Gardening is a joy until insects decide to make a meal of your plants or invade your outdoor space. However, nature has provided a way to fight back. Certain plants act as natural insect repellents, thanks to their unique compounds. Incorporating these plants into your garden can help repel unwanted insects while adding beauty and diversity. Here’s a guide to 11 plants known for their insect-repelling properties, along with the specific pests they deter
1. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Insects Repelled: Mosquitoes, house flies
Basil emits a fragrance that mosquitoes and house flies find particularly offensive. Plant basil in pots near doorways or in the garden alongside tomato plants to enjoy a pest-free environment.
2. Lavender (Lavandula)
Insects Repelled: Moths, fleas, flies, mosquitoes
Lavender’s soothing scent for humans acts as a deterrent for several insects. Its versatility means you can grow it in the garden or use dried lavender to protect wardrobes and linen closets.
3. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon)
Insects Repelled: Mosquitoes
Lemongrass contains citronella, a natural oil found in commercial mosquito repellents. Plant it in large pots around seating areas to create a mosquito-free zone.
4. Marigolds (Tagetes)
Insects Repelled: Mosquitoes, aphids, rabbits
The pungent smell of marigolds repels mosquitoes and aphids. They also deter rabbits. Plant marigolds along garden borders for their protective benefits.
5. Mint (Mentha)
Insects Repelled: Mosquitoes, ants, mice
Mint’s strong scent is disliked by mosquitoes and ants. Be cautious, as mint can be invasive; consider planting it in pots to control its spread.
6. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
Insects Repelled: Mosquitoes, ants, cockroaches
Research shows that catnip is more effective than DEET in repelling mosquitoes. Its easy growth makes it a garden favorite, but be prepared for visiting cats!
7. Chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum)
Insects Repelled: Roaches, ants, Japanese beetles, ticks, silverfish
The compound pyrethrin, found in chrysanthemums, is used in many insect repellents and controls a wide range of insects.
8. Garlic (Allium sativum)
Insects Repelled: Aphids, mosquitoes, cabbage moths
Planting garlic around the garden acts as a barrier against aphids, mosquitoes, and cabbage moths, protecting your vegetables and flowers.
9. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Insects Repelled: Mosquitoes, carrot flies, cabbage moth
Rosemary’s woody scent repels garden pests while attracting butterflies. It’s ideal for container gardening or as part of a culinary herb garden.
10. Petunias (Petunia)
Insects Repelled: Aphids, tomato hornworms, asparagus beetles
Often called “nature’s pesticide,” petunias repel a variety of insects. Plant them in sunny spots near vegetable gardens or in hanging baskets.
11. Citronella Grass (Cymbopogon nardus)
Insects Repelled: Mosquitoes
While citronella candles are a popular mosquito repellent, growing the plant itself can offer localized protection. Best grown in large planters due to its size.
Incorporating these natural insect-repellent plants into your garden layout not only helps in creating a more pleasant and pest-free environment but also enhances the biodiversity and aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space. While no plant is 100% effective against all pests, these selections can significantly reduce the need for chemical repellents and contribute to a healthier, more natural garden ecosystem.
