Natural Fly Repellent Plants
Flies can be a major nuisance, buzzing around your head and landing on your food. But there are plenty of natural ways to repel these pests, and one of the most effective is to grow certain plants in your garden.
Plants That Repel Flies
Here are 10 of the best plants to grow for natural fly repellent:
-
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a popular herb that is known for its delicious flavor and pest-repelling properties. The aroma of basil is highly unfavorable to flies and mosquitoes.
-
Lavender (Lavandula) is another popular plant that is known for its relaxing scent. Flies are also repelled by the scent of lavender, and it can also deter moths and mosquitoes.
-
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a favorite of cats, but it can also help to keep flies out of your yard or patio. The oils of this plant can deter pests.
-
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is a relative of mint with a citrusy profile. It is packed with the key compound citronellal, which is used in most natural insect repellants on the market.
-
Marigold (Tagetes spp.) is a popular flower known for its bright colors and plentiful array of blooms. They come in a range of size and color varieties, but all include the compound pyrethrum, which is used in many insect repellants.
-
Carnivorous Plants such as Venus flytraps and pitcher plants are a unique way to get rid of flies. These plants trap and consume insects, including flies.
-
Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) is a fragrant perennial herb that is easy to grow. The scent of rosemary naturally deters pests like flies and gnats.
-
Sage (Salvia officinalis) is another popular kitchen herb that is known for its pest-repelling properties. The aroma of sage is unappealing to flies.
-
Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis) is a Mediterranean shrub or tree known for its leaves, which are commonly used in cooking. The aroma of bay laurel also helps deter flies.
-
Mint (Mentha spp.) is a popular herb that is known for its refreshing scent. Flies are repelled by the strong aroma of mint.
Additional Tips to Repel Flies
In addition to planting fly-repellent plants, there are a few other things you can do to keep flies away from your home and garden:
- Plant in strategic spots, like near your seating areas, around doorways or windows of your home, and around outdoor tables.
- Keep your plants healthy and well-watered. Healthy plants are more effective at repelling pests.
- Use fly traps or exterminators to eliminate existing fly infestations.
By following these tips, you can keep your home and garden fly-free naturally.