Summer means it’s time to fire up the grill and invite friends over for a barbecue,  but it seems like unexpected guests always crash the party.  We’re talking about pesky bugs.

(Personally they like my wine too much! CCW

Fact:  Recent studies  has proven that these diminutive ladies have expensive tastes. mosquitoes will flit among upscale outdoor cafes until they come across the guy with the priciest glass of  red wine.)

There are ways to keep mosquitoes and other insects away besides drowning yourself in bug spray. For a more green approach, try installing some of these insect-repelling plants around your yard.by

6 mosquito repellent plants to keep pests away

1. Marigolds

Not only do they make your landscape more attractive, but marigolds also have a distinct smell that repels mosquitoes. Plant from seed or get a starter plant from a nursery or floral department. Place potted marigolds near mosquito entry-points, such as doors and windows, or on a deck or balcony where you spend a lot of time outdoors. They also deter insects that prey on tomato plants — an added bonus for gardeners.

Citronella is found in bug sprays and insect-repelling candles, but for maximum effectiveness, consider planting it. (Photo by David Becken)

2. CitronellaCitronella plant

Citronella is one of the most common ingredients in insect repellents, due to its strong smell, which masks mosquito attractants. The perennial clumping grass grows 5 to 6 feet, and can be planted in the ground or kept in large pots. Citronella plants thrive best in full sun and areas with good drainage.

3. Catnip

Warning: Your catnip might bring all the cats to the yard. The perennial herb, related to mint, is easy to grow. While it repels mosquitoes in close proximity, some people apply crushed leaves for more protection.

4. LavenderDried lavender can be placed in wardrobes to dissuade moths. (Photo by David Becken)

In addition to smelling lovely, aiding in relaxation and promoting restful sleep, lavender dissuades mosquitoes and gnats from invading your outdoor dinner party when planted in the garden or in pots placed by windows, doors and entertainment areas. The dried flowers can also be placed in wardrobes to repel moths.

5. Basil

Enjoy delicious pesto dishes, and keep mosquitoes at bay, with this insect-repelling herb. Basil is one of the few herbs in which you Basil leaves don't have to be crushed to prevent mosquito invasions. (Photo by Mike LaFollette)don’t have to crush the leaves to reap its benefits. Lemon basil and cinnamon basil are the best varieties to prevent unwanted pests.

Lemon balm keeps mosquitoes away, but attracts pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. (Photo by David Becken)

6. Lemon balmmosquito repelling plant

Also known as horsemint, lemon balm’s aroma wards off mosquitoes, but attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. It’s fast growing, drought resistant and reseeds itself, so consider planting in a pot rather than in your yard to avoid a lemon balm takeover.