10 Pest-Deterrent Plants To Protect Your Garden Naturally

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Why use chemicals when Mother Nature provides us with natural alternatives?

Pesticides and insecticides can harm beneficial insects and pollinators, as well as contaminate our gardens and soil. The good news is that there are many plants that naturally repel or deter common pests, and they also add beauty and fragrance to your garden. Here are 10 pest-deterring plants you should consider planting.

1. Marigolds

Repel:

• mosquitos
• aphids
• whiteflies
• nematodes

Why they work:

Marigolds produce pyrethrum, which is a natural insecticide. This compound is often used in commercial bug sprays but is less harmful to the environment when produced by plants.

How to use:

Plant marigolds around the perimeter of your garden or near plants that are commonly bothered by pests. You can also make a spray using dried marigold flowers soaked in water for several days and then strained.

2. Nasturtiums

Repel:

• squash bugs
• whiteflies
• aphids
• cabbage worms
• striped pumpkin beetles

Why they work:

Nasturtiums contain sulfur compounds, which give them their peppery scent and taste. These compounds repel a range of garden pests, including those that damage brassica plants.

How to use:

Plant nasturtiums near vegetables and herbs, and use them as a companion plant for brassicas.

3. Garlic

Repel:

• aphids
• cabbage worms
• Japanese beetles
• spider mites

Why it works:

Garlic contains sulfur compounds that repel many insects, and studies have found that garlic can be as effective as chemical insecticides.

How to use:

Plant garlic near vegetables or other plants that are often attacked by pests. You can also make a garlic spray by blending garlic cloves with water and then straining the mixture.

4. Basil

Repel:

• mosquitoes
• flies
• tomato hornworms
• aphids

Why it works:

Basil has a strong scent that repels some insects, and research has found that basil essential oil is an effective insecticide.

How to use:

Plant basil near doors and windows to keep mosquitoes and flies away, and near tomatoes to protect them from hornworms.

5. Rosemary

Repel:

• moths
• mosquitoes
• bean beetles

Why it works:

Rosemary has a strong scent, and its oil contains compounds that repel insects. It can also attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.

How to use:

Plant rosemary in containers or in the ground near outdoor seating areas to repel mosquitoes and moths. It can also be planted alongside beans to deter bean beetles.

6. Chrysanthemums

Repel:

• Japanese beetles
• ticks
• mosquitoes

Why they work:

Chrysanthemums contain pyrethrins, which are used in many insecticides. These compounds repel a range of insects, including those that carry diseases like Lyme disease.

How to use:

Plant chrysanthemums around the perimeter of your garden to create a barrier against pests.

7. Mint

Repel:

• ants
• aphids
• cabbage moths

Why it works:

Mint contains menthol and other essential oils that repel insects. It also attracts beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.

How to use:

Plant mint in containers to prevent it from spreading too much, and place the containers near areas where you want to repel pests. You can also make a spray by boiling crushed mint leaves in water for several minutes and then straining.

8. Lavender

Repel:

• mosquitos
• flies
• moths

Why it works:

Lavender has a strong scent that repels many insects. It also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.

How to use:

Plant lavender near doors and windows to keep pesky insects away from your home. You can also hang dried lavender in closets to repel moths.

9. Petunias

Repel:

• aphids
• tomato hornworms

Why they work:

Petunias produce a natural pesticide called solanine, which is toxic to many garden pests.

How to use:

Plant petunias near tomatoes and other plants that are susceptible to aphids and hornworms.

10. Lemongrass

Repel:

• mosquitoes
• ticks
• chiggers

Why it works:

Lemongrass contains citronella, which is commonly used in commercial bug sprays. It also has a pleasant lemon scent.

How to use:

Plant lemongrass in containers on your patio or deck, or near areas where you spend time outdoors. You can also use lemongrass oil as a natural mosquito repellent.

Planting pest-deterring plants is an effective, natural way to keep pests away from your garden. By using these plants, you can avoid harsh chemicals and help maintain the balance of nature in your garden.

FAQ

What are some other plants that repel pests?

Other pest-repelling plants include catnip, tansy, and thyme.

Can pest-deterrent plants completely eliminate the need for pesticides?

While these plants can reduce the need for chemical pesticides, they may not be effective against all pests. It's important to monitor your garden regularly for signs of pests and to take appropriate action when necessary.

Are there any downsides to using pest-deterring plants?

Some of these plants, like mint and oregano, can spread rapidly and become invasive if not managed properly.

Can I use these plants indoors to keep bugs away?

Some of these plants, like rosemary and lavender, can be grown indoors to repel insects. However, you should ensure that the plants receive enough light and that they don't become too dry.

How do I propagate these plants?

Many of these plants can be propagated from cuttings or by dividing established plants. Check with your local nursery for specific instructions for each plant.

Do pest-repellent plants have any other benefits?

In addition to repelling pests, many of these plants are also edible and have medicinal properties.

Should I still attract beneficial insects to my garden even if I have pest-deterring plants?

Yes, beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings can help control pests and maintain the balance of nature in your garden.

Can I use these plants in companion planting?

Yes, many of these plants can be used as companion plants to protect and enhance the growth of other plants.

How often do I need to replace these plants?

Many of these plants will grow year after year with proper care. However, some may need to be replaced periodically.

Will these plants harm my pets? Can I still use them if I have children or pets?

While these plants are generally safe for pets and children, some plants may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Be sure to research each plant thoroughly before planting it, and keep an eye on your pets or children to ensure that they don't eat the plants.