By Cate Misczuk, Contributing Writer
During the warmer months, pests like mosquitoes, flies, and spiders often find their way indoors. While insect repellents can be effective, they might not always be ideal, especially in sensitive areas like kitchens. Instead of relying on harsh chemicals, consider introducing some natural pest-repellent plants into your home. These plants not only add beauty to your living space but also help keep unwanted pests at bay—and in some cases, they even offer fresh herbs for cooking. Here’s a list of eight plants you should have in your home to naturally combat pests.
1. Lavender
Lavender is not just a beautiful, fragrant plant; it’s also a powerful natural pest repellent. Its scent is unpleasant to pests like moths, fleas, flies, and mosquitoes, making it an excellent addition to any home. Place a lavender plant near entry points or in rooms where pests are most common to enjoy a bug-free space with a delightful aroma.
2. Peppermint
Peppermint may have a fresh, invigorating scent for humans, but insects find it unbearable. This minty plant can keep mosquitoes, spiders, and other pests away. It’s best to grow peppermint in pots to prevent it from becoming invasive in your garden. Keep it indoors to enjoy its pest-repelling benefits year-round.
3. Lemongrass
Lemongrass is well-known for its use in citronella candles, which are commonly used to keep bugs away in the summer. Why not bring the power of citronella indoors by planting lemongrass? This grassy plant provides a continuous, natural source of citronella, helping to keep mosquitoes and flies at bay.
4. Agastache cana (Mosquito Plant)
The Agastache cana, often called the mosquito plant, resembles lavender with its tall stems and purple flowers. The plant’s scent is a natural mosquito deterrent. It’s a great option for homes with a mosquito problem, and it adds a touch of elegance to any room or garden.
5. Basil
Basil is a versatile herb commonly used in cooking, but it also doubles as an insect repellent. The oils and fragrance of basil help keep pests, including mosquitoes, away. By keeping a basil plant in your kitchen, you’ll always have fresh basil for your dishes and a natural way to keep bugs at bay.
6. Rosemary
For those who love cooking with fresh herbs, rosemary is another excellent option. Not only will you have a steady supply of aromatic sprigs for your meals, but rosemary’s strong scent also repels insects. It’s particularly effective at deterring mosquitoes, flies, and other common household pests.
7. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm has a pleasant citrus scent that naturally repels pests, especially mosquitoes. Like mint, it should be grown in a pot to prevent it from spreading too aggressively. Lemon balm also offers an additional benefit: it makes a flavorful herbal tea.
8. Marigolds
Marigolds are beautiful, vibrant flowers that can brighten up any space, indoors or outdoors. Beyond their beauty, marigolds are known for containing pyrethrum, a chemical compound commonly used in insect repellents. Keeping marigolds in your home or garden is a natural way to protect your space from a variety of pests.
By adding these plants to your home, you can effectively combat pests without relying on chemical insecticides. Whether you’re after fresh herbs for your meals or simply want a more natural way to keep bugs away, these plants offer both beauty and functionality.