Q: What can we plant to repel mosquitos instead of using chemicals?

A: I hate to burst a popular bubble but no landscape plant has been shown to repel mosquitoes. It is true that the sap of some plants is mildly repellent but few gardeners want to use a kitchen juicer to make their own mosquito deterrent. If you’ve emptied water containers and eliminated English ivy hiding places, consider a non-oily repellent that contains picaridin. Another way to keep mosquitoes at bay on your deck or patio is to use an electric fan. A constant gentle breeze is more than most mosquitoes can fight.