From The Spruce
July 1, 2025
Many homeowners and gardeners grow marigolds to deter mosquitoes and other pests. But do marigolds repel mosquitoes effectively, or are there better ways to keep mosquitoes out of your yard?
In this guide, experts share their advice on using marigolds for mosquito control, and provide all-natural tips for deterring mosquitoes without harmful toxins.
Will Marigolds Keep Mosquitoes Away?
Although marigolds are often recommended for mosquito control, they’re actually not a reliable way to keep mosquitoes at bay.
“There is no plant species that has been shown to repel mosquitoes in terms of just having the plant in your landscape—and that includes marigolds,” says entomologist Madeline Potter. “Some plants do contain chemical properties which can repel or deter pest insects, but these chemicals usually need to be physically extracted from the plant in order to significantly impact pests.”
This means that only concentrated scents like essential oils or candles will have a real repelling effect on mosquitoes. Stephen Abshier, from the Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California, agrees.
“Strong scents from plants, including marigolds, may confuse the mosquito’s sensory system and make it more difficult for them to locate people. But on their own, marigolds are unlikely to provide sufficient protection against mosquito bites,” he says.