Continuing our list of natural pest-fighting plants, these final seven picks are not only effective at keeping nuisances away — they also add life, beauty, and fragrance to your space.
9. Bay Laurel (Bay Leaf Plant)
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Pests it repels: Flies, moths, roaches
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How it works: The essential oils in bay leaves give off a strong scent that disrupts insect behavior and feeding patterns.
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Where to plant: In containers near doors and windows, or keep dried leaves in pantry shelves.
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Bonus: Use the leaves to season soups and stews.
10. Garlic
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Pests it repels: Aphids, beetles, ants, mosquitoes
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How it works: Garlic emits sulfur compounds through its roots and leaves, creating a natural barrier against many pests.
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Where to plant: Around vegetable patches or borders.
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Bonus: Strong natural antibiotic properties for you — and a powerful scent barrier for bugs.
11. Petunias
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Pests it repels: Aphids, tomato hornworms, squash bugs, leafhoppers
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How it works: These bright annuals release a light fragrance that repels soft-bodied insects.
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Where to plant: Flower beds, hanging baskets, or near vegetable gardens.
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Bonus: Low maintenance and continuous blooms.
12. Oregano
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Pests it repels: Mosquitoes and various beetles
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How it works: Oregano contains carvacrol and thymol — powerful natural compounds that deter bugs.
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Where to plant: In herb gardens or pots on the kitchen windowsill.
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Bonus: A must-have in Mediterranean dishes.
13. Lemon Balm
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Pests it repels: Mosquitoes and gnats
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How it works: Like its cousin mint, lemon balm gives off a potent citrus-mint aroma that keeps flying pests away.
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Where to plant: In containers (it spreads quickly like mint).
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Bonus: Calming tea ingredient that’s great for stress and digestion.
14. Alliums (Onion Family: Chives, Leeks, Garlic, etc.)
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Pests it repels: Aphids, carrot flies, cabbage worms
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How it works: The sulfur-rich smell of allium plants confuses and wards off pests trying to find their favorite crops.
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Where to plant: Between rows of vegetables or flowers.
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Bonus: Adds bold flavors to any savory meal.
15. Tansy
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Pests it repels: Ants, fleas, beetles, flies, and even mice
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How it works: Tansy contains thujone, a potent compound that wards off crawling and flying insects.
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Where to plant: Around compost bins, near outdoor seating, or at the garden’s edge.
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Caution: Tansy can be toxic if ingested in large amounts by pets or humans — best kept in controlled areas.
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Bonus: Stunning yellow blooms that last through summer.
🌼 Final Thoughts: Bringing Balance to Your Space
Pest control doesn’t always have to come from sprays and chemicals. With a little planning, you can create a living defense system that’s not only safe and eco-friendly, but also beautiful, fragrant, and useful in the kitchen.
By combining these pest-repelling plants — indoors and outdoors — you’ll enjoy fewer bugs, healthier plants, and a more vibrant, functional space.
