We’d all like to keep pests away from our yard, and many of us spend heavily on pesticides. As an alternative, we might try some natural remedies, but these offer mixed results.
But what if we could repel those bugs organically? It may be a surprise to learn that there are several plants that have an inbuilt quality of keeping pests at bay, leaving them and surrounding shrubs and flowers to thrive.
The list here offers a good mix of plants from many different species, but each has that natural quality of repelling unwanted bugs.
1. Basil
In the case of basil, it’s the heavy scent that deters pests from your yard. Grow it near other herbs, plus fruits and vegetables, and its fragrance can keep bugs at bay.
Basil is particularly useful for dealing with flies, so it’s a good option for your patio area or next to your barbecue. It’s also easy to grow from potted, store-bought basil, but remember to separate the individual plants before sowing.
2. Mint
Most bugs shy away from the smell of mint, but it’s especially strong at dealing with ants. If you live in an area where these pests are a problem, look to grow some near your entry points and keep a few sprigs indoors.
Mice hate mint too and will be deterred from your property when you have it around. Be careful when growing mint as it can be invasive. It’s best kept in containers so that the roots can’t spread right across your garden.
3. Lemon Balm
As part of the mint family, lemon balm is another plant that can develop quickly, so look to keep it in smaller containers. It has a delightful lemon scent that is pleasing to humans, but the real advantage is that mosquitoes hate it.
Other bugs are repelled too, while bees love it. The scent of lemon balm attracts essential pollinators who will happily feed on its charming white flowers.
4. Lavender
Like certain other plants on this list, lavender provides a bonus. Not only does it deter unwanted pests, but it also attracts pollinators, who are vital to nature’s cycle. Planting lavender will therefore have a dual effect on your garden, and it’s useful inside the home, too.
A bunch of dried lavender in your closet will help to keep moths away from your clothes. Keep some in your kitchen as a deterrent for those pesky summer houseflies.
5. Rosemary
It’s another plant that can deter unwanted bugs due to its intense scent. When used in dishes, rosemary can divide opinion, but even if you don’t like the strong flavor, you should consider growing some in your yard.
Rosemary is a good all-round plant capable of repelling many bugs, but it’s especially effective against mosquitoes, midges, and gnats. To release more of that scent, lightly roll and crush the leaves between your fingers.
6. Marigolds
Experienced gardeners will often plant flowers in their fruit and vegetable patches. It adds a splash of color to the space, but there are extra benefits to certain blooms.
The delightful orange marigold flower will certainly brighten your vegetable garden while keeping at bay pests that love to feed on broccoli, potatoes, tomatoes, and more. Inside the home, cut marigolds can also deter flies from entering.
7. Pennyroyal
If you’re looking for a herb with attractive flowers that can also deter pests, pennyroyal may be the answer. Its scent is similar to mint, but pennyroyal is likely to be more effective at dealing with mosquitoes.
It’s been used as an insect deterrent for centuries, and you can get really creative. Crush the leaves and mix with water to make a spray, or release the oils by rubbing crushed leaves directly onto your skin.
8. Citronella
You may have already bought citronella candles in an effort to keep mosquitoes and other bugs at bay. Its scent is used in many products such as these, but it’s far more effective in its original plant form.
Citronella is a form of grass that looks great on the edge of flowerbeds. It’s another easy-to-grow plant and its effectiveness at dealing with bugs makes it an attractive and practical addition to your yard.
9. Sage
Like rosemary, sage is at its most effective when the leaves are crushed. That’s why it’s a good idea to burn some on your barbecue when your cookery skills are thwarted by pests.
Sage will have an effect when grown in your yard, and it’s great for dealing with mosquitoes. The scent keeps bugs at bay, but sage oil is much stronger, so look to keep crushed leaves dotted around your patch and in your home.
10. Catnip
If your home is free of furry felines, it’s a good idea to grow catnip. If you do have cats, this isn’t a great option as they will likely chew and destroy the delicate leaves.
While it attracts certain four-legged animals, catnip is effective at deterring unwanted insects. The strong scent is another great option in the fight against mosquitoes, but it’s useful for repelling other nasty bugs.
