19 Plants That Repel Bugs

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If you’re looking for a natural way to keep pesky bugs away from your home or garden, look no further!

Plants are a great way to repel bugs, and many options are available to suit your needs.

This post explores powerful plants that repel bugs and keep them away.

Read on to learn more about these helpful plants and how to use them to eliminate those pesky critters.

Are you looking for an effective and natural way to keep bugs away from your home? If so, consider growing some of these ten bug-repellent plants.

From herbs like lavender and marigolds to shrubs like geraniums and sage, these natural bug repellents can make a huge difference in your home’s insect population.

Not only do they smell great, but they also look beautiful, adding a splash of color to your garden or yard.

Read on to learn more about these amazing bug-repellent plants and how to use them to keep pests away from your home.

1. Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a popular herb used in Southeast Asian cuisine for its tangy flavor and fragrant aroma.

But did you know that this plant also has natural bug-repellent properties?

The strong citrus scent of lemongrass acts as a natural insect repellent and can deter mosquitoes, flies, and ants.

To keep bugs at bay, you can plant lemongrass in your garden or pot it indoors.

Lemongrass is a plant that repels bugs, so you can crush the leaves to release the oils and apply them to your skin.

You can also infuse lemongrass into a spray by boiling the leaves and letting the solution cool before spraying it around your home or garden.

Aside from its bug-repellent properties, lemongrass also has other benefits.

It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which make it a popular ingredient in herbal teas and supplements.

Overall, lemongrass is a versatile plant that offers many benefits beyond its culinary uses.

Add it to your garden or indoor plant collection to repel bugs and enjoy its refreshing scent.

2. Peppermint

Peppermint is another herb that can double as a natural insect repellent. Its strong scent repels ants, spiders, mosquitoes, and even mice.

Peppermint is a natural bug repellent. You can plant it in your garden or use its essential oil.

If you decide to plant peppermint in your garden, it’s best to place it in pots, as it can quickly spread and take over your yard.

You can also hang bunches of dried peppermint in your home to repel insects indoors.

Peppermint essential oil can be added to water and sprayed to keep insects at bay. Mix a few drops of the oil with water in a spray bottle, and you’re ready to go.

Peppermint oil can also be mixed with coconut for a natural bug-repellent lotion.

Nevertheless, Peppermint is fantastic among plants that repel bugs.

It is easy to grow and use. Add it to your arsenal of natural bug repellents to keep your home free of pests.

3. Catnip

Catnip is a popular herb known for its effect on felines, but it is also a plant that effectively repels bugs.

This plant produces a compound called nepetalactone, which gives it its characteristic odor. This odor can deter mosquitoes, cockroaches, and other insects.

Growing catnip in your garden can help keep these pesky bugs away, making it a perfect plant for outdoor living areas.

Catnip can also be crushed and rubbed onto the skin to repel insects, or you can make tea out of the leaves and spray it around your home or garden to keep bugs at bay.

Remember that while catnip is a natural and safe insect repellent, it can attract cats to your garden, so be prepared for some furry visitors.

Nonetheless, catnip is a fantastic choice for a natural bug-repellent plant, so consider adding it to your garden for functional and decorative purposes.

4. Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums, also known as mums, are beautiful additions to your garden and work as effective natural bug repellents.

Their pyrethrum compound, found in the flower head, is a powerful insecticide that kills and repels a wide range of insects, including mosquitoes, roaches, and ants.

These flowers are easy to care for and grow in full sunlight and well-draining soil. You can plant them in your garden or pots and containers for your patio or balcony.

Just remove the spent flowers regularly to encourage new growth and blooming.

In addition to their bug-repelling properties, chrysanthemums come in various colors and sizes, making them a versatile option for any garden or outdoor space.

They can even be cut and used as fresh flowers for your home décor.

However, it’s important to note that while chrysanthemums can effectively repel bugs, their pyrethrum compound can also be toxic to other insects and beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Therefore, it’s best to use them strategically and sparingly and to avoid spraying or applying them directly on plants that rely on these beneficial insects for pollination.

5. Garlic

Garlic is not only a great ingredient in the kitchen, but it also has properties that make it one of the plants that repel bugs.

The strong odor of garlic repels mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects that may carry diseases. You can plant garlic in your garden or keep garlic cloves near windows and doors to repel bugs.

Alternatively, you can mix garlic with water and spray it on plants to protect them from pests. Garlic is also an excellent natural pesticide for your garden.

It’s important to note that while garlic is safe for humans, large amounts can harm dogs and cats.

Therefore, keeping your pets away from any garlic you use for pest control is important.

Garlic repels insects and has numerous health benefits for humans.

It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce the risk of certain diseases.

Incorporating garlic into your diet can have positive effects on your overall health.

So, if you’re looking for plants that repel bugs, consider adding garlic to your garden or using it as a pest control spray.

You’ll protect your plants and enjoy the health benefits of this versatile vegetable.

6. Petunias

Petunias are popular garden plants in various colors, making them a great choice for adding color and charm to your home.

But did you know that they are also effective plants that repel bugs?

Petunias contain pyrethrum, a chemical used in many commercial insecticides.

This chemical has been proven to repel many insects, including aphids, mosquitoes, and squash bugs.

Petunias are easy to grow and thrive in full sun and well-draining soil.

They require regular watering and occasional fertilization to ensure healthy growth and continuous blooming.

You can plant them in pots, hanging baskets, or garden beds to create a colorful bug-repellent barrier around your home.

To use petunias as a bug repellent, plant them around the perimeter of your garden or in areas where insects are a problem.

You can also use petunia sprays or extracts by steeping the flowers in water or oil.

However, dilute the solution before applying it to your skin or using it in your home.

Petunias repel bugs and add a delightful fragrance and beauty to your surroundings.

Because they are easy to grow and have bug-repelling properties, they are a must-have in any bug-fighting garden.

7. Nasturtium

Nasturtium is a popular garden plant due to its colorful and edible flowers. But did you know that it also works as one of the plants that repel bugs?

Its strong scent helps repel pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and squash bugs. Nasturtium is easy to grow and thrives in sunny locations with well-draining soil.

You can plant it near your vegetable garden to protect your crops from insects or use it as a border plant to keep bugs away from your patio or deck.

To maximize nasturtium’s bug-repelling properties, crush the leaves and flowers and apply the juice to your skin as a natural insect repellent.

Nasturtium’s peppery scent can help keep mosquitoes, ants, and flies away.

In addition to its bug-repelling properties, nasturtium is also beneficial for your garden.

It attracts pollinators like bees and hummingbirds and improves soil health. Its colorful flowers make a beautiful addition to your garden.

In summary, nasturtium is a natural and easy plant that repels bugs from your home and garden.

Nasturtiums are easy to grow and maintain, and their peppery scent makes them a natural insect repellent.

Try planting some nasturtiums in your garden today and enjoy their benefits.

8. Mosquito Shoo Geranium

The Mosquito Shoo Geranium, also known as Pelargonium citrosum, is a popular plant known for its ability to ward off mosquitoes.

This plant contains citronella oil, a natural insect repellent that helps keep bugs at bay.

However, The Mosquito Shoo Geranium is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.

It produces small pink flowers, and its leaves emit a lemon-like fragrance. You can keep this plant in a pot or your garden.

Place Mosquito Shoo Geranium near doorways, windows, and other entry points to maximize its bug-repelling properties. You can crush and rub the leaves onto your skin as a natural mosquito repellent.

This plant is also known to deter other insects, such as flies, gnats, and ticks, in addition to mosquitoes.

Nevertheless, the Mosquito Shoo Geranium is a great alternative to chemical insect repellents and adds a refreshing fragrance to your home.

To naturally keep mosquitoes and other bugs away, consider adding the Mosquito Shoo Geranium to your garden or indoor space.

It is not only plants that repel bugs but also add beauty to your surroundings.

9. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is an essential oil used in aromatherapy and one of the plants that repel bugs. Its strong scent can ward off mosquitoes, ticks, and other pesky insects.

Eucalyptus is an easy plant to grow and requires little maintenance. It can be planted in a pot, placed around the house, or grown in the garden.

It’s important to note that while eucalyptus repels bugs, it can also attract bees.

So, it’s important to keep that in mind when placing it around your home. Eucalyptus leaves can also be crushed and rubbed onto your skin as a natural bug repellent.

Also, eucalyptus can make candles or other homemade bug-repellent products.

Eucalyptus is a great natural solution for keeping bugs away from your home without relying on chemical bug sprays.

10. Bee Balm

Bee balm, also known as Monarda, is a flowering plant from the mint family. Its leaves and flowers release a fragrant aroma that repels mosquitoes and other insects.

In addition to its bug-repelling properties, bee balm’s bright, colorful blooms make it a beautiful addition to any garden.

Bee balm is easy to grow and care for and can be grown in sunny and partially shaded areas.

It requires well-drained soil and regular watering, but be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

To use bee balm as a natural bug repellent, you can crush the leaves and rub them on your skin or clothing.

Alternatively, you can boil the leaves and flowers to create a spray that can be applied to the skin or around the home to keep bugs away.

Aside from its bug-repelling properties, bee balm is also a popular ingredient in teas and herbal remedies for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

So, not only will it help keep bugs away, but it can also have health benefits.

Incorporating bee balm into your garden or home is a great way to naturally repel bugs while adding color and beauty to your surroundings.

11. Ageratum

If you’re looking for plants that repel bugs, a way to keep mosquitoes and other pests away from your home, Ageratum might be the perfect solution.

This pretty, low-maintenance plant emits a scent that repels bugs, including mosquitoes, aphids, and whiteflies.

Ageratum plants easily grow and thrive in full sun or partial shade. They produce lovely blue, pink, or white flowers that bloom all summer.

They also don’t require much watering or fertilizer, making them a great choice for busy gardeners.

To use Ageratum as a natural bug repellent, plant it around the perimeter of your garden, patio, or outdoor seating area.

You can crush the leaves and flowers to release the scent and spread it more effectively.

Remember that Ageratum can be toxic if ingested by pets or humans, so it’s important to use it safely and keep it out of reach.

With that in mind, it’s a fantastic option for anyone looking for plants that repel bugs and enjoy a pest-free outdoor space.

12. Lantana

Lantana is a beautiful flowering plant often used for its vibrant colors and attractive appearance. But did you know it’s also an excellent natural repellent for bugs?

Lantana contains a chemical compound called lantadene, which is highly effective at deterring various pests, including mosquitoes, flies, and ants.

To use lantana as one of the plants that repel bugs, plant it around the perimeter of your home or garden.

You can also crush the leaves and apply them to your skin for protection. Just be careful not to ingest the leaves, as they can be toxic if eaten in large quantities.

One of the great things about lantana is that it’s relatively easy to grow and care for. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil but can also tolerate some shade and moisture.

It’s also a drought-tolerant plant, which makes it a great option for areas with limited water resources.

Aside from its bug-repelling properties, lantana is also known for its ability to attract butterflies and hummingbirds to your garden.

So, it will not only keep pests at bay but also add a touch of natural beauty to your outdoor space.

Lantana is a great natural alternative to chemical bug sprays and repellents.

With its colorful blooms and effective pest-deterrent properties, it’s worth considering for your home or garden.

13. Venus Fly Trap

Regarding bug-repelling plants, the Venus Fly Trap is one of the most unique and interesting options.

These carnivorous plants have adapted to survive in poor soil conditions by supplementing their nutrients with bugs they catch with their iconic traps.

But beyond being an interesting plant, Venus Fly Traps are also incredibly effective at keeping bugs away.

Their sticky traps are designed to catch small insects, such as flies and mosquitoes, which can be nuisances to humans.

While Venus Fly Traps are certainly not a traditional option for bug control, they can be a great addition to any garden or outdoor area where bugs tend to congregate.

Plus, they’re an excellent conversation starter and a great way to educate others about the fascinating world of plants and insects.

Just be sure to place your Venus Fly Trap in a spot with plenty of sunlight and moisture.

They thrive in warm, humid environments and require plenty of water to keep their traps sticky and functional.

With a little care and attention, you can enjoy the benefits of this unique and effective bug-repelling plant.

14. Lavender

Lavender is a beautiful and fragrant herb popular in perfumes, essential oils, and teas.

However, it is loved by humans as well as pests like mosquitoes and flies. This is where its bug-repelling properties come into play.

The scent of lavender is known to repel many types of insects. Its essential oils contain compounds that irritate bugs’ sensory systems and make them want to avoid the area.

Planting lavender in your garden or keeping a pot near your windows or doors can help keep mosquitoes and flies at bay.

One way to use lavender’s bug-repelling properties is by making a lavender sachet.

Fill a small fabric bag with dried lavender and place it in your closet, dresser, or car to keep insects away.

You can also make a homemade lavender spray by steeping lavender leaves and flowers in boiling water and then letting it cool.

Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and use it as a natural insect repellent.

On the other hand, Lavender is a wonderful plant for repelling bugs in your garden or home because of its beautiful purple blooms and ability to repel bugs naturally.

Plus, its relaxing scent will give you a sense of calm and peace.

15. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a plant commonly known for its soothing properties.

It is often used to alleviate stress and anxiety, but did you know it is also an effective plant that repels bugs?

Its lemon-scented leaves produce a natural chemical called citronellal, which repels mosquitoes, gnats, and other flying insects.

To use this natural insect repellent, you can crush lemon balm leaves and rub them directly onto your skin or use them in a homemade insect spray.

Plant lemon balm around your garden or outdoor sitting area to naturally repel bugs.

This herb is easy to grow and great for cooking, making it a versatile addition to your garden.

One thing to note is that lemon balm can also attract bees and other pollinators, so it’s important to keep that in mind if you or anyone around you has a bee allergy.

But if you’re looking for a natural way to keep mosquitoes and other pests at bay, adding lemon balm to your garden or homemade insect repellent is worth considering.

16. Marigolds

Marigolds are a popular annual flower that adds vibrant yellow, orange, and red pops to gardens.

But did you know that they also repel various bugs, including mosquitoes, aphids, and whiteflies?

The scent of marigolds is thought to be unappealing to these pests, making them an effective natural repellent.

They also contain toxic compounds to certain insects, making them an even stronger deterrent.

One way to use marigolds to repel bugs is to plant them around the perimeter of your garden or in pots near outdoor seating areas.

You can cut and crush the flowers and leaves to release their scent or make a homemade insect spray by boiling marigolds in water and straining the mixture.

In addition to their bug-repelling properties, marigolds are easy to care for and bloom for an extended period.

They are also a popular companion plant for vegetables like tomatoes and peppers, as they are thought to improve soil health and attract beneficial insects like ladybugs.

So if you’re looking for a beautiful and effective way to keep bugs at bay, consider adding marigolds to your garden this season.

17. Citronella

Citronella is a common ingredient in many bug repellents. The plant itself is a perennial grass that has a distinct citrus scent.

Citronella oil, extracted from the plant, is one of the plants that repel bugs and has been used for years in candles, sprays, and other products.

The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and thrives in warm, humid climates.

Citronella can be used as a bug repellent, and you can either plant it in your garden or patio or use its oil in various forms.

One of the easiest ways to use citronella oil is to light a candle infused with it.

The scent is released into the air and repels mosquitoes and other insects.

You can also use citronella oil in a diffuser or mix it with water to create a spray.

While citronella is generally safe, some people may be allergic to it. It’s best to test it out first before using it in large amounts.

Also, remember that citronella doesn’t eliminate bugs but repels them. It’s still a great addition to your arsenal of natural bug repellents.

Overall, citronella is an effective and natural way to keep bugs away. Plus, its fresh scent adds a nice touch to any outdoor space. Give it a try and see how it works for you!

18. Basil

Basil is an herb known for its culinary uses, but it’s also great for repelling mosquitoes and flies.

Its pungent scent makes it such an effective bug repellent. It’s also easy to grow and can be used in various dishes.

Basil is a natural bug repellent. Plant it around your patio or garden, crush and rub the leaves onto your skin, and you’ll keep mosquitoes and flies away.

Alternatively, you can make a basil spray by steeping fresh basil leaves in hot water, straining the mixture, and adding it to a spray bottle.

Spray this mixture around your home or on your skin to repel bugs.

Aside from being one of the plants that repel bugs’ properties, basil is also packed with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory benefits. It can help alleviate stress and improve digestion as well.

Basil is not only a great way to keep bugs away, but it can also be a valuable addition to your overall health and well-being.

Whether you use basil in cooking or as a bug repellent, it’s a versatile herb that deserves a spot in your garden. Try it and see how it can benefit you and your family.