10 Plants That Repel Wasps Naturally

The problem with wasps

Wasps can be a real nuisance in the summer months. Whether you're having a picnic or simply trying to enjoy your garden, these pesky insects are always around, looking for something sweet to eat. And while some people may not mind them, others find their presence overwhelming, especially if they're allergic to their stings.

The solution: wasp repellent plants

The good news is that there are many plants that naturally repel wasps. By planting them strategically around your home and garden, you can keep these insects at bay without resorting to harmful chemicals. In this article, we'll introduce you to 10 of the best wasp repellent plants, along with tips on how to grow and care for them.

1. Mint

Why it works

Mint is one of the most effective wasp repellent plants out there. This is because wasps hate the strong scent of mint, which can be overwhelming to their sensitive noses. Additionally, the plant's oils contain natural insecticides that help to deter wasps from landing on it.

How to use it

To use mint as a wasp repellent, simply plant it around your home and garden. You can also crush up the leaves and place them in strategic locations, such as near windows or doors, to keep wasps from entering your home.

2. Citronella

Why it works

Citronella is well-known for its ability to repel mosquitoes, but it's also effective against wasps. This is because its strong scent masks the odors that attract wasps, making it difficult for them to locate their prey.

How to use it

To use citronella as a wasp repellent, plant it in pots around your home and garden. You can also burn citronella candles or use citronella oil in diffusers to keep wasps away.

3. Eucalyptus

Why it works

Eucalyptus has a strong scent that wasps find unpleasant. Additionally, the plant's oils contain natural insecticides that help to deter wasps from landing on it.

How to use it

To use eucalyptus as a wasp repellent, plant it in pots around your home and garden. You can also crush up the leaves and place them in strategic locations, such as near windows or doors, to keep wasps from entering your home.

4. Lavender

Why it works

Lavender is another plant that wasps hate. Its sweet scent is overwhelming to their sensitive noses, and the plant's oils contain natural insecticides that help to deter wasps from landing on it.

How to use it

To use lavender as a wasp repellent, plant it in pots around your home and garden. You can also dry the flowers and place them in sachets to hang near windows or doors.

5. Lemongrass

Why it works

Lemongrass has a strong citrus scent that wasps find unpleasant. Additionally, the plant's oils contain natural insecticides that help to deter wasps from landing on it.

How to use it

To use lemongrass as a wasp repellent, plant it in pots around your home and garden. You can also crush up the leaves and place them in strategic locations, such as near windows or doors, to keep wasps from entering your home.

6. Geraniums

Why it works

Geraniums have a strong scent that wasps find unpleasant. Additionally, the plant's oils contain natural insecticides that help to deter wasps from landing on it.

How to use it

To use geraniums as a wasp repellent, plant them in pots around your home and garden. You can also crush up the leaves and place them in strategic locations, such as near windows or doors, to keep wasps from entering your home.

7. Wormwood

Why it works

Wormwood has a bitter scent that wasps find unpleasant. Additionally, the plant's oils contain natural insecticides that help to deter wasps from landing on it.

How to use it

To use wormwood as a wasp repellent, plant it in pots around your home and garden. You can also dry the leaves and place them in sachets to hang near windows or doors.

8. Nasturtiums

Why it works

Nasturtiums have a strong scent that wasps find unpleasant. Additionally, the plant's oils contain natural insecticides that help to deter wasps from landing on it.

How to use it

To use nasturtiums as a wasp repellent, plant them in pots around your home and garden. You can also crush up the leaves and place them in strategic locations, such as near windows or doors, to keep wasps from entering your home.

9. Marigolds

Why it works

Marigolds have a strong scent that wasps find unpleasant. Additionally, the plant's oils contain natural insecticides that help to deter wasps from landing on it.

How to use it

To use marigolds as a wasp repellent, plant them in pots around your home and garden. You can also dry the flowers and place them in sachets to hang near windows or doors.

10. Basil

Why it works

Basil has a strong scent that wasps find unpleasant. Additionally, the plant's oils contain natural insecticides that help to deter wasps from landing on it.

How to use it

To use basil as a wasp repellent, plant it in pots around your home and garden. You can also crush up the leaves and place them in strategic locations, such as near windows or doors, to keep wasps from entering your home.


By planting these 10 wasp repellent plants around your home and garden, you can naturally keep these insects at bay without resorting to harmful chemicals. Remember to care for your plants properly, and enjoy a wasp-free summer!

FAQs

1. Do wasp repellent plants really work?

Yes, wasp repellent plants can be effective at keeping these insects away. However, it's important to remember that no single plant will completely eliminate wasps from your yard.

2. Can I use essential oils to repel wasps?

Yes, many essential oils, such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and lemongrass, can be effective at repelling wasps. However, it's important to dilute them properly before use.

3. Can wasps harm my plants?

In general, wasps are not harmful to plants. However, they may damage fruit trees by feeding on the fruit.

4. How do I attract beneficial insects to my garden?

To attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, plant a variety of flowers and herbs that provide nectar and pollen.

5. Are there any plants that attract wasps?

Yes, some plants, such as sweet fennel and Queen Anne's lace, are known for attracting wasps. If you're trying to keep wasps away, avoid planting these species.