If you’re looking for plants that may help discourage pests, some are commonly used because their strong aromas can be unpleasant to certain insects or rodents. They shouldn’t be considered a guaranteed replacement for sealing entry points or proper pest control.
8 plants to consider
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Peppermint 🌿 — Its strong scent is commonly used to discourage mice and some insects.
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Lavender 💜 — The fragrance may help deter moths, flies, and some other insects.
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Basil 🌱 — Its aromatic oils can help discourage certain flies and mosquitoes.
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Rosemary 🌿 — Strong-smelling foliage may help repel some insects.
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Marigolds 🌼 — Often planted around gardens because their scent may discourage some pests.
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Catnip 🌿 — Contains nepetalactone, a compound with insect-repellent properties.
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Lemongrass 🌱 — Its citronella-related aroma can help discourage mosquitoes.
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Mint 🌿 — The strong scent may be unpleasant to some insects and rodents.
For mice and spiders: plants alone are unlikely to solve an infestation. The most effective steps are sealing cracks and gaps, removing food sources, reducing clutter, and using appropriate traps or professional pest control when necessary.
Also keep in mind that some plants—including mint and catnip—can spread aggressively, so growing them in containers can make them easier to manage.
