7 Natural Ways to Keep Mosquitoes Away From Your Outdoor Party

1. Plant a Repellent Garden

Mosquitoes dislike citronella, lemon balm, basil, mint, rosemary, catnip, marigolds, lavender. Plant these around seating areas. Brush leaves to release oils onto skin and into air.

2. Make Natural Skin Repellent

Blend essential oils into a pleasant-smelling spray that repels mosquitoes but not guests. Get the recipe at Garden Therapy.

3. Eliminate Standing Water

Mosquitoes breed in standing water and don't travel far. Check birdbaths, ponds, rain pockets. Flush regularly.

4. Keep the Yard Clean

Neglected pots, shrubs, and debris hold water drops — perfect breeding spots. Regular maintenance ruins their party.

5. DIY Citronella Candles

Recycle old candle wax, citronella oil, and soup cans. Add other scents if citronella is too strong. Tutorial at Garden Therapy.

6. Create a Breeze

On warm evenings, aim a fan at the gathering. It cools guests and blows mosquitoes away.

7. Welcome Spiders and Other Predators

Spiders catch mosquitoes. Let them build webs. Also invite birds, frogs, turtles, fish, dragonflies — all eat mosquitoes.

Containers for Pollinators

Containers for Pollinators