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.
Pests it repels: Flies, moths, roaches
How it works: The essential oils in bay leaves give off a strong scent that disrupts insect behavior and feeding patterns.
Where to plant: In containers near doors and windows, or keep dried leaves in pantry shelves.
Bonus: Use the leaves to season soups and stews.
Pests it repels: Aphids, beetles, ants, mosquitoes
How it works: Garlic emits sulfur compounds through its roots and leaves, creating a natural barrier against many pests.
Where to plant: Around vegetable patches or borders.
Bonus: Strong natural antibiotic properties for you — and a powerful scent barrier for bugs.
Pests it repels: Aphids, tomato hornworms, squash bugs, leafhoppers
How it works: These bright annuals release a light fragrance that repels soft-bodied insects.
Where to plant: Flower beds, hanging baskets, or near vegetable gardens.
Bonus: Low maintenance and continuous blooms.
Pests it repels: Mosquitoes and various beetles
How it works: Oregano contains carvacrol and thymol — powerful natural compounds that deter bugs.
Where to plant: In herb gardens or pots on the kitchen windowsill.
Bonus: A must-have in Mediterranean dishes.
Pests it repels: Mosquitoes and gnats
How it works: Like its cousin mint, lemon balm gives off a potent citrus-mint aroma that keeps flying pests away.
Where to plant: In containers (it spreads quickly like mint).
Bonus: Calming tea ingredient that’s great for stress and digestion.
Pests it repels: Aphids, carrot flies, cabbage worms
How it works: The sulfur-rich smell of allium plants confuses and wards off pests trying to find their favorite crops.
Where to plant: Between rows of vegetables or flowers.
Bonus: Adds bold flavors to any savory meal.
Pests it repels: Ants, fleas, beetles, flies, and even mice
How it works: Tansy contains thujone, a potent compound that wards off crawling and flying insects.
Where to plant: Around compost bins, near outdoor seating, or at the garden’s edge.
Caution: Tansy can be toxic if ingested in large amounts by pets or humans — best kept in controlled areas.
Bonus: Stunning yellow blooms that last through summer.
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.
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