12 Indoor Plants That Repel Insects

I love summer, but it also brings the annual onslaught of mozzies, flies, cockroaches and ants. To be honest, it sometimes feels like an overwhelming invasion of unwanted guests.  

It feels like a necessity to keep bug spray on hand, but I can’t help but be conscious of the chemicals I’m spraying into the air and onto my skin. 

With some research, I’ve found that the strategic use of plants has really knocked down the number of pests in and around my home, particularly mozzies. This means that Mortein spends a little more time in the cupboard, and there are fewer toxic chemicals floating around my house. 

Here are some of the best plants to keep in your house to keep the bugs OUT of your home! And the added bonus? Your home will look and smell amazing. 

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Fortunately, Mother Nature has a way to combat pests and keep them away. It's not as exciting as Plants vs Zombies, but Plants vs Pests is a more realistic situation. You see, some plants give off specific fragrances or scents that pests just can't stand. 

Here are some plants you can place around the house to make pests think twice about going anywhere near you. 

1. Basil

Any self-respecting chef will always have basil leaves handy. They're great in salads, pasta, soups, and many other recipes, but insects aren't such a fan of basil. Place pots of basil by your doors and effectively keep away house flies and mosquitoes! Best of all, Basil is easy to grow! 

2. Chrysanthemums

They are also known to have the ability to purify indoor air and remove toxins. More than that, chrysanthemums are also potent at repelling roaches, ants, ticks, silverfish, lice, fleas, and bedbugs. Chrysanthemums can also make a space look pretty, so don't be afraid to place them all over the house. 

3. Lavender

Lavender has such a lovely scent. It helps us relax, relieves stress, and promotes healthy sleep. What's funny is that the same smell we love is what drives pests away!  

Lavender has been used to perfume clothes and repel moths, which explains why Grandma was in the habit of placing bundles of lavender in the closet. Plant them near entryways to repel mosquitoes, fleas, moths, and even some rodents. 

4. Lemongrass

The citronella found in lemongrass is a staple ingredient in insecticides and repellents. It's a pleasant smell to us humans, but to mosquitoes, it's a different thing! 

Avoid using citronella candles, though, as they are often laden with toxic chemicals, plus the combustion produces toxins in the air. Instead, opt to plant lemongrass where mosquitoes could enter, near doors and windows. 

5. Marigolds

Various types of marigolds produce a scent that repels mosquitoes, rodents, and even rabbits! These pretty flowers are highly recommended to be planted around the house or along the borders of flower beds. 

6. Mint

Like lavender and marigold, mint is great at keeping those pesky mozzies at bay. Aromatic oils from mint can also be used to make a mosquito repellent spray by mixing the oils with cider vinegar and vodka. Furthermore, mint boasts antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it an excellent choice for natural cleaning solutions. 

7. Rosemary

Rosemary is another herb that's a favourite of many accomplished chefs. And like most herbs, rosemary can be planted indoors or outdoors. Place it near doors and windows to stop mosquitoes' cold. Or, place sprigs of rosemary in clothes drawers to repel silverfish and moths. 

8. Catnip

Catnip is a natural mozzie and cockroach repellent. It’s easy to grow indoors in pots and doesn’t need much care. If you’ve got cats, they’ll enjoy it too — just keep it out of reach if your pets they get a little too excited.

9. Citronella

Known as the “mosquito plant”, citronella gives off a strong lemony scent that masks the smells mozzies are drawn to. It thrives in bright, sunny spots and is simple to maintain indoors, making it a handy choice for bug-free living.

10. Scented Geraniums

These colourful plants add beauty as well as function. Their fresh, citrus-like fragrance is pleasant for people but keeps flies and mozzies away. They’re fairly low-maintenance, needing only moderate light and occasional watering.

11. Bay Laurel

A potted bay tree is both practical and protective. Its glossy leaves repel pantry moths, cockroaches, and flies while also adding flavour to your cooking. Hardy and easy to prune, bay trees suit most households.

12. Sage

Sage’s aromatic leaves discourage flies and mozzies, while also being a versatile kitchen herb. It’s easy to grow in pots, forgiving if you forget to water now and then, and ideal for those who aren’t seasoned gardeners.

Final Thoughts

If you care about air quality and minimising harmful bacteria and pollutants in your home, you may want to think about having your carpet and air conditioner cleaned. Both of these affect air quality in your home. The carpet acts as an air filter by trapping airborne contaminants, but this only works when the carpet is clean. Any filter gets clogged! And your air con isn't at its best when it's full of gunk. Contact us to discover the best options for cleaner air in your home.