring.
The Best Varieties for the Job
If your main goal is keeping the bugs away, look for varieties that have a strong citrus or pine scent. These are the heavy hitters when it comes to pest control. Try adding these to your collection for a more peaceful summer:
- Lemon Fancy
- Mosquito Fighter (Mückenschreck)
- Orange Fizz
- Royal Oak
Pro Tip:
Want a quick boost of fragrance? Gently rub a few leaves between your fingers to release the essential oils. Try this with a plant on your bedroom windowsill before bed to help keep the “bzzz” away while you sleep!
