Plants That Keep Fleas Away

The Importance of Keeping Fleas Away

Fleas are not just a nuisance; they can also pose a health risk to humans and animals. Fleas can transmit diseases such as tapeworms and even plague. If you have pets or live in an area with a high flea population, it's important to take steps to keep fleas away from your home and yard.

to Plants that Repel Fleas

One effective way to keep fleas away is by using natural methods, such as planting certain types of plants that repel fleas. These plants contain natural oils and chemicals that fleas find repuve. In this article, we'll discuss the top 10 plants that can help keep fleas away from your home and yard.

Top 10 Plants that Repel Fleas

Citronella Grass

Citronella grass is a popular plant known for its ability to repel mosquitoes, but it can also be effective against fleas. The plant contains citronellal, which is a natural insect repellent. Citronella grass is easy to care for and can be grown in pots or planted in the ground.

Lavender

Lavender is a beautiful plant that also has natural flea-repelling properties. The scent of lavender is pleasant to humans but not so much to fleas. Lavender can be grown in pots or planted directly in the ground, and it requires full sun and well-draining soil.

Pennyroyal

Pennyroyal is another plant that can help keep fleas away. The plant contains a chemical called pulegone, which is toxic to fleas. Pennyroyal is a low-growing plant that prefers full sun and well-draining soil.

Mint

Mint is not only a great herb for cooking, but it can also repel fleas. Mint contains menthol, which is a natural insecticide. You can grow mint in pots or plant it directly in the ground, but be aware that mint can become invasive if left unchecked.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is a tree that can also be grown in pots. Its leaves contain eucalyptol, which is a natural flea repellent. Eucalyptus can also be used to make a natural flea spray for pets.

Rosemary

Rosemary is an herb that is commonly used in cooking, but it also has flea-repelling properties. The plant contains a chemical called rosmarinic acid, which is toxic to fleas. Rosemary prefers full sun and well-draining soil.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a tropical plant that is used in cooking and also has natural insect-repelling properties. The plant contains citral, which is a natural insecticide. Lemongrass can be grown in pots or planted directly in the ground.

Cedar

Cedar is a type of wood that can be used to make furniture or lining for pet beds. Cedar contains natural oils that repel fleas and other insects. Cedar chips or shavings can also be used in gardens to help keep fleas away.

Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums are beautiful flowers that also have flea-repelling properties. The flowers contain a chemical called pyrethrin, which is often used in commercial flea sprays. Chrysanthemums prefer full sun and well-draining soil.

Marigolds

Marigolds are another type of flower that can help keep fleas away. The flowers contain a chemical called pyrethrum, which is a natural insecticide. Marigolds prefer full sun and well-draining soil.

Using Plants to Repel Fleas

Now that you know which plants can help keep fleas away, it's important to know how to use them effectively. Here are some tips for using plants to repel fleas:

Plant in the Right Location

Make sure to plant your flea-repelling plants in the right location. Most of these plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil, so make sure to choose a spot that meets these requirements.

Use Plants in Combination

It's best to use a combination of different plants to repel fleas. This will make it more difficult for fleas to adapt and become immune to a single plant's repellent properties.

Create a Barrier

To create a barrier against fleas, you can plant a line of flea-repelling plants around the perimeter of your home or yard. This will help keep fleas from entering your living space.

Make a Natural Flea Spray

You can also make a natural flea spray using certain plants. Simply boil the leaves or flowers of one of the plants listed above in water, let it cool, and then strain it into a spray bottle. You can use this spray on your pets or around your home as needed.

FAQs About Plants that Keep Fleas Away

1. Are flea-repelling plants safe for pets?

Yes, most flea-repelling plants are safe for pets. However, you should still keep an eye on your pet and make sure they don't ingest any of the plants.

2. Do these plants work for all types of fleas?

These plants should be effective against most types of fleas, but there is no single plant that can repel all types of fleas.

3. Can I use these plants indoors?

Yes, many of these plants can be grown indoors and used to repel fleas. Just make sure to choose a spot with plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil.

4. How often do I need to replant these plants?

Most of these plants will last for several months or even years with proper care. However, you may need to replace them if they become damaged or die off.

5. Are there any other natural methods for keeping fleas away?

Yes, other natural methods for keeping fleas away include vacuuming regularly, washing bedding and pet toys frequently, and using diatomaceous earth in your yard.


Keeping fleas away from your home and yard is important for the health and safety of both humans and animals. Using natural methods like planting flea-repelling plants is a great way to keep fleas at bay. By using a combination of different plants and implementing some of the tips listed above, you can create a flea-free environment for yourself and your pets.