14 Best Herbs & Plants That Naturally Repel Insects 🌿

Insects—though fascinating—can become unwelcome visitors in our gardens, patios, and homes. While chemical repellents are commonly used, many of us seek **natural, eco‑friendly alternatives** that are safe for our families and pets.

This guide covers **14 powerful herbs and plants** that do more than beautify—they act as natural insect repellents. You’ll learn how to grow them effectively, deploy them strategically, and even craft **DIY sprays** and remedies. Plus, I’ve included expert insights, nutrition/benefits tables, safety advice, and FAQs to make this post truly comprehensive.

— By GARDAN TENGER

Why Choose Plants as Insect Repellents?

• 🌱 Eco‑Friendly: Using plants avoids toxic chemicals and supports biodiversity.
• 👪 Safe for People & Pets: When used wisely, these herbs pose no risks indoors or outdoors.
• 🍴 Multifunctional: Majority are culinary, medicinal, or decorative—you get dual utility.
• 🧑‍🌾 Low Maintenance: Easy to grow in containers or garden beds with minimal care.

Meet the Experts

“Herb‑based repellents offer a balanced way to manage pests,” says Dr. Leila Nour, botanical chemist. “Many of these plants contain volatile oils—like citronella, nepetalactone, and pyrethrum—that insects detest but humans enjoy.”

“Garden placement matters,” adds Prof. Mark Benson, horticulturalist. “Planting lavender near doorways or basil along seating areas can significantly reduce mosquito activity.”

1. Lavender (Lavandula)

Lavender’s sweet, calming scent is beloved by people—and loathed by mosquitoes, moths, and flies.

Best Uses

• Plant near patios, doorways, and outdoor seating zones.
• Use dried lavender sachets in drawers and closets to repel moths.

Growing Tips

• Full sun (6–8 hours/day)
• Well‑draining, slightly alkaline soil
• Prune after flowering to encourage bushiness

2. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Basil’s strong aroma is a natural mosquito deterrent and doubles as a kitchen essential.

Best Uses

• Potted basil on windowsills or outdoor dining spaces.
• Crush a few leaves and rub onto the skin for direct repellent action.

Growing Tips

• Consistent moisture (never soggy)
• 6–8 hours of sunlight daily
• Harvest frequently to keep it lush

3. Mint (Mentha)

Mint’s pungent fragrance repels mosquitoes, ants, and flies, and makes charming tea.

Best Uses

• Grow in containers to control spreading.
• Crush leaves into water for a DIY mist spray around seating or entry areas.

Growing Tips

• Moist soil preferred
• Partial shade to full sun
• Trim often to prevent root‑runaway

4. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosemary’s woody scent deters mosquitoes, cabbage moths, and carrot flies.

Best Uses

• Toss sprigs into fire pits or barbecues—smoke helps drive insects off.
• Keep potted rosemary near outdoor seating spaces.

Growing Tips

• Full sun and excellent drainage
• Occasional watering—drought tolerant once established

5. Marigolds (Tagetes)

Bright, cheerful marigolds repel aphids, mosquitoes, and garden nematodes.

Best Uses

• Border vegetable beds with marigolds to protect crops.
• Use near patios or entrances.

Growing Tips

• Full sun, loose well‑drained soil
• Deadhead frequently to bloom longer

6. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)

This plant contains natural citronella, effective against mosquitoes.

Best Uses

• Plant near decks, patios, or sitting areas.
• Extract oil or crush leaves for DIY sprays.

Growing Tips

• Tropical conditions preferred (warmth + humidity)
• Full sun and moist, rich soil

7. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Thyme repels mosquitoes and whiteflies with its earthy, peppery scent.

Best Uses

• Rub crushed leaves on your skin to deter mosquitoes.
• Use as a fragrant ground‑cover under sunny garden paths.

Growing Tips

• Dry, well‑drained soil under full sun
• Minimal watering after establishment

8. Citronella Grass (Cymbopogon nardus)

The classic mosquito-repelling plant, laden with citronella oil.

Best Uses

• Plant in large containers around outdoor living areas.
• Harvest leaves to make homemade citronella candles or oil.

Growing Tips

• Full sun and rich, moist sandy soil
• Protect from frost—tropical/subtropical climates suit best

9. Chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum spp.)

Chrysanthemums naturally contain pyrethrum, a plant‑based insecticide that affects ants, fleas, roaches, ticks, and more.

Best Uses

• Plant near entryways or in vegetable gardens.
• Dry petals and infuse to make pest‑deterring sprays.

Growing Tips

• Rich, well‑drained soil with full sun
• Fertilize during active growth

10. Sage (Salvia officinalis)

The smoky, herbal scent of sage is disliked by mosquitoes, flies, and general garden pests.

Best Uses

• Burn sage leaves outdoors for insect-repelling smoke.
• Use potted sage near windows or doorways.

Growing Tips

• Full sun, well‑drained soil
• Moderate watering; avoid soggy roots

11. Petunias (Petunia spp.)

Petunias help repel aphids, squash bugs, and tomato worms.

Best Uses

• Mass plant in hanging baskets or edges of vegetable patches.
• Aesthetic borders that work naturally as pest barriers.

Growing Tips

• Full sun, consistent watering
• Deadhead to encourage repeat blooming

12. Garlic (Allium sativum)

Garlic’s sulfurous aroma repels Japanese beetles, mosquitoes, and aphids.

Best Uses

• Interplant garlic with other crops to protect them.
• Make garlic-infused sprays to mist around plants or walkways.

Growing Tips

• Loose, well‑drained soil in full sun
• Plant in fall (if your climate cools) or early spring

13. Bay Leaves (Laurus nobilis)

Bay leaves serve as a natural deterrent to flies, cockroaches, and pantry moths.

Best Uses

• Place dried bay leaves in cupboards, pantry shelves, or near trash bins.
• Grow bay laurel near windows or entry zones.

Growing Tips

• Full sun, well‑drained soil
• Can be container‑grown and pruned for shape

14. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Catnip contains nepetalactone—a compound highly effective at repelling mosquitoes, flies, and cockroaches.

Best Uses

• Grow in garden beds or containers as a bug‑deterrent border.
• Crush leaves into water or oil to make effective DIY repellent sprays.

Growing Tips

• Full sun, well‑drained soil
• Moderate watering; prune to maintain shape

🛡️ Tips to Maximise Effectiveness

• Strategic Placement: Plant near doors, windows, patios, and seating zones.
• Layer Variety: Use multiple species to deter a broad spectrum of pests.
• Prune Often: Trimming releases essential oils and promotes plant health.
• Make DIY Sprays: Crush leaves or use essential oils to create natural repellent sprays—safe and effective.

📊 Table: Nutrition & Health Benefits

⚠️ Health & Safety Tips

• Test skin sensitivity: Crush a leaf and apply a small patch on your arm—stop if irritation occurs.
• Indoor caution: Only use sachets or dried leaves; avoid essential oil diffusion around pets without vet approval.
• Essential oil dilution: Mix 1–2 drops per teaspoon of carrier oil (e.g. coconut) before applying to skin.
• Avoid ingestion of non‑edible plant parts unless labeled edible or approved by a health professional.

🧴 DIY Spray Recipes

Simple Herbal Spray

• Fill a spray bottle with water plus a handful of fresh leaves (mint, basil, catnip).
• Let steep overnight, strain, add 1 tsp witch hazel or apple cider vinegar.
• Shake and mist around garden furniture or doorways.

Essential Oil Spray

• 10 drops citronella or lemongrass oil + 5 drops thyme or lavender oil
• Mix with 2tbsp witch hazel or vodka, then add ½ cup water
• Shake well before each use and spray sparingly on exposed skin or surfaces.

🍽️ Related Recipes

Check out delicious recipes that use many of these herbs on this site—from lavender‑lemon sorbets to basil‑mint pestos, rosemary grilled dishes, and garlic‑infused oils. (Link to site as specified.)

📌 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can these plants replace commercial insect repellents?
   They can significantly reduce insect presence outdoors but may not be as consistent as EPA‑registered products in high‑risk areas.
2. Are they safe to use around pets?
   In general yes—avoid essential oil sprays around cats without vet approval. Most plants are pet‑safe when intact.
3. How long do these plants remain effective?
   Release of active oils is highest right after pruning or crushing leaves and after rainfall.
4. Do runners or invasives spread quickly?
   Yes—mint can become invasive. Use containers to control growth.
5. When is the best time to plant garlic?
   Autumn or early spring depending on your climate zone.
6. Can I burn rosemary or sage daily?
   Use occasional small amounts with proper ventilation to avoid smoke inhalation.
7. Do these plants attract beneficial insects?
   Yes—marigolds and lavender attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
8. What if I have limited space?
   Use container gardening—many of these herbs thrive in pots.
9. Is it okay to mix essential oils?
   Yes, but always dilute properly and patch‑test for skin sensitivity.
10. How can I tell if it’s working?
    Fewer biting insects around planting areas and lees entry through doors/windows.

🌻 Final Thoughts

Incorporating these 14 plants into your garden or patio is a **natural, low‑impact way to keep pests at bay**. Not only do they repel insects, but most also bring culinary, medicinal, or aesthetic benefits.

Pair your gardening with smart placement, regular pruning, and DIY sprays to get the most benefit. Whether you’re cooking with basil, relaxing among lavender by the fire pit, or brewing catnip‑infused spray—you’re engaging in holistic, eco‑conscious pest management.

Ready to turn your garden into a fragrant insect‑free haven? Let me know if you want planting layouts, climate‑specific advice, or creative recipes!