Repel Ants with These 15 Outdoor Plants

Keeping Ants at Bay

Ants can quickly become a nuisance when they invade your outdoor space. Whether it's the picnic table or your garden, these tiny insects can ruin your day. Fortunately, there are several plants that naturally repel ants and keep them away from your outdoor areas. In this article, we'll explore 15 of the best plants for repelling ants outdoors.

The Top 15 Plants That Repel Ants Outdoors

1. Mint

Mint is a versatile herb that not only adds flavor to food and drinks but also repels ants. The strong scent of mint masks the pheromones that ants use to communicate, making it difficult for them to find food sources. Plant mint around the perimeter of your garden or in pots around your patio to keep ants away.

2. Lavender

Lavender is another herb with a strong scent that ants dislike. The essential oils in lavender repel ants and other pests, making it a great addition to your outdoor space. Plant lavender in well-drained soil and full sun for the best results.

3. Sage

Like mint and lavender, sage has a strong scent that ants find unpleasant. Plant sage in pots around your patio or garden to repel ants naturally. You can also use sage leaves to make an insect-repelling spray by steeping them in boiling water and letting the mixture cool before spraying it on surfaces.

4. Rosemary

Rosemary is a fragrant herb that not only repels ants but also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. Plant rosemary in well-drained soil and full sun for the best results. You can also use fresh rosemary sprigs to make an insect-repelling sachet by tying them together with string and hanging them around your outdoor space.

5. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a hardy herb that grows well in most soils and climates. The lemony scent of this plant repels ants and other pests, making it a great addition to your garden or patio. Plant lemon balm in pots or around the perimeter of your outdoor area to keep ants away.

6. Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums contain a natural insecticide called pyrethrum, which repels ants and other pests. Plant chrysanthemums in pots or around the perimeter of your garden to keep ants and other insects away. Be sure to handle chrysanthemums with care, as they can cause skin irritation in some people.

7. Marigolds

Marigolds are another flower that contains pyrethrum, making them an effective natural insect repellent. Plant marigolds in pots or around the perimeter of your garden to keep ants and other insects away. They also add a bright pop of color to your outdoor space.

8. Garlic

Garlic has strong antimicrobial properties that repel ants and other pests. Plant garlic bulbs around the perimeter of your garden or in pots around your patio to keep ants away. You can also use crushed garlic cloves mixed with water to make an insect-repelling spray.

9. Alliums

Alliums, like garlic, are part of the onion family and have a strong scent that repels ants and other pests. Plant allium bulbs in your garden or in pots around your patio to keep ants away. They also add a unique shape and texture to your outdoor space.

10. Citronella

Citronella is a well-known insect repellent that is often used in candles and sprays. You can also plant citronella grass in pots around your patio or garden to keep ants away. Citronella grass prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

11. Catnip

Catnip is a natural insect repellent that contains nepetalactone, which repels ants and other pests. Plant catnip in pots around your patio or garden to keep ants away. Be aware that catnip may attract cats to your outdoor space.

12. Peppermint

Peppermint has a strong scent that ants find unpleasant, making it an effective natural insect repellent. Plant peppermint in pots or around the perimeter of your garden to keep ants away. You can also use fresh peppermint leaves to make an insect-repelling spray.

13. Tansy

Tansy is a hardy perennial that repels ants and other pests. Plant tansy in pots or around the perimeter of your garden to keep ants away. Be aware that tansy can be invasive, so it's best to keep it contained in pots.

14. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a colorful flower that also repels ants and other pests. Plant nasturtiums in pots or around the perimeter of your garden to keep ants away. They also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

15. Bay Leaves

Bay leaves contain eucalyptol, a natural insect repellent that repels ants and other pests. Plant bay laurel in pots or around the perimeter of your garden to keep ants away. You can also use fresh or dried bay leaves to make an insect-repelling sachet.

Keeping Ants at Bay Naturally

By planting these 15 plants in your outdoor space, you can naturally repel ants and other pests without the use of harsh chemicals. Whether you're enjoying a picnic on the lawn or tending to your garden, these plants will help keep ants away.

FAQs about Plants That Repel Ants Outdoors

1. Will planting these plants completely eliminate ants?

While these plants are effective at repelling ants, they may not completely eliminate them from your outdoor space. You may still see some ants, but their numbers should be significantly reduced.

2. Do I need to plant all 15 of these plants?

No, you don't need to plant all 15 of these plants. Choose the ones that work best for your outdoor space and personal preferences.

3. Are these plants safe for pets?

Most of these plants are safe for pets, but some, like chrysanthemums and tansy, can cause skin irritation or upset stomachs if ingested. Be sure to research each plant before planting it if you have pets.

4. Can I use these plants indoors to repel ants?

Yes, many of these plants can be grown indoors to repel ants and other pests. Be sure to provide them with plenty of light and water.

5. Can I use these plants to repel other pests?

Yes, many of these plants are effective at repelling other pests like mosquitoes and flies. Plant them in pots or around the perimeter of your outdoor space to keep a variety of pests away.