Plants That Repel Bugs: The Best Natural Insect Repellents

Nothing ruins a perfect summer evening faster than a swarm of mosquitoes or an army of ants marching across your patio. Bug sprays help, but they can smell awful and often contain chemicals you don’t want around kids or pets. The good news? You can fight back against these pests naturally—just by planting the right greenery in your yard, garden, or even in pots on your porch.

Certain plants don’t just look pretty; they actually repel bugs with their natural scents and oils. These plants work by releasing fragrances that insects find unpleasant or by producing oils that disrupt their ability to navigate. Let’s take a look at some of the best plants to keep those annoying pests away.

Great reasons to use plants to naturally repel bugs. They are all-natural, they smell amazing, serve multiple purposes, and they are kid and pet friendly.

Why Use Plants to Repel Bugs?

Using plants to keep bugs at bay is a smart, natural way to protect your space while adding beauty and fragrance. It’s also an easy way to bring beauty and fragrance to your home while solving a common problem. Here’s why they’re a great choice:

  • They’re all-natural. No weird chemicals, just nature doing its thing.
  • They smell amazing. Many of these plants double as fresh-smelling herbs or flowers that you’ll love having around.
  • They serve multiple purposes. Some can be used for cooking, while others add color and texture to your space or even improve air quality.
  • They’re pet and kid-friendly. Unlike many store-bought repellents, these plants are safe to have around little ones (though some, like eucalyptus, should be kept out of reach of pets).
  • They’re long-lasting. Unlike bug sprays that wear off after a few hours, these plants keep repelling insects as long as they’re alive and thriving.

Best Plants That Repel Bugs Naturally

Pictures of herbs that keep pests away naturally. Basil, Lavender, Rosemary, and Mint

Herbs That Keep Pests Away

These herbs do more than add flavor to your favorite dishes—they also help keep bugs from taking over your space. Many of them contain essential oils that repel common pests, making them a great addition to any outdoor or indoor space.

Basil

Basil isn’t just for pesto. This herb keeps flies and mosquitoes away. Its strong scent is what does the trick, so planting it near your door or seating areas is a smart move. You can also crush a few leaves and rub them on your skin for extra protection. Basil is easy to grow in pots or directly in the ground, and it thrives in warm weather with plenty of sun. Plus, having fresh basil on hand means you can quickly grab some for your cooking!

Lavender

Lavender smells incredible and is known for its calming effects, but bugs hate it. Moths, fleas, mosquitoes, and even some types of flies will steer clear of lavender plants. Keep a pot by your windows, or dry the flowers and place them in your closets to keep moths away from your clothes. It’s also a great addition to homemade bug sprays and sachets, making it a versatile plant for pest control and relaxation.

Rosemary

Rosemary is another herb that pulls double duty. It’s a great addition to your kitchen and also repels mosquitoes and other flying insects. If you enjoy summer bonfires, throw some rosemary on the flames—its smoke is a natural mosquito deterrent. Rosemary thrives in warm climates but can be grown indoors in colder regions. The woody stems and fragrant leaves make it a great ornamental plant that serves a practical purpose.

Mint

Mint smells refreshing to us, but to ants, mosquitoes, and spiders, it’s a no-go. Since mint spreads quickly, it’s best to plant it in pots rather than directly in the ground unless you want it taking over your garden. Bonus: You can use the leaves for tea or mojitos! Mint is a hardy plant that grows well in various conditions, making it an easy choice for beginner gardeners. The strong menthol aroma helps mask scents that attract bugs, keeping your space pest-free.

Flowers That Deter Insects

Infographic of 6 flowers that deter insects naturally.

Flowers don’t just make your yard look good—they can help keep bugs from crashing your outdoor gatherings. These blooms release natural insect-repelling compounds while adding vibrant color to your space.

Marigolds

Marigolds are bright, cheerful, and great at repelling mosquitoes, aphids, and even rabbits. If you have a vegetable garden, planting marigolds nearby can help keep pests from munching on your crops. These flowers contain pyrethrum, a natural insecticide that’s used in many commercial bug sprays. They’re easy to grow and require minimal maintenance, making them a great option for both flower beds and potted arrangements.

Chrysanthemums

These flowers contain a natural insecticide called pyrethrum, which repels ants, ticks, roaches, and even bedbugs. Many bug sprays actually use chrysanthemum extract, but having the plant itself around can do a lot to keep your space bug-free. Chrysanthemums come in a variety of colors and are a great addition to gardens, offering both beauty and pest control. Be sure to plant them in well-drained soil and provide full sun for the best results.

Petunias

Petunias are low-maintenance flowers that add color to your yard while keeping aphids, beetles, and leafhoppers away. They’re a great option for hanging baskets or flower beds near windows. Their natural pest-repelling properties make them a favorite for gardeners who want an easy way to keep bugs away without resorting to chemicals.

Other Bug-Repelling Plants

Some plants don’t fit neatly into the herb or flower category but still do an amazing job of repelling bugs. These plants can be used in landscaping or container gardening to create a protective barrier against unwanted pests.

Citronella (Lemongrass)

You’ve probably seen citronella candles in stores, but did you know the actual plant works even better? Citronella grass has a strong lemon scent that mosquitoes hate. Plant it in large pots around your patio, or crush the leaves and rub them on your skin for extra protection. It’s a fast-growing plant that thrives in warm climates, making it a popular choice for summer mosquito control.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus not only smells clean and fresh, but it also keeps mosquitoes and ticks away. It grows best in warmer climates, but you can plant smaller varieties in pots and bring them inside during winter. Eucalyptus leaves can also be dried and used in DIY sachets or sprays for long-lasting bug protection.

Catnip

Catnip isn’t just for cats—it’s actually more effective than DEET at repelling mosquitoes. You can grow it in pots or in your garden, but be warned: If you have cats, they might love it as much as the bugs hate it! Catnip contains a compound called nepetalactone, which disrupts mosquitoes’ sensory receptors, making it a powerful natural repellent.

Conclusion

Want to learn more about using plants for pest control? Using plants to repel bugs is an easy, natural way to make your home and yard more comfortable. Whether you choose herbs, flowers, or other greenery, these plants work wonders at keeping pests away while adding beauty and fragrance to your space. Give a few of them a try, and you might find yourself reaching for plants instead of bug spray this summer!

Have a favorite bug-repelling plant? Drop a comment below and share your tips!