Keep Snakes at Bay with These Snake Deterrent Plants

Snakes can be a serious concern for anyone living in areas where they are commonly found. Whether you're camping in the wilderness or just want to keep them away from your backyard, there are several effective ways to discourage them from entering. One particularly useful method is to use snake deterrent plants.

What Are Snake Deterrent Plants?

Snake deterrent plants are those that have been shown to repel snakes, either through their scent or other properties. These plants can be used in landscaping, gardens, or even potted arrangements to keep snakes away from your property.

15 Effective Snake Deterrent Plants

Here are some of the best snake deterrent plants you can use:

1. Marigolds

Marigolds are a colorful and fragrant flower that can also help keep snakes away. They emit a strong odor that snakes dislike, making them an effective natural repellent.

2. Lemongrass

Lemongrass is another plant with a strong scent that snakes dislike. It has a citrusy aroma that humans find pleasant but can be overpowering for snakes.

3. Wormwood

Wormwood is a perennial herb that is often used in traditional medicine. It also happens to be a natural snake repellent due to its bitter taste and strong scent.

4. Garlic

Garlic is a common ingredient in many dishes, but it also has properties that can help keep snakes away. Its strong smell and taste are unpleasant for snakes, making them less likely to approach.

5. Onions

Onions have similar properties to garlic, with a strong scent and taste that can deter snakes. They can be planted in gardens or used as potted plants to keep snakes away.

6. Indian Snakeroot

Indian snakeroot is a plant that is commonly used in traditional medicine. It also happens to be an effective snake repellent due to its strong aroma.

7. Mother-in-Law's Tongue

Also known as snake plant, mother-in-law's tongue is a popular indoor houseplant that can also help keep snakes away. It emits a strong odor that snakes dislike, making it an effective natural deterrent.

8. Mugwort

Mugwort is another herb that can help keep snakes away. Its pungent odor is unpleasant for snakes, making them less likely to approach.

9. West Indian Lemongrass

West Indian lemongrass is a variety of lemongrass that is particularly effective at repelling snakes. Its strong scent makes it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping.

10. Society Garlic

Society garlic is a type of plant that produces a strong odor that is unpleasant for snakes. It can be planted in gardens or used as a potted plant to keep snakes away.

11. Tulbaghia violacea

Tulbaghia violacea, also known as society garlic, is a plant that produces a strong smell that snakes dislike. It can be grown in pots or used in landscaping to keep these creatures away.

12. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a popular flower that can also help keep snakes away. They produce an odor that is unpleasant for snakes, making them less likely to approach.

13. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is a type of tree that produces a strong scent that snakes dislike. It can be planted in gardens or used as a potted plant to keep snakes away.

14. Calendula Officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as marigold, is a plant that produces a strong smell that snakes dislike. It can be grown in pots or used in landscaping to keep these creatures away.

15. Andrographis paniculata

Andrographis paniculata, also known as the king of bitters, is a plant that is commonly used in traditional medicine. It is also an effective snake repellent due to its bitter taste and strong scent.

How to Use Snake Deterrent Plants

Using snake deterrent plants is relatively simple. You can plant them in your garden or yard, or use them in potted arrangements on your porch or patio. Some people even use them to line the perimeter of their property as an extra layer of protection against snakes.

It's important to note that while these plants can be effective at keeping snakes away, they are not foolproof. If you live in an area with a high concentration of snakes, it's still a good idea to take other precautions, such as sealing up any gaps or holes in your home's exterior, keeping your yard tidy, and using snake traps or repellents if necessary.

FAQs About Snake Deterrent Plants

1. How do snake deterrent plants work?

Snake deterrent plants work by emitting strong odors or producing bitter tastes that are unpleasant for snakes. These scents and flavors help to keep snakes away from the area where the plants are located.

2. Are there any plants that actually attract snakes?

Yes, some plants can actually attract snakes, such as tall grasses, bushes, and leaf piles. It's a good idea to keep these types of plants trimmed and tidy to discourage snakes from making their homes near your property.

3. Can snake deterrent plants be harmful to humans or pets?

Most snake deterrent plants are safe for humans and pets to be around, although some may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. It's always best to research any plant before using it in your home or garden to ensure it is safe.

4. Do snake deterrent plants really work?

While snake deterrent plants can be effective at keeping snakes away, they are not foolproof. If you live in an area with a high concentration of snakes, it's still a good idea to take other precautions to protect yourself and your property.

5. How many snake deterrent plants do I need?

The number of snake deterrent plants you need will depend on the size of your property and the density of snakes in your area. As a general rule, it's a good idea to plant them in clusters around the perimeter of your yard or property for maximum effectiveness.

Using snake deterrent plants is a natural and effective way to keep these potentially dangerous creatures away from your property. By incorporating some of the plants listed above into your landscaping or potted arrangements, you can create a safer environment for yourself and your loved ones. Just remember that while these plants can be helpful, they are not foolproof, and it's still important to take other precautions as well.