Spiders, ants, flies, and mosquitoes seem to return every year, especially in warm weather and cause long-lasting itchy messes. Thankfully, there are plants that not only brighten up our homes but also hold the power to repel invading pests. While they will never be totally effective, these plants with fragrant weapons can create a boundary that pests dare not cross, offering a gentle and visually appealing way to deter pests without resorting to harsh chemicals.
Here are our best suggestions for plants you may add to your patio pots or kitchen to discourage pests from invading your home.
#1. Lavender
Lavender is one of the most popular and effective deterrents for spiders, ants, flies, and mosquitoes. It has a strong scent that these pests dislike.
#2. Mint
Mint plants such as peppermint and spearmint have a refreshing aroma that repels these pests. It is hard to kill and incredibly low maintenance, deserving a place on this list.
#3. Citronella Grass
Citronella plant is also known as the mosquito plant. This plant has a lemony scent that mosquitoes hate.
#4. Basil
Basil is another popular herb that produces an intense smell that flies can’t stand. It can be used to repel insects by planting in your garden or in pots on your windowsills.
#5. Rosemary
Both mosquitoes and other bothersome insects, such as cabbage moths, are repelled by rosemary’s aroma. Rosemary thrives in warm, dry environments, thus cold winter climes may need to move the plant indoors.
#6. Marigold
Marigold is not only colorful and lovely blooms, but they also have inherent insect-repelling qualities. It has a unique scent that deters flies, mosquitoes, and even some types of ants.
#7. Catnip
Catnip is a plant that cats love but insects hate. Catnip contains a chemical called nepetalactone, which repels mosquitoes, ants, cockroaches, and even mice.
#8. Lemongrass
Lemongrass contains citronella, a natural oil that repels mosquitoes. You can plant it in your kitchen or use its essential oil in diffusers.
#9. Chrysanthemums
In addition to its vibrant flowers, chrysanthemums naturally ward off insects. They include pyrethrum, an ingredient in numerous industrial pesticides.
#10. Lemon Balm
A member of the mint family called lemon balm gives off a citrus scent that keeps flies and mosquitoes away. To get rid of these insects, plant lemon balm in your garden or keep potted lemon balm indoors next to open windows or entrances.
#11. Chives
Chives, which are best utilized in food when sprinkled over a baked potato. However, they also repel aphids, carrot flies, and Japanese beetles.
#12. Venus Flytrap
Venus flytrap is a carnivorous plant that traps and digests insects. It is an effective way to get rid of flies and other small bugs.
#13. Geranium
Some varieties of geranium have a lemony scent that repels mosquitoes, flies, and gnats. It’s also famous for colorful flowers that brighten up your home.
#14. Feverfew
Feverfew has a strong smell that repels moths, mosquitoes, and flies. Feverfew also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help with headaches and arthritis.
#15. Petunia
Petunia is a colorful annual that repels aphids, tomato hornworms, leafhoppers, and squash bugs. Petunia also attracts hummingbirds and bees.
It’s not necessary to use harsh chemicals or expensive pest control techniques to create an atmosphere free of bugs. You can successfully ward off spiders, ants, flies, and mosquitoes by introducing these natural plants into your living areas. If you’re interested in more tips about planting or taking care of them, please let us know by leaving a comment below.