Pest Deterrent Plants: Natural Ways to Keep Pests Away

Are you tired of using chemical pesticides to keep pests at bay? If so, you'll be happy to know that there are many natural alternatives available, including pest deterrent plants. These plants release certain compounds that repel pests, making them a great addition to any garden. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the most effective pest deterrent plants and how you can use them to protect your garden and home.

The Benefits of Using Pest Deterrent Plants

Before we dive into the specifics of which plants to use, let's talk about the benefits of using pest deterrent plants over chemical pesticides. For ers, pest deterrent plants are completely natural and non-toxic, which means they won't harm the environment or your family. Additionally, many pests have become resistant to chemical pesticides, making them less effective over time. With pest deterrent plants, however, pests are less likely to develop a resistance because the plants work by releasing natural compounds that are difficult for pests to adapt to.

How Do Pest Deterrent Plants Work?

Pest deterrent plants work by producing natural chemicals that repel pests. These chemicals are often found in the plant's leaves, flowers, or stems, and they can be released into the air to create a protective barrier around the plant. Some of the most common compounds found in pest deterrent plants include:

• Pyrethrins: Found in chrysanthemums, pyrethrins are toxic to many insects and are commonly used in commercial insecticides.
• Neem oil: Derived from the neem tree, neem oil is a natural insecticide that can repel a wide range of pests, including aphids, mites, and whiteflies.
• Citronella: Found in citronella grass, this aromatic oil is commonly used to repel mosquitoes and other flying insects.

The Most Effective Pest Deterrent Plants

Now that you know how pest deterrent plants work, let's take a look at some of the most effective plants to use:

1. Marigolds

Marigolds are not only beautiful, they're also great for keeping pests away. The plant's roots release a substance called alpha-terthienyl, which is toxic to many soil-borne pests, including nematodes.

2. Basil

Basil is not only a delicious herb, it's also a great pest deterrent. In fact, planting basil near tomatoes can help prevent tomato hornworms, one of the most destructive pests for tomato plants.

3. Lavender

Lavender is known for its calming scent, but it's also a powerful pest deterrent. The plant's strong aroma can repel flies, fleas, and moths.

4. Mint

Mint is a great pest deterrent for many reasons. Its strong scent can repel ants, aphids, and cabbage moths, and it can also attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.

5. Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums contain pyrethrins, a natural insecticide that can repel a wide range of pests, including roaches, ants, and ticks.

6. Catnip

Catnip, a member of the mint family, is a great natural pest deterrent for many pests, including mosquitoes, ants, and termites.

7. Rosemary

Rosemary is not only a delicious herb, it's also a great natural pest deterrent. Its strong scent can repel mosquitoes, flies, and moths.

8. Garlic

Garlic is a powerful pest deterrent that can repel many common garden pests, including aphids, Japanese beetles, and spider mites.

9. Lemongrass

Lemongrass contains citronella, which is commonly used to repel mosquitoes and other flying insects.

10. Sunflowers

Sunflowers are not only beautiful, they're also a great natural pest deterrent. The plant's strong scent can repel many pests, including aphids and whiteflies.

11. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a great natural pest deterrent for many reasons. Their leaves contain a substance called sulfur, which is toxic to many garden pests, including whiteflies and aphids.

12. Peppermint

Peppermint is a great natural pest deterrent for many pests, including ants, fleas, and mosquitoes. It can also attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.

13. Sage

Sage is not only a delicious herb, it's also a great natural pest deterrent. Its strong scent can repel many pests, including mosquitoes and cabbage moths.

14. Thyme

Thyme is another great natural pest deterrent for many pests, including mosquitoes and cabbage moths. Its strong scent can also attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.

15. Dill

Dill is a great natural pest deterrent for many pests, including aphids and spider mites. It can also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings.

How to Use Pest Deterrent Plants

Now that you know which plants to use, let's talk about how to use them effectively. Here are some tips:

1. Plant strategically

Plant your pest deterrent plants strategically around your garden or home to create a protective barrier against pests. For example, planting marigolds around the perimeter of your garden can help keep soil-borne pests at bay.

2. Companion planting

Companion planting is a technique where you plant certain plants together to help repel pests. For example, planting basil near tomatoes can help prevent tomato hornworms.

3. Use as a natural pesticide

You can also use pest deterrent plants as a natural pesticide by creating a spray from the leaves or flowers. Simply steep the leaves or flowers in water overnight, strain out the plant material, and then spray the solution onto your plants.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are pest deterrent plants safe for pets?

Yes, pest deterrent plants are generally safe for pets. However, some plants, like catnip, can be attractive to cats, so it's important to monitor your pets around these plants.

2. Will pest deterrent plants harm beneficial insects?

No, pest deterrent plants will not harm beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. In fact, many of these plants can attract beneficial insects to your garden.

3. How often should I use pest deterrent plants?

You can use pest deterrent plants throughout the growing season as needed. However, it's important to monitor your plants for signs of pest damage and adjust your planting strategy accordingly.

4. Can I use pest deterrent plants indoors?

Yes, many pest deterrent plants can be grown indoors, including basil, mint, and lavender. Simply place them near windows or in sunny spots to help repel pests.

5. Can I use pest deterrent plants alongside chemical pesticides?

While it's generally not recommended to use chemical pesticides alongside pest deterrent plants, you can use them in combination with other natural pest control methods, like companion planting and crop rotation.


Pest deterrent plants are a great natural alternative to chemical pesticides, and they offer many benefits, including being non-toxic and effective against a wide range of pests. By incorporating these plants into your garden or home, you can create a protective barrier against pests and enjoy a healthier, more sustainable environment.