Ant-Repelling Plants to Protect Your Home

Natural Plants That Help Repel Ants

Certain plants naturally contain compounds that ants find unappealing, making them excellent additions to your garden or home. They not only help deter ants in an eco-friendly way but also enhance your outdoor spaces with color and fragrance. Here are some of the best plants to consider if you’re looking to keep ants away.

Which Plants Keep Ants Away?

Many plants produce strong scents and oils that ants avoid. By planting them strategically around your home and garden, you can create a natural barrier against infestations.

1. Mint

Mint is among the most effective ant-repelling plants. Its strong aroma interferes with ants’ scent trails, discouraging them from entering your home. Plant mint around the perimeter of your property or in pots near doors and windows. Since mint spreads quickly, it’s best grown in containers to keep it under control.

2. Lavender

Lavender is a versatile plant that not only helps repel ants but also adds beauty and a pleasant fragrance to your garden. Plant lavender in flower beds or keep potted plants near entryways. The strong scent is particularly disliked by ants, making it a reliable deterrent.

3. Basil

Basil is another herb known for its ant-repelling properties. Its pungent scent keeps ants at a distance. You can plant basil in your vegetable garden—especially near tomatoes—or grow it in pots indoors to deter ants naturally.

4. Marigolds

Marigolds are popular for their ability to keep a variety of pests, including ants, away. Their distinctive odor is unpleasant to ants. Plant marigolds around the edges of garden beds and near doorways to create a protective barrier. They’re easy to grow and add vibrant color to your landscape.

5. Rosemary

Rosemary is a hardy herb that ants prefer to avoid. Its woody, aromatic scent effectively deters them. Plant rosemary in garden beds, raised planters, or pots near patios and windows. It also makes a great addition to your kitchen herb garden.

6. Thyme

Thyme’s strong fragrance helps keep ants at bay. Plant thyme along garden borders, in raised beds, or in containers placed near problem areas. As a bonus, you’ll always have fresh thyme on hand for cooking.

How to Keep Ants Off Your Plants

In addition to planting ant-repelling herbs and flowers, there are several natural methods you can use to protect your plants from ant invasions:

1. Diatomaceous Earth

Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around the base of your plants. This fine, natural powder dehydrates ants on contact and is safe for people and pets when used correctly.

2. Citrus Peels

Ants dislike the scent of citrus. Scatter orange, lemon, or lime peels around garden beds and along ant trails to help deter them naturally.

Herbs That Repel Ants

Certain herbs are particularly effective because of their potent oils and scents. Consider adding these to your garden:

1. Peppermint

Peppermint’s strong aroma is one of the most effective deterrents for ants. Plant peppermint in beds or containers near entry points. You can also use peppermint essential oil diluted in water as a natural spray for extra protection.

2. Catnip

Catnip is another herb that ants avoid. Planting catnip in your garden helps deter ants and other pests. Just be mindful that cats are very attracted to it!

3. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm has a fresh, citrusy scent that ants dislike. Grow lemon balm in your garden or in pots indoors near windows and doors.

How to Get Rid of Ants on Plants

If ants are already infesting your plants, you may need to take further action to eliminate them. Here are effective natural solutions:

Borax and Sugar Bait

Mix borax with sugar or honey to create a bait that ants will carry back to their colony. The sugar attracts the ants, while the borax eliminates them. Place small amounts near ant trails and around affected plants. Use caution around children and pets, as borax can be harmful if ingested.

Vinegar Solution

Combine equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray directly onto ants and the areas they frequent. Vinegar disrupts their scent trails and kills ants on contact, while being safe for most plants.

Soap and Water Spray

Mix a few drops of dish soap into a spray bottle filled with water. Spraying this solution onto ants will suffocate them without harming your plants.

Neem Oil

Neem oil works as a natural insecticide. Dilute according to package instructions and spray onto plants and ant trails. Neem not only targets ants but also repels other garden pests.

Preventing Ants in Your Home and Garden

Combining ant-repelling plants with natural deterrents is an effective way to manage ants without relying on harsh chemicals. From fragrant herbs like mint and basil to colorful marigolds and robust rosemary, these plants can help keep ants away while enhancing your garden’s beauty.

If you’re dealing with a persistent ant problem, explore our complete guide on getting rid of ants or reach out to professional pest control services. Our experienced team can provide customized solutions to eliminate ants and prevent them from returning.

FAQs

Do Ants Like Eucalyptus?

No—ants avoid eucalyptus. The strong scent of eucalyptus leaves and essential oils effectively repels ants. You can plant eucalyptus trees around your garden or use diluted eucalyptus oil as a spray indoors and outdoors to deter ants naturally.