If you’ve ever been stung by a wasp or chased by a bee, you know how frustrating it can be to deal with them in your garden. While bees are essential for pollination, the threat of a sting can cause concern and wasps can be aggressive if they feel threatened.
The best way to keep wasps away is through prevention — be it removing their food sources and planting certain plants that naturally deter them.
It’s important to remember that while certain plants can deter wasps and bees, they are not guaranteed to solve the problem. If you already have a wasp or bee infestation, calling professional pest control is the only effective way to handle the situation.
Why Use Plants to Repel Wasps and Bees?
Many plants have strong scents that bees and wasps don’t like. These plants are also safe for pets and children, making them a great option for family-friendly gardens. Plus, they can make your outdoor spaces smell nice and look beautiful.
While they’re not guaranteed to eliminate a wasp or bee’s nest, plants can be a good preventative measure – especially in Florida, where the climate is warm and stinging insects are common.
Top Plants That Repel Wasps and Bees
Many plants are known for repelling wasps and bees. These plants are easy to grow, require little maintenance, and can help keep outdoor spaces safe.
Below, we will cover some of the best options:
Basil
Description
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a popular herb that is often used in cooking, especially in Italian dishes like pesto and pasta. This plant has bright green leaves and produces small white flowers. It grows well in both sunny spots and containers, making it perfect for most gardens.
Effect
The strong scent of basil helps to repel wasps and other insects, like mosquitoes. You can plant basil in pots around your garden or near areas where you spend time outside, such as porches or patios. The plant’s aroma is strong enough to keep insects away without causing any harm to you or your pets.
Citronella
Description
Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus) is a tall, grass-like plant that is often used in candles and sprays meant to repel insects. It has a citrus scent that humans find pleasant, but many insects, including wasps, find it unpleasant.
Citronella is easy to grow and does well in hot, sunny climates.
Effect
Citronella’s strong scent is great for keeping wasps and other pests away from your garden. Plant it around your outdoor seating area, and the insects will likely stay away. While citronella is effective, it’s important to note that it works best when freshly crushed or rubbed, as the plant’s oils release the most scent this way.
Marigolds
Description
Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) are one of the most popular and colorful flowers in gardens. They come in shades of yellow, orange, and red and are easy to grow in almost any soil type.
Effect
Marigolds are known for their strong scent, which helps keep wasps and other insects away. This makes them ideal for planting around areas like patios, porches, and gardens. Not only will they deter pests, but they will also add a pop of color to your outdoor space.
Wormwood
Description
Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) is a perennial herb with a distinct bitter aroma. It has silvery-green leaves and small yellow flowers. Wormwood has a long history of use in traditional medicine and for keeping pests away.
Effect
The bitter scent of wormwood is one of the reasons it helps repel wasps and other insects. While it can be very effective, wormwood can also be toxic to pets if they chew on it. For this reason, it’s best planted in areas that are away from pets and small children.
Lavender
Description
Lavender (Lavandula spp.) is a fragrant herb known for its calming scent. This plant is commonly grown for its flowers and is also used to make essential oils. Lavender is easy to care for and grows best in well-drained soil and full sun.
Effect
Lavender’s fragrant smell is great for keeping wasps and other insects, like mosquitoes, away. If you plant lavender around your garden, it will not only make your space smell amazing, but it will also help keep bugs at bay.
You can even use lavender essential oils in your home to deter insects from entering.
Peppermint
Description
Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) is a cool, aromatic herb with a sharp, refreshing smell. It’s easy to grow and thrives in both garden beds and containers. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial sun.
Effect
Peppermint’s strong scent works wonders to repel wasps and other insects, like ants and mosquitoes. You can plant peppermint in your garden, or you can crush its leaves to release more of the scent. Keep peppermint near areas where you eat or relax outside to keep bugs away.
Spearmint
Description
Spearmint (Mentha spicata) is a common herb with a mild minty flavor. It’s often used in teas and for medicinal purposes. Like peppermint, it’s a low-maintenance plant that grows well in both pots and garden beds.
Effect
Spearmint’s strong scent is another effective way to deter wasps and other pests like ants, aphids, and mosquitoes. It’s a great addition to your garden or porch to deter pests.
Lemon Balm
Description
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a member of the mint family. It has a light, lemony fragrance and is often used in teas and herbal remedies. Lemon balm is easy to grow and does well in sunny locations with well-drained soil.
Effect
Lemon balm gives off a citrus scent that keeps wasps and other flying insects away. The plant’s leaves can be crushed to release even more of its scent, making it an extra-effective wasp deterrent.
Eucalyptus
Description
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.) is a tall tree known for its refreshing, medicinal smell. The leaves of this plant contain essential oils that are commonly used in insect repellents.
Eucalyptus grows well in hot, sunny environments.
Effect
Eucalyptus has a strong scent that helps repel wasps, mosquitoes, and other pests. If you plant it in your yard, it may help keep these insects away, especially in areas where you spend a lot of time outdoors.
Geraniums
Description
Geraniums (Pelargonium spp.) are popular flowering plants known for their vibrant colors. They are easy to grow in sunny spots and can be planted in the ground or in pots. Red geraniums are effective at repelling bees, as bees can’t see red and these flowers produce little pollen with a scent bees dislike.
Effect
Geraniums, especially citronella geraniums, have a strong scent that works to repel wasps and other insects. Plant them around your outdoor areas to keep insects from bothering you.
Thyme
Description
Common thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is a fragrant herb commonly used in cooking. It grows best in full sunlight and well-drained soil.
Effect
Thyme has essential oils that help repel wasps and other pests, including mosquitoes. Plant thyme in your garden, or use it as a border around your patio to keep insects away.
Bay Leaves
Description
Bay leaves (Laurus nobilis) are aromatic leaves commonly used in cooking to add flavor to soups and stews.
Effect
Bay leaves give off a bitter scent that helps repel wasps and other pests.
Lemongrass
Description
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is a tropical plant with a citrus scent. It’s easy to grow in sunny areas and is often used in cooking and in teas.
Effect
Lemongrass is great at repelling wasps, mosquitoes, and other insects. It works especially well in the summer, as the strong scent helps keep pests away from your outdoor spaces.
How to Use These Plants for Wasp and Bee Prevention
Strategic Placement
To get the best results, make sure to plant these in the right spots. For example, place basil, lavender, or citronella near places you enjoy spending time outside, like your patio or garden.
Maximizing Effectiveness
Crushing the leaves of these plants will release more of their strong scent, which will make them more effective at deterring stinging insects like wasps. You can also use the essential oils from these plants to create your own insect-repellent sprays for added protection.
Combining Natural Repellents
To get the best results, combine different wasp repellent plants in your garden. For example, you can plant peppermint, citronella, and lavender together for a multi-layered defense against stinging insects.
Benefits of Using Plants for Pest Control
Using plants to keep wasps and bees away offers several benefits. These plants are safe for children and pets, unlike chemical insecticides, which can be harmful. They also add beauty and fragrance to outdoor spaces, creating a pleasant environment.
You can learn other ways to prevent wasps from settling on your property in our article: How to Prevent Wasps Nests. However, if preventative measures don’t work, our team of professionals at Florida Pest Control is here to help. Contact us today.
Need Help Managing Bees, Wasps, or Hornets?
While planting bee and wasp-repellent plants can help deter stinging insects, the only way to fully solve an insect infestation is by calling in the professionals.
Florida Pest Control’s licensed bee, wasp, and hornet exterminators have the tools and experience you need.
