Ants can quickly become a major nuisance in your home or office space. Once an infestation begins, they can be difficult to control and taking preventative measures early on can reduce both the scale and stress of an invasion. While professional help is often the best course of action, taking the initiative with a natural, holistic approach can provide an extra layer of protection.
Why Use Plants To Repel Ants?
If you’re looking for a natural, eco-friendly solution to your ant problem, you’ll need to know what plants repel ants. The good news is, you may already have access to many of the herbs and plants that ants can’t stand. These can serve as natural barriers to discourage ants from setting up shop; the added bonus is that they are fragrant, attractive, and usually pet-friendly.
Natural Pest Control Benefits
Using plants to deter ants is a non-toxic solution, which means it’s safer for children, pets, and the environment. These plants often double as natural repellents for other garden pests, making them a smart choice for holistic pest management in home and office environments.
How Plant Scents Affect Ant Behavior
Many ant species in the U.S. navigate using ant trails, which rely heavily on pheromones. Certain strong plant scents can disrupt those trails, confusing ants and preventing them from entering your space. So if you’ve been wondering what plants ants hate, any with a strong scent released by many herbs and flowering plants.
Top Plants That Repel Ants
If you are ready to upgrade your yard or indoor space with plants that deter ants, there are numerous contenders to choose from:
Mint
Both peppermint and spearmint are highly effective herbs that repel ants. Their strong scent interferes with ant trails, making it harder for them to navigate. Mint also helps deter fruit flies and vinegar flies, providing a bonus layer of protection.
Lavender
This fragrant favorite is extremely versatile. It’s not only a natural antiseptic and relaxant but also a deterrent to ants and mosquitoes. The secret lies in the essential oils that disrupt the sensory cues ants rely on for navigation and feeding. This herb is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
Rosemary
Often used in cooking, rosemary also works as a pest deterrent. This hardy herb confuses ants and can help upset their life cycle when planted near entry points.
Tansy
Tansy is commonly found in Europe and Asia and repels ants due to its pungent aroma. If you decide to use this medicinal herb, you must be cautious with placement, as it can be invasive in the U.S. and detrimental to native plants.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass contains citronella, which gives off a strong aroma that ants hate. It’s ideal for use in gardens or pots near doorways.
Thyme
This culinary herb is a dream for pest control. Thyme helps repel ants, mosquitoes, and even adult flies.
Garlic
Strong-smelling and widely available, garlic is one of the best natural repellents for ants and other garden pests. Crushed garlic near entry points works well indoors.
Marigolds
Marigolds contain compounds that deter ants, mosquitoes, and aphids. They’re also excellent for companion planting with vegetables.
Pennyroyal
This lesser-known plant has a strong aroma that ants despise. The downside is its potency, meaning it should be handled with care around pets and small children.
Basil
Not only does basil repel ants, but it’s also effective against house flies and maggots when planted near garbage cans or compost bins.
How To Use These Plants For Ant Control
Now that you know what plants repel ants, you need to know how to use them. It’s all about placement and strategy.
Best Places To Plant Them
Focus on planting near doors, windows, patios, and other entry points. This forms a natural barrier against ant invasions. Around foundations and along walkways are also great locations for plants that keep ants away.
Using Cuttings Indoors
Cuttings or dried bundles of herbs like mint, rosemary, and lavender can be placed on countertops, in cabinets, or around window sills. These scent deterrents help block ant trails indoors.
Companion Planting For Ant Deterrence
If you have a vegetable or herb garden, companion planting with ant-repelling plants can keep your crops safer. For example, basil planted near tomatoes helps deter pests, including ants and flies.
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Other Tips For Keeping Ants Away Naturally
There are other simple steps you can take to reduce ant activity:
- Keep surfaces clean and dry
- Seal cracks and entry points
- Remove food sources and standing water
- Take out the trash regularly and clean garbage cans
- Use essential oils like tea tree, peppermint, or citrus as scent deterrents
- Apply diatomaceous earth in areas where ants travel
- To remove ants from plants, wipe the leaves with mild soap diluted in water.
Still Seeing Ants? Contact Florida Pest Today
Even the best natural methods will need a little help to reduce or prevent ant infestations. If you’ve tried everything and still have ants marching through your home or office, it’s time to call the professionals. At Florida Pest, we offer effective solutions for both residential and commercial customers. Whether you’re battling ants, drain flies, or another stubborn pest, our team will create a customized pest control plan that works for you.
Reach out today and let us help restore peace and protect your space.
Ants hate strong scents, like peppermint, citrus, and vinegar. These smells disrupt their ant trails and keep them from entering homes or businesses.
Yes, both lavender and mint are powerful herbs that repel ants thanks to their intense fragrance, making them excellent natural options for deterring ants in gardens or near entryways.
Absolutely. Plants that deter ants, such as basil, rosemary, and lemongrass, offer an eco-friendly way to reduce indoor ant activity and enhance your space at the same time.