8 Garden Plants That Welcome Dragonflies While Deterring Mosquitoes

Creating a garden that naturally manages pest populations while supporting beneficial insects is one of the most rewarding aspects of sustainable gardening. Dragonflies, often called “mosquito hawks,” are among nature’s most efficient pest controllers, capable of consuming up to 100 mosquitoes per day. By strategically selecting plants that both attract these aerial acrobats and discourage mosquitoes, you can transform your outdoor space into a balanced ecosystem that works in your favor.

The Science Behind Natural Pest Control

Dragonflies require specific conditions to thrive: access to water for breeding, abundant prey, and suitable perching spots. Meanwhile, mosquitoes are deterred by certain plant compounds, particularly essential oils containing citronella, eucalyptol, and other volatile organic compounds. The key is choosing plants that create an environment hostile to mosquitoes while providing the habitat and food sources that dragonflies need.

Strategic Plant Selection for Maximum Impact

1. Pickerel Rush (Pontederia cordata)

Dragonfly Benefits: This native aquatic plant provides ideal egg-laying sites along pond edges and shallow water areas. Its sturdy stems offer perfect perching spots for hunting dragonflies.

Mosquito Deterrent: While not directly repelling mosquitoes, pickerel rush supports fish populations in water features that consume mosquito larvae before they can mature.

Growing Tips: Plant in 6-18 inches of water depth. Hardy in zones 3-10, it produces attractive blue-purple flower spikes from summer through fall.

2. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Dragonfly Benefits: Catnip’s flowers attract small flying insects that serve as dragonfly prey, while its bushy growth provides hunting perches.

Mosquito Deterrent: Research shows catnip is 10 times more effective than DEET at repelling mosquitoes. The compound nepetalactone naturally deters various biting insects.

Growing Tips: Extremely easy to grow in most soil types. Contains spread by harvesting regularly and deadheading flowers.

3. Arrowhead (Sagittaria latifolia)

Dragonfly Benefits: This native wetland plant creates perfect breeding habitat in shallow water areas. Its broad leaves provide landing platforms for dragonflies.

Mosquito Deterrent: Like other aquatic plants, arrowhead supports beneficial organisms that compete with mosquito larvae for resources.

Growing Tips: Plant in boggy areas or containers submerged 2-6 inches deep. The distinctive arrow-shaped leaves make it an attractive water garden addition.

4. Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)

Dragonfly Benefits: Part of the mint family, pennyroyal attracts small insects that dragonflies hunt while providing low-growing cover near water features.

Mosquito Deterrent: Contains pulegone, a potent natural mosquito repellent. Crushing the leaves releases the strongest scent.

Growing Tips: Thrives in moist conditions but can be invasive. Best grown in containers or defined areas. Note: Toxic if ingested, so keep away from pets and children.

5. Sweet Flag (Acorus americanus)

Dragonfly Benefits: This grass-like plant grows in shallow water and provides excellent cover for dragonfly nymphs during their aquatic development phase.

Mosquito Deterrent: Contains compounds that naturally deter mosquitoes, and its dense growth pattern creates water movement that discourages mosquito breeding.

Growing Tips: Plant in consistently moist soil or up to 4 inches of water. Very low maintenance and provides year-round structure.

6. Bee Balm (Monarda didyma)

Dragonfly Benefits: The abundance of pollinators attracted to bee balm creates a reliable food source for dragonflies throughout the growing season.

Mosquito Deterrent: Contains thymol and other compounds that naturally repel mosquitoes. Rubbing the leaves on skin provides temporary protection.

Growing Tips: Prefers partial shade and consistent moisture. Divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.

7. Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum)

Dragonfly Benefits: This submerged aquatic plant provides crucial habitat for dragonfly larvae and helps oxygenate pond water, creating ideal conditions for dragonfly reproduction.

Mosquito Deterrent: Improves water quality and supports mosquito-eating fish populations. Its dense growth also provides hiding spots for other mosquito predators.

Growing Tips: Simply drop into water features – no planting required. Grows rapidly and may need periodic thinning in smaller ponds.

8. Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)

Dragonfly Benefits: Tansy’s flat-topped flower clusters attract numerous small insects, creating feeding opportunities for dragonflies throughout late summer.

Mosquito Deterrent: Contains camphor and other volatile oils that effectively repel mosquitoes and other biting insects.

Growing Tips: Very drought tolerant once established. Can be aggressive, so deadhead flowers to prevent self-seeding. Best planted away from walkways due to its strong scent.

Creating Your Dragonfly-Friendly, Mosquito-Free Garden

Water Feature Essentials

Every dragonfly garden needs a water source. Even a small container water garden can support dragonfly populations. Include plants at various depths: floating plants like water lilies, submerged plants like hornwort, and emergent plants like pickerel rush.

Companion Planting Strategy

Plant mosquito-repelling herbs in clusters near seating areas and pathways where their scent will be most effective. Position dragonfly-attracting plants around water features and in areas where you want to encourage hunting activity.

Maintenance for Success

Keep water features clean but avoid chemicals that might harm dragonfly larvae. Allow some areas of your garden to remain slightly wild, as dragonflies prefer naturalistic settings over heavily manicured landscapes.

Seasonal Considerations

Spring: Plant aquatic species and prepare water features as temperatures warm.

Summer: Maintain consistent moisture for bog plants and deadhead flowering plants to extend blooming periods.

Fall: Leave some plant stems standing over winter to provide overwintering habitat for beneficial insects.

Winter: Plan next year’s additions and order seeds for plants that benefit from cold stratification.

Beyond Plants: Supporting Your Natural Pest Control System

Consider adding shallow areas to existing water features where dragonflies can easily access water for drinking and egg-laying. Avoid using pesticides, which can harm dragonfly populations. Instead, embrace the natural balance these plants help create.

By thoughtfully selecting and positioning these eight plants, you’ll create a garden that works with nature’s own pest control system, reducing mosquito populations while supporting the fascinating dragonflies that make it possible. The result is a more comfortable outdoor space that showcases the beauty and efficiency of ecological gardening principles.