Plants That Deter Insects: Natural Remedies for a Pest-Free Garden

Do you love spending time in your garden, but find yourself constantly swatting away pesky insects? If so, you're not alone. Insects can be a major nuisance for gardeners, but luckily there are a variety of plants that can help keep them at bay. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best insect-repelling plants and how to use them in your garden.

Topic

Why Use Plants That Deter Insects?

Using plants to repel insects is a natural and chemical-free way to protect your garden. Many commercial insecticides can be harmful to beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, as well as other wildlife. By using insect-deterring plants, you can protect your garden without harming the environment.

How Do Insect-Repelling Plants Work?

Insect-repelling plants work by emitting chemicals or fragrances that insects find unpleasant or confusing. Some plants may also contain compounds that are toxic to insects, but safe for humans and animals.

The Best Insect-Repelling Plants

Lavender

Lavender is known for its beautiful scent, but did you know it can also keep insects away? Lavender oil contains compounds that repel moths, fleas, flies, and mosquitoes. Plant lavender around your garden borders or in containers near your patio to keep insects at bay.

Citronella

Citronella is a classic insect-repelling plant. Its distinctive lemony scent is used in many commercial insect repellents. Plant citronella in pots and place them around your garden or patio to keep mosquitoes away.

Mint

Mint is another great insect-repelling plant. Its strong scent can confuse and deter many pests, including ants, flies, and mosquitoes. Plant mint in containers or near your doors and windows to help keep insects out of your home.

Marigolds

Marigolds are not only beautiful, but they also repel a variety of insects, including mosquitoes, aphids, and whiteflies. Plant marigolds around your vegetable garden to protect your crops from pests.

Basil

Basil is a popular herb that can also keep insects away. Its strong scent can repel pests like mosquitoes and flies. Plant basil in containers or near your outdoor seating areas to keep insects at bay.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a member of the mint family and has a lemony scent that can deter mosquitoes and other insects. Plant lemon balm near your patio or deck to enjoy its pleasant fragrance while keeping bugs away.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a versatile herb that can be used in cooking and also has insect-repelling properties. Its strong scent can deter mosquitoes and other flying insects. Plant rosemary in pots and place them around your outdoor living areas to keep insects at bay.

Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums contain a natural insecticide called pyrethrum, which is toxic to many insects but safe for humans and animals. Plant chrysanthemums around your garden to keep pests like mosquitoes, roaches, and ticks away.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a colorful and edible flower that also has insect-repelling properties. They can deter aphids, whiteflies, and squash bugs when planted near your vegetable garden.

Pennyroyal

Pennyroyal is a member of the mint family and has a strong scent that can repel many insects, including mosquitoes and fleas. Be careful when planting pennyroyal, as it can be toxic to pets in large doses.

Garlic

Garlic not only adds flavor to your food, but it can also repel insects like aphids, mosquitoes, and cabbage worms. Plant garlic near your vegetable garden or in containers near your outdoor living areas to keep pests away.

Cedar

Cedar wood chips or cedar oil can be used to repel insects like moths, roaches, and fleas. Use cedar chips in your garden beds or place cedar oil diffusers around your home to keep insects at bay.

Thyme

Thyme is a fragrant herb that can also keep insects away. Its strong scent can deter many pests, including mosquitoes and flies. Plant thyme in pots and place them on your patio or deck to enjoy its fragrance while keeping bugs away.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass contains citronella, which is a natural insect repellent. Plant lemongrass in pots and place them around your garden or patio to keep mosquitoes away.

How to Use Insect-Repelling Plants

Plant Them in Your Garden

The easiest way to use insect-repelling plants is to plant them in your garden. Choose plants based on the pests you want to deter and the amount of sunlight and water they need. Many insect-repelling plants, like lavender and rosemary, prefer well-drained soil and full sun.

Use Them in Containers

If you don't have space for a garden, or if you want to enjoy insect-repelling plants on your patio or deck, plant them in containers. Choose pots with drainage holes and fill them with well-drained potting soil. Place the pots in a sunny location and water them regularly.

Make Natural Insect Repellents

You can also use insect-repelling plants to make natural insect repellents. Crush the leaves or flowers of insect-repelling plants and rub them on your skin to deter insects. You can also make a natural bug spray by steeping crushed plant material in water or alcohol.


Insects can be a major nuisance for gardeners, but using insect-repelling plants is a natural and effective way to keep them at bay. By choosing the right plants and using them in the right way, you can protect your garden without harming the environment. Try planting some of these insect-repelling plants in your garden this season and enjoy a pest-free outdoor space!

FAQs

Q: Are insect-repelling plants safe for pets?

A: Many insect-repelling plants are safe for pets, but some, like pennyroyal, can be toxic in large doses. Always research the plants you're using and keep them out of reach of pets.

Q: Can insect-repelling plants attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies?

A: It depends on the plant. Some insect-repelling plants, like marigolds, can also attract beneficial insects. Research the plants you're using to make sure they won't harm the insects you want to attract.

Q: Do I need to use insecticides if I'm using insect-repelling plants?

A: In most cases, you won't need to use insecticides if you're using insect-repelling plants. However, if you have a severe pest infestation, you may need to use additional methods to control the problem.

Q: Can I use insect-repelling plants indoors?

A: Yes, many insect-repelling plants can be grown indoors. Choose plants that are suited to indoor growing conditions and place them in sunny windowsills or under grow lights.

Q: Do insect-repelling plants really work?

A: Yes, insect-repelling plants can be an effective way to deter insects. However, their effectiveness may vary depending on the type of plant, the pests you're trying to deter, and other environmental factors.