Now that the weather is warming up, it’s time to start considering protection from pests like fleas and ticks. Chemical pesticides aren’t your only solution. You can help combat the problems organically and add beauty to your yard. Here are the top seven non-toxic flea and tick-repelling plants.
7 Non-Toxic Flea and Tick Repelling Plants
Like other garden pests, specific smells deter fleas and ticks. By planting these plants in your garden, you can reduce pests in your yard and avoid infestations and disease.
1. Garden Sage
Sage is a perennial herb commonly used to repel annoying pests with their pungent odor. Garden Sage grows well in sandy, loamy soil in full sun.
2. Rosemary
Rosemary is another useful herb as a pest deterrent. While a pleasant smell to humans and many animals, ticks, fleas, and other insects, like mosquitos, don’t like the smell. You can grow Rosemary in containers or plant it in a flower bed. Please make sure they get plenty of full sun and have well-draining soil.
Sweet basil and Thyme are also great natural flea and tick-repellant options.
3. Marigold
Marigolds are beautiful flowering plants that grow in a variety of growing conditions. They help repel insects, including ticks, whiteflies, and harmful nematodes.
4. Garlic
Besides its many uses in the kitchen, the strong smell of garlic repels pests. Plant it in several places in your garden to keep bugs away and have a steady supply of fresh garlic.
Fun Fact! By spreading crushed garlic cloves around your yard’s perimeter, you can keep fleas, ticks, and even deer from entering your property.
5. Catnip
Catnip is a low-growing plant that’s easy to cultivate. It provides effective protection against ticks with its intense odor. Catnip is easy to grow, and cats love the smell.
6. Rue
Rue is another natural insect repellent with metallic blue leaves. This evergreen herb is also useful as an antimicrobial and antifungal. Their smell drives off bugs, fleas, and ticks from your garden. Cats aren’t fond of the scent, so it’s also excellent at keeping cats out.
7. Penny Royal
Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) is related to the mint family and is an effective natural insect repellant. It’s easy to grow and spreads quickly. Planted in your garden with some of the other insect-repelling plants on this list can reduce the number of unwanted pests.
You may already have some of these in your garden or containers. If so, you’re closer to a safe, pest-free yard. If not, try planting some this year and keep your family and pets safer this summer.
Do you struggle with knowing how to properly care for your lawn so that it’s beautiful year-round? We get it. At Nichols Reliable Lawn Care & More, we keep your garden looking fabulous so you can do what you love. Call today! 479.502.2192