Scented geraniums require little care, look beautiful and are even edible. Whether for enriching desserts with a fine citrus aroma or mint aroma or for preparing an aromatic tea - they are convincing. In addition, they are known to deter annoying mosquitoes.

Scented geraniums on the balcony keep annoying mosquitoes away

Essential oils keep mosquitoes away

They are essential oils contained in the leaves of fragrant geranium. They emit an intense scent - depending on the type and variety, citrusy, minty or fruity-tart. Naturally, the fragrance has the function of repelling vermin. The essential oils contained should also be able to keep mosquitoes away.

But not only mosquitoes prefer to beware of direct contact with a scented geranium. Wasps, horseflies, bees, ants and moths also keep their distance. But is that really the case or just a sales pitch from various garden centers and hardware stores?

How safe is this mosquito repellent?

Honestly, this mosquito repellent is just as unsafe as many other mosquito repellents on the market. Some mosquitoes simply cannot be stopped when their bloodlust is too great. But it's all about trying! After all, this is a protective agent that does not harm the environment.

Place on the balcony or window sill

For example, place the scented geranium on your balcony, terrace or on the window sill in the bedroom. The scent is said to be particularly effective against mosquitoes if you rub the leaves, for example just before going to bed. It can also be easily released in an aroma lamp.

Which varieties are particularly recommended?

There are species like Pelargonium x citrosmum, Pelargonium crispum, Pelargonium citronella, Pelargonium quercifolia and Pelargonium abrotanifolium that are considered to be the most effective against mosquitoes. If you are planning to use scented geranium to repel mosquitoes, the following intensively scented varieties are recommended:

  • 'Lemon Fancy'
  • 'Orange Fizz'
  • 'mosquito scare'
  • 'Royal Oak'
  • 'Princess Anne'
  • 'Lillibet'

tips and tricks

Even if the scented geranium doesn't bloom - it doesn't matter! In contrast to other plants, which keep mosquitoes away with their flower scent alone, the scented geranium does not need to flower to repel insects.

Category:

Vegetable garden