For Mosquito Season in NH, ME, MA, Try 3 Yummy Smells They Hate

'Tis the season to start prepping for repelling mosquitoes. Honestly, bug spray is the last thing most of us want during an outdoor gathering with friends and family. Hiking and camping around Maine is fine, but when we spend so much time outside along New Hampshire's Seacoast and beaches, or dining al fresco in Portland or Ogunquit, it's nice to know there are pleasant smells we can take advantage of.

We're all familiar with citronella candles as the most well-known, lemony scent for deterring those pesky, unwelcome guests to our outdoor BBQs. But here are three more smells you may prefer to try according to The Spruce and Pest Pointers.

LAVENDER SCENTS

This is one of the most popular smells at spas. It even tastes delicious in water or flavored iced tea. So how exciting that this wonderful smell is something mosquitoes hate? Plant it in your garden, arrange lavender in vases around your outdoor entertainment area, or dab yourself with lavender oil.

EUCALYPTUS SCENTS

Another calming and fresh fragrance that is repulsive to mosquitoes this one interferes with their full ability to function properly. From a eucalyptus plant to candles and body sprays, this one is a winner.

CITRUS GRAPEFRUIT/ORANGE SCENTS

The refreshing fragrance of citrus is so spring and summer, that we can all get behind it with that crisp orange or grapefruit smell. It also keeps mosquitoes at bay. So finding an oil or spray for yourself is a must if you like the scent. On a side note, a lemon balm plant with a strong but very nice lemon smell is a gardening favorite.