Discover the top 10 plants that naturally repel pests like insects and rodents. Learn how to use them in your garden for a healthier, eco-friendly space.

Are you tired of pests munching on your garden or buzzing around your home? I get it—I’ve been there too. Over my 10 years of gardening, I’ve battled everything from aphids to mosquitoes, and I’ve learned that nature has some amazing solutions. That’s why I’m excited to share my list of the top 10 plants that repel pests. These plants don’t just keep bugs and rodents away—they also make your garden prettier, smell better, and feel more inviting.
In this article, I’ll walk you through each plant, explain what pests they tackle, and share how I’ve used them in my own garden. Whether you’re looking for outdoor plants that repel pests, indoor plants that keep bugs away, or companion plants that protect your veggies, I’ve got you covered. Let’s get started!
Why Use Plants to Repel Pests?
Have you ever wondered why some gardens seem pest-free while others are a bug buffet? It’s often about what you plant. Before I dive into the list, let me tell you why I love using plants to repel pests instead of chemicals:
- Safer for everyone: No harsh toxins around kids, pets, or pollinators like bees.
- Good for the planet: They don’t pollute soil or water like pesticides can.
- Double duty: Many of these plants look great or taste good too—like herbs you can cook with!
- Budget-friendly: Plant them once, and they keep working year after year.
In my garden, switching to natural pest control has been a game-changer. Ready to see which plants can help you do the same?
Top 10 Plants That Repel Pests
Here’s my go-to list of plants that repel pests, based on years of trial and error in my own backyard. Each one comes with a story, some tips, and answers to questions you might ask—like “What plants repel mosquitoes?” or “How do these keep bugs away?”
1. Marigolds

Marigolds are my secret weapon. These cheerful flowers don’t just brighten up a garden—they send pests running. They produce a compound called thiophene, which nematodes and insects like aphids hate. I planted marigolds around my tomatoes one summer, and the aphid problem I’d been fighting? Practically gone.
- Pests repelled: Nematodes, aphids, whiteflies, beetles.
- How to use: Plant them as a border or mix them with veggies like tomatoes and peppers.
- My tip: Go for French marigolds—they’re extra tough on pests.
2. Lavender

Lavender is a dream come true. Its scent is heavenly to me, but pests like moths, fleas, and mosquitoes can’t stand it. I’ve got lavender near my patio, and it’s made summer evenings so much more enjoyable—no more swatting flies while I sip my iced tea.
- Pests repelled: Moths, fleas, flies, mosquitoes.
- How to use: Plant near seating areas or doorways. Indoors, try dried lavender sachets for moths.
- My tip: It loves sun and well-drained soil—perfect for dry spots.
3. Basil

Who doesn’t love basil? It’s not just for pasta—it’s one of those plants that repel flies and mosquitoes too. I keep potted basil on my kitchen windowsill, and it’s like an invisible shield against flies. Plus, I can snip some for dinner anytime.
- Pests repelled: Mosquitoes, flies, beetles.
- How to use: Grow near windows or doors, indoors or out.
- My tip: Pinch off the flowers to keep the leaves—and the pest-repelling scent—strong.
4. Mint

Mint is a powerhouse for pest control, but it’s a bit of a wild child. Its scent drives away ants, mosquitoes, and even mice. I once had an ant trail in my kitchen—planted some mint in a pot nearby, and they disappeared. Just be careful—it spreads fast, so I always use containers.
- Pests repelled: Ants, mosquitoes, mice, spiders.
- How to use: Plant in pots near entryways or garden edges.
- My tip: Peppermint has the strongest kick, but spearmint works too.
5. Rosemary

Rosemary’s woody aroma is another pest-repeller I swear by. It’s great for keeping mosquitoes and cabbage moths away. I’ve got it near my outdoor seating, and it doubles as a cooking herb—talk about a win-win!
- Pests repelled: Mosquitoes, flies, cabbage moths.
- How to use: Plant near patios or burn sprigs to shoo bugs during barbecues.
- My tip: It thrives in full sun—perfect for hot, dry climates.
6. Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums, or “mums,” are more than fall decor. They contain pyrethrum, a natural bug-killer used in insecticides. I’ve planted them in my veggie garden, and they’ve kept aphids and spider mites off my crops.
- Pests repelled: Aphids, spider mites, ants, roaches.
- How to use: Scatter them throughout your garden or near problem areas.
- My tip: Steep the flowers in water for a DIY pest spray.
7. Petunias

Petunias are gorgeous and tough on pests—perfect as companion plants that repel pests in veggie gardens. I’ve used them near my tomatoes to stop hornworms, and they’ve never let me down.
- Pests repelled: Aphids, tomato hornworms, squash bugs.
- How to use: Plant with veggies or as a border.
- My tip: Pick scented varieties for the best results.
8. Garlic

Garlic isn’t just for warding off vampires—it’s a pest-repelling superstar. Its pungent smell keeps aphids, slugs, and even deer away. I plant it among my roses, and it’s saved them from aphid attacks more than once.
- Pests repelled: Aphids, slugs, snails, deer.
- How to use: Plant cloves near vulnerable plants or along edges.
- My tip: Make a garlic spray for extra protection—blend cloves with water and spritz.
9. Lemongrass

Lemongrass is my go-to for mosquitoes—it’s packed with citronella, the stuff in mosquito candles. I grow it in big pots on my deck, and it’s made summer nights so much calmer.
- Pests repelled: Mosquitoes.
- How to use: Plant in pots or beds near outdoor spaces.
- My tip: Crush the leaves to boost the scent.
10. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a triple threat: edible, pretty, and pest-repellent. Their peppery leaves keep whiteflies and squash bugs away. I plant them near my cucumbers, and they’ve been a lifesaver.
- Pests repelled: Whiteflies, aphids, squash bugs.
- How to use: Grow near veggies or as a trap crop to lure pests away.
- My tip: They love poor soil, so skip the fertilizer.
Indoor Plants That Repel Pests
Want to keep bugs out of your home too? Some of these plants that keep bugs away indoors work great in pots. Here’s what I’ve tried:
- Basil: Perfect on a windowsill to stop flies.
- Lavender: Potted or in sachets for moths and flies.
- Mint: A pot near the door keeps ants out.
- Rosemary: Near a window to deter bugs.
They’re not as strong indoors as outside, but they’re a good start. For bigger pest problems, I pair them with traps or sprays.
Tips for Using Pest-Repelling Plants Effectively
After years of experimenting, here’s what I’ve learned to make these plants that naturally repel pests work their best:
- Place them smartly: Put them where pests enter or near plants they attack.
- Mix it up: Use different plants for different pests—like marigolds for aphids and mint for ants.
- Keep them healthy: Water and prune so they stay potent.
- Team them up: Combine with tricks like companion planting for extra power.
Conclusion
Switching to plants that repel pests has transformed my garden—and it can do the same for yours. From marigolds to nasturtiums, these 10 plants are my natural pest control squad. They’re safe, beautiful, and effective, whether you’re protecting veggies or enjoying a bug-free patio.
Ready to try them out? Head to your garden center, grab a few, and watch the pests disappear. Have a favorite pest-repelling plant? Let me know—I’d love to hear your stories!