Tired of pests invading your garden? You don’t have to rely on harsh chemicals to keep them away.
Instead, turn to nature for help! There are some garden plants that naturally repel pests, keeping your plants safe without harming the environment. Which one will you add to your garden?
1. Chinese Lovage (Ligusticum sinense)
This is a perennial plant that’s particularly good if you’re tired of dealing with mosquitoes. Its chemical properties act like a natural bug spray. Unlike chemical repellents, it’s gentle on you and the environment. Just imagine growing a plant that protects you while adding greenery to your space!
2. Pine (Pinus)
The refreshing scent of pine needles helps repel pests. Pine oil and its strong aroma are natural turn-offs for many bugs, including flies and mosquitoes. Plus, having pine in your garden adds a touch of elegance.
3. Peppermint (Mentha × piperita)
If you love that refreshing minty smell, pests don’t. Peppermint is a powerhouse when it comes to repelling ants, spiders, and even mosquitoes. Plant it in pots or in the ground near areas where bugs are a problem, and you’ll notice a difference. Bonus: you can use the leaves in teas and recipes too!
4. Lavender (Lavandula)
Lavender is not only gorgeous and calming but also a strong pest deterrent. Its scent drives away moths, flies, fleas, and mosquitoes. Plant it near your garden’s edges or even indoors by windows. The best part? You can dry it to use in sachets for your closets and drawers.
5. Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
This flower adds a burst of color to your garden while keeping pests like mosquitoes and flies at bay. Scented geraniums, in particular, have oils that bugs dislike. Plus, they’re easy to grow and care for, making them a perfect addition to any garden.
6. Jasmine (Jasminum)
Jasmine isn’t just a fragrant beauty. Its strong scent confuses pests, making it harder for them to find your plants. While it’s not a direct insect killer, it’s a great ally for keeping your garden peaceful and aromatic.
7. Sandalwood (Santalum)
Sandalwood might be famous for its calming scent, but it’s also a natural pest deterrent. Its oils repel mosquitoes and other bugs. If you’re looking for a tree that does double duty—shade and pest control—sandalwood is a wonderful choice.
8. Rosemary (Rosmarinus)
A popular garden plant, Rosemary keeps pests like flies and mosquitoes away while being a fantastic herb to cook with. Plant it near outdoor seating areas, and you’ll enjoy fewer bugs while also having fresh rosemary for your meals. Plus, it’s easy to grow and smells incredible.
9. Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum)
They don’t repel pests outright but instead act as a “trap crop,” attracting bugs like aphids and whiteflies away from your veggies. Plus, their bright flowers add a pop of color and are even edible!
10. Garlic (Allium sativum)
Garlic is a pest’s worst nightmare. Thanks to allicin, a natural compound, garlic disrupts pest behavior, feeding, and reproduction. (ref) You can plant it directly in your garden or use garlic extracts as a natural spray. It’s a win-win—you get a natural pest repellent and a kitchen staple!
11. Marigold (Tagetes)
Marigolds give off a scent that repels pests like aphids, mosquitoes, and nematodes. Plant them near your vegetables, and they’ll help protect your tomatoes, squash, and beans. Plus, their bright colors make your garden cheerful!
12. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Basil does more than make your pasta delicious. Its strong scent drives away flies, mosquitoes, and even tomato hornworms. Keep basil near your tomatoes or around outdoor seating areas for a pest-free experience. And fresh basil for your cooking is a huge bonus.
13. Mint (Mentha)
This herb keeps ants, mosquitoes, and even mice away. Its strong aroma is what pests hate the most. Plant it in pots to stop it from taking over your garden—it spreads fast! You’ll also have fresh mint for teas and desserts.
14. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
Catnip isn’t just for cats—it’s also great for your garden. It’s effective at repelling mosquitoes and flies. You can grow it near sitting areas or in pots to move around as needed. Your feline friends will love it, and the pests won’t stand a chance!
15. Garlic Chives (Allium tuberosum)
Chives are small but mighty. They repel aphids and prevent the spread of Japanese beetles, slugs, and cabbage worms while being easy to grow. (ref) Plant them near carrots, lettuce, or tomatoes to protect those crops. And you can snip fresh chives to sprinkle on your meals.
By adding these must-have plants to your garden, you’re not only making your outdoor space more beautiful, but you’re also creating a natural defense system against pests.
Don’t Miss These:
Hummingbirds Aren’t Just After Nectar—Here’s What They Need
15 Survival Myths That Could Cost You Your Life
Say Goodbye to Leaf Scorch with These 10 Plant Care Tips
17 Plants That Add Beauty & Amazing Scents to Your Yard
DIY Mole Control: Does Dawn Dish Soap Really Work?
Sourdough Starter Basics: Steps to Kickstart Your Bread Journey
15 Ways to Repurpose Supplement & Pill Bottles for Everyday Use
Transform Your Shower Routine with DIY Aromatherapy Steamers
Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.