24 Bug-Deterring Plants for Your Garden

Posted on 20/03/2025

When it comes to creating a serene and bug-free outdoor space, choosing the right plants can make all the difference. Certain plants have the natural ability to repel pests and insects, thus ensuring a more pleasant garden experience. Below are 24 bug-deterring plants you should consider for your garden.

1. Lavender

Lavender not only adds beauty but also repels flies, mosquitoes, and other unwanted insects. Its calming aroma is an added bonus.

2. Marigolds

Marigolds are known to repel aphids, mosquitoes, and even rabbits. Their bright flowers add a pop of color to any garden.

3. Basil

This popular herb is great for warding off mosquitoes and houseflies. Plus, it's an excellent addition to many dishes.

4. Rosemary

Besides being a fantastic culinary herb, rosemary repels mosquitoes, cabbage moths, and flies.

5. Lemongrass

With its high citronella content, lemongrass is effective in deterring mosquitoes.

6. Mint

Mint plants repel ants, flies, and mosquitoes. Be cautious, though: mint spreads quickly and can take over your garden.

7. Catnip

Catnip is ten times more effective than DEET in repelling mosquitoes. Just keep in mind that cats might be drawn to it.

8. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is particularly good at keeping mosquitoes at bay. It also has a pleasant lemony scent.

9. Petunias

These colorful flowers deter aphids, tomato hornworms, and other pests, making them a great addition to any garden.

10. Sage

This aromatic herb is effective against various insects, including mosquitoes and flies.

11. Thyme

Thyme is not only good for cooking but also helps repel cabbage worms, making it perfect for vegetable gardens.

12. Alliums

These plants, which include onions, garlic, and chives, repel a variety of pests, including aphids, carrot flies, and snails.

13. Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums contain pyrethrum, a natural insect repellent, and can deter roaches, ants, ticks, and more.

14. Bay Leaves

Bay leaves are excellent at keeping flies and moths away. A bay laurel tree can be grown in your garden for this purpose.

15. Geraniums

These brightly colored flowers repel mosquitoes and other insects, and they can be grown in pots or directly in the garden.

16. Dill

Dill is a great way to keep spider mites, aphids, and cabbage loopers at bay while being a tasty addition to many dishes.

17. Oregano

Oregano isn't just for cooking; it also repels mosquitoes and other pests. Its strong smell deters many insects.

18. Tansy

Tansy is effective against ants, mosquitoes, and many other insects. However, it tends to be invasive, so plant it with care.

19. Fennel

Fennel deters aphids and will attract beneficial insects like ladybugs which help control other pests.

20. Borage

Borage repels tomato hornworms and cabbage worms while attracting pollinators to your garden.

21. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums not only look beautiful but also repel whiteflies, squash bugs, and beetles.

22. Rue

Rue is often used to deter flies, beetles, and fleas. Be cautious, as the plant can cause skin irritation.

23. Milkweed

Milkweed is essential for monarch butterflies, but it also repels many garden pests.

24. Pitcher Plant

This carnivorous plant traps and digests insects, giving it a unique spot in a pest-control garden.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

- Natural Repellents: Use of plants can reduce the need for chemical insecticides.
- Beauty and Utility: Many of these plants are both decorative and functional.
- Culinary Uses: Herbs like basil, rosemary, and thyme can double as kitchen ingredients.

Cons:

- Invasiveness: Plants like mint and tansy can spread uncontrollably if not monitored.
- Specific Needs: Some plants have specific soil and sunlight requirements.
- Limited Range: Not all plants are effective against every type of pest.

Tips

- Strategic Planting: Place bug-deterring plants around the perimeter of your garden for maximum effectiveness.
- Companion Planting: Combine certain plants to protect each other from specific pests.
- Regular Maintenance: Ensure these plants are well-cared for to maintain their pest-repelling properties.

Takeaways

Growing bug-deterring plants offers a natural way to keep pests at bay while adding beauty and functionality to your garden. Be mindful of each plant's needs and potential drawbacks to get the most out of your garden.

Conclusion

By incorporating these 24 bug-deterring plants into your garden, you can create a more enjoyable and pest-free outdoor space. Keep in mind the pros and cons, use strategic planting, and regularly maintain your plants for the best results. Enjoy the beauty and comfort of a garden that's both vibrant and free from unwanted pests.